Thompson Rivers University has named Dr. Airini, an internationally recognized researcher, teacher, and leader in higher education, as its next President and Vice-Chancellor. Her five-year term begins July 1.
Currently holding the role of Provost and Vice-President Academic at the University of Saskatchewan, Airini is known for her work on student success, equity, and education systems reform. She served as Dean of TRU's Faculty of Education and Social Work from 2014 to 2021.
"Returning to TRU is both an honour and a responsibility," said Airini. "It's an enormous privilege to take on this role. We know that TRU became a full university 20 years ago because of this community's strong vision and advocacy," she said. "It is from these roots that this dynamic university is serving the region, and quietly yet boldly changing the province and the world."
"I know first-hand that TRU is a genuine force for good, honouring Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc, T'exelc, and the Secwépemc Nation. I am excited to serve our communities and to advocate relentlessly for all that is unique and exceptional about TRU."
The search for TRU's president was comprehensive. A committee comprising representatives from faculty, staff, students, administrators, local Indigenous communities, board members, and alumni met to consider candidates and make a recommendation to the board.
The committee engaged the executive search firm Boyden to assist their effort, which advertised internationally for candidates. The committee also consulted with internal and external communities to define the qualifications and experience desired in a new president. After a thorough review of qualifications and interviews with candidates, the board agreed to appoint Dr. Airini for the role.
"Dr. Airini stood out for her experience, integrity, and academic leadership," said Hee Young Chung, Chair of the Board of Governors and the search committee. "She brings a deep understanding of TRU's mission and a clear commitment to our students, communities, and partners."
Airini holds a BA and MEd from the University of Canterbury and an MBA from Massey University, a Diploma in Teaching from the former Christchurch Teachers College, and through night classes, she completed a certificate in Te Ara Reo (Māori language) with Te Whare Wānanga o Aotearoa.
She came to Canada as an international student, completing a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of British Columbia. Before joining TRU in 2014, Airini was the inaugural Head of the School of Critical Studies in Education and Associate Dean (Equity) at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. She led Pacific Education at the former Auckland College of Education. Airini, a Fulbright scholar, holds adjunct professor appointments in Australia and New Zealand and is a national award-winning researcher and educator in Canada and New Zealand.
Airini is the author or co-author of more than 100 academic papers, books, chapters, and reports, and she has led or worked on research and development projects that have attracted more than $20 million from Canadian and international funders.
Airini has held government roles in postsecondary and K-12 education and has consulted developing countries on education strategy and reform. Airini is a member of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation's Global Hub, informing international policy development on world food security.
As dean at TRU, she oversaw the expansion of research and scholarship and the creation of new undergraduate and graduate programs. She co-led the Knowledge Makers program, which mentors Indigenous undergraduate researchers and is now a UN-sponsored global initiative. She introduced Indigenous language, culture, and research methods courses and led the Coyote Project a university-wide project transforming the university's practices for Indigenous student success.
As President and Vice-Chancellor, Airini will lead the university to achieve its strategic goals, secure long-term financial health, and foster strong, inclusive relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the community. She will guide the university's vision, and lead TRU's mission to provide high-quality accessible education at campuses in Kamloops and Williams Lake, online through Open Learning, and with students from around the world.
She will champion the advancement of TRU's reputation as a research institution providing knowledge, talent, and skills needed by the region, province and beyond.
Airini succeeds President Brett Fairbairn, who has led TRU since 2018.
