U of S community welcomes interim president with installation ceremony

On June 23 the University of Saskatchewan held the traditional installation ceremony for Gordon Barnhart, who was appointed interim president and vice-chancellor, effective May 22, 2014.

Chancellor Blaine Favel formally installed Barnhart at a ceremony held in Convocation Hall in front of members of the University of Saskatchewan Board of Governors, the campus community and the general public.

In his installation address, Barnhart praised the university's resilience and ability to adapt during challenging times. He spoke proudly of the strengths that the U of S has and the opportunities that lie ahead. "For more than 100 years, the University of Saskatchewan has been growing and changing," said Barnhart.

"We are continuing with this change to ensure financial sustainability, deliver effective services, and offer the right mix of academic and research programs to build a stronger university to better meet the needs of our students and the society we serve."

Barnhart has been a dynamic presence at the university since the early 2000s in various roles. He completed his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in history at the U of S in 1967, a master's degree at the University of Regina in 1977, and his PhD from the U of S in 1998. From 2000 to 2005, he served as university secretary, a position in which he was responsible for duties related to university governance. He has also served as special adviser to Peter McKinnon on government relations and was associate director of international where he co-ordinated exchange and development programs. Since 2012, he has been an adjunct professor in the College of Arts and Science.

Barnhart has served Saskatchewan extensively during his career, most notably as the province's 20th Lieutenant Governor from 2006 until 2012. His experience in government includes 20 years as clerk of Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan and five years as clerk of the Senate of Canada.

"His life has been devoted to Saskatchewan, to education and to leadership so it is certainly fitting that he has stepped into this critical role as interim leader of the University of Saskatchewan," said University of Saskatchewan Board of Governors Chair Susan Milburn. "He will provide the collaborative and consultative leadership needed during this critical time."

Barnhart has embarked upon consultations with students, faculty and staff, and connecting with the external community locally and nationally that supports the university.

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For more information, contact:

Jennifer Thoma

Media Relations Specialist

University of Saskatchewan

306-966-1851

jennifer.thoma@usask.ca
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