The long-awaited results of TRU’s search for a new president have been unveiled: former dean of education and social work, Airini, has been appointed as the university’s next president and vice chancellor.
“I am genuinely honoured to accept this appointment to lead this university community, which I deeply care about. It is humbling to follow in the footsteps of TRU’s previous and current presidents,” Airini said in a release.
“I am excited to serve our communities and to advocate relentlessly for all that is unique and exceptional about TRU.”
Airini, who does not use a surname, will fill the role of current president Brett Fairbairn, who has held the position since 2018 and is slated to retire on June 30, 2025. Airini will be the fifth person to be hired for the role since the university’s inception.
An education researcher with a PhD in curriculum and instruction from UBC, Airini currently serves as the provost and vice president academic at the University of Saskatchewan.
She previously worked at TRU between 2014 and 2021, where she co-led the Knowledge Makers program and oversaw over 9,000 annual enrollments as dean of her department.
A Fulbright scholar and published author, she has worked on over 100 academic papers, books, chapters and reports throughout her career.
TRU’s new president has a range of accomplishments and educational achievements that stretch from Canada all the way to New Zealand and Australia.
Airini recognized the “enormous privilege and responsibility” to take over her new role and she is confident the university is “a genuine force for good.” She hopes to continue TRU’s relationship with Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc.
“Inspired by place and history, TRU’s students, faculty, staff and leaders are developing the knowledge, talent and skills needed by the region, province and beyond. TRU is a dynamic university serving the region and quietly yet boldly changing the province and the world,” she said.