Brandon University welcomes President David Docherty

Brandon University enters a new era today, as Dr. David Docherty assumes the reins as President and Vice-Chancellor.

“It is a true honour to walk up the historic steps of Clark Hall to the Office of the President today, and a very real pleasure to begin my term as President surrounded by the energy and optimism that fills the BU campus,” Dr. Docherty said. “I am thankful for the warm welcome shown to me by the campus and the community, and I am eager to continue getting to know everyone here, who are all essential to BU’s success.”

Dr. Docherty comes to Brandon University from Mount Royal University in Calgary, where he had served as President since 2011. Previously, he was at Wilfred Laurier University in Waterloo, Ont. Dr. Docherty holds a PhD in political science and has a background as an accomplished academic and administrator who has led institutions through times of transformative change.

During his first few days in the new role, Dr. Docherty is planning to invest time in building friendships, and getting to better know the BU campus.

“I’ll be taking my laptop to Forbidden Flavours in the Mingling Area this afternoon, but I hope I’ll be too busy to look at it,” he laughed. “Please come see me to introduce yourself. And if you see me around campus anytime, I am always happy to stop and say hi.”

Along with his strong belief in the importance of genuine personal relationships, Dr. Docherty has a notable record as a successful fundraiser, as a committed champion of diversity, inclusion and Indigenous reconciliation, and as an enthusiastic community-builder.

As President, Dr. Docherty succeeds Dr. Gervan Fearon, who departed BU in 2017. Since that time, the role of Interim President has been filled by Dr. Steve Robinson.
Dr. Docherty thanked Dr. Robinson for his work as Interim President. “I know I will lean on his judgment and expertise in the future as he returns to his role as Vice-President (Academic & Provost).”

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