News Archives: New President Transition Announcement
Wednesday, July 26th, 2023
Acting President & CEO, Dr. Vanessa Sheane
Northwestern Polytechnic is pleased to announce the appointment of acting President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Sheane. The NWP Board of Governors appointed Dr. Sheane in an acting role on July 26, 2023, to oversee a renewed approach to collaboration with community and government stakeholders.
Dr. Sheane's appointment comes at an important time for the institution as it continues to implement the recommendations of our Campus Master Plan - an exciting vision for a vibrant future on its Fairview and Grande Prairie campuses. Dr. Sheane replaces former President and CEO Justin Kohlman, whose service has also been recognized by the Board.
Dr. Sheane has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills during her years of service to the institution. Her deep ties to people and municipalities in the region will ensure NWP remains closely connected to the communities it serves and is positioned to keep pace with Alberta's nation-leading economic growth.
"Our Board is positioning NWP for the future while maintaining a fiscally responsible and sustainable approach to growth. This appointment reflects a critical transition for Northwestern Polytechnic as we pursue our goal of becoming Canada's most entrepreneurial polytechnic institution," said NWP Board Chair Shawna Miller. "On behalf of the Board, I'd like to express our gratitude to Justin for his service to the institution. Looking forward, Dr. Sheane will ensure our institution reflects the demands of current and prospective students, meets the needs of faculty and staff, and serves the objectives set out in the Government of Alberta's strategic plan for Alberta post-secondary institutions - Alberta 2030."
Before this appointment, Dr. Sheane served as Provost and Vice-President Academic of NWP. Dr. Sheane was a tenured Faculty member of the Department of Nursing Education & Health Studies. She has worked at NWP since 2012. She holds a Ph.D. in Nursing and is clinically trained as a Registered Nurse, having worked in hospital emergency departments with Alberta Health Services for nearly 12 years.
"As a long-time resident of the region, I am committed to ensuring NWP does its utmost to attract and serve our students and communities. I will continue our long tradition of collaborating with NWP stakeholders to ensure their essential contributions are reflected in our programs and growth plans," said acting President and CEO Dr. Sheane.
"NWP has a bright future providing high-value educational experiences to the next generation of leaders. Albertans can be assured that NWP is committed to our municipal, industry and community stakeholders. We have a plan to grow our presence and value in Alberta's post-secondary sector. I look forward to working together in the months ahead."
