Prince George, B.C. – The University of Northern British Columbia Board of Governors extended the term of Interim President Geoff Payne by two years. The Board, whose members voted unanimously in support of the decision, lauded Dr. Payne’s leadership since taking the helm earlier this year during an unprecedented time for the University.

“We are fortunate to have a talented individual such as Geoff come forward to take on this leadership position,” said UNBC Board of Governors Chair, Aaron Ekman. “Under his leadership we are seeing continued progress towards critical University initiatives such as academic re-structuring and ongoing enrolment growth. In addition, Geoff is taking on issues such as Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the labour relations climate, and focusing on building relationships across our community. Although we face challenges, we have many opportunities in front of us as well, and we are very confident in making this decision.”

Dr. Payne’s term as Interim President will now run until Aug. 31, 2022. The Board will continue with a search process for a President, but the extended term provides the University, particularly during this time of a global pandemic, with a solidified executive leadership team.

“I’m humbled by the Board’s vote of confidence in me,” said Dr. Payne. “I’m looking forward to continuing the work needed to support the Board’s strategic direction. I’m fully committed to helping create an environment that provides for an outstanding experience for our students, that supports our faculty in their teaching and research endeavours, and that continues to empower our staff to provide exceptional service to our mandate.”

Past UNBC presidents include Geoffrey R. Weller (1990-1995), K. George Pedersen (interim - 1995), Charles J. Jago (1995-2006, and interim from 2008-09), Donald Cozzetto (2006-2008), George Iwama (2009-2013), Mark Dale (interim, 2014), and Daniel J. Weeks (2014-2020).