Dr. Sheila Embleton is a nationally respected academic leader and scholar with extensive experience in university governance, administration, and public service. She was appointed Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Algoma University on July 1, 2025, following a distinguished career spanning more than four decades in Canadian higher education.

A Professor Emerita of Linguistics at York University, Dr. Embleton previously served as Vice-President Academic and Provost, and was named a Distinguished Research Professor in recognition of her scholarly excellence. She holds a PhD in Linguistics from the University of Toronto and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, where she currently serves as President of the Academy of the Arts and Humanities.

Dr. Embleton brings a principled, collaborative leadership style shaped by her strong commitment to academic excellence, collegial governance, academic freedom, and equity. Most recently, she served as Interim President and Vice-Chancellor at Laurentian University, where she played a key role in restoring operational stability and rebuilding trust and governance across the institution.

Throughout her career, Dr. Embleton has been a strong advocate for internationalization, gender equity, and Indigenous engagement in higher education. She has served on numerous national and international academic boards and advisory councils and is widely recognized for her inclusive and strategic approach to leadership.

At Algoma University, Dr. Embleton is focused on sustaining momentum in core areas such as academic quality, student success, cross-cultural learning, Truth and Reconciliation, and on maintaining fiscal responsibility in these challenging times. She works closely with the Board of Governors, Senate, executive leadership, and community partners to advance the University’s Special Mission and support its growing presence across Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, and Timmins.