Dr. Arja Vainio-Mattila
Provost and Vice-President, Academic and Research
Dr. Vainio-Mattila began her career as a researcher at the University of Helsinki. After completing her PhD in Geography at the University of Turku, Finland, she held several different positions around the globe and, as a result, she brings to the position nearly 30 years’ experience in institutional development related to universities and as a consultant in global development focusing on results-based management and support of project cycles. Dr. Vainio-Mattila held the position of Dean, School of Arts and Social Sciences at Cape Breton University where she also held the rank of Full Professor, Political Science. She also holds an Adjunct Appointment in the Department of Women’s Studies and Feminist Research at Western University and a Docent Appointment at the University of Helsinki.
Dr. Vainio-Mattila has a passionate interest in the strategic development of higher education and community development. Her prior experience as the founding director of the Centre for Global Studies at Huron University College and her understanding of academic programming and staffing will help continue Nipissing on the pathway to academic and research success.