An almost-quarter-century-long veteran employee of the college will become St. Clair’s seventh President next June, with the school’s Board of Governors announcing on September 26th that current Vice-President Academic/Registrar Michael Silvaggi would be elevated to the top administrative position that is being vacated by the retiring Patti France.
Silvaggi, following France, is the second consecutive President to take the form of an “internal hiring”. He was chosen after a months-long, nation-wide search by the Board, assisted by the Toronto-based executive recruitment firm Odgers Bernston.
A college-issued news release described Silvaggi’s background:
Michael Silvaggi's journey at St. Clair College is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the institution. Starting as a Clerk in the Accounts Payable Department in November 2000, he swiftly progressed through various roles, demonstrating his exceptional leadership and management skills. Over the years, he has held pivotal positions within the college, including Associate Registrar and Associate Vice-President of Student Services and Registrar. In April 2022, he was appointed as the Vice President Academic and Registrar, a role in which he has excelled.
Silvaggi is a well-qualified leader, holding a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours Business Administration) from the University of Windsor, and a Master of Adult Education from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. His academic background, coupled with his extensive experience within St. Clair College, equips him with the knowledge and expertise to lead the institution forward.
A staunch advocate of St. Clair's role in the community, Michael is deeply committed to nurturing the minds and vocational competencies of students to help them succeed in society. He firmly believes in community engagement, and has actively supported local elementary and secondary schools through leadership and service. Currently serving as a Board of Governor member at Assumption University and as a member of the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board’s Parent Involvement Committee, Michael has demonstrated his dedication to education at all levels.
“Michael Silvaggi embodies the core values of St. Clair College – ‘excellence in all he does’ and ‘transforming lives and strengthening communities’,” said Jean Piccinato, Chair of the Board of Governors. “His leadership is expected to usher in a new era of prosperity for the college and the broader community.”
