Marsha Hanen

Canadian academic and member of the Order of Canada, Marsha Hanen was the first woman to serve as President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Winnipeg. Hanen is a staunch believer in the importance of liberal arts and science education at the undergraduate level.

Hanen’s consultative leadership style, and inclusive nature have left an indelible mark on UWinnipeg, and beyond, for her inspiration to women in education, encouraging attitudinal change, and innovation among academics, business leaders, and law makers.

In her role as president, Hanen was instrumental in the advancement of UWinnipeg’s growth and development strategy. During her tenure, notable accomplishments include: the passing of The University of Winnipeg Act, which had been highly sought after since the University’s creation in 1967; establishment of a full Bachelor of Education program; and the opening of both the Bulman Student Centre and the acclaimed Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall.  

Throughout her career, Hanen has had a broad and deep interest in ethics, philosophy of science and philosophy of law. Her work with the Sheldon Chumir Foundation helped facilitate an informed and respectful dialogue among a broad and engaged public and its leaders to help to create better communities.

“She was the first woman to be President of the University of Winnipeg, and was universally admired for her integrity, her courage and determination, and her vision — all informed by her warm and engaging steadiness and calm, and always imbued with a wonderfully witty and forward-looking bearing that served the institution and its aspirations excellently for many years” – Dr. Neil Besner.