Royal Roads University kicks off the new year by welcoming its fourth president and vice-chancellor, Dr. Philip Steenkamp.
Steenkamp brings more than two decades of senior leadership experience in the post-secondary and public sectors. He comes to Royal Roads from the University of British Columbia, where he served as vice-president, external relations from 2015 to 2018.
"I am delighted to welcome Dr. Steenkamp, who brings to Royal Roads such deep experience in education and across sectors. His depth of understanding of the post-secondary landscape is second to none, and his track record as a galvanizing leader is inspiring," says Royal Roads University Chancellor Kathleen Birney. "I greatly look forward to working with him."
Steenkamp's previous roles include vice-president, external relations at Simon Fraser University and president and chief executive officer of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Secretariat.
He has held senior leadership positions in multiple provincial ministries over a 17-year career in the provincial public service in British Columbia and Ontario.
"I have always been intrigued by Royal Roads' model of learning, research and teaching," says Steenkamp. "Royal Roads was cutting edge when it launched, and continues to evolve and remain responsive to societal needs. I really do think Royal Roads is the university of the future."
Steenkamp holds a PhD in History (1989) and a Master of Arts in History (1986) from Queen's University and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) from the University of Natal, Durban (1983).
Steenkamp succeeds Dr. Allan Cahoon, who has led Royal Roads University as president and vice-chancellor for 11 years.
