University of Saskatchewan names Roy Romanow as its 15th chancellor

Romanow’s appointment—set to begin November 1, 2016—was approved by the U of S Senate during its October 15 meeting. Romanow, who has long been connected to the U of S, will replace Blaine Favel, who was named to the role in 2013 and completes his term at the end of the month.

“All of the opportunities in my life flowed from my time at the U of S,” said Romanow, who was born, raised and educated in Saskatoon. “I never imagined being chancellor, but I will do whatever I can to assist the institution in maintaining and improving its standing as one of the best universities in Canada and beyond.”

Romanow, currently a Senior Policy Fellow in the College of Arts and Science, earned a bachelor of arts and a law degree from the U of S. During his time as a student on campus, he became involved in student governance, serving as president of the University of Saskatchewan Students' Union from 1960 to 1961, amongst other positions.

Romanow’s provincial political career began in 1967 when he was first elected to the Saskatchewan Legislature. From 1971 to 1982 he served as Deputy Premier and Attorney General of Saskatchewan. He played a key role in the federal-provincial negotiations that resulted in the Constitution Act 1982, which includes the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. In 1987, Romanow became the Leader of the Opposition and served in this role until 1991. He then served as Premier of Saskatchewan from 1991 to 2001.

After his tenure as premier, Romanow was appointed by then Prime Minister Jean Chrétien in 2001 to head the Royal Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada, which resulted in a final report entitled Building on Values. He is an officer of the Order of Canada and was awarded the Saskatchewan Order of Merit. In 2004, he became a member of the federal Privy Council through a five-year appointment to Canada’s Security Intelligence Review Committee.

“This university enjoys a wonderful reputation in Canada and abroad,” said Romanow. “Our goal is to enhance the learning and research environment in ways that make our province and our country even better.”

"Mr. Romanow has an outstanding record of service to our province, country and university,” said Peter Stoicheff, U of S president and vice-chancellor. “Over the years he has served the U of S as a proud alumnus and ambassador, and a renowned professor and policy fellow. It is fitting that he will now serve as the university’s chancellor, one of the most notable positions at the university. His reputation, experience and quality of character are exactly what you would expect of an individual in a position of this stature.”

“I want to thank Chancellor Favel for his work over the past number of years,” Stoicheff continued. “I’ve enjoyed working with Blaine tremendously. He was instrumental in advancing a number of university priorities, in particular helping to engage Aboriginal communities. I know Blaine will continue to have a vital connection to the university moving forward.” 

As chancellor, Romanow will preside at university convocation ceremonies, confer degrees, chair University Senate and serve on the U of S Board of Governors.