SACKVILLE, NB — Mount Allison University will welcome Dr. Nona Robinson as the new Vice-President, Student Affairs (VPSA). Robinson’s appointment begins on Monday, August 11. 

With a dedication to student success, academic experiences, accessibility, and support, Robinson has over 24 years of experience in academia. Most recently, she served as Vice-Provost, Students at York University.

“I am delighted to welcome Dr. Nona Robinson to Mount Allison University as Vice-President, Student Affairs,” says President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ian Sutherland. “Her depth of experience, commitment to student well-being, and passion for inclusive education reflect the core values we uphold at the University. I’m confident her leadership will have a meaningful and lasting impact on our students as they navigate their academic journey.” 

With a passion for higher education and student affairs, Robinson will bring key insights and leadership to the role. She holds a PhD in Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto, where her research focused on the values that guide student affairs professionals. 

Robinson also completed a master's degree at the same institution, exploring the experience of student leaders in Canada. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in history from the University of Guelph. Robinson’s commitment to education and student engagement will inform the thoughtful, student-centred leadership she will bring to campus.  

“Coming to Mount Allison is tremendously exciting,” says Robinson. “I am looking forward to helping build on the University’s deep commitment to the student experience and to creating a vibrant, inclusive learning environment where all students have the opportunity to thrive.” 

Robinson is deeply committed to access and equity. While at the University of Toronto, Trent University, and York University, she developed programs and supports for equity-deserving student groups, launched initiatives addressing food insecurity, created multiple points of access to services, and worked across departments to improve academic and student support systems. She also built strong relationships with student groups to ensure their voices were heard and reflected in decision-making. 

The VPSA plays a vital role in student life and academic success. From enhancing wellness services and campus inclusivity to supporting international students and global partnerships, the VPSA ensures every student feels supported and empowered. Through leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, the VPSA helps create a vibrant, welcoming community where students can thrive both academically and personally. 

Robinson brings a depth and breadth of experience, including community engagement, enrolment and retention, restorative justice, access and equity, and student mentorship. She has led high school and community outreach initiatives to encourage under-represented student recruitment and academic success. Her work emphasizes empowering student leaders and administrative staff and student staff as role models who shape inclusive programming, delivering impactful leadership, and building a strong campus community. 

Mount Allison looks forward to welcoming Dr. Nona Robinson to campus this summer.