THUNDER BAY – After more than three exceptional years as Lakehead University’s chancellor, Dr. Derek Burney has announced that he will step down from the role in early 2017.
“It has been a true honour to serve as Lakehead University’s chancellor,” Dr. Burney said.
Since his appointment as Lakehead’s eighth chancellor in January 2013, Dr. Burney has used his influence and experience as a diplomat, entrepreneur, and strategist to further Lakehead’s academic, political, and philanthropic endeavours.
“Chancellor Burney is an invaluable ambassador, friend, and asset to Lakehead University and our community,” said Dr. Brian Stevenson, Lakehead’s President and Vice-Chancellor.
“In addition to offering words of wisdom to our graduates at convocation, Chancellor Burney has facilitated opportunities that will nurture the success of our students, and Lakehead University as a whole, for years to come.”
“His wisdom, advice, and heart have supported Lakehead in many ways — from his philanthropic endeavours to his counsel regarding our Board’s strategic directions,” said Murray Walberg, Chair of the Board of Governors at Lakehead University. “Chancellor Burney has been, and will continue to be, this University’s champion.”
Dr. Burney announced his intention to hang up the chancellor’s regalia to guests at his annual dinners in Thunder Bay and Orillia.
“One of the highlights of being chancellor is greeting students as they walk across the stage to claim their hard-earned degrees, right before they begin a whole new chapter in their lives,” explained Dr. Burney, an Officer of the Order of Canada who was conferred an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Lakehead University in 1990.
“I am immensely privileged to have served as chancellor,” he said, adding that he’s not completely parting ways with Lakehead University.
While Dr. Burney will retire from the more ceremonial responsibilities of chancellor, he will continue to serve and campaign for Lakehead as one of the University’s greatest ambassadors.
The selection process for Lakehead University’s next chancellor will begin in Fall 2016. In accordance with the Lakehead University Act, the search process will begin with the creation of an electoral board consisting of the University’s President, twelve members appointed by the University’s Board of Governors, and twelve members appointed by the University’s Senate.
