Vancouver Island University invites nominations for the position of Chancellor.
The three-year term starts January 2027. The Chancellor is appointed and serves no more than two consecutive three-year terms. The Chancellor serves as a volunteer and receives no remuneration.
Cloy-e-iis, Dr. Judith Sayers, finishes her second term as Chancellor this fall. The VIU community is deeply grateful to Chancellor Sayers for her work as Chancellor.
All nominations are strictly confidential. Please do not discuss your nomination with the nominee.
Role of the Chancellor
The Chancellor is the titular head of the university who confers degrees at convocation. The Chancellor serves as a member of the Board of Governors and the Senate and is an ex-officio member of various committees. The Board of Governors appoints the Chancellor on nomination by VIU Alumni and after consultation with the Senate.
The Chancellor serves as a volunteer and receives no remuneration. The Chancellor attends convocation ceremonies, Board and Senate meetings, and represents the university at community and public events.
Nominee characteristics
A nominee should have the following professional and personal characteristics:
- Passionate about higher education. Demonstrates a commitment to post-secondary education and its role in transforming lives and communities. The nominee believes in the mission of a teaching-focused, regional university. They can speak credibly about why access to higher education matters.
- Respected community member. Recognized and trusted across professional, civic or cultural communities. The nominee brings a reputation that reflects well on VIU and opens doors the university could not open on its own.
- Able to assist with university ambitions. Brings networks, influence or expertise that can advance VIU's strategic priorities. These include fundraising, advocacy, partnership development or profile-building. The nominee is someone who can help VIU achieve things, not simply represent the university.
- Available for ceremonies. Able to attend convocation and other formal university ceremonies. The nominee understands this is a core and non-negotiable function of the role.
- Able to participate in events. Willing and able to represent VIU at university and community events throughout the year. These include receptions, donor and alumni engagement events, and other public-facing activities that support the university’s relationships and reputation.
- Able to attend board meetings. Available to attend meetings of the Board of Governors and Senate in their capacity as an ex-officio member. Able to engage meaningfully with governance matters when called upon.
Eligibility
Under the provisions of the University Act, a Chancellor may not be:
- Employed by a British Columbia university
- A member of the Parliament of Canada
- A member of the Executive Council or of the Legislative Assembly
- A member of the public service in the ministry
- A member of the public service designated by the minister
Nomination requirements
The nomination package must include the following:
- This completed nomination form, signed by the lead nominator
- A letter of nomination from the lead nominator (see guidance below)
- Optional letters of support (maximum of two)
Letter of nomination
The lead nominator’s letter should address the following:
- How the nominee demonstrates each of the six Board-approved Chancellor characteristics.
- The nominee’s educational background, career and professional accomplishments.
- The nominee’s community service, leadership and volunteer contributions.
- Any awards, honours or distinctions received.
- A brief statement of the most significant aspects of the nominee’s accomplishments.
Letters of support (optional)
Letters of support should speak to the suitability of the nominee for the role, including specific examples of leadership, community engagement and connection to higher education or VIU. Please submit no more than two letters of support.
Nomination form
Please complete all fields as fully as possible. The onus is on the lead nominator to provide sufficient information for the committee’s review. Submit completed packages by Thursday, September 4, 2026. Questions? Email chancellor@viu.ca.