SUDBURY—Former Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) police chief Alex McCauley has been selected to fill the trustee vacancy on the Rainbow District School Board (RDSB). Trustees approved the appointment of Mr. McCauley at the regular board meeting held October 24. Mr. McCauley replaces former trustee Dena Morrison, who passed away earlier this fall.
In announcing Mr. McCauley as the successful applicant, trustees thanked individuals who responded to the call to serve. “There was a tremendous level of interest from public school supporters who have significant experience to share,” said board chair Bob Clement. “We appreciate the applications that we received.”
“We look forward to welcoming Alex McCauley to the board table,” said Mr. Clement. “He has worked in many positions of progressive responsibility, ending his career with the (GSPS) in an executive leadership role. He has also made an immense contribution to the community.”
Board trustee Judy Kosmerly said, “I would like to thank the seven candidates who put their names forward for the trustee vacancy. We had excellent candidates.”
“I totally agree,” stated Mr. Clement. “It takes courage to come forward and submit your name for this type of position.”
“As a lifelong learner, I have a strong connection to the board’s vision, mission, values and priorities,” said Mr. McCauley. “They align with my personal and professional beliefs. I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the education and well-being of young people. I look forward to working with trustees, staff and partners on behalf of the students and families served by (RDSB).”
After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Law and Justice from Laurentian University, Mr. McCauley earned diplomas from the Canadian Police College in executive development and the Ontario Police College in police management. He retired from the GSPS in 2002, after serving a decade as police chief. During his tenure, he appointed the first Aboriginal Liaison Officer and initiated the Aboriginal Community Police Advisory Committee. As a police officer, he actively participated in programs that engaged children and youth.
A community-minded individual, Mr. McCauley is past chair of the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario and a member of the board of directors of Our Children, Our Future. He has also served on the board of governors at Cambrian College, the Northern Cancer Research Foundation, and the Rotary Club of Sudbury Sunrisers. He is a past chair of the school council at R.H. Murray Public School. He has contributed extensively to policing on provincial and national levels, including the implementation of crime prevention strategies across Canada.
Mr. McCauley is a life member of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police. He is a Paul Harris Fellow and the recipient of a Helen Keller Achievement Award through Rotary and Lions International, respectively.
Mr. McCauley will be sworn in as a trustee prior to the next board meeting on November 21. He will serve as a trustee for the term ending November 2026 in Area 4. Area four encompasses Wards 7 and 8 of the City of Greater Sudbury as well as the municipalities of Killarney, French River, Markstay-Warren, St. Charles, and the unorganized townships of Burwash, Cox, Davis, Eden, Hawley, Hendrie, Henry, Janes, Laura, Loughrin, Secord, Servos, Street and Tilton.
