McMaster University Installs Dr. Nicholas Brathwaite as New Chancellor

On May 20, 2026, tech leader, innovator, and philanthropist Dr. Nicholas Brathwaite was officially installed as the new Chancellor of McMaster University. During the spring convocation ceremony, he officially stepped into his role as an ambassador for the university, bringing with him a legacy of global leadership in technology and business.

Addressing the graduating class, Dr. Brathwaite emphasized the importance of humanizing technology and using their education to close societal gaps.

Here is an excerpt from the coverage by McMaster News:

Set a new standard for what humanity can achieve: Nicholas Brathwaite installed as McMaster’s chancellor — Lisa Polewski | May 22, 2026

McMaster’s new chancellor called on the graduating class of 2026 to use their education to make an impact and close the gaps that exist in society. Following his installation as chancellor at spring convocation, Nicholas Brathwaite encouraged new graduates to use the skills they learned at the university to improve the lives of their families, their communities and everyone they meet.“Go out into the world and embody our collective mission: to break barriers, to foster hope, and to set a new standard for what humanity can achieve,” Brathwaite told the audience of new Faculty of Health Sciences graduates, their supporters, and McMaster faculty and staff.[...] Brathwaite said his career in the tech sector has prepared him to guide McMaster in an era of unprecedented uncertainty and widespread disruption, noting that disruption is an opportunity for McMaster to become more dynamic and embrace change.“When technology disrupts your industry — and it will — do not fear it. Harness it, lead it, but most importantly, humanize it.

Read the full article and view the ceremony gallery on McMaster News