Susan Tighe

Dr. Susan Tighe was appointed McMaster University’s ninth President and Vice-Chancellor on July 1, 2025. A professor of civil engineering and a professional engineer since 1995, Dr. Tighe is internationally renowned for her outstanding contributions to the development, design, and management of sustainable concrete and asphalt transportation infrastructure. She has established a unique “cradle-to-grave” research program spanning fundamental materials science and experimental performance evaluation, through to implementation of her innovative materials and designs on roads and airfields in Canada and abroad. With deep experience in both the public and private sectors, Dr. Tighe is a leader in strengthening partnerships with government and industry and is strong champion of initiatives to support transformative research, high quality teaching, and outstanding student experience. She was elected a member of the inaugural class of the Royal Society of Canada’s College for New Scholars, Art