The following is a message from Dr. Mike Mahon, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lethbridge

Since the conclusion of his reappointment process, Dr. Dan Weeks, Vice President (Research), and I have been speaking about a temporary reassignment of Dr. Weeks’s duties beginning July 1, 2014. From that time, through to December 31, 2014, Dr. Weeks has agreed to spend his efforts on moving forward a significant strategic priority and initiative of the University of Lethbridge – the establishment and launch of THINC, The Home for Innovative New Companies.

THINC ultimately can be a foundational element in how the U of L enunciates liberal education into its future. Toward this, a small, cross-disciplinary group of faculty has been working with Dr. Weeks on articulating THINC. As well, early work has been done on sharing our concept with both federal and provincial governments and we have had some early success in having donors believe in and fund our vision. Much work remains to be done however. Dr. Weeks therefore will be focusing on the continuing need for external advocates and financial support. He will also be working with our recently selected design consultants for the new academic science building in ensuring that appropriate, functional space, that matches the vision and needs of THINC, become a reality.

With this temporary reassignment of duties, I’m pleased that Dr. Lesley Brown has agreed to serve as the Acting Vice President (Research). Her activity and that of Research and Innovation Services will remain focused on serving the research needs of our academic community. To support Dr. Brown, Dr. Matthew Letts, Associate Dean, Faculty of Arts and Science, has also agreed to spend 50 per cent of his time as acting Assistant Vice-President (Research) – especially during the very busy grant application season.

My thanks go out to Dr. Weeks, Dr. Brown and Dr. Letts for their cooperation and collaboration. I am confident this temporary change will allow us to continue to support the needs of the academic community at the University and also to take significant strides forward in achieving a major strategic priority.

Dr. Mike Mahon
President and Vice-Chancellor