Special adviser on antisemitism

Professor Calof has given over 1,000 speeches, seminars and keynote addresses around the world on intelligence, foresight and analytics and has helped several companies and government agencies around the world enhance their capabilities on these areas. He is also a prolific author, with over 200 publications to his credit. He has been a member of the Pearson Advisory Board since its establishment in 2013 and is currently vice chair of the Pearson Centre for Progressive Policy, a think tank with roots in advancing human rights and enhancing the representation of Canada’s diversity.

He has been an active volunteer within both the local and national Jewish community. He chaired the Ottawa Jewish Federation’s Community Relations Committee, was Ottawa’s representative on the Canadian Jewish Congress and has served on the Ottawa Jewish Federation executive. He was also at one time a field reporter for the Ottawa Jewish Bulletin. In recognition of his contribution to the Jewish community, both in Ottawa and across Canada, he was presented with the community’s 75th anniversary volunteer award. 

Professor Calof was appointed by the president and vice-chancellor, to whom he will provide regular briefings.

Reporting to the vice provost, equity, diversity and inclusive excellence, the special adviser on antisemitism will serve as the resource person for senior leadership, administration, faculty and students at the University on all matters related to antisemitism. He will provide regular briefings to the president, the provost and others on antisemitism at the University; share feedback on the lived experience of Jews at the University of Ottawa; and provide advice and guidance to address systemic and specific cases of antisemitism. This includes guiding the development of training programs and other efforts to combat antisemitism on campus, as part of an integrated approach to eliminating all forms of racism, discrimination and harassment.

The special adviser will also serve as a resource person for members of the Jewish community on campus. He will hold regular meetings with Jewish groups and individuals, including students, faculty and staff. A number of roundtables will be held to allow members of the Jewish community at the University to convey their experiences. The incumbent will also support a study to measure experiences with antisemitism on campus, to develop a results-based framework for action. 

Professor Calof can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 613-292-5007.