Dr. Scott Morrison Named Interim President at St. Mary’s University

President Vanderpool Accepts New Opportunity in Texas

CALGARY, Alberta, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- St. Mary’s University (St. Mary’s) accepted the resignation of Dr. Sinda K. Vanderpool, President and Vice-Chancellor since July 2022, to support her appointment as the next president of the University of St. Thomas – Houston.

“We are deeply grateful for Dr. Vanderpool’s leadership and collaborative community building over the past three years. Together with faculty, staff, students, and supporters, she has led our university to accomplish national awards, academic program expansions, and record-breaking investments from supporters.” said Gary Strother, Chair of St. Mary’s University Board of Governors. “On behalf of St. Mary’s, and the communities we serve, I wish Sinda and her family all the best.”

The University’s board has begun acting on its authority to search for a new president. One of Alberta’s leading education executives, Dr. Scott Morrison, has agreed to serve as Interim President and Vice-Chancellor from August 5, 2025 until that search is complete.

Through his extensive career in education, Dr. Morrison has held a variety of influential leadership roles in Alberta, including as Executive Director of the Catholic School Superintendents of Alberta, which granted him a leave from his current position to support St. Mary’s University during its transition.

“Scott is not only an expert in leading educational organizations, but he is also a committed member of St. Mary’s community,” said Strother.

For the past 17 years, Dr. Morrison contributed as a sessional instructor, teaching an undergraduate course in the Faculty of Education and leadership certification courses. He also helped shape the university’s Bachelor of Education program for secondary students and its soon-to-be launched Master of Education program. A former member of St. Mary's Board of Governors, he chaired its Governance and Nominating Committee for three years.

Morrison was honoured to accept the role. “To serve St. Mary’s as its Interim President will be a labour of love. I have long been an advocate for St. Mary’s and the transformative power of the Catholic Intellectual Tradition it blends through their degrees in education, arts and science.”

Vanderpool has mixed feelings as she transitions the role with Morrison August 5 – 8, her last week here. “I have felt so very honoured to serve St. Mary’s and the community that uplifts it. While I am excited to live closer to my family, I know the future is bright for a place that will always hold a special home in my heart.”

Lisa Laskowski, Vice President, External Relations
St. Mary’s University
Phone: 403.554.6225
Email: lisa.laskowski@stmu.ca

About St. Mary’s University

St. Mary’s University is a dynamic and inclusive institution located in Calgary, Alberta, offering undergraduate degrees in Education, Arts, and Science, along with diploma programs in Business that emphasize entrepreneurship, innovation, and social responsibility. For students aspiring to careers in health care, mental health, or medicine, St. Mary’s provides essential foundational courses to support their academic journey.

Situated on a picturesque 35-acre campus adjacent to Fish Creek Provincial Park, St. Mary’s blends natural beauty with academic tradition. The campus is home to nationally ranked athletics teams, a vibrant community choir, and heritage buildings that reflect the university’s rich history and enduring values.

Guided by the Catholic intellectual tradition and open to all, St. Mary’s fosters a culture of academic excellence, ethical leadership, and a deep respect for the dignity of every person. Graduates emerge as thoughtful, compassionate leaders— committed to service, inspired by faith, and prepared to shape a better world.

https://stmu.ca/about-us/strategic-plan/

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/67e66fb0-6325-41cc-bc7a-61b0c163f70d

St. Mary's University Announces Incoming Interim President

Dr. Scott Morrison

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