Trinidad and Tobago–born academic Dr Michael Khan played an integral role in “a perfect start to the Fall Convocation at Saint Mary’s University,” where he was officially installed as the institution’s 35th President and Vice-Chancellor. The university, located in Halifax’s South End in Nova Scotia, Canada, appointed Dr Khan on July 1. He was formally sworn in and took his oath of office on November 13, during a Convocation Ceremony.
Dr Khan was presented by Dr Shannon Dea, Provost and VPAR, and installed by Chancellor Dr Michael Durland. The chair of the Board of Governors, Al Abraham, administered the oath of office.
In a statement before the ceremony, Dr Khan reflected on his journey from Trinidad and Tobago to various parts of Canada, the UK, and now to Saint Mary’s in Halifax.
“The university is outstanding with a tremendous reputation, and I look forward to harnessing the passion and energy that are very evident on its campus and wider community. My values fit perfectly with those of Saint Mary’s,” he said.
“There’s a culture of care and inclusion, and bringing people together is something that I’ve believed in throughout my career.”
He affirmed that student success is his top priority, noting that discovery and exploration are key to encouraging students to dream big, pursue their goals, and exceed their own expectations.
“While universities face challenges, I see immense opportunities, and I’m looking forward to meeting as many students as possible in the coming weeks and months,” he added.
“Students, faculty, staff, alumni, community builders and business partners—I can’t wait to learn your stories and your ideas as we bring people together to create a world without limits.”
Dr Khan also extended an open invitation to students: “Whenever you see me walking through campus, at sporting events or community activities, please come up and say hello. I look forward to working with everyone to move Saint Mary’s forward to an exciting future.”
During the ceremony, Dr Dea described the installation as “a defining moment in the life of the university—a celebration of leadership and a reaffirmation of our mission, one rooted for 220 years in the values of knowledge, service, and community.”
“Dr Khan has joined a distinguished line of leaders who have guided the institution with vision and purpose. This moment marks a new chapter shaped by a strategic commitment to discovery, inclusion, sustainability, and the transformative power of education.”
Presidents Dr Wanda Costen (Provost, Delaware University), Dr Bill Laney (President, University of King’s College), Chancellor Arthur LeBlanc (Université Sainte-Anne), and Tom Ullyett (Board Member, Yukon University) offered greetings and congratulations, while 31 universities sent formal salutations.
In his presidential remarks, Dr Khan thanked all who placed their trust in him. He paid tribute to his family—his wife Martha and daughters Makela and Madison; his sister Therese; uncle Willie and Joan; brother-in-law Duncan and wife Carolyn; and sister-in-law Charlotte—who attended the ceremony.
He also acknowledged former presidents Dr Colin Dodds and Dr Robert Summerby-Murray, who collectively served 25 years. At one point, he addressed parents directly, urging them to pay close attention to their children during this pivotal stage of their lives.
Speaking on the evolving challenges facing higher education, Dr Khan noted: “Today, the relevance of a university education is under intense scrutiny. We face the challenge of producing students who are job-ready while also providing an education that fosters lifelong learning and personal growth.
“Consequently, there has been a push to strike the right balance—ensuring students develop discipline, interdisciplinary knowledge, research and entrepreneurship skills, experiential and work-integrated learning, and now AI competency.”
Dr Khan said he is honoured to be entrusted with the leadership of Saint Mary’s University and is both humbled and excited to begin this new chapter.
