Symposium Keynote Panelists

Rob Cerjanec

Member of Provincial Parliament for Ajax

A lifelong advocate for public education and a practical problem-solver, Rob Cerjanec was elected as the Member of Provincial Parliament for Ajax in 2025. He is currently the only Ontario Liberal MPP representing a riding in the 905. As the Ontario Liberal Critic for Economic Development & Innovation, and Tourism, Sport & Culture, he is focused on building an economy that leverages, commercializes, and exports Ontario-made innovation so every young person has the opportunity to succeed.

Rob has been a leading voice on innovation policy, introducing legislation to strengthen Ontario’s approach to artificial intelligence and championing the commercialization of homegrown ideas to drive growth, create jobs, and keep talent in the province. He is committed to investing in healthcare and education, improving transportation options, protecting the environment, and making life more affordable.

Before being elected, Rob served as Chief of Staff to Toronto’s Deputy Mayor Ana Bailão, was a small business owner and consultant, and held a executive role with the Durham District School Board, where he oversaw strategic initiatives and external relations, helped drive organizational change, and supported parents navigating the education system. He holds a BA in Political Science and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business.

Dr. Patricia Marino

Professor of Philosophy, University of Waterloo

Patricia Marino is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Waterloo in Canada, where she specializes in philosophy of economics, ethics, epistemology, and social philosophy. Her current research projects concern normative perspectives on formalization and quantification, including analysis of algorithmic oppression and proxy discrimination in AI applications.

Dr. Ian J. MacDonald

Philosopher, University of Waterloo

Ian MacDonald is an educator and writer at the University of Waterloo who investigates the interrelations between inquiry, meaning, and method, with a focus on AI ethics, the ethics of belief, and American pragmatism. He is co-author, with Matt Silk, of An Inquirer’s Guide to Ethics in AI.