Appointment of Honorary Governors of York University (Guidelines and Procedure)

Appointment of Honorary Governors of York University (Guidelines and Procedure)

Legislative History:

Approved: Board Governance and Human Resources 2018/04/23; Board of Governors 2018/05/01

Approval Authority: Board of Governors


I.     Role of Honorary Governors

Honorary Governor is a titular status which may be conferred upon past governors in recognition of distinguished service or exceptional contribution to the Board of Governors or the mission of York University.

II.     Criteria for Appointing Honorary Governors

Honorary Governor status may be conferred upon a member of the Board of Governors upon completion of their full term on the Board in recognition of distinguished service and exceptional contribution to the Board and / or the mission of York University. An Honorary Governor will have demonstrated outstanding dedication and leadership and a strong commitment to advance the goals of the University.

III.   Specific Criteria

Candidates for Honorary Governor will normally meet two or more of the following criteria:

  • completed the maximum term on the Board as established by By-Law or Guidelines of the Board
  • served as Chair of a committee of the Board, or has held the office of Chancellor of the University
  • demonstrated exemplary commitment to the life and development of the University through personal leadership, responsibility or fund-raising
  • supported major University initiatives that have demonstrably moved the institution forward

IV.   Nomination Procedure

In accordance with the criteria, the Governance and Human Resources Committee will propose to the Executive Committee candidates for Honorary Governor, normally appointed for an unlimited term. The Executive Committee will review and recommend the approval of candidates to the Board of Governors. Nominations may be brought forward coincident with the completion of a governor’s full-term on the Board, or thereafter.

V.  Privileges of Honorary Governors

Honorary Governors are entitled to receive all materials related to meetings of the Board of Governors. When in attendance at Board meetings, Honorary Governors may participate in deliberations in an ex-officio capacity without vote.

While not members of the Board, Honorary Governors are eligible for appointment to committees of the Board of Governors as well as to represent the Board on other bodies.  When appointed to a committee of the Board, Honorary Governors are full members of the committee with both voice and vote, and their presence is considered in determining quorum.