Lovett-Doust named Nipissing's new president Photo

Nipissing University
News Release

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Nipissing University has appointed Dr. Lesley Lovett-Doust as president and vice-chancellor.

Lovett-Doust will begin a five-year term on July 1, 2009. She becomes Nipissing's fifth president, succeeding Dr. Dennis Mock, who will complete his six years of service on June 30, 2009.

Nipissing's Board of Governors approved the recommendation from the search committee for the president to appoint Lovett-Doust in a special meeting held on Wednesday, January 7, 2009.

Lovett-Doust brings 30 years of experience in post-secondary education to Nipissing, including several years of experience in high-level administrative roles. She is currently the provost and vice-president academic affairs at Michigan Technological University. Prior roles include dean of science and environmental studies at Lakehead University, associate executive dean of engineering and science, and associate dean of science at the University of Windsor. She has taught and researched as a biology professor at a variety of institutions and has enjoyed significant success as a researcher with over 50 articles published on plant ecology and evolution, one book and more than $3 million in personal research funding over her career.

Lovett-Doust earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology and Resource Management, from the department of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. She earned her PhD in Plant Ecology and Evolution from the University of Wales.

"I am very pleased to be coming to Nipissing University to work with a great team of professional colleagues and bright, motivated students as we enter our next phase of evolution," said Lovett-Doust. "With the celebration this year of 100 years of teacher education in North Bay, it is an exciting time. Nipissing's strong foundation in education and continued success in providing an exceptional student experience through a growing number of degree programs provide significant momentum to advance the university, and I am excited to be a part of that future."

"The search committee and the Board of Governors are very pleased with the appointment of Dr. Lovett-Doust and are very confident in her abilities to succeed at the highest level," said Gerry Foster, Chair of the Board of Governors and Chair of the president's search committee. "She is committed to student satisfaction and excellence in teaching and learning and has been actively engaged in issues of access and success for Francophones, First Generation and Aboriginal learners, as well as support for mature students. Her leadership, vision, qualifications and personal characteristics will serve Nipissing very well as the university continues its evolution."

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