Chancellor Search
Seeking ULethbridge’s Chancellor!
The University of Lethbridge is now welcoming applications for our next Chancellor to serve a four-year term commencing March 16, 2027, until March 15, 2031.
The University community is seeking a Chancellor who is visible, credible, collaborative and deeply committed to the University of Lethbridge, our students and our people. A Chancellor who can inspire, advocate, build relationships, foster philanthropy and strengthen connections throughout southern Alberta and beyond. A Chancellor who will lead the Senate, support the work of the president and the University’s Strategic Plan and serve as a passionate and authentic ambassador for the University — someone who can help elevate the institution's reputation, champion its students, its people and support its continued growth and success.
Nominees must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, possess a strong interest in university-community affairs and education, and have significant time to apply to the considerable duties involved. This is a volunteer position with no remuneration. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.
The University of Lethbridge invites applications from all qualified candidates and is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, including through all aspects of the hiring process. If you require support during the process, please reach out to Jodie Gallais.
- Represent the University at ceremonial occasions, specifically presiding over all Convocation Ceremonies to confer credentials to students and Senate-selected honorary degree recipients.
- Lead the Senate, that serves as our community body, alongside the President & Vice-Chancellor to support the work of the University’s Strategic Plan that aligns with the Senate’s 2023-2027 Plan of Connecting Communities.
- Serve as an ex-officio member on the Board of Governors, which has administrative oversight on the operations of the University.
- Always act in the best interest of the University and, where requested, act as spokesperson for the Senate.
- Regularly communicate with and support the work of the President & Vice-Chancellor, who has general supervision and direction of the operation of the University.
- Serve as an active advocate for the University and participate in internal and external events to engage and represent the public interest of the University.
- The foregoing list is non-exhaustive and the Chancellor may, in addition, perform such other duties as may be necessary or appropriate in the circumstances, within the authority of the Senate and Post-Secondary Learning Act.
- See complete Chancellor Position Description.
Distinguished Record of Excellence
Demonstrated reputation and service contributions in a chosen field that align with the University’s mission, vision, values and strategic direction.
Commitment to Education and Community
Strong interest in higher education and University-community engagement, with a passion for fostering student success.
University Advocate
Ability to represent and promote the University effectively to internal and external audiences.
Connector and Relationship Builder
Proven capacity to build meaningful connections between the University and the broader community.
Public Speaking and Ceremonial Leadership
Comfort and skill in public speaking and presiding over formal ceremonies.
Time Commitment and Availability
Significant availability to actively participate in university activities and fulfill role responsibilities.
Citizenship
Must be a Canadian citizen or have been lawfully admitted to Canada for permanent residence [PSLA, Section 6(3)].
The Chancellor receives no remuneration for the performance of duties as Chancellor and shall be paid travelling and living expenses while away from their ordinary place of residence in the course of duties as Chancellor. Reimbursed expenses follow the University applicable travel and business-related expense policies and others that may be applicable. Reimbursement is subject to public disclosure in alignment with Government of Alberta guidelines.
To fulfill the responsibilities of Chancellor a significant time commitment is required.
Responsibilities may also arise last-minute, so flexibility in scheduling is also required.
Step One: Application/Nomination
Interested individuals shall submit an application consisting of a cover letter and resume. Two letters of support (maximum two pages each) are required. Note: letters that surpass two pages will not be considered. Letters must be submitted to governance@uleth.ca by the end of day on November 12, 2026. Nominations consisting of name and contact information can also be submitted to governance@uleth.ca and the nominee will then be contacted to see if they are interested in applying.
Step Two: Committee Conversation
Selected individuals will be contacted for a conversation with the committee.
See the Chancellor Search Committee and Terms of Reference.
Step Three: Recommendation to Senate
Upon conclusion of the conversations and pending any final reference checks or verifications, the Chancellor Search Committee shall make a recommendation to Senate.
Step Four: Senate Decision
Senate approves the final selection of the next Chancellor. All candidates will be notified of the final selection.
Step Five: Public Announcement
Prior to the start of their term the University of Lethbridge will publicly announce our 16th Chancellor who will join our impressive list of former Chancellors who have been inspirational community leaders and builders.
For further information, please contact:
The Chancellor Search Committee
Attn: Jodie Gallais, Director University Secretariat, University of Lethbridge
Telephone: (403) 329-2010
E-mail: jodie.gallais@uleth.ca
As Chancellor, presiding over each convocation ceremony and celebrating the accomplishments of our graduands is the ultimate highlight. To witness the joy and pride of each student as they cross the stage with friends and family in attendance is an experience I will always cherish. Working and collaborating with our Senate to advocate for our university is extremely rewarding. The Senate is fully engaged and passionate about advancing the extraordinary research, teaching, campus activities, campaigns, and events that happen on campus. The Senate's enthusiasm is infectious and a joy to behold. This diverse group is wonderful to work with and an honour to lead.
For six decades, this small university, grounded in the values of liberal education, has exceeded expectations. Our national and international reputation for delivering high-quality academic experiences and opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students is enviable. Our cultural and economic impact in Lethbridge and southern Alberta is significant and widely acknowledged.
In 2027, the university celebrates its 60th anniversary. The entire university community will celebrate our impressive past and anticipate our limitless future during this special year of celebration. Our next Chancellor will be at the forefront of these public celebrations. I wish them every success as they embrace their role at this exciting and pivotal time.
Terry Whitehead (Ksikkihkini), Chancellor
Oki, Serving as Chancellor from 2019-2023 has been a unique journey and one of the most rewarding chapters in my life. Looking back, it has been a privilege centered on student achievement, presiding over convocations to the deeply meaningful work of bridging cultural connections and strengthening ties across southern Alberta.
To the entire University of Lethbridge community, thank you for the privilege of serving this great institution and for your enduring commitment to higher education. It has been an honor to serve alongside this remarkable governance and academic team past and present.
Dr. Charles Weaselhead, Chancellor Emeriti
I was closely connected with the University as an Alumna, Senate member and member of the Board of Governors, and I was thrilled and deeply honoured to be elected by Senate as the thirteenth Chancellor. There were so many highlights; I appreciated every single opportunity to meet students, faculty, staff and community members. Top of my experience was personally greeting each graduate at their Convocation ceremony. I was privileged to confer Honorary degrees and to celebrate our students at athletic events, fine arts events, and academic celebrations. As part of the ULethbridge’s 50th Anniversary celebration, I was humbled to receive my Blackfoot name Oohskwiikkitstakaakii-Blue Offering Woman. It was four years I hold close in my heart.
Dr. Janice Varzari, Chancellor Emerita, Doctor of Laws Honoris Causa