After 22 years of exceptional service, and an enduring legacy shaped across five deans, Cathy Vitkauskas, Executive Director of Advancement, will retire from the Ivey Business School on May 15, 2026. Her impact on the School, its people, and its future is deeply felt.
Reflecting on her career, Cathy says it’s the relationships and shared accomplishments that she’ll carry forward most.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible colleagues, volunteers, and alumni, and to play a small part in some truly meaningful milestones for the School. Seeing the impact of philanthropy come to life, whether through student support, research, new facilities, or advancing big ideas, has been incredibly rewarding.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Vision
Early in her tenure, Cathy played a pivotal role in concluding the $206 million Ivey Campaign for Leadership — at the time, the largest fundraising campaign ever undertaken by a Canadian business school. Her commitment to both excellence and collaboration also shaped the donor recognition experience throughout the Richard Ivey Building, where she chaired the Building Recognition Signage Committee and helped bring the vision for the space to life.
After returning to Ivey in 2019 as Executive Director of Advancement, Cathy once again stepped into a pivotal leadership role, elevating the team’s impact and strategic direction. Under her guidance, Ivey secured more than $140 million in philanthropic support, including a transformational $30-million donation to establish the Donald K. Johnson Centre in downtown Toronto — the largest individual gift in Western University’s history.
A Deep Appreciation for People and Community
Throughout her years at Ivey, Cathy has distinguished herself by building genuine, lasting relationships with alumni and donors around the world. Her work has strengthened Ivey’s global community — spanning Asia, Europe, and the U.S. — and deepened the School’s international network in meaningful ways. Cathy often speaks about the remarkable connection shared by Ivey graduates, a bond that endures across borders and generations.
“No matter where alumni are in the world, there’s an immediate sense of connection when Ivey is part of the conversation. People are proud of their experience and genuinely want to stay involved and give back.”
Those connections are what she treasures most.
“I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many alumni over the years, and they are incredibly generous — not just with their support, but with their time and advice. It’s been an absolute privilege to get to know so many of them. The Ivey alumni network is truly exceptional — there’s really nothing quite like it in Canada.”
Messages from Colleagues and Friends
I met Cathy in 2003 when I joined Ivey as Dean. At my first Homecoming, I broke my elbow. Cathy delivered food to my doorstep as I couldn’t drive – despite barely knowing me at the time. That kindness and caring extends to our alumni as well. She has always been genuinely interested in our graduates. Cathy will be deeply missed by the many who came to know her for her passion and commitment.”
– Carol Stephenson, O.C., LLD ’16 (Former Ivey Dean, 2003-2013)
Cathy’s impact on Ivey has been profound, from the relationships she’s built to the many ways she has helped move the School forward. We are deeply grateful for her years of dedication and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.”
– Dean Julian Birkinshaw, MBA ’91, PhD ’95
Cathy, as you begin your well-earned retirement, we celebrate you, your career, and the relationships you’ve built – rooted in confidence, trust, and always marked by your signature warmth. I know I speak for many when I say your respect for everyone you’ve worked with has strengthened partnerships, deepened friendships, and elevated all of us who were lucky enough to interact with you. You’ve set a standard that will continue to inspire the Ivey community, and for that, and so much more, we are profoundly thankful.”
– Chris Tambakis, HBA ’86, CEO, Adgar Canada and Ivey Advisory Board Member
Cathy was truly a first among equals. She understood the School and its strategy at a depth few would expect of a head of development, and she was deeply committed to it. Her longevity meant she experienced the School’s trials and transitions firsthand and navigated them with care and confidence. Beyond that, she’s kind, fun, and smart, and over the years we’ve become great friends. All of this is what makes her exceptional.”
– Sylvia Chrominska, HBA ’75, LLD ’14
Looking Ahead
As Cathy begins her next chapter, the Ivey community celebrates her remarkable contributions, leadership, kindness, and the enduring impact she leaves behind.
Her legacy, built on relationships, generosity, and a deep commitment to advance Ivey’s vision, will continue to shape the School for years to come.