Todd Robertson Appointed as New Trustee for UCDSB

A vacancy at the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) has been officially filled with the appointment of Todd Robertson. The Gananoque area resident was elected to replace Carole Dufort, who resigned in June 2023 due to health issues. The decision was finalized during the trustee election held on October 1, 2023.

The process leading to Robertson’s appointment involved a transparent interview stage, where three shortlisted candidates participated. Alongside Robertson, the candidates included Meena Mullur, the current chief administrative officer for the Township of North Dundas, and Bill MacPherson, a former trustee defeated by Dufort in the 2022 elections. Each candidate addressed questions from board members regarding governance and their understanding of the UCDSB’s director’s work plan.

Robertson, who boasts over thirty years of experience as a public servant, expressed his commitment to the role during his interview. He emphasized his family’s tradition of public service and his readiness to contribute effectively to the board. After the vote and his subsequent swearing-in, he stated, “I look forward to working with everyone collaboratively for the remainder of the term.”

Robertson will serve the remaining 13 months of the 2022-26 term, taking over from Dufort. His appointment marks the third recent change among UCDSB trustees. Previously, John Danaher was selected as the Ward 7 Trustee for Dundas County following the resignation of Larry Berry in 2023. Elizabeth Stienberg was appointed as the Ward 9 Trustee for Stormont and Glengarry Counties to replace Curtis Jordan in May 2025.

Despite the public nature of the interviews, UCDSB officials have chosen not to disclose the names of the other applicants who vied for the trustee position. Looking ahead, trustee elections for the 2026-30 term are scheduled for October 2026, although this timeline may be subject to change as the Ministry of Education, led by Paul Calandra, reviews the roles and potential reforms of school trustees.

Robertson’s appointment is part of a broader context of governance changes in educational institutions, reflecting ongoing adjustments in leadership and administrative structures within the UCDSB. The board’s commitment to transparency and public involvement in trustee appointments remains evident as it navigates these transitions.