Yolana Junco

Associate Vice-President, Recreation & Athletics

Yolana Junco is a seasoned leader in post-secondary athletics and administration, currently serving as the Associate Vice-President of Recreation & Athletics at Carleton University. With over 16 years of experience in finance and operations within the university’s athletics department, Yolana brings a unique blend of strategic business acumen and a deep commitment to student development through sport.

In her current role, she provides executive leadership and operational oversight for Carleton’s Recreation and Athletics department. Her portfolio includes capital development and maintenance of athletic facilities, as well as the design and delivery of fitness, recreation, and varsity programs that align with the university’s Strategic Integrated Plan. She also leads key revenue-generating initiatives that support both student engagement and community partnerships, ensuring financial sustainability and program excellence.

Yolana’s previous roles at Carleton include Director of Finance and Operations, where she managed a $20 million budget across business development, IT, and facility operations, and Assistant Director, overseeing a $13 million budget and leading financial, HR, and business operations. As a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), she brings rigorous financial expertise to her strategic and operational leadership, with a deep understanding of institutional finance and infrastructure that has positioned her as a trusted leader in university athletics.

Originally from Cuba, Yolana holds a Bachelor of Computer Science from Havana University and an MBA from Carleton University. Her journey from international student to senior executive reflects her resilience, strategic mindset, and commitment to inclusive leadership.

Yolana’s career reflects a deep commitment to excellence, equity, and innovation in sport. She is known for her strategic mindset, operational expertise, and inclusive leadership style that empowers teams and fosters community engagement. Her work continues to elevate the role of athletics in post-secondary education and inspire future leaders in sport and recreation.