Prince George, B.C. – Dr. William J. Owen, a longtime University of Northern British Columbia professor, researcher and administrator has been appointed the University of Northern British Columbia’s Interim President and Vice-Chancellor for a term of up to 18 months.

Dr. Owen’s appointment is effective Oct. 4.  

“Dr. Owen brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of UNBC’s vision, mission and values to this new role,” says UNBC Board of Governors Chair Joel McKay. “Students are at the heart of everything we do at UNBC, and under Dr. Owen’s leadership UNBC will continue to provide a high-quality educational experience, pursue excellence in research and strengthen our partnerships with communities across northern B.C. and beyond.”

Dr. Owen joined UNBC in 2002 as a faculty member in the Department of Psychology and has held numerous administrative positions with UNBC, including Vice Provost Faculty Relations, Interim Dean of the College of Arts, Social and Health Sciences and Vice Provost Student Engagement. Most recently, he served as the Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic where he led the development of the Ready Roadmap: Academic Plan 2025-2031.

“UNBC is a remarkable University with a proud 35-year history and an even brighter future,” says Dr. Owen. “I am grateful to the Board of Governors for the opportunity to serve in this leadership role, and I look forward to working with our students, faculty, staff and communities to advance initiatives that strengthen UNBC’s impact and deepen our commitment to those we serve.”

The appointment follows the announcement of the departure of outgoing President Dr. Geoffrey Payne, who will be taking on a leadership role with Michael Smith Health Research BC. His last day as UNBC President will be Oct. 3. 

The search for a new President and Vice-Chancellor will begin later this fall. A 21-person search committee is being formed and will include representatives from the Board of Governors, senior administrative and academic leaders, faculty, students and staff. 

Past UNBC presidents include: Geoffrey R. Weller (1990-1995); K. George Pedersen (interim, 1995); Charles J. Jago (1995-2006, and interim in 2008-09); Donald Cozzetto (2006-2008); George Iwama (2009-2013); Mark Dale (interim, 2014); Daniel J. Weeks (2014-2020); Geoffrey W. Payne (2022-2025, interim 2020-22).