After nearly eight years, Asima Vezina will leave her position as president of Algoma University to assume the role of president of International Business University in Toronto as of Feb. 28.
Vezina has made extraordinary contributions to Algoma University’s vibrancy and sustainability, ensuring its continued success well into the future, the university said in a news release.
The board thanked Vezina for her years of dedicated service and wishes her every success in her new role.
"On behalf of the board, I would like to express our deep gratitude for Dr. Vezina’s leadership since assuming the role of president and vice-chancellor in October 2017," said Kelli-Ann Lemieux, chair of the board of governors.
"Dr. Vezina’s tenure will be remembered for her relentless focus on community partnerships and collaborations, her dedication to students, and her vision for expanding graduate programs and teaching facilities to meet the needs of the communities we serve—Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, and Brampton."
Vezina said she will always carry a special place in her heart for Algoma University.
"Those who have worked, studied, played, or visited understand when I say that this place has truly changed me as a human being. The opportunity to work side-by-side with the Survivor community, the appreciation I now hold for ensuring a multi-world view is embraced and respected in our classrooms - came from this beautiful place centred in a mission steeped in cross-cultural teaching, learning and understanding," Vezina said.
"It has been a true honour to serve as Algoma University’s president currently in my eighth year. I take so much with me as a leader, and I am deeply grateful to all of you for these teachings," she said.
Under Vezina’s leadership, Algoma University has become a Maclean’s-ranked post-secondary institution that offers transformative education through a student-centred approach to teaching and learning.
Algoma University will commence the search for a new president and vice-chancellor immediately.
To support the transition, the Board has appointed Donna Rogers as interim president and vice-chancellor of Algoma University, effective March 1.
Rogers brings extensive university leadership and management experience and currently serves as the interim vice-president of Academic and Research at Algoma.
She previously held the roles of academic dean (2018–2020) and vice-president, Academic and Research (2020–2022). "We are pleased to welcome Dr. Rogers as interim president, and we appreciate her commitment to supporting Algoma University throughout the recruitment process for a new president," the release said.