Athabasca University Appoints New President At Time of Growth
“Athabasca University is one of the treasures of the post-secondary system in Canada. Our world-class programs, offered at a distance using effective e-learning and other delivery methods, make us a world leader in online, open and distance education. Dr. Pannekoek, who comes from the University of Calgary, will build on the sound foundations – financial, academic, research and service – which will be left by his predecessor. He will head up our plans for continued growth and expansion.â€
Dr. Pannekoek is currently Director of Information Resources at the University of Calgary, with academic appointments in the Faculty of Communication and Culture and the Department of History. He and his wife, Christine, will be moving to Athabasca where he will take up his new appointment in June.
“Given the commitment of the Premier of Alberta and the Minister of Advanced Education to a strong and new investment in post-secondary education, this is a good time to arrive as the president of Canada’s fastest growing University,†Dr. Pannekoek said. “The challenge will be to ensure that Athabasca University’s success is better understood by all Albertans and that we continue to be seen as a world leader in all that we do–in teaching, in services to our students and in researchâ€.
Dr. Pannekoek’s interest in and commitment to Athabasca University is reflected in 20 years as a tutor and course developer here. His experience with distance education, blended learning and the development of innovative learning environments will benefit Athabasca University greatly.
Athabasca University has 32,000 students working largely on their own time, at work and at home, on one or more of over 600 courses in 45 undergraduate or graduate programs. Students can access the University “anytime and anywhere†using e-learning and other modes of study. The University has a range of graduate programs and close to 3,000 graduate students.
Media Contact:
Stephen Murgatroyd, PhD
Executive Director External Relations
Athabasca University
(780) 993-7784
stephenm@athabascau.ca
