Under the terms of the University's Royal Charter (1852), the Board of Governors is the University's highest governing body, with general jurisdiction and final authority over the conduct of the affairs of the University. The Board’s mandate is focused on ensuring the sound governance and trusteeship of the University’s assets: financial assets, property assets, and human resources. It also makes all contracts and all appointments on behalf of the University.
The Board is composed of twenty-five voting members and two non-voting student observers, and out of the 27 members, the appointment of 12 members, is within the sole purview of the Board. The other 15 are appointed or elected to the Board by other university associations or constituent groups.
The Board has ten standing committees, which play a fundamental role in helping the Board and its Governors fulfill their mandate.
Reference Documents on Governance
Board of Governors Handbook (2023-2024)
Overview of Governance Practices at McGill University
Regulations of the Committees of the Board of Governors
The Code of Ethics and Conduct for Members of the Board of Governors of McGill University
Board of Governors Rules of Order and Procedure
Indemnification of Members of the Board of Governors
Other Useful Resources
University Policies and Regulations
Policy on the Approval of Contracts and Designation of Signing Authority