Chancellor Scott Russell (D.Litt)
Nipissing University has appointed Dr. Scott Russell as its fifth Chancellor. The award-winning broadcaster and acclaimed author, best known for his hosting roles with CBC Sports and extensive Olympic Games coverage, began his four-year term on July 1, 2024.
A Canadian Screen Award and Gemini Award-winning broadcaster, Scott Russell brings nearly 40 years of experience, passion, and knowledge to his role as co-host of CBC Sports Presents.
This summer, Dr. Russell will cover his 17th Olympic Games - it will be his seventh time hosting.
Dr. Russell's passion for amateur sports shines throughout his extensive career, which includes hosting major sporting events like the Commonwealth Games, Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games, and multiple FIFA World Cups. He also served as host and rink-side reporter for CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada for 14 years. Beyond broadcasting, he writes insightful sports blogs for cbcsports.ca and is a member of the CBC Sports initiative on women in sports.
Starting his career at CBC Charlottetown in 1985, Dr. Russell transitioned to sports reporting in 1986 and has since become a respected commentator. In addition to his roles at CBC, he has taught a course in Canadian Sports History at Toronto's Centennial College and is involved with several sports committees and charities, including the Canadian Olympic Committee's Education Committee, Ambassador’s Council for Amici camping charity, the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport and the Public Policy Forum on Value-Based Sport, the Paralympic Foundation of Canada, and the advisory board of the International Centre For Olympic Studies At Western University.
A graduate of Western University with an M.A. in Journalism, Dr. Russell has penned two books on hockey, Ice Time: A Canadian Hockey Journey and The Rink - Stories from Hockey's Home Towns, which he co-wrote with Chris Cuthbert. Russell's third book, Open House: Canada and the Magic of Curling, is a grassroots look at one of this country's favourite sports.
Scott Russell has been recognized with numerous awards including the George Gross Award for Outstanding Broadcasting and a CBC President's Award in the Brand Champion category for his dedication and enthusiasm for his work covering amateur athletics. He also received an honorary doctorate (D.Litt.) from Nipissing University in 2020.
An avid runner, Dr. Russell has completed two Boston Marathons, and was awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his contributions to sports in Canada. He currently lives in Toronto with his wife, Catherine.
Dr. Russell will be officially installed as Chancellor during a special ceremony this fall.