Dr. Carrie Dawson will assume the role of Dean of Arts on September 1, 2026
Saint Mary’s University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Carrie Dawson as Dean of Arts. In this role, Dr. Dawson will provide strategic leadership for the Faculty, advancing its academic vision and mission while supporting excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. She will oversee academic planning, faculty development, operational priorities, and serve as a strong advocate for the arts within the university and broader community.
Dr. Dawson brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education, including seven years as Dean of Arts and Science at Mount Saint Vincent University, where she led a diverse faculty of more than 70 full-time members across multiple departments and interdisciplinary programs. She has extensive experience in academic governance, collective bargaining, strategic enrolment planning, and university-wide leadership initiatives.
Throughout her career, Dr. Dawson has demonstrated a strong commitment to building inclusive, community-engaged academic environments. She has led major program development initiatives, advanced experiential learning opportunities, and strengthened partnerships with community organizations and Indigenous communities. Her accomplishments include securing significant philanthropic support for scholarships and fellowships, guiding curricular renewal across departments, and leading strategic responses to sector-wide challenges such as digital transformation and evolving student needs.
“I would like to thank the search committee for their tremendous work throughout the search process. Dr. Dawson is a thoughtful and strategic leader who brings a deep commitment to inclusive excellence and community engagement,” says President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Michael Khan. “Her collaborative approach, strong academic leadership, and proven ability to navigate complex environments make her exceptionally well positioned to lead the Faculty of Arts at Saint Mary’s University.”
An accomplished scholar of English literature, Dr. Dawson holds a PhD from the University of Queensland, along with degrees from the University of Sussex and the University of British Columbia. She is widely recognized for her research contributions, extensive academic service, and leadership in equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives. Her professional certifications include training in leadership development, advancement, and mental health first aid, reflecting her holistic approach to academic leadership.
“I have long admired Saint Mary’s University’s commitment to international education, community-engaged learning, and inclusive excellence,” says Dr. Dawson. “I am excited to join a university that brings together strong academic programming with a clear sense of public purpose. I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and community partners to support a vibrant, forward-looking Faculty of Arts.”
Saint Mary’s University would like to extend its gratitude to the search committee for their time spent working with KBRS Executive Search on this critical hire. Dr. Dawson will begin her appointment on September 1, 2026.