Toronto: Indian-origin academic H. Deep Saini has been appointed as Montreal-based McGill University’s 18th Principal and Vice-Chancellor, and will begin his five-year, renewable term from April next year.
Saini, who grew up in Punjab, is currently President and Vice-Chancellor of Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia.
“Prof Saini brings to McGill an exceptional breadth and depth of leadership experience, from Dalhousie, several other research-intensive universities in Canada and abroad,” Maryse Bertrand, Chair of McGill’s Board of Governors, said.
“He exemplifies the rare mix of strong academic leadership with a wide-ranging and international perspective. He is the perfect choice for McGill as it embarks on its third century,” Bertrand added.
A university statement described Saini as a “trusted and respected leader” who has worked at four of the top 15 research-intensive universities of the country.
Saini, who has a keen understanding of Quebec culture, having lived close to two decades in Montreal, said he is “humbled and honored” to be chosen for the post.
“Already a leader on the national and international stage, McGill is entering its third century poised to take its global impact even further. I am looking forward with great anticipation to returning to Montreal, joining this illustrious community, and making a bold contribution to the University’s most promising future,” Saini, who was chosen by a unanimous vote of the University’s Board of Governors, said.
