Brandon University marked a major institutional milestone Thursday morning as Dr. Christine Bovis‑Cnossen was formally installed as the university’s new President and Vice‑Chancellor. The ceremony, held at the Healthy Living Centre and led by BU Chancellor Mary Jane McCallum and Board of Governors Vice‑Chair Quintin Pearce, opened the first of four Convocation ceremonies celebrating the Class of 2026.
Although Dr. Bovis‑Cnossen has been serving as President since arriving last fall, the installation represents an important academic tradition — a formal welcome into the leadership of the university community. The moment also carried symbolic weight, linking the start of her presidency with the graduation of more than 500 students beginning their own next chapters.
“Convocation is the end of one part of a journey, and the beginning of the next stage,” she said in her Installation address. “This installation ceremony, as I officially accept the responsibility of serving as Brandon University President, is just such a moment for me, as well as for this institution.”
Dr. Bovis‑Cnossen brings more than 30 years of leadership experience from universities across Canada and the United Kingdom. Her previous roles include Acting Vice‑Chancellor at the University of East Anglia, Interim President at Thompson Rivers University, and Vice‑President Academic at OCAD University. A scholar of sociology and social anthropology, her research has focused on equity, inclusion, military sociology, and the role of women in combat.
In her remarks, she reflected on her own path as a first‑generation university student and outlined a vision for BU rooted in student‑centred learning, Reconciliation, community connection, and long‑term sustainability.
“BU may be ‘Canada’s Finest Regional University,’ but we are also so much more,” she said. “We are student centred at our very core and students come first for all of us.”
She emphasized that higher education must remain accessible, community‑focused, and committed to preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society.
While the installation marked a significant moment for BU leadership, Dr. Bovis‑Cnossen underscored that Convocation ultimately belongs to the students.
“Our graduates are the reason we gather together this week,” she said. “It is a deep honour to share the stage for my installation with students whose skills and knowledge will help shape communities here in Manitoba and far beyond.”
A total of 530 graduates will cross the stage over four ceremonies at the Healthy Living Centre.
