It was one of many farewells that will be happening over the next couple months for current University of Regina president and vice-chancellor Dr. Vianne Timmons.
Dr. Timmons gave her sixth and final state of the university address to Regina Chamber of Commerce members, stakeholders and others on Tuesday afternoon at the Delta Hotel in downtown Regina.
It was an opportunity for Timmons to reflect on her time at the university, highlight the school’s development over the years and discuss the challenges that lie ahead.
She said one of her top objectives when she joined the U of R in 2008 was to boost enrollment numbers, which she feels they accomplished.
“Our enrollment is at 16,500, our internationalization is really moving and indigenization sees over 14 per cent of our undergraduate students self-identify as indigenous,” Timmons told reporters on Tuesday.
Other highlights she noted during her speech include the continuing strength of the First Nations University of Canada, the revitalization of the College Avenue Campus and the development of their nursing college.
Here at the Delta Hotel in downtown #Regina where @UofRegina president and vice-chancellor Dr. Vianne Timmons is delivering her final state of the university address. She just received a standing ovation at the end of her speech. #UofR pic.twitter.com/Zg0hFdX5bU
— Moises Canales (@MoisesCanalesJr) January 28, 2020
Reflecting on her 12 years at the university, she feels the campus is more diverse and inclusive now than ever before.
“It’s a place where you can see yourself when you walk down the halls,” said Timmons. “No matter where you are from, what abilities you have or disabilities, this is a campus that wraps its arms around everyone.”
She added there will be lots for the new team to take on once she leaves including investments into new buildings and capital. One objective she mentioned remains on her plate before she leaves is finishing the funding for Darke Hall.
But overall, the outgoing president and vice-chancellor feels they were able to check off many of their items off the list.
“I would have loved to have gotten the funding in place for a business school and a child trauma research centre. So those are things I’ll have left undone that others can take on.”
Dr. Timmons submitted her resignation to the U of R board in December to pursue the role as president and vice-chancellor at Memorial University of Newfoundland in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Her resignation will take effect on April 1.
U of R provost and vice-president Thomas Chase will take over the position while they search for her successor.
