Celebrating leadership and innovation at the Office of International Affairs

The Office of International Affairs proudly recognizes Paul Leegsma, Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects, as this year’s President’s Awards for Outstanding Service recipient. Paul is honoured for his exceptional contributions to McMaster’s mission, outstanding service to staff, faculty, students, and international partners, and his role in streamlining university operations and advancing global partnerships. 

With over 15 years at McMaster’s OIA, Paul has been instrumental in managing nearly 250 international agreements, leading their digitalization, and implementing a new customer relations management system to strengthen global connections. He updated the cotutelle (joint PhD) policy with the School of Graduate Studies and improved processes for hosting foreign scholars. Paul has also organized major international events, including the U21 Educational Innovation Symposium (2023), the UGA-McMaster Joint Workshop (2022), and the Ontario Regional Meeting for the Canadian Bureau for International Education (2021). 

A mentor to new OIA staff, Paul champions virtual global learning, expanding international experiences for McMaster students through collaborative online programs. 

Congratulations to Paul and all 96 McMaster nominees and recipients. Join the in-person celebration on May 8, 2025, at L.R. Wilson Concert Theatre, where President Farrar will present the awards. 

Please join us in congratulating Paul on this well-deserved honour and celebrating his impact on the McMaster community.