Northwestern Polytechnic's Board of Governors has officially appointed a new President and CEO. The decision follows a recent leadership search and selection process. Dr. Vanessa Sheane, who has been serving in the role in an interim capacity since this summer, will continue to lead Alberta's newest polytechnic permanently.
"Dr. Sheane has deep roots in our region as well as an impactful history at Northwestern Polytechnic," said Board Chair Shawna Miller. "Not only is she acutely aware of the nuances in our learning community, she has a profound appreciation of the important linkages between post-secondary and our communities, industries, economy and overall competitiveness."
As Provost and Vice-President Academic, Dr. Sheane has been instrumental in helping to secure new program pathways at the polytechnic. Along with two new degree offerings in Business Administration and Computer Science, the institution has continued to increase Skilled Trades seats and expand Health Care professional education, while simultaneously building various other collaborative and in-demand learning opportunities.
"I am truly honoured and humbled to be selected as NWP's President and CEO. It is an exciting time for NWP as we continue to serve students both inside and outside of the classroom, embrace our polytechnic mandate, and seize the opportunities for growth in our region," said Dr. Sheane, NWP President and CEO. "NWP is a vital community partner, addressing workforce shortages through in-demand programs, solving industry challenges with applied research, and connecting to industry and community organizations through impactful and meaningful relationships."
Before joining the executive leadership team in 2021, Dr. Sheane was a Dean, the faculty association president, and a faculty member in the Department of Nursing Education. She has worked at NWP since 2012 and has many achievements to her credit.
More than a decade before her tenure, Dr. Sheane experienced the campus through the eyes of a student athlete, completing two years of a University Transfer in Science, and playing for the Wolves Women's Basketball team. She holds a Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of Victoria, and is a Registered Nurse, having worked in hospital emergency and medical units with Alberta Health Services for nearly 12 years.
"We feel very fortunate to have a President and CEO with enduring and sincere connections to the learning landscape," adds Miller. "Dr. Sheane is a demonstrated community builder who is committed to shared success at every step."
