Dr. Gianni Parise participates in 2026 University Vice Presidents Network Germany Study

From May 4-8, 2026, Dr. Gianni Parise, Vice-President, Research, travelled to Berlin, Germany, for the latest University Vice Presidents Network (UVPN) study, hosted by the Higher Education Strategy Associates.  

Engaging Canadian and German university vice presidents, the Germany Study focused on models for university collaboration, challenges facing research and innovation, economic development, global education, and the changing university landscape. 

Dr. Parise represented McMaster across the week-long event, learning about Germany’s postsecondary landscape and exchanging insights into strategic approaches to enhance international research collaboration.  

“Participating in the UVPN was a valuable opportunity to connect with international leaders and exchange ideas on the future of higher education, research and innovation. These kinds of conversations and partnerships are essential as McMaster works together with postsecondary institutions in Germany and globally to address critical challenges, strengthen talent pipelines, and translate research into real-world impact,” he says.  

McMaster has a long history of collaboration with German postsecondary institutions, with over 20 active agreements spanning research and education. Dr. Parise’s participation in the UVPN Germany Study reminds us of our commitment to further strengthening these international partnerships and fostering new ones. 

 The UVPN is a high-level forum that aims to engage university vice presidents for peer exchange. Discussions cover best practices for managing expansive portfolios in complex institutions, navigating the issues facing higher education, and exploring opportunities for learning, knowledge-sharing, and collaborative problem-solving.  

In March 2025, McMaster Vice-President (Operations and Finance) Saher Fazilat, participated in a UVPN delegation to Japan.