Watch above: After a year-long search, the University of Saskatchewan has named the person who will replace ousted president Ilene Busch-Vishniac. Amber Rockliffe introduces us to Peter Stoicheff and outlines his plan for the institution moving forward.
SASKATOON – The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) has a new president. Peter Stoicheff, current dean of the College of Arts and Science, has been named the eleventh president of the university.
“I feel honoured and privileged to lead this eminent Canadian university which plays such an important role in the province, the nation and indeed the world,” said Stoicheff.
“I have enormous pride and confidence in the U of S, which has a strong community of talented faculty, students, staff and alumni, and a proud history of remarkable achievement upon which, together, we can build.”
Stoicheff was chosen after being recommended to the university’s board of governors by a search committee.
“Peter has the rare combination of a compelling vision, superb team-building skills and proven administrative experience to lead our university at this pivotal and exciting time in the province’s history,” said Greg Smith, chair of the board of governors.
Watch below: New University of Saskatchewan president Peter Stoicheff sits down with Lisa Dutton to discuss his appointment and what he hopes to accomplish during his tenure.
Stoicheff joined the university in 1986 as a faculty member in the English department. After serving as vice-dean of humanities and fine arts from 2005-2011, he was appointed dean in 2011.
The hallmark of Stoicheff’s deanship was his focus on bringing together, in a collaborative structure, the sciences, social sciences, and humanities and fine arts, something he plans on bringing to his new role.
“In particular, I see great opportunities to continue to make a difference in our communities and globally through enhanced focus on our mission of learning and discovery, aboriginal engagement, and the value of arts and culture in shaping our lives.”
Stoicheff holds an undergraduate degree in English and history from Queen’s University, and master’s and PhD degrees in English literature from the University of Toronto.
Along with being highly regarded internationally for his widely published work in modern American literature and the history and future of the book, Stoicheff has also served in national and provincial leadership roles for research, scholarly and artistic work.
He is also a classical guitarist and composer and has sat on the Remai Modern Art Gallery of Saskatchewan board of trustees since 2013.
Stoicheff will take over from interim president Gordon Barnhart on Oct. 24, 2015. Barnhart was named the interim president on May 21, 2014 after former president Ilene Busch-Vishniac was fired.
READ MORE: Barnhart delivers state of the University of Saskatchewan address
“Gordon assumed the interim position during a challenging time for the university, and he has provided exemplary leadership that has strengthened our university,” said Smith.
“We cannot thank him enough for his dedication and his passion for the U of S. We will have the opportunity to continue working with Gordon as our president until Peter begins his term this fall.”
Comments