Ms. Laura Elliott

Ms. Laura Elliott

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

In recognition of her distinguished contributions to education, public service and university governance, and her longstanding commitment to student success, the university proudly confers upon Ms. Laura Elliott, the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws.

Throughout her career, Ms. Elliott has demonstrated a sustained commitment to strengthening education. She is a respected leader whose career spans more than 35 years in Ontario’s education sector. She served as Director of Education and Secretary with the Thames Valley District School Board from 2013 to 2019, following senior leadership roles with the Durham District School Board and the Ontario Ministry of Education. Earlier in her career, she served as Manager of Membership Records with the Ontario College of Teachers and Superintendent of Education with the Durham District School Board.

Ms. Elliott currently works as an advisor to school boards and, prior to this role, served as Executive Director of the Council of Ontario Directors of Education (CODE) contributing her expertise through leadership development, school partnerships and education-sector initiatives. She also served on the boards of CODE and the Public Council of the Ontario Directors of Education, as President of the Ontario Public Supervisory Officers’ Association, and as a Senate member at Western University.

Her commitment to Ontario Tech University has been equally significant. A member of the university’s Board of Governors from 2018 to 2026, Ms. Elliott served as Board Chair for four years (2022 to 2026) bringing extensive experience in governance to the role. With student success at the forefront, her collaborative-leadership style helped guide the university through a period of growth, while championing innovation and strong community partnerships. Through her advocacy, she strengthened the university’s connections within Durham Region and beyond, and has been a dedicated ambassador for Ontario Tech.

Ms. Elliott’s ongoing commitment to learning, including in the areas of Indigenous Peoples and human rights, reflects the values of education, inclusion and service that have defined her career.

She holds a Master of Business Administration from Athabasca University, a Master of Education in Educational Administration, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science from Western University. She has also pursued further studies through the Rotman School of Management, Ivey Business School and the Institute of Corporate Directors.