There will be a new face leading Lakehead University, Dr. Gillian Siddall has been tapped to become the 9th President and Vice – Chancellor starting July 1st.
Siddall first joined Lakehead University 17 years ago in its Department of English, before going on to become the founding director of the University’s Teaching and Learning Centre and later served as Dean of Social Sciences and Humanities for six years.
Since 2018 she has served as the President of Emily Car University of Art + Design in Vancouver.
Board of Governors Chair Maria Vasanelli commends the efforts made to bring Dr. Siddall back to Lakehead University.
“I am very proud of all the time and work members of our Presidential Search Committee undertook to arrive at this point, including a thorough review of a competitive list of applicants and our engagement in a consultation process that heard from many segments of our University community,” said Vasanelli in a release.
She also thanked outgoing President, Dr. Moira McPherson, for her work over the years, especially during the onset of Covid-19.
“Dr. McPherson has led the University successfully through many challenges, including those posed by the pandemic,” explained Vasanelli.
“She has advanced Lakehead University’s strategic and academic priorities, and strengthened collaboration with our communities near and far, leaving a legacy of a strong national and global profile and reputation.”
McPherson initially served as Interim President and Vice-Chancellor between January and September of 2018, before being installed into the roles full capacity that same year.