Today, Vancouver Island University (VIU) announced that Dr. Deborah Saucier has made the decision to step down as President and Vice-Chancellor, effective April 4, 2025, following six years of leadership and service to the university.
During her tenure, Saucier has contributed to several significant institutional milestones, including the implementation of VIU’s first Strategic Plan and guiding the institution through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership has helped position VIU for continued growth and innovation.
A committed advocate for reconciliation, Saucier supported key initiatives such as the renaming of the qathet region (Powell River) campus to tiwšɛmawtxʷ in collaboration with the Tla’amin First Nation, the expansion of Shq’apthut, VIU’s Indigenous gathering place, and the development of the Indigenous Internship Leadership Program, which connects Indigenous students to meaningful internship opportunities through a collaboration with the Business Council of British Columbia and provincial and federal governments.
In 2020, she received the Indigenous Women in Leadership Award from the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business and TD Bank Group. Most recently, Saucier was honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal by Universities Canada, recognizing her contributions to leadership and research in the Canadian post-secondary sector.
“We are grateful to Dr. Saucier for her many contributions to VIU,” said Jamie Cassels, Chair of the VIU Board of Governors. “Her leadership has helped advance the university’s mission and deepen its impact in the region. She leaves behind a legacy of progress, innovation and a deep commitment to students and reconciliation.”
"It has been an honour to serve as President and Vice-Chancellor of VIU. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. I count myself fortunate to have worked with a community so dedicated to VIU’s mission. We have celebrated many accomplishments – from supporting students to strengthening our ties with Indigenous communities," said Saucier. “After six years, I believe this is the right time for a leadership transition, allowing me to step back and focus on family, while taking time to reflect and recharge.”
To ensure continuity during the transition, the Board has appointed VIU’s Chief Financial Officer and Vice-President Administration Emily Huner as Acting President under the provisions VIU policy. Huner will assume the role on April 5, 2025, and will focus on supporting the university’s continued progress and engaging with internal and external communities. The Board will begin recruitment for a longer-term Acting President, followed by a successor.
“Emily brings a proven track record of institutional leadership and a commitment to inclusive engagement,” said Cassels. “The Board has full confidence in her ability to lead VIU during this transition and to help the university remain focused on its priorities.”
Media contact:
Richard Horbachewski
AVP, External Relations
Vancouver Island University
Richard.Horbachewski@viu.ca
250.618.7752
Related Posts
