Algoma University’s Board of Governors is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Kofi Campbell as President and Vice-Chancellor, effective September 1, 2026.
Dr. Campbell was selected following a comprehensive national search led by the Presidential Search Advisory Group. A respected academic leader with extensive experience in higher education administration, governance, and Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Decolonization (EDID) initiatives, Dr. Campbell is Provost and Vice-President Academic at Brandon University, (currently on administrative leave) where he recently completed a six-month term as Interim President.
“On behalf of the Board of Governors, I am pleased to welcome Dr. Kofi Campbell to Algoma University,” said Rob Battisti, Chair of the University’s Board of Governors. “Dr. Campbell brings a collaborative leadership approach, a deep commitment to student success, and a strong dedication to equity and cross-cultural learning. These qualities make him exceptionally well-suited to lead the University forward and continue advancing our Special Mission.”
Born in Guyana and raised in Canada, Dr. Campbell earned an MA in English Literature from the University of Toronto and a PhD from Western University. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his leadership in EDID work, including as a member of the founding Board of Directors for the Scarborough Charter on Anti-Black Racism and Black Inclusion in Canadian Higher Education.
A lifelong lover of literature, Dr. Campbell credits his mother for inspiring his passion for reading and his father for nurturing his love of writing. His interdisciplinary scholarly work has received both national and international recognition.
“As someone who deeply values the transformative power of education, I am honoured to join Algoma University as its next President and Vice-Chancellor,” said Dr. Campbell. “Algoma University’s commitment to community and student success strongly resonates with me. I look forward to working collaboratively with the University community to responsibly grow our student population and build a strong and sustainable future.”
Prior to Brandon University, Dr. Campbell served as Vice-President Academic and Dean at Renison University College at the University of Waterloo and as Associate Dean at Wilfrid Laurier University.
The Board also extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Sheila Embleton for her dedicated leadership as Interim President & Vice-Chancellor. Dr. Embleton will continue in the role until August 31, 2026.
About the Presidential Search Process
The Presidential Search Advisory Group composed of both internal representatives, including students, teaching staff, and non-teaching staff, and external Governors, has worked over several months with support from Boyden to recruit, identify, and interview candidates for the role.Thank you to everyone who participated in the community consultation sessions as part of the Presidential Search process. Your feedback and insights were invaluable and played an important role throughout the search process. Please see the Presidential Search website for further information.
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