Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC) proudly announced Ms. Cherene Griffiths as the successful candidate to advance the College through increasing community relationships, strategic partnerships and fund development as the new Vice-President, External Relations.
Ms. Griffiths successfully held the position of Executive Director for the Office of Government and Community Relations at the University of Alberta for the past two years and prior to that was the Director of Office of Government and Stakeholder Relations at the University of Alberta. Currently, she is a Relief Chaplain for the City of Edmonton. Ms. Griffiths holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alberta, a designation as a Chartered Professional in Human Resources and is working on a Master of Divinity from the Urshan Graduate School of Theology.
"I am thrilled to be part of the Grande Prairie Regional College team, and appreciate the opportunity to serve as its Vice-President, External Relations, leading the strategic communications and engagement initiatives of the College," said Ms. Griffiths.
Ms. Griffiths has an extensive human resources background and over 15 years of experience in the post-secondary education sector.
As Vice-President, External Relations, Ms. Griffiths will develop and aid in the growth of the College's alumni affairs, communications and marketing efforts, and community, corporate and government relations in line with GPRC's strategic goals. She will lead the integration and coordination of external relations activities surrounding relationship building and fundraising objectives, as well as raise the profile and enhance the reputation of the College within the region.
"Cherene brings valuable leadership to GPRC and our executive team. Her extensive post-secondary knowledge and external relations skill set will heighten the GPRC experience for students, faculty, staff and the community," said Dr. Robert Murray, GPRC President and CEO. "Finding the right person to fill this role was critical as the College works to build on current initiatives and develop new opportunities during these unprecedented times."
The recruitment process for GPRC's new Vice-President, External Relations involved a nationwide search, extensive interview process, and input from a curated College committee.
"Cherene showcased the innovative and efficient strategic process that she will bring to the College through this important role," said Dr. Murray. "Her work ethic and desire to engage and leverage our stakeholders will be important as GPRC moves into the future."
Ms. Griffiths begins her new role on Monday, August 10, 2020. Opportunities for her to meet with groups and departments throughout the College and community will be made upon her arrival to the region.
"It is an honour to share in the next chapter of the College's story and advance the vision of GPRC to become the centre of excellence for post-secondary education in northern Alberta," said Ms. Griffiths.
GPRC's past Vice-President, External Relations, Mr. Carmen Haakstad, officially retired from the College in the spring of 2020.
