George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
A transformative figure in Canada's construction industry and a vocal champion of innovation, Geoff Smith brings decades of industry leadership and a bold vision to George Brown, helping shape the future of education and the workforce.
Smith began his three-year term on June 9, 2025. He succeeds Noella Milne (2019-2025) and Sally Horsfall Eaton (2012-2018).
"It brings me great honour to be given this opportunity to be George Brown’s Chancellor," said Smith. "This role is one I do not take lightly and truly hope to inspire current students and graduates to learn, grow, be agile, and be inspired to make a positive impact in our community."
Building communities
As former President and CEO of EllisDon, Smith brings extensive experience from a career spent leading one of Canada's largest construction services and technology companies through significant industry shifts.
His leadership has focused on advancing technology in the construction sector, increasing sustainability across the industry, fostering adaptability, continuous learning, and strong interpersonal skills to help students navigate workplace changes. Under his leadership, EllisDon became a fully employee-owned company and a recognized leader in promoting progressive change within the industry.
Smith’s history working with George Brown
Smith, his family, and EllisDon have maintained a strong relationship with George Brown for over 20 years, contributing more than half a million dollars in donations and providing additional in-kind support for students and programs, including hiring graduates and supporting their career development. EllisDon is currently one of the top five institutional industry partners for work-integrated learning placements within the Faculty of Applied Science, Construction, and Engineering Technologies, and has been a dedicated supporter of the annual Food Court Social event benefiting Augmented Education programs.
Smith’s involvement also extends to philanthropic efforts, including chairing the "Technology in the City" fundraising campaign for the college and supporting senior leadership in overseeing the construction of George Brown's first Waterfront Campus facility, where EllisDon served as construction project manager. In partnership with Ledcor, they also built George Brown’s first student residence, known as The George.
Professional and community accomplishments and honours
Smith has received several significant awards recognizing his leadership and contributions to the industry and community, including the 2025 Toronto Region Builder Award for his lifelong contributions to the construction industry and broader Toronto community, EY Canada's Entrepreneur of the Year in 2013 (also winning the Ontario regional award), the Jack Tindale Memorial Award in 2011 for integrity and ethics in construction, and was awarded an Honorary Bachelor of Technology in Construction Management from George Brown in 2023.
Volunteer efforts
Smith is actively involved in various boards, educational institutions, and charitable organizations. He serves in advisory and curriculum development roles at Toronto Metropolitan University and has served on the boards of Halton Healthcare, the C.D. Howe Institute, the Business Council of Canada, and the Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships.
Chancellor Emeritus
Noella Milne, Chancellor 2019-2025
Noella Milne served as George Brown’s second chancellor for two consecutive terms, becoming the institution's strongest advocate in sharing its mission and celebrating student achievements. Her final term concluded with convocation ceremonies in May 2025, where she inspired graduates with her message about resilience being learned through experience.
Milne's journey from India to Canada at age 17, followed by her rise to become an accomplished real estate lawyer and senior partner at Borden Ladner Gervais, deeply resonated with the college community.
Throughout her tenure, she demonstrated exceptional generosity through her work with George Brown and various charitable organizations, earning numerous honours, including her appointment to the Order of Canada. Her warmth, genuine care for others, and steadfast dedication to youth mentorship left a lasting impression on the community, embodying the passion, kindness, and integrity that defined her time as chancellor.
Sally Horsfall Eaton, Chancellor 2012-2018
Sally Horsfall Eaton served as the first Chancellor of George Brown Polytechnic and hers marked the first chancellorship at an Ontario college.
Horsfall Eaton presided over convocation ceremonies, providing her trademark mix of wisdom and humour, and served as an ambassador for George Brown Polytechnic, enhancing its profile in the community.
As Chancellor, Horsfall Eaton ushered in important new traditions for convocation, including George Brown’s ceremonial mace and coat of arms.
George Brown Polytechnic’s Nursing School was renamed in Sally Horsfall Eaton’s honour following a $4-million gift she and her husband, John C. Eaton, gave to the program. Horsfall Eaton has a long and distinguished record of volunteerism, philanthropy and public service.