Vancouver Island University’s president has stepped down after six years of leadership and service to the community.
According to the university, Dr. Deborah Saucier made the announcement to step down as President and Vice-Chancellor of the university on Apr. 4 to ensure a smooth transition for her successor.
Chair of the VIU Board of Governors Jamie Cassels says Saucier has made several contributions to the university and have left a substantial legacy for the next president to follow.
“Her leadership has helped advance the university’s mission and deepen its impact in the region,” Cassels says. “She leaves behind a legacy of progress, innovation and a deep commitment to students and reconciliation.”
Saucier says being part of the VIU community has been a highlight, and VIU was able to accomplish a lot.
“I count myself fortunate to have worked with a community so dedicated to VIU’s mission,” she says. “We have celebrated many accomplishments, from supporting students to strengthening our ties with Indigenous communities.
“After six years, I believe this is the right time for a leadership transition, allowing me to step back and focus on family, while taking time to reflect and recharge.”
The resignation was announced by VIU shortly after the BC Federation of Students says the Board of Governors met to discuss Saucier’s future.
According to VIU, Saucier’s five-year term started in 2024 and was scheduled to wrap up in 2029 and in no way reflects calls from the BC Federation of Students and VIU’s Student Union (VIUSU)for her to resign.
The union says VIU’s Board of Governors will meet tomorrow (Mar. 31) to deal with the motion of no confidence in the leadership coming from students, staff and faculty on Mar. 6.
“The Vancouver Island Student’s Union formally called for the removal of president Saucier in February, citing several financial mismanagements, failed capital projects, and a leadership style that excludes students, staff, and faculty from decision-making,” they say.
Director of external relations for the student union Brandi Klee says the board needs to act to ensure students’ needs are addressed and stand for proper leadership.
“The message is loud and clear,” Klee says. “We’re in financial crisis, services are being cut, and the people who rely on VIU the most have been completely shut out. “The board has a duty to act.”
According to the union, several capital projects have already been mishandled and that has led to many in the university losing trust in their leadership, and Klee says this is why Saucier should be replaced with new and effective leadership.
“This moment demands leadership that puts students first, not minor adjustments or damage control,” she says. “The VIU community is united in our call for change. We won’t accept silence where there should be action. “VIU belongs to all of us, and we’re done being ignored.”
VIU says they’ve already appointed an acting president under the provisions VIU policy, and Chief Financial Officer and Vice-President Administration Emily Huner will assume the role on Apr. 5.
The Board of Governors is expected to begin recruitment to find a longer-term acting-president, followed by a successor.
