Dryden Announces Retirement

September October 2008

Dr. Lou Dryden announced his intention to retire as President of North Island College, at the end of his current contract, on October 5, 2009.

In announcing his decision, Dryden stated “My experience as President of North Island College has been the most personally and professionally rewarding experience of my career.  At the end of my twelve years, I will be able to say without hesitation that I was privileged to serve as President of one of the best colleges in B.C.”

“North Island College’s focus has always been on serving our students to the best of our abilities, and ensuring their success whatever their educational goals,” he added before thanking his NIC colleagues for their dedication and commitment.

Dryden oversaw a number of important initiatives during his tenure as President, including: partnering with other post-secondary institutions to ensure the needs and interests of our community are being met through the delivery of degree programming. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing with Vancouver Island University and the Bachelor of Fine Arts with Emily Carr University are two examples of collaborative degree programs, enhancing the College’s reputation both within the community and within the Government of British Columbia;
growing the North Island College Foundation to a position where its endowment topped $3 million, and over 280 students receive in excess of $160,000 in student awards annually; and, demonstrating a commitment to our First Nations, through the establishment of a growing Aboriginal Education portfolio, implementation of the Aboriginal Service Plan, and the soon-to-be constructed gathering places at our Port Alberni and Campbell River campuses. 

Chris Gibson, Chair of the Board of Governors, announced that the Board would begin the process of recruiting a new President immediately, acknowledging that the process could take up to 12 months.

Gibson added “Dr. Dryden has done an incredible job of guiding NIC during his tenure.  Through his leadership, NIC is well positioned to continue to serve our community by providing quality, affordable and relevant education and training opportunities close to home.  And on a personal note, it has been a pleasure working with Dr. Dryden.  I have never met an individual more committed to his position and improving the relationship NIC enjoys with its community.”

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Media relations contact:

Susan Auchterlonie

Director, College & Community Relations

250-334-5271