In Photos: USask community welcomes President Vince Bruni‑Bossio

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) community gathered on Friday, May 8, 2026, to officially welcome Vince Bruni‑Bossio as the institution’s 12th president and vice‑chancellor. The event brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, government partners, and community members to mark the beginning of a new chapter in the university’s history. 

The celebration included greetings from Indigenous leaders, government representatives, and campus and industry partners, each reflecting on the importance of collaboration, shared purpose, and the opportunities ahead for USask.

The event began with an opening performance of Jason Plumb's “Wide Open” by the Greystone Singers.

Kokum Linda Young encouraged Bruni‑Bossio to remain grounded in the values that guide his leadership. “Remember where your strength resides. Have faith, have a strong heart, and pay attention,” she shared. 

Elder Norman Fleury emphasized the importance of collective responsibility, noting, “We all have a role to play, and we cannot work in silos — we’ve got to work together.” 

The Government of Saskatchewan brought greetings and congratulations, highlighting the importance of strong post‑secondary leadership in the province. 

Hon. Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan, expressed confidence in the university’s direction. “You have our full support — the support of a government that values post‑secondary education and the work and commitment you bring to this institution,” he said. 

USask Chancellor Scott Banda spoke to Bruni‑Bossio’s leadership qualities, describing him as “the right person at the right time for USask,” and noting his reputation for values‑based leadership, strategic clarity, and collaborative decision‑making. 

Grant Isaac, President and COO of Cameco, reflected on the unique responsibilities of the presidency. “There’s a lot of pressure that sits at the top of the University of Saskatchewan… The community is here to support you and make sure you have all the tools you need to succeed,” he said. “May the 12th presidency of the University of Saskatchewan be its greatest chapter.” 

Dr. Sara Forgie (MD), Dean of the College of Medicine, shared a personal story about mentorship and new beginnings, presenting Bruni‑Bossio with a cutting from a plant she has cared for since 1987. “Each time one of my family members or friends starts a new journey, I take a cutting… Vince, I brought you your plant.” 

In his address, Bruni‑Bossio reflected on USask’s deep connection to Saskatchewan and the strengths that shape the university’s identity. He spoke about the province’s long‑standing leadership in areas such as agriculture, water stewardship, energy transition, Indigenous sovereignty and rights relations, rural health, vaccine development, and climate resilience. 

He also discussed the importance of embracing change, sharing his personal experience recovering from a life‑altering injury at age 18. He described how adapting to a new reality shaped his understanding of resilience, mindset, and the ability to move forward — a message he connected to the university’s own moment of transition. 

The welcome event served not only as an introduction to USask’s new president, but also as a collective affirmation of the university’s mission and momentum. Bruni‑Bossio closed by encouraging the community to move forward together as USask enters its next chapter.