This June, the university celebrated the appointment of Rhonda McEwen as UVic’s next president and vice-chancellor, effective Oct. 14, 2026. At the same time, the university is preparing to bid a fond farewell to Qwul’sih’yah’maht, Robina Thomas, whose term as acting president concludes on June 30, 2026.
To provide stable and consistent leadership during this period of transition, the Board of Governors has appointed Elizabeth Croft as acting president and vice-chancellor from July 1, 2026 to Oct. 13, 2026. Croft is currently the university’s vice-president academic and provost and brings extensive leadership experience and a deep commitment to the university’s mission.
In addition, the Board has appointed Helga Hallgrímsdóttir as acting vice-president academic and provost, effective July 1, 2026 to Oct. 13, 2026. Hallgrímsdóttir will lead the academic portfolio, supporting the continued excellence of our teaching, academic and student experience.
“The Board is very confident in Elizabeth and Helga’s leadership,” says Erinn Pinkerton, Acting Chair, Board of Governors. “They, alongside the executive council, will continue to work closely over the summer months to support the good work underway at UVic and to prepare to welcome Dr. McEwen this fall.”
