Vancouver Island University’s Board of Governors announces reappointments

Dr. Deborah Saucier reappointed as president and vice-chancellor and Cloy-e-iis, Dr. Judith Sayers reappointed as chancellor

Vancouver Island University’s (VIU's) Board of Governors has voted to reappoint Dr. Deborah Saucier for a second five-year term as president and vice-chancellor, and Cloy-e-iis, Dr. Judith Sayers, for a second three-year term as chancellor.

VIU’s Board of Governors recognizes the strong dedication demonstrated by the president and vice-chancellor and by the chancellor to the University’s values of understanding, connection and commitment during their terms.

“The Presidential Reappointment Committee undertook a thorough review process and submitted a strong recommendation to reappoint Dr. Saucier as president and vice-chancellor,” said Manley McLachlan, Chair of VIU’s Board of Governors. “The Board acknowledges Dr. Saucier’s strong leadership through the unprecedented disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic and the success of developing the institutions’ first Strategic Plan: People, Place, Potential. President Saucier has made strong connections with VIU’s students, employees, alumni and community partners and has our confidence to continue to lead the institution towards a successful future.”

“Cloy-e-iis, Dr. Judith Sayers, has spent considerable time in advocacy roles and we have greatly valued her input into advancing the Indigenization of VIU and advocating for all students,” said McLachlan. “We look forward to continuing to work with Dr. Sayers to deepen our understanding of People, Place and Potential and to welcome a larger and more diverse population of learners and to deepen our commitment to becoming a more inclusive place to work and study.”

A Presidential Reappointment Committee of the Board of Governors was formed in 2022 to make a recommendation to VIU’s Board on a reappointment and sought direct feedback from VIU employees and community partners. The committee recommended the reappointment of Dr. Saucier for a second term as university president and vice-chancellor. President Saucier’s second term will begin in 2024.

The Board of Governors also has the responsibility to appoint a chancellor who is an ex-officio member of the Board and Senate. The chancellor is the formal head of the university and confers all degrees, honorary degrees, diplomas and certificates. In addition, the chancellor performs other duties which they have agreed to perform. Dr. Sayers’ second term began in October 2023.

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Media Contact:

Jenn McGarrigle, External Communications Manager, Vancouver Island University

C: 250.619.6860 | E: Jenn.McGarrigle@viu.ca | T: @VIUNews

The VIU community acknowledges and thanks the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, Snaw-naw-as and Qualicum First Nation on whose traditional lands we teach, learn, research, live and share knowledge.