Visionaries Behind MSM Unify: Meet Our Advisory Boards

David C. Dingwall is the President and Vice-Chancellor of Cape Breton University (CBU), where he has overseen a period of significant growth and revitalization. Before joining CBU, David Dingwall enjoyed a distinguished career in public policy, corporate governance, and law. As a former Cabinet Minister and member of the King’s Privy Council, he has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, nationally and internationally.

His leadership roles span membership in several prestigious organizations, including Universities Canada, the Association of Atlantic Universities and the Council of Nova Scotia University Presidents (where he serves as Chair).

Beyond David’s contributions to academia and governance, he is an accomplished author, speaker, and corporate director. His book, Negotiating So Everyone Wins, is a respected resource that draws from his vast experience working with top negotiators across business, sports, labor, and politics.

David Dingwall holds degrees in commerce and law from Dalhousie University, and has furthered his studies in Corporate Governance at Harvard Law School. He is a graduate of the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD.D) at the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Cape Breton University in 1997.

Known for his role as a mentor to countless Cape Bretoners and Canadians, David has inspired individuals to forge successful careers across the destination and beyond.

Denise Amyot is a seasoned leader with extensive experience across a range of senior leadership roles in national organizations, federal Crown Corporations, and multiple federal government departments. As President and CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), Denise has solidified her reputation as a transformative leader with a deep commitment to public service, corporate responsibility, and fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion. Her distinguished career spans positions at the Treasury Board, Human Resources and Social Development, Natural Resources, Indigenous and Northern Affairs, and more, making her a respected figure in both the public and education sectors.

Throughout her career, Denise has been recognized for her ability to “walk the talk” — leading by example and inspiring those around her with her authenticity, commitment to excellence, and ability to build cohesive teams. She has often been a trailblazer, shattering glass ceilings while championing talent management and the development of future leaders, all while creating values-driven organizations.

A catalyst for change, Denise has a proven track record of challenging the status quo, encouraging innovation, and taking intelligent risks. Her visionary leadership has resulted in award-winning initiatives, strategic plans, and outreach efforts that have strengthened partnerships across public, private, and non-profit sectors. Under her guidance, organizations have benefited from clearer missions, enhanced stewardship of resources, and improved outcomes that align with sustainable development goals.

Denise’s capacity to foster strategic alliances and build consensus has made her a sought-after member of national and international boards, councils, and committees in areas such as governance, leadership, skills development, education, public administration, and volunteerism. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, both domestically and internationally, for her outstanding work in public service, innovation, gender equity, and corporate social responsibility.

Dr. Prachi Kaul is the Director of the India office at the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute (SICI), where she leads efforts to foster academic and research collaborations between nearly 200 institutions in India and Canada. With over 25 years of experience in international education and transnational partnerships, Dr. Kaul is a recognized leader in facilitating impactful binational and global academic initiatives.

Throughout her career, she has contributed to high-profile projects with major organizations such as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, UNESCO, IDRC, and CIDA, through her roles at the National University of Educational Planning and Administration (NUEPA) and SICI. Her expertise lies in planning and implementing international education partnerships, with a focus on sustainable development, social mobility, and global collaboration.

Dr. Kaul’s career is distinguished by a unique combination of academic, research, and administrative acumen. Her deep understanding of governmental and non-governmental operations allows her to effectively bridge diverse cultural and institutional contexts. She has successfully managed international academic programs, organized large-scale events, and served on advisory boards, including joint working groups between the Governments of India and Canada on science, technology, and higher education.

A passionate advocate for education’s transformative power in addressing global challenges, particularly those aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Kaul brings a strategic vision to her leadership at SICI. Her efforts have revitalized the institute’s role in the evolving landscape of international education, advancing meaningful collaborations and driving innovation in research and academics.

Dr. Kaul holds a PhD from IIT Delhi and is a prominent figure in the academic and research community, known for her ability to navigate complex, multi-stakeholder environments and her dedication to fostering sustainable educational growth.