With nearly two decades of experience, Dr. Corinne Syrnyk, St. Mary's University's first female full professor of psychology, has been appointed to the position of Interim Dean of Arts & Sciences. Dr. Syrnyk holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Lincoln (UK), is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education. Dr. Syrnyk brings a wealth of expertise to the role, having honed her leadership skills as both Director of Research and Chair of Psychology.
Dr. Corinne Syrnyk
Placing great value on relationships, she most enjoys celebrating the achievements of faculty, staff, and students. An evidence-based, action-oriented leader, Dr. Syrnyk, is known for leading by example. Dr. Syrnyk shares, "St. Mary's University is a place of growth - while we continue to carve a path as the preeminent Catholic university in Canada, we are also a place that values and nurtures every individual's inherent worth and promise. I look forward to continuing my work with the faculty and staff in pursuing exciting program development opportunities."
Dr. Williams, Interim Vice President Academic, shares, "I am excited to work with Corinne in this capacity. Having known her as Full Professor, Chair of Psychology, and Director of Research, I have full faith in her abilities, in her outputs, and in her commitment to the role. She does not just meet targets, she exceeds them, so the community can look forward to her advancing initiatives in the Dean of Arts & Sciences office. The supports she extends will be tangible; St. Mary's faculty and students are in good hands."
Dr. Syrnyk will begin her new role August 28, 2026.
