EMILY CARR UNIVERSITY OF ART AND DESIGN
ECU names Dr. Trish Kelly as the University's 10th President + Vice-Chancellor

Following a global search process, the Board of Governors for Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECU) have named Dr. Trish Kelly as the University's 10th President + Vice-Chancellor.

"Dr. Kelly brings a record of strong leadership, strategic vision, and experience from academic and art and design institutions across North America," notes Don Avison, K.C., Board Chair for Emily Carr University of Art + Design. "She is a strong champion for Emily Carr University, and for education and research in the creative fields. She is committed to supporting Emily Carr's students, faculty, and staff in their endeavors and continuing to drive the University's impact. We look forward to working with her to advance ECU's mission."

Dr. Trish Kelly. (Photo by Perrin Grauer)

Dr. Kelly, who has served as interim president for the last ten months and previously held the role of Vice President Academic + Provost, begins her term at a pivotal moment in the institution's history, as ECU looks to celebrate a century of innovation in art, design and media education in 2025.

"I am deeply honoured to step into the role of president," shares Dr. Trish Kelly. "As Canada's leading art and design institution, Emily Carr University's continued success requires us to be resilient, agile, and creative in the face of unprecedented economic, social, environmental, and technological changes. We are at an exciting and vital moment, and I relish the opportunity to be part of the institution's history as we build on shared accomplishments together."

Originally from the United States, Dr. Kelly holds a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design. She earned an MA from Tufts University after beginning her graduate work at Harvard University. An accomplished educator and researcher, she obtained a PhD in art history from the University of British Columbia.