On July 1, 2025, Dr. Michael Khan (at left) joins Saint Mary’s University as the 35th President and Vice-Chancellor, along with Dr. Shannon Dea who starts her new role as Provost and Vice-President, Academic and Research.
Saint Mary’s University is marking an exciting new era in welcoming two new university leaders this month.
As of July 1, 2025, Dr. Michael Khan begins his tenure as the university’s 35th President and Vice-Chancellor. Dr. Khan brings more than three decades of experience in post-secondary education sector and a diverse, international perspective to his new role.
Most recently, Dr. Khan served as Provost and Vice-President Academic at Trent University, a role he held from 2020-2025. His distinguished career includes various university leadership roles, including his tenure as Dean of Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor, where he oversaw the Department of Kinesiology and Athletics & Recreational Services. Prior to this, he was the Head of the School of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences at Bangor University in Wales, U.K.
Dr. Khan brings a wealth of expertise and accomplishments in academic and administrative leadership, strategic enrollment management, fundraising, and creative partnerships.
As Provost at Trent University, Dr. Khan spearheaded the development of an integrative academic plan that led to the creation of numerous new undergraduate and graduate programs, postgraduate certificates, and co-op opportunities. While at Bangor University, he fostered partnerships in the public and private sectors by establishing innovative, high-impact research groups. In Windsor, he led the creation of the Lancer Sport and Recreation Centre Project, a $73 million sport and recreation facility for the university and its community, and actively promoted links with healthcare and sport organizations, school boards, businesses, and charities.
Dr. Khan is recognized for his collaborative leadership style and commitment to student success, research, and community engagement.
Learn more about President Michael Khan.
Dr. Shannon Dea, Provost and Vice-President, Academic and Research
The university also pleased to welcome Dr. Shannon Dea as Saint Mary’s first Provost and Vice-President, Academic and Research (PVPAR).
Dr. Dea joins the university from the University of Regina, where she served as Dean of Arts. Dr. Dea is a respected academic leader and scholar with a strong background in academic innovation and equity-focused leadership.
Dr. Dea's appointment marks a significant milestone for Saint Mary's University as she becomes the first person to hold the newly created position of PVPAR. In this role, she will oversee the university's academic and research activities, working closely with faculty, staff, and students to enhance the university's academic excellence and research impact. The Provost and Vice-President, Academic & Research also plays a crucial role in the university budget by overseeing the allocation of resources to support academic priorities.
Saint Mary's University appoints Dr. Shannon Dea as Provost & Vice-President, Academic and Research