Jill Dunlop

Ontario Minister of Colleges and Universities

Jill Dunlop is a dedicated Canadian politician currently serving as the Ontario Minister of Colleges and Universities, a role she has held since June 18, 2021. She has proudly represented the riding of Simcoe North in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as a member of the Progressive Conservative Party since 2018.

Born and raised in the rural town of Coldwater, Ontario, Jill developed a deep appreciation for rural communities and their pivotal role in Ontario’s economy. She comes from a family with a strong legacy of public service; her mother, Jane Dunlop, was the former Deputy Mayor of the Township of Severn, and her father, Garfield Dunlop, represented Simcoe North from 1999 to 2015.

Jill’s early career reflects her commitment to education and community development. She attended Western University in London and later joined the faculty at Georgian College’s Orillia Campus, where she took on various teaching roles and facilitated field placements and internships for students. Her hands-on experience in education has provided her with valuable insights into the needs and challenges of postsecondary institutions.

A proud mother of three postsecondary-aged daughters—Karley, Rachel, and Madison—Jill brings a unique perspective to her role, informed by her daughters’ diverse educational journeys.

In 2019, Jill was appointed Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues in the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services. This position allowed her to engage deeply with families, organizations, and services across the province, driving results-oriented initiatives and fostering meaningful discussions.

As the current Minister of Colleges and Universities, Jill is dedicated to supporting and advancing higher education across Ontario and beyond. Additionally, she serves on the Economic and Resource Policy Committee at Queen’s Park, contributing to the development of policies that impact the province’s economic and resource sectors.

Jill Dunlop’s ongoing commitment to her constituents, her passion for education, and her dedication to public service continue to drive her work in the Ontario government.