Kathryn McNaughton is a distinguished senior executive, educator, and certified executive coach whose career reflects a deep commitment to advancing leadership, fostering meaningful change, and strengthening institutions through thoughtful, values-driven governance. With more than 25 years of professional experience spanning higher education, research, and organizational leadership, Kathryn has built a reputation as a trusted and insightful leader who brings clarity, compassion, and strategic rigor to every role she undertakes.
Throughout her career, Kathryn has consistently operated at the intersection of leadership and transformation. Her approach is grounded in honesty, integrity, and kindness—principles that guide her interactions and decision-making processes. These values have enabled her to cultivate strong relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, and communities, while also driving impactful outcomes across complex organizational environments.
Kathryn’s executive leadership journey includes serving as Vice-President Academic & Student Services at Vancouver Community College, where she was responsible for the institution’s academic mission and strategic direction. Reporting directly to the President, she played a pivotal role in shaping key initiatives such as the Integrated College Plan, Teaching and Learning Framework, and Institutional Learning Outcomes. Her leadership resulted in enhanced collaboration across departments, increased enrollment, and strengthened partnerships with external organizations.
Prior to this role, Kathryn served as Vice-President Academic & Research at the University College of the North, where she led the development of academic programming across multiple campuses and regional centers. She was instrumental in establishing research infrastructure, securing national funding eligibility, and launching major initiatives such as the Northern Manitoba Mining Academy. Her ability to align institutional priorities with regional economic and social needs demonstrated her capacity to lead with both vision and pragmatism.
Kathryn’s earlier leadership experience as Dean at both Red River College and Thompson Rivers University further reflects her strength in building high-performing teams and advancing innovation in education. At Red River College, she led a diverse portfolio including library services, curriculum development, and teaching innovation, while implementing college-wide learning outcomes and faculty development programs. At Thompson Rivers University, she successfully secured significant funding for program development and fostered collaborative partnerships across disciplines and communities.
In addition to her executive roles, Kathryn has maintained an active academic career as a professor, researcher, and mentor. Her scholarly contributions, including publications and international presentations, have influenced practices in early childhood education, curriculum development, and experiential learning. She has also supervised graduate students and contributed to academic journals, reinforcing her role as a thought leader in her field.
Complementing her extensive leadership background, Kathryn is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) through the International Coaching Federation and the founder of Authentic Insights Coaching. In this capacity, she works closely with leaders and teams to navigate complexity, clarify goals, and foster accountability. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes deep listening, reflective thinking, and the creation of safe spaces for meaningful dialogue—skills that enhance her effectiveness as both a leader and board member.
Kathryn’s governance experience includes serving on the Board of Governors for the Justice Institute of British Columbia, as well as leadership roles in nonprofit organizations such as the Salt Spring Island United Church and the Salt Spring Seniors Society. Through these roles, she has demonstrated a strong understanding of board dynamics, policy development, and strategic oversight, while contributing to mission-driven initiatives that support community well-being.
Her international experience, which includes work in China, India, Trinidad and Tobago, and across Canada, has further enriched her perspective and strengthened her ability to navigate diverse cultural and organizational contexts. Kathryn brings a global mindset to her work, recognizing the importance of inclusivity, collaboration, and adaptability in today’s interconnected world.
At this stage in her career, Kathryn is motivated by a desire to expand her impact through board service. She is particularly drawn to organizations in education, healthcare, social justice, and the arts—sectors that align with her values and professional expertise. Her commitment to contributing meaningfully, coupled with her ability to offer thoughtful perspectives and dependable leadership, makes her a valuable asset to any board.
Kathryn’s personal mission is rooted in supporting others to achieve clarity, purpose, and growth. Whether in executive leadership, coaching, or governance, she brings a steady presence, intellectual depth, and a genuine interest in helping individuals and organizations succeed. Her work reflects not only a distinguished career, but also a legacy of service, mentorship, and enduring impact.
Character:
Kathryn exemplifies integrity and respect in every professional interaction, consistently building trust with colleagues and stakeholders. She approaches challenges with empathy and openness, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. Her commitment to ethical leadership is evident in her ability to navigate complex situations with fairness and authenticity.
Knowledge:
She brings a deep and expansive understanding of higher education, governance, and organizational leadership developed over decades of experience. Her academic background, combined with her executive and coaching expertise, allows her to approach issues with both analytical rigor and practical insight. She continuously invests in her own development, staying current with evolving leadership practices and industry trends.
Strategic:
Kathryn is a forward-thinking leader who excels at aligning vision with execution. She has successfully led large-scale initiatives, developed strategic plans, and guided organizations through periods of significant change. Her ability to anticipate challenges and identify opportunities enables her to contribute meaningfully to long-term organizational success.
Communication:
A skilled communicator who fosters clarity, collaboration, and engagement across diverse audiences. She listens deeply and asks thoughtful questions, creating space for meaningful dialogue and informed decision-making. Her ability to articulate complex ideas with precision and warmth strengthens relationships and drives collective understanding.
