General 9/9/2025 7:25:00 AM Jay Barlett, Communications & Media

Jeppesen announces newly formed Athletics & Recreation Director’s Advisory Council

HAMILTON – McMaster University's Department of Athletics & Recreation is proud to announce the formation of the inaugural Director's Advisory Council, a strategic initiative designed to support the long-term growth and direction of the department.

Bringing together a select group of respected leaders in alumni engagement, business, sport, and public service, the Council will play a key role in advising on priority initiatives, strengthening external relationships, and contributing to the development of a new five-year strategic plan. Members were personally invited by Athletics & Recreation Director Keenan Jeppesen and selected for their demonstrated leadership, community involvement, and passion for McMaster.

"We're entering a period of exciting growth and transformation," says Jeppesen.

"This group will help ensure we're making thoughtful, strategic decisions that reflect the values of our university and the needs of our students, alumni, and community partners."

Each member of the Council has deep ties to the McMaster University community – whether as alumni, former athletes, campus leaders, or longtime supporters – and represents what it means to be a lifelong Marauder.

"It is a great honour to be invited to serve as a member of the McMaster Athletics and Recreation Advisory Council," said Col. Ron Foxcroft. "Since beginning my officiating career refereeing basketball at McMaster and chairing the Athletics and Recreation Capital Campaign, I have witnessed firsthand the impact athletics have had on our student body. This will be a transformational initiative."

The Council will meet four times annually with members serving an initial two or three-year term. Discussions will focus on key themes including community engagement, alumni and donor relations, student-athlete experience, program growth, and facility planning.

Members of the 2025 Athletics & Recreation Director's Advisory Council include:

Col. Ron Foxcroft – Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and internationally recognized inventor of the Fox 40 whistle
Ed Minich – Business leader, and longtime university governor
Wayne Purboo – Technology executive, social impact leader, and co-founder of the Onyx Initiative
Thérèse Quigley – Pioneering McMaster Athletics Director and champion of women in Canadian sport
Fareen Samji – Entrepreneur, long drive champion, and advocate for girls and women in sport
Janette Smith – Former City Manager of Hamilton and public health leader with deep McMaster ties
Lance Trumble – Real estate entrepreneur, former CFL athlete, and active McMaster volunteer
Roger Trull – Advancement strategist, community builder, and former McMaster VP (University Advancement)

Biographies for each council member can be found here.

"This group represents some of the best minds and biggest champions of McMaster," Jeppesen adds. "Their insights will be invaluable as we look to elevate both varsity and recreation programs in a way that reflects the full spirit of the Marauder community."

The creation of this Council marks a bold step in shaping the future of Athletics & Recreation at McMaster, reinforcing the department's commitment to innovation, inclusion, and community impact.

"Athletics and Recreation at McMaster is performing a significant role – taking programming from good to great – with respect to performance and educational success," Foxcroft added.

Athletics & Recreation, a division of Student Affairs, serves as a cornerstone of student life at McMaster University and provides students, staff, faculty, alumni and the greater community with the opportunity to pursue athletic excellence and recreational activities. The department's operating units include inter-university athletics, recreation, facilities and events, with the collective goal of delivering an excellent student and member experience.

For more information about current and future McMaster Athletics & Recreation initiatives, visit marauders.ca and active.mcmaster.ca.

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