“She Who Dares, Wins.”
Dr. Rhonda McEwen is a visionary leader in the intersection of emerging technologies, human-machine communication, and digital media. With over 28 years of experience, she has seamlessly blended academic research, industry consulting, and executive leadership to drive transformative advancements in artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and cognitive informatics. Currently serving as president of Victoria University at the University of Toronto, Dr. McEwen has established herself as a thought leader dedicated to innovation, inclusivity, and the societal impact of technology.
Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. McEwen has played a pivotal role in shaping the field of human-machine communication. Her research has been featured on CBS’s 60 Minutes, highlighting her groundbreaking work in eye-tracking, sensor-based communication, and cognitive effects of media. Her expertise spans AI, virtual reality, social media, autism and non-verbal communication technologies, and wireless telecommunications, including GSM and CDMA network architectures. She is also the co-author of Understanding Tablets from Early Childhood to Adulthood, a book that examines the role of digital devices across generations.
Beyond academia, Dr. McEwen has amassed extensive consulting experience in telecommunications, technology strategy, and digital transformation. She has held leadership roles at IBM Global Business Services, Deloitte Consulting, and Rogers, where she spearheaded digital strategy initiatives and led major technology implementations. Her ability to bridge the gap between technology and its real-world applications has made her a trusted advisor in both the corporate and public sectors.
Her commitment to process improvement, research, and leadership development is evident in her board roles at Autism Speaks Canada and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. These organizations focus on healthcare innovation and support for individuals with learning disabilities and communication challenges, further reinforcing her dedication to using technology for social good.
As a professor and leader at the University of Toronto Mississauga for over a decade, Dr. McEwen has mentored future leaders in digital media, AI, and emerging technologies. Her tenure as vice-principal academic and dean, and director of the Institute of Communication, Culture, Information & Technology, saw her launching interdisciplinary research initiatives that brought together behavioral sciences, data analytics, and advanced computing to solve real-world problems.
Dr. McEwen’s expertise extends beyond the classroom and boardroom—she is an active speaker at major technology and AI conferences, including Ontario University Presentations and AI Circuit/Tech Revolution Presentations. She has also contributed to leading academic journals, ensuring her research remains at the forefront of technological advancement. Her global perspective is shaped by her international exposure, spanning Canada, the UK, and the United States, giving her a nuanced understanding of global technology ecosystems.
Her impressive educational background further solidifies her credentials. She holds a Ph.D. in information and mobile communication from the University of Toronto, an M.Sc. in telecommunications from the University of Colorado Boulder, an MBA in information technology from Bayes Business School, and a B.Sc. in sociology and management from the University of the West Indies. Recognized for her academic excellence, she has received prestigious awards such as the Chevening Scholarship, the Association of American University Women Fellowship, and the Silver Guild Medal.
Dr. McEwen’s leadership is built on a foundation of strategic thinking, public speaking, and consulting expertise, with endorsements in strategy, research, social media, and information technology. She believes in fostering a collaborative, innovative, and research-driven approach to addressing modern challenges in AI, digital transformation, and emerging technologies.
Outside of her professional commitments, Dr. McEwen is passionate about art and creativity, particularly in deconstructing technology and transforming it into artistic expressions. This unique intersection of art and technology reflects her holistic approach to problem-solving and innovation—always seeking new ways to understand, engage with, and shape the digital world.
Character:
Dr. McEwen is a bold and innovative leader who continuously challenges the status quo to drive meaningful change in technology and society. Her passion for ethical and inclusive advancements in AI, digital media, and human-machine communication underscores her commitment to using technology for social good.
Knowledge:
With 28 years of expertise in digital media, AI, and human-machine communication, she possesses a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical applications of technology. Her extensive research, industry experience, and academic contributions have positioned her as a thought leader in emerging technologies and their cognitive and societal impacts.
Strategic:
Her multi-industry experience, board leadership, and executive roles enable her to craft and implement high-level strategies that drive technological innovation and operational excellence. She excels at bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world applications, ensuring that technology serves both businesses and communities effectively.
Communication:
As an accomplished speaker, professor, and published researcher, Dr. McEwen effectively translates complex technological concepts into actionable insights and impactful solutions. Her ability to engage diverse audiences—from corporate leaders to academic scholars—has made her a sought-after voice in discussions on AI, digital transformation, and the future of human-machine interaction.
