Melissa Judd drives Vector Institute’s research operations and academic partnerships. She oversees programming, funding and operations for a thriving community of over 900 AI researchers while advancing initiatives that strengthen Ontario’s AI workforce.

Under her leadership, Vector has expanded its recognized Master’s programs, launched the Vector Scholarship in Artificial Intelligence, and developed professional development initiatives to accelerate talent recruitment and hiring in AI. Melissa has also spearheaded diversity-focused initiatives, including programs to advance the participation of women, Black and Indigenous researchers and practitioners in AI.  

With 20 years of leadership experience in higher education, Melissa’s roles have included serving as Assistant Dean, Students at York University’s Schulich School of Business. She holds an MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Ottawa.