Niagara College President Sean Kennedy announced today that Gord Arbeau, an experienced senior leader in the postsecondary sector, will join Niagara College as Vice President, Advancement, leading a new portfolio that integrates communications, development and alumni relations, and community relations and events.

Arbeau comes to the College from Brock University, where he is Associate Vice President, University Advancement and External Relations.

“As we look ahead with bold and ambitious plans, buoyed by significant growth in our students, staff, faculty and facilities, we are thrilled to welcome an experienced advancement leader who will enhance our strong reputation and build the support and engagement that will sustain our momentum as a postsecondary leader in Niagara and beyond,” said Kennedy. “Gord personifies our strong student focus, and the unique trailblazing, welcoming and passionate characteristics that set our college apart, and he will be an outstanding addition to our senior leadership team.”

As Vice President, Advancement, Arbeau will be responsible for growing the College’s endowments and raising funds in support of our students and learning environments, along with enhanced alumni and partner engagement.

“It is a distinct privilege to be invited to join the Niagara College community,” said Arbeau. “Our students, faculty and staff are impactful contributors to the vibrancy of our region, province and the world. I am looking forward to working with the College’s executive team and our colleagues to continue to advance the College and its strategic plan and to build on the considerable and impressive achievements and momentum that Niagara College has earned.”

Arbeau’s current role at Brock University includes responsibility for development, donor relations, alumni engagement, and marketing and communications.

Prior to Brock, Arbeau held leadership positions at McMaster University, including Director of Communications and Community Relations and Director of Marketing and Communications at the DeGroote School of Business. A graduate of the Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) Journalism BA program, he began his career in broadcast journalism before moving into leadership positions in marketing, communications and operations in the private sector.

A recognized leader in postsecondary advancement, Gord has also served as a chair and trustee for the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and national conference co-chair for the Canadian Council for the Advancement of Education.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 9,500 students from over 80 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.