Ottawa, April 1, 2014—The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Industry, and the Honourable Ed Holder, Minister of State (Science and Technology), today issued the following statement:
"On behalf of our government, I would like to thank Dr. Gaffield for his significant contributions to the social sciences and humanities," said Minister Moore. "His efforts have earned him an international reputation for leadership in these areas. They have also helped position Canada's global excellence in research across disciplines and, in particular, the digital humanities."
Dr. Gaffield was appointed president of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) in 2006, a position he has held for eight years. Among his many achievements was a complete redesign of SSHRC's program architecture, streamlining the Council's program structure from some 40 programs to 3 umbrella programs (Talent, Insight, and Connection). This accomplishment was recognized with an Institute of Public Administration of Canada Excellence Award in 2012. He also oversaw a governance renewal at SSRHC that has enabled valued contributions and engagement from leaders across academic, public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Dr. Gaffield will leave his role effective August 31, 2014.
"Dr. Gaffield's outstanding leadership and stewardship in research as president of SSHRC has built upon Canada's long tradition of research excellence. His oversight as Chair of the Tri-Council Steering Committee for the prestigious Canada Excellence Research Chairs and the Canada Research Chairs has empowered researchers to push the frontiers of knowledge, solve social challenges and improve the quality of life of Canadians" said Minister of State Holder. "I want to personally thank him for his dedicated public service and wish him the best in his future endeavours."
For further information (media only), please contact:
Jake Enwright
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Industry
613-995-9001
Scott French
Director of Communications and Parliamentary Affairs
Office of the Honourable Ed Holder
Minister of State (Science and Technology)
613-943-6177
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
