President & Vice-Chancellor Mamdouh Shoukri delivered the following message to the York University community.
After a very accomplished career at York University, spanning more than 30 years, Patrick Monahan, our esteemed vice-president academic & provost, will be leaving York to take on a new and exciting role as deputy attorney general of Ontario, effective Nov. 26.
Patrick has made many significant and notable contributions to York over the years, first as a professor of law at Osgoode Hall Law School, then as dean of the law school from 2003-2009, and finally in his role as vice-president academic & provost, over the last three years.
Patrick Monahan
I have been honoured to have such a capable and well respected provost by my side. Patrick has led the academy at a critical time. The Provost’s White Paper has provided York with a strong strategic direction for the next decade and beyond, as well as a solid framework for the University Academic Plan 2010-2015. The Academic Innovation Fund that he was instrumental in creating in 2010 is advancing innovation in teaching and learning at York and improving the student experience.
I have personally appreciated Patrick’s guidance and advice and wish him all the best as he takes on this new role.
Given the timing of Patrick’s departure and to ensure continuity, I have asked Dr. Rhonda Lenton to assume the 
position of vice-president academic & provost for the balance of Patrick’s term (ie. until June 30, 2014). Prior to the expiry of her term, the normal review process will be undertaken.
Rhonda Lenton
Rhonda Lenton has over a decade of senior administrative experience at York, first as dean of Atkinson and, since 2009, as vice-provost, academic, the senior associate vice-president in the Provost’s Office. Rhonda has been actively engaged in many of the academic planning and administrative activities within the University over the past three years, including the White Paper and our Academic Plan. Most recently, Rhonda led the development of the Strategic Mandate Agreement document that was recently submitted to the Ontario government in response to the current review of the post-secondary education system. In addition, Rhonda’s strong relationship with the deans and the York community will serve us well, as we continue to move York forward as one of the leading teaching and research institutions in the country. Her appointment will ensure continued progress on our academic goals at an important time for York.
Rhonda has my full trust and support and I look forward to working with her in her new role.