David Sylvester has been re-appointed to a five-year term as principal of King’s University College, the Western affiliate’s Board of Directors announced today. Sylvester, who began his first term in 2009, will now serve as head of King’s through 2019.
“Dr. Sylvester has expertly kept King’s aligned with its strategic goals, and has led King’s to new levels of achievement as a strong university college acknowledged across Canada and internationally as a centre for academic excellence, social justice and research,” said Lynne Cram, board chair. “In fostering a student-centred community that is committed to teaching excellence and scholarship, Dr. Sylvester has ensured that King’s continues to score top marks for student satisfaction in national surveys. While King’s celebrates its strong Catholic history and intellectual tradition, we are especially proud of the rich diversity of our campus.
“Dr. Sylvester’s leadership has done much to cultivate this vital and dynamic learning community, and the Board is delighted to have him continue as Principal of King’s.”
Under Sylvester’s leadership, King’s has consolidated and expanded enrollment and academic programming, added additional full-time faculty positions, implemented a new institutional strategic plan, re-negotiated its affiliation agreements with Western University, developed strategic partnerships within the London community, with international post-secondary institutions and with every Catholic School Board in Ontario.
Sylvester has also led the largest fund development campaign in King’s history, resulting in the expansion of financial aid for students in need and the construction of the new Darryl J. King Student Life Centre, which is set to open this fall.
“It is a privilege to serve as Principal of King’s,” Sylvester said. “This is a remarkable place, distinguished by the students, faculty and staff who work and study here. We have a single goal here at King’s, to offer the finest undergraduate university experience in Canada. When I reflect upon the accomplishments of our graduates and the dedication of our faculty, I can’t help but think that we are achieving this goal much sooner than I anticipated.”