Leadership Transition: Memorial University's Research Vision
Dear Colleagues,
I am excited to share some news about a significant leadership transition at Memorial University. Dr. Tana Allen, our esteemed colleague and current Vice-President (Research) Pro Tempore, has been appointed as the Vice-President of Research and Innovation at Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario. This move marks a new chapter in her illustrious career, and I extend my warmest wishes for her future endeavors.
Dr. Allen's contributions to Memorial University have been invaluable. Over the past 25 years, she has held various leadership positions, including Head of the Department of Classics, Associate Dean (Research) in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and Acting Associate Vice-President (Research) and Acting Vice-President (Research) since 2022. Her dedication and expertise have significantly contributed to the advancement of research at Memorial, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
As we bid farewell to Dr. Allen, we also look forward to the future of Memorial's research endeavors. The search for her replacement as Vice-President (Research) is well underway, with a dedicated committee already established and holding initial meetings. The process aims to identify a leader who will champion research excellence and further enhance Memorial's research reputation.
Your input is crucial in this transition. Research is at the core of Memorial University's mission, driving deep learning, fostering innovation, and expanding our understanding of the world. It is also deeply intertwined with our commitment to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, as our researchers tackle critical issues relevant to our province.
The search process will provide opportunities for feedback on the position and candidate qualifications. It will also include presentations from the final candidates and in-person visits to the St. John's campus, Marine Institute, Grenfell Campus, and the Labrador Campus. Your insights and perspectives will shape the role of the Vice-President (Research) and ensure that we select a leader who aligns with our vision for research excellence.
Dr. Allen's departure will be effective September 1, 2026, and we anticipate a formal announcement confirming her transition date and interim arrangements in the early part of the new year. In the meantime, let us extend our gratitude and best wishes to Dr. Allen for her continued success at Trent University.
I encourage you all to join me in congratulating Dr. Allen on this exciting new chapter and supporting her in her future endeavors. For any inquiries or further information, please feel free to reach out to Dr. Janet Morrison, our President and Vice-Chancellor, at president@mun.ca.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
