Accomplished business and sustainability leader Arlene Strom has been named Mount Royal University's new chancellor following unanimous approval by the board of governors. As the ceremonial head of the University, she will preside over formal occasions such as convocation and further connect Mount Royal with the community in order to serve a vibrant economy, environment and society.
Strom enjoyed a long career in oil and gas as a leader in sustainability, and is committed to postsecondary education and building relationships with the community. Along with being an external face for Mount Royal, Strom will also serve as an ex-officio member of board of governors and work closely with President and Vice-Chancellor, Tim Rahilly, PhD.
Strom retired from Suncor at the end of 2023, most recently holding the roles of chief sustainability officer, general counsel and corporate secretary. She previously held a number of leadership positions within the company. Prior to joining Suncor, she practiced corporate and securities law in Calgary.
In 2024 Strom spent a year as an Advanced Leadership Initiative fellow at Harvard University. She has a law degree and masters degree in political science from UBC and a bachelor of business administration from Trinity Western University. She also chairs the Alberta Lieutenant Governor's Arts Awards Foundation, the Energy Transition Centre and is a member of the board of Nature Conservancy Canada and the advisory board of Portage Energy.
A search committee chaired by Rahilly and including members of the board of governors, alumni association and students' association recommended Strom to the Board of governors. The chancellor role is for a four-year term and by provincial legislation the chancellor can only serve one term. It is a non-remunerated volunteer position, with travel expenses reimbursed. The formal installation of Strom as Chancellor will occur in June during MRU's Convocation ceremonies.
Strom succeeds Dawn Farrell, who was appointed MRU's first Chancellor in 2020 and leaves with gratitude from the University.
"For decades MRU has been building strong citizens who contribute to our community health, spirit and economy - from needed health care professionals to pilots to entrepreneurs - MRU is preparing students to be innovators, collaborators and relationship builders. I am committed to MRU because of its commitment to building strong relationships with its students and to being a major contributor to the prosperity of our community. "
- Arlene Strom, Chancellor-Elect
"MRU prepares students to become lifelong learners and active global citizens. As we build on our strong partnerships off campus, Arlene will deepen our community engagement and act as a sage advisor. She is a dedicated changemaker who values building relationships, which are qualities that will help MRU take bold steps over the next four years to reach its goals."
- Tim Rahilly, president, Mount Royal University
"Arlene's values align with the mission of MRU, making her an excellent fit for this important role. Arlene's professional experience, belief in the value of post-secondary education, and passion for community connection, including her dedication to supporting the Indigenous community, are why we are excited to welcome her as an ambassador for the university."
- Chris Lee, chair of MRU Board of Governors
