Carleen Thomas appointed Chancellor of Emily Carr University of Art + Design

Photo: Carleen Thomas, Chancellor, Emily Carr University of Art + Design

Founded in 1925, Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECU) is one of B.C.’s oldest universities focusing on education and learning in the arts, media and design. 

Marking a new direction for the university, Carleen Thomas was appointed Chancellor earlier this month. Carleen is the first Indigenous person to be appointed Chancellor of ECU in the institution’s 96-year history. 

“I believe her appointment will encourage us to reflect on our responsibilities to this land and to each other and to foster transformation within the university,” says Patrick Christie, president of the school’s alumni association. 

Carleen has a history of leadership having served as an educator and former council member for the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. As a former teacher she has worked to educate people about Tsleil-Waututh history and Indigenous issues and has participated in a number of panels and initiatives that support reconciliation and the modernization of institutions.  

“I am honoured to have been asked to become the Chancellor of Emily Carr University,” says Ms. Thomas. “I’m passionate about education, as a former teacher and a life-long learner. I look forward to taking on this important role and working with the university’s remarkable students, staff and faculty.” 

Congratulations to both ECU and Chancellor Thomas on what promises to be a meaningful opportunity for discussion, engagement and reconciliation. 

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