University of Guelph-Humber

Dr. Melanie Spence-Ariemma

The University of Guelph-Humber community welcomes Dr. Melanie Spence-Ariemma, as she begins her position as the new vice-provost and chief academic officer.

Dr. Spence-Ariemma brings extensive experience as a senior academic leader in Ontario's post-secondary sector with demonstrated commitment to inclusion, equity and excellence in teaching, learning and student services.

She was most recently dean of student affairs at the Michener Institute of Education at the University Health Network in Toronto. She previously served as provost and vice-president (academic) at Sheridan College, and associate vice-president (academic quality) and dean of academic strategic planning and development at Sheridan.

“Dr. Spence-Ariemma is a strategic leader and team builder who has successfully led planning and implementation of a wide variety of academic and operational projects,” Dr. Gwenn Chapman, provost and vice-president (academic) said. “She is passionate about the future of the University of Guelph-Humber and brings a creative, thoughtful approach to working with the Guelph-Humber community, the University of Guelph, Humber College, and external partners to ensure that Guelph-Humber continues to thrive during the coming years.”

She has led and collaborated on pan-institutional and interdisciplinary initiatives and managed progressively large and complex projects with multiple stakeholders, including program moves and IT systems projects.

Dr. Spence-Ariemma holds a PhD in leadership and policy from New York’s Niagara University; an MA in community college education from Central Michigan University; a B.Ed. in adult education from Brock University; an M.R.T., radiation therapy, from the Hamilton Regional Cancer Centre; and a B.Sc. from McMaster University.

“I am excited and honoured to be joining the University of Guelph-Humber, University of Guelph and Humber College communities,” Spence-Ariemma said. “As Guelph-Humber embarks on a vision of renewal and revitalization, I am confident we will continue to lead through creativity, curiosity and innovation, and be a place where we empower students to become lifelong learners and leaders who will shape the future of our communities, industries and education.”

Dr. George Bragues also begins his position as associate vice-provost (academic).

Dr. Chapman thanked Bragues for serving as interim vice-provost for the past 18 months. “Dr. Bragues has provided stability during a tumultuous time during the pandemic. He has been a critical part of the University of Guelph-Humber leadership team for many years, and I am delighted that he will continue to be part of that team in his new role as associate vice-provost (academic).” Chapman said.