05/28/2026
We are honoured to present the 2026 Alumnus of the Year, Chad Schella ’94. Chad graduated from Bishop’s with an honours degree in Political Science. During his time at the University, he was an exceptionally engaged and respected student leader. He was named valedictorian of his graduating class and served two-terms as President of the SRC, demonstrating a strong commitment to student life and advocacy. In recognition of his character, leadership, and contributions to the B.U. community, Chad was awarded the Golden Mitre, the University’s highest non-academic honour bestowed by a popular vote of the graduating class.
Following his time at Bishop’s, Chad built a distinguished career spanning public affairs, government relations, and the private sector. He is currently Associate Vice-President, Government Relations at CIBC. Prior to this, he spent more than a decade with Canada Post, serving as both General Manager, Government and Community Affairs and Director, Government Affairs. Earlier in his career, Chad worked in federal politics, supporting two national political party leaders, before joining the Canadian Construction Association in Ottawa. He later expanded his experience in Toronto with the Royal Canadian Golf Association (now Golf Canada) and the pharmaceutical company Pro-Pharma, developing a strong foundation in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and public policy.
Chad’s professional path has consistently been shaped by a deep commitment to community impact. In 2003, he returned to Ottawa to work with the Ottawa Senators Foundation, where he played a key role in the creation, development, and opening of Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice—a pioneering pediatric palliative care facility. Following this achievement, he spent eight years with the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club and continued his involvement with the Hospice as a founding Board Member for seven years. Today, he serves as Chair of the Board of Directors for Queensway Carleton Hospital and Vice-Chair of the Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation, further reflecting his dedication to strengthening health care and community services. His contributions have been widely recognized, including being named to Bishop’s Top 10 After 10 and receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013.
Chad’s commitment to service is equally evident in his enduring connection to Bishop’s. As Co-Lead of the Ottawa Alumni Chapter, he plays an active role in building alumni engagement, frequently co-organizing events such as Ottawa Redblacks outings and Welcome Home celebrations. He has also contributed to the University through his involvement in the Leading the Way campaign and as a volunteer mentor in the JUMP Mentorship Program, supporting students as they transition into their careers. No matter where life and work have taken him, Chad has remained deeply committed to giving back—consistently investing his time, leadership, and energy to make his community stronger.
