Dr. Elizabeth Cannon has advised the University of Calgary’s Board of Governors of her decision to step down from the position of president and vice-chancellor at the end of the current calendar year. The extensive accomplishments during her time as president mark an extraordinary period of growth and success in the university’s 50-year history.

President Cannon has been, and continues to be, an inspirational leader who has transformed the University of Calgary into one of Canada’s most recognized and dynamic institutions of higher learning. Since her appointment in 2010, she has driven forward a bold agenda that has propelled the university to new levels of excellence in teaching and learning, research, and community engagement. She has never wavered in her commitment to the University of Calgary. Every day she champions our community — students, faculty, staff, and alumni — as amongst the best in the country and indeed, the world. Under her leadership UCalgary has made great progress in achieving its ambitious Eyes High goals, and garnered tremendous respect and support from the Calgary community and beyond.

Over the next 11 months, President Cannon will continue to lead and advance the university with the full support and confidence of the Board of Governors. With outstanding faculty, staff and leadership across the institution; the Eyes High strategy in place through 2022; the new Academic and Research Plans approved; student experience and entrepreneurial thinking firmly established as key priorities; and strong support for UCalgary in the broader community, there is a clear path forward for the university to continue its remarkable trajectory of success.

The Board of Governors is immediately launching a search for the next president, following the university’s Presidential Search and Appointment Policy. We are fortunate to have almost a year to conduct a thorough and professional search. President Cannon has assured both the Board and her leadership team that she is committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition. We will keep the community informed about the search over the coming weeks.

On behalf of the Board of Governors, I would like to thank President Cannon for her exemplary leadership and her tireless commitment to the University of Calgary, our city, our province and our country. She is a wonderful president, one of the best in the country, and has more than fulfilled her mandate. No one has done more to move the University of Calgary forward or to ensure that our university is one that we can all be proud of.

I invite you to view this personal message from President Cannon to the community regarding her decision.

We will have ample time to celebrate President Cannon’s achievements over the coming year, and to thank her for everything she has done and will continue to do for our great university.

Gordon Ritchie

Chair, Board of Governors