Shape the Future
Our students are tomorrow's change makers — seeking out today's challenges to keep us moving forward. They will overcome barriers, help feed the world, improve health outcomes and energy efficiency and build a more just society for all of us. They will, with our support. Give today today to the Shape the Future campaign for student success.
Office of the Vice-President (External Relations)
External Relations raises awareness and enhances understanding of the ß÷ßäÉçÇø, internally and externally.
Overview
The External Relations team brings to light stories that showcase our faculty, staff, students and alumni, connect the university with its many communities and advocate for the U of A as we advance our promise of uplifting the whole people. We lead and determine the strategy for both external and internal initiatives and help develop the reputation of and pride in the university.
Projects and Initiatives
Community Connections Awards
Three awards are presented annually to individuals and groups who support, study and work at the U of A and have embodied the promise to "lead with purpose" those who support, study and work at the ß÷ßäÉçÇø.
We Are Green+Gold
At the U of A, Green + Gold Day is every day! It's how we celebrate the people who make our university community vibrant, inclusive and innovative. Wearing Green + Gold and spreading school spirit throughout our campuses and communities is a powerful reminder that we all belong!
Many of the 50 member organizations partnered with the United Way also partner with the U of A. Most importantly, they help people on our campuses directly through the services they provide.
Donor Impact Report 2024
In 2023-24, our donors helped us prepare the next generation of change makers, community builders and world shapers.
Read the Full ReportVice-President of External Relations
Elan MacDonald
Elan MacDonald, ICD.D is the Vice President, External Relations at the ß÷ßäÉçÇø. Elan has spent her 25-year career advising organizations and corporations on sustaining and growing their businesses by navigating government, policy development, crisis communications, the regulatory and legislative processes, and the shifting political, social and economic landscapes. Elan serves as Chair of the Real Estate Council of ß÷ßäÉçÇø and a director on the boards of Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Amii. She is past-Chair of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce and a former Director on the boards of Covenant Health, Edmonton Global, ß÷ßäÉçÇø Ballet and Atlas Global Brands.
As President and CEO of Impact Consulting, Elan founded one of ß÷ßäÉçÇø’s most reputable government relations advisory and communications companies, serving local, national and international clients. She later joined her firm with Global Public Affairs, where she became the Senior Vice President, National Client Development.
Elan has a long history in ß÷ßäÉçÇø politics serving as Deputy Chief of Staff and Political Advisor to two ß÷ßäÉçÇø Premiers, and as a political advisor to Cabinet Ministers. She has a Master’s in Strategic Public Relations from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from University of Calgary.
