Redeemer University president Dr. Robert J. Graham will be stepping down from his position on May 1, 2021. Graham has served as president of the university since August 2018 and cites ongoing health concerns related to a serious medical challenge experienced early in his tenure as the main reason for his departure. Family concerns played a role as well — pandemic-related travel restrictions have posed additional challenges for Graham and his U.S.-based family. 

The board of governors received Dr. Graham’s resignation with regret, but remains confident that Redeemer’s momentum will continue without interruption. The board announced the appointment of Dr. David Zietsma, provost and vice president, academic, as interim president.

 “Our board deeply appreciates the leadership Dr. Graham has provided and we wish him and his family well as he starts a new chapter closer to their family in the U.S.,” says board chair Mr. Lloyd Rang. “We are also thankful that Dr. Graham has helped to make Redeemer stronger, and Dr. Zietsma’s appointment ensures that Redeemer will maintain its strategic direction. Our next step will be to set up a full and competitive search process for a new president, and we will have more to say about that in the weeks and months ahead.” 

Despite unprecedented times, Redeemer is experiencing significant enrolment growth and recently received new degree-granting authorities through provincial legislation. An ongoing, nearly $20 million construction project is slated to be completed this fall with new living, learning, and innovation spaces for students.