Dr. Barry Craig will remain as the head of Western affiliate Huron University until 2031.
Huron’s Board of Governors has appointed Craig to a third term as president.
“The highlight of my first two terms as president of Huron has been the enormous and diverse growth of our community," said Craig. "Our enrolment has more than doubled, but more than that, our students now come from every province in Canada and more than 50 countries around the world. The incredible diversity that is represented by these numbers enriches every member of the Huron family.”
Since Craig's arrival at Huron in July 2016, enrollment at the post secondary institution has increased by 130 per cent and nearly $100 million has been put toward campus development. This includes the 40,000 square foot Frank Holmes Centre for Leadership, Ethics & Entrepreneurship in 2021 and a new 300 bed residence that is slated to open next July.
During his second term as president, Craig oversaw the development of a new strategic plan that was launched earlier this year. It maps out Huron's development over the next five years.
“We have accomplished so much together at Huron, but there is so much opportunity still before us. I want to see Huron become more diverse and more accessible for those who face barriers to attend," said Craig. "We already devote double the national average of funds to assist those with financial difficulties to attend university. And from a resource perspective, our faculty will continue to grow to meet student needs, just as our campus will continue to develop on what is already a beautiful setting for learning.”
He added that he feels like the "luckiest person in the world" to be the president of Huron.
"I see so many lives changed by this wonderful place. I can’t wait to see what we do next."