UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA
New Board Chair named for UNBC

Jim Martin, a respected community leader with extensive governance experience, has been named the new Chair of the University of Northern British Columbia's Board of Governors. 

Martin has served as Vice-Chair since being elected to the position following his appointment to the Board by the Province of British Columbia in July 2024. He succeeds Joel McKay, who served as Chair since June 2023.

"UNBC plays a vital role in empowering healthy, productive and thriving northern communities through education, research and meaningful partnerships," says Martin. "I am honoured to have been elected to this position and look forward to continuing to work alongside my colleagues on the Board, with the President's Office and the entire University community to strengthen UNBC's connections and impact across the North and beyond."

Prior to his retirement in 2023, Martin spent nearly 30 years working for the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George and the Fraser-Fort George Regional Hospital District, where he oversaw governance, policy development and senior management of local government services.

"Jim's extensive experience in governance, community development and relationship-building will further strengthen the connections between UNBC and the communities it serves. I look forward to working with him and the Board to enhance educational opportunities and resilience across the region," says UNBC Interim President Dr. Bill Owen. "I also want to thank Joel McKay for his outstanding leadership and dedication during his tenure as Chair. His commitment to the University has helped position UNBC for continued success."

Martin's long-standing community involvement includes serving on numerous boards, most recently as a Director for the B.C. Games Society where he was Chair of the Finance Committee. He also served as a member of the 2025 B.C. Special Olympics Summer Games Organizing Committee, a community representative on the Charles Jago Northern Sport Centre's Board of Directors and as Vice-Chair of the Prince George 2015 Canada Winter Games Host Society.

"Jim brings a remarkable combination of governance expertise, strategic leadership and community commitment to this role," says McKay. "Throughout his career in local government and through his service on numerous boards and community organizations, he has demonstrated a collaborative approach and a deep understanding of what helps communities thrive. As Vice-Chair, Jim has already made valuable contributions to the Board's work, and I know the University will continue to benefit from the wealth of knowledge and experience he brings as Chair."

The Board has also elected Amanda Alexander as Vice-Chair. Alexander has served on the Board of Governors since 2021 and she currently serves on the Governance & Human Resources Committee, chairs the University Advancement Advisory Board and is a member of the Presidential Search Committee.

A UNBC graduate with a Master of Social Work degree, Alexander is the Chief Health Equity and Operating Officer for the YMCA BC, where she oversees health, fitness, aquatics, child care and community operations in more than 60 communities across the province. Through a career dedicated to advancing health equity and strengthening communities, she brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and advocacy to her roles on the Board.

UNBC's 15-member Board of Governors has oversight and responsibility for the administration, finances and management of the University. The Board is composed of the Chancellor, the President, eight members appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council and five members elected by the University community (two students, two faculty members and one staff member).

The Board of Governors meets at least four times per year. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 18.