02/06/2026
▪️Dr. Jennifer Heisz succeeds Dr. Stuart Phillips who was appointed as Chair of the Department of Kinesiology in Summer 2025 after two terms as the Director of PACE.
▪️Dr. Stuart (Stu) Phillips led PACE with dedication and heart for the better part of a decade since his first appointment in January 2016.
▪️Through challenges, major changes, and even a pandemic, he stayed true to our mission and guided us with steady, thoughtful leadership. Under Dr. Phillips’ direction, PACE grew in visibility and impact. He built strong partnerships that expanded our research profile and firmly connected PACE’s work to McMaster’s mission. Never one to take credit, Dr. Phillips championed the contributions of our team and community, reminding us that PACE’s strength lies in its people.
▪️Despite his many personal and professional achievements, Dr. Phillips remained humble, approachable, and endlessly supportive. His leadership has touched every part of PACE from our evidence-informed exercise programs and research to fundraising and community culture.
▪️Most importantly, Dr. Phillips fostered a healthy, inclusive, environment where everyone could learn, grow, and belong.
▪️Stu, thank you for nearly a decade of exceptional leadership. We are grateful for all you’ve done and we are excited to continue working with you in your new role as the Chair of the Kinesiology Department.
Share your best wishes for Stu through this form: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=B2M3RCm0rUKMJSjNSW9HcrhKynn3XVdOs0IXwnZ9Xn1UMEQwNDhZSU9KWkdOQUlVUU85WEtMREcxQy4u&mc_cid=a8e9b28e86&mc_eid=4ddfb878e9&route=shorturl
