“We’re thrilled to announce that Dr. Sean Riley will continue to lead StFX for the next five years,” the Hon. Frank McKenna, chair of StFX’s Board of Governors, said in making the announcement. "Since Dr. Riley has been at the helm, StFX has strengthened the quality of its academic programs and research, and completed an extensive campus renewal program. StFX continues to be recognized among the best universities in Canada, largely due to his unwavering commitment and leadership," added Mr. McKenna.
“It’s a privilege to work with such a talented and committed team of faculty and staff in delivering the very best educational experience to students," said Dr. Riley. "The academic model at StFX is strong. Our priority over the coming years will be to strengthen even further the attraction of StFX as a high quality, undergraduate focused, residential university.”
Since first becoming president in 1996, Dr. Riley’s influence has been widespread.
StFX’s reputation for academic excellence in a close-knit residential community has soared. Both the Globe and Mail and Maclean’s magazine have continued to recognize StFX as one of the nation’s best primarily undergraduate institutes.
In February 2009, StFX students reported the highest satisfaction of all universities in Canada. Alumni support has likewise ranked highest among Canadian universities. A recent independent survey found StFX alumni support off the charts, quite literally setting a new benchmark.
At the same time as these accomplishments, over $175 million has been invested in academic facilities, residences and campus infrastructure. The campus has welcomed a state-of-the-art Sciences Centre, the Charles V. Keating Center, a new home for the Coady International Institute, and several new and renovated residences. The new home for the Gerald Schwartz School of Business and Information Systems will open in the heart of lower campus this summer.
Dr. Riley has served as a board member of university associations at the Nova Scotia, Atlantic, and Canadian levels. In his volunteer capacity, he currently is national Chair of Canada World Youth, and a board member of the Trudeau Foundation, the Royal Society of Canada, and the Premier’s Advisory Council on the Economy.
An Antigonish native, Dr. Riley graduated from StFX in 1974, earning the Governor General’s Gold Medal for highest academic achievement. He was also named outstanding male student and male athlete of the year. Selected as a Rhodes Scholar, he completed his masters and doctorate degrees at Oxford University in the field of international relations. Prior to returning to StFX, Dr. Riley had a career spanning government, corporate finance, and business.
“The future of StFX relies on strong contributions from the entitre StFX community,” said Mr. McKenna. “This includes the appointment of a leader with great vision. Dr. Sean Riley has that vision to continue building upon our successes.”