UPEI’s Paul Young named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs for fifth consecutive year
The University of Prince Edward Island is proud to announce that Paul Young, Chief Operating Officer of the Faculty of Medicine, has once again been named one of Atlantic Business Magazine’s Top 50 CEOs. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Mr. Young has received this prestigious recognition. At the 2025 gala, he was also inducted into the Atlantic Business Magazine Top 50 CEO Hall of Fame and recognized as Top CEO in the Crown Corporation/Post-Secondary Institution category—an extraordinary trio of honours that reflect his visionary leadership and transformative contributions to healthcare and education in the region.
Since joining UPEI, Mr. Young has led the development of the University’s new Faculty of Medicine—an ambitious and historic initiative launched during significant healthcare challenges. Under his leadership, the faculty has evolved from concept to reality in just two and a half years, with a $100 million infrastructure project, an expanded operational budget exceeding $20 million, and a team that has grown from one to 50 full-time staff members.
The opportunity to build a medical school in Prince Edward Island is a once-in-a-lifetime endeavour,” said Mr. Young. “Rather than being overwhelmed by the scale of the challenge, I’ve worked to foster a culture where we see obstacles as opportunities for innovation and growth.”
Mr. Young’s career has been defined by bold, forward-thinking leadership. Before joining UPEI, he pioneered Canada’s first virtual in-patient care model and played a critical role in healthcare system resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Fiona. His contributions have been recognized nationally, including with the Lieutenant Governor’s COVID Warrior Coin, the National Patient Care Innovation Award, and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Dr. Wendy Rodgers, President and Vice-Chancellor of UPEI, offered her congratulations:
“Paul Young exemplifies the visionary leadership that defines UPEI’s mission and values. His ability to lead with integrity, inspire innovation, and deliver meaningful change is truly extraordinary. We are proud to celebrate his continued recognition as one of Atlantic Canada’s top CEOs, and we are especially thrilled that his achievements were prominently honoured at this year’s gala with three major awards, including his induction into the Hall of Fame.”
Mr. Young’s work continues to influence the future of healthcare in Canada. His dedication to empowering teams, challenging the status quo, and driving transformative solutions is a powerful example of his transformational leadership.
