I am honoured to step into the role of Acting President of Vancouver Island University, effective April 5, 2025. I embrace this responsibility with a commitment to ensuring continuity and transparency as we navigate this transition together.
First, I would like to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Deborah Saucier. Her impact on our institution has been profound, and I wish her all the best in her next endeavours.
I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to the entire VIU executive team for their support during this period of transition. Their dedication to VIU’s mission and our students is invaluable.
I am sure you are wondering what comes next? Following University Policy 11.29, the Board of Governors will soon begin recruitment for a longer-term Acting President, followed by a formal search for VIU’s next President. We will keep the community informed as information becomes available. In light of this, I have made the decision to pause the search for our next Provost. Dr. Claire Grogan has agreed to extend her appointment as Acting Provost as we steer through this change.
As I assume this role, my leadership will be guided by collaboration and decisive action. My primary focus will remain on meeting the targets set forth in our Deficit Mitigation Plan and building a sustainable future for VIU. This work is crucial to ensuring the long-term strength and stability of our university. I am also deeply committed to engaging with our community and fostering open dialogue about the challenges and opportunities ahead.
To that end, I am pleased to announce that beginning in mid-April, I will host a series of President’s Roundtable sessions. These events will provide an opportunity for our community to come together, ask questions, and receive updates on the pressing issues facing VIU. Dr. Grogan, Acting Provost & Vice-President Academic and Carolyn Russell, Vice-President, Students, will also be available during these sessions to provide their expertise and address any academic or student-related questions and concerns. Please keep an eye out for invitations to these events soon.
I will have more updates to share over the coming weeks, but know I am committed to keeping our community informed every step of the way. I am confident that, together, we will continue to make meaningful strides in advancing VIU’s priorities, paving the way for a brighter future ahead.
Sincerely,
Emily Huner, CPA, CMA, MBA (she/her)
Acting President
Vancouver Island University
Related Posts
