The University of Guelph has appointed Dr. Bill Rosehart as the new provost and vice-president (academic).
Joining from the University of Calgary, Rosehart has been an advocate for engineering education and a leader in the post-secondary sector for over 20 years.
"I am enthusiastic about being appointed to the role as provost and being able to leverage my passion for innovation and the transformative role universities play locally and internationally," says Rosehart. "I'm confident that together, we can navigate the challenges facing U of G and turn them into opportunities for innovation and growth."
"We are excited to welcome Dr. Rosehart to U of G and to the role of provost," says Dr. Charlotte Yates, president and vice-chancellor and chair of the search committee. "He demonstrates an impressive track record of improving the student experience and of supporting faculty and staff success as an engaged leader, clearly guided by values of indigenization, equity, diversity and inclusion."
Leader in engineering education joins the U of G community
Rosehart has been a professor at the University of Calgary since 2001. He gained significant leadership experience in several roles: deputy provost, associate head (undergraduate) of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, inaugural associate director of the energy and environment minor within the Interdisciplinary Centre for Environmental Engineering and dean of the Schulich School of Engineering.
As dean, he was instrumental in achieving a significant increase in research funding and establishing new programs that expanded access to the engineering profession.
He improved the student experience and led efforts to advance student retention and student work placements, implementing indigenization, equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives all throughout his tenure.
At a time of significant reduction in provincial funding for post-secondary institutions in Alberta, Rosehart also provided strategic direction and operation of the Schulich School of Engineering, ultimately increasing its net budget through strategic program expansions.
A well-established researcher in electrical engineering, Rosehart has published over 100 scholarly articles and was recognized with the 2024 APEGA Centennial Leadership Award for his continued leadership in the engineering profession and in the community.
Rosehart begins role in August to build on U of G's legacy
Rosehart steps into the role of provost on Aug. 1, immediately after the current provost, Dr. Gwen Chapman, retires on July 31. Drs. Mazyar Fallah and Graham Holloway will no longer serve as interim provost and interim dean of the College of Biological Science, respectively.
"I want to thank both Fallah and Holloway for their willingness to serve as interim provost and interim dean. Their commitment to the University is deeply appreciated," says Yates. "I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Chapman for her service to U of G as provost and vice president academic, providing the utmost care to our students, staff and faculty. We all wish her the best on her leave and retirement."
Rosehart looks forward to building on U of G's legacy and strengths.
