Pictured above is Chancellor Emeritus Dr. Salah Bachir shaking hands with a graduate at a past Convocation ceremony.
One of Canada’s most influential philanthropists and patrons of the arts, Dr. Salah Bachir was Chancellor of OCAD University from June 1, 2017 to May 31, 2021.
“On behalf of the OCAD U community, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Bachir for his tireless commitment and service as our Chancellor,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Ana Serrano. “We benefitted from his wealth of experience in the arts and business sectors and his guidance over the years, and we are truly grateful.”
In accepting the role as Chancellor, Dr. Bachir said at the time: "I am overjoyed to be given the opportunity to help advance OCAD U's already long history of successful accomplishments. As Toronto's arts and culture community continues to make its presence felt at an international level, OCAD U will be at the forefront, and it is a great honour for me to act as its ambassador during this exciting and dynamic time in the university's development."
During his four-year term, he presided over four Convocation ceremonies and conferred degrees to more than 4,000 graduates. He also served as an ex-officio member of the Board of Governors and Senate, and was Chair of the Senate Honorary Degree Committee.
Dr. Bachir was also a passionate ambassador on behalf of the institution, working closely with President Emerita Dr. Sara Diamond on initiatives to advance the University’s exciting growth.
At his installation ceremony as Chancellor in 2017, OCAD U presented the successful entrepreneur, publisher and media executive with an honorary doctorate in recognition of his significant contributions to Canadian culture, art and design, and the spirit of philanthropy to support the arts, health care and the LGBTQ+ community.
Dr. Bachir was the University's fourth Chancellor and will now retain the honorary title of Chancellor Emeritus in recognition of his service to OCAD U.