New Board Chair Appointed to BCCIE’s Board of Directors

The BC Council for International Education (BCCIE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Christina Zacharuk as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. With extensive experience in public service and a longstanding commitment to education, Christina brings valuable expertise and perspective to the role. BCCIE’s Board of Directors oversees the organization’s mandate in advancing the international education interests of the government and people of British Columbia.

Since 2024, Christina has overseen the Research Universities Council of BC (RUCBC) as Chief Executive Officer. RUCBC represents the interests of BC’s research universities, providing coordination and system wide leadership in the development of relevant public policy, advocacy, and strategic communication. Christina and the RUCBC team are also providing advocacy support to the members of the Pacific Association of Canadian Institutes and Universities (PACIU). Previously she served as the President & CEO (Associate Deputy Minister) of the Public Sector Employers’ Council Secretariat in the Ministry of Finance, as Associate Deputy Minister in the Office of the Premier, and most recently, as Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Education and Child Care. Christina has significant expertise in policy development, including corporate governance, strategic labour relations, and executive and exempt compensation across the public sector.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sociology and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from the University of Victoria.

Quote:

Randall Martin, Executive Director, BCCIE
“We are honoured and excited to welcome Christina Zacharuk as BCCIE’s new Board Chair. Her strong values and leadership experience will be instrumental in guiding BCCIE’s continued efforts to advance international education in BC. Christina brings valuable expertise and a deep commitment to our organization’s mission. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to outgoing Board Chair Ajay Patal, President of Vancouver Community College, for his leadership and dedication to the role during a time of significant transition. Ajay’s genuine passion for international education and unwavering commitment to BCCIE have made a meaningful impact on our organization.”