Dr. Turcotte's Accomplishments & Awards

Q & A with Dr. Turcotte: A Glimpse into his Life

New President Outlines his Vision for st. mary's university college

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(August 30, 2011) -- Dr. Gerry Turcotte, the new President of St. Mary’s University College, outlined his vision for both its immediate and longer-term future at a briefing today for faculty and staff.

In a wide-ranging address, Dr. Turcotte spoke of the curiosity, concern, and in some rare occasions, fear that might attend the appointment of a new President, especially when the previous one, as he pointed out, had been such a success. He told the audience that he understands these concerns, reassuring staff and faculty that he is here to work on the collective vision, not to drive his agenda.

Dr. Turcotte has already met with many staff, faculty, students and parents in relation to his new portfolio and remarked that he is extremely satisfied to see how deeply committed everyone is to St. Mary’s as an institution.

“This was a great confidence boost for me. Just knowing how passionately everyone feels towards the university increases my certainty that we can continue to grow in leaps and bounds.”

One of the most important goals he feels must be reflected in his future vision of St. Mary’s is to “ensure that everyone is on board with the mission and the vision of the university college.” He spoke of the importance for staff, faculty and students of the university to “speak with each other, to work through differences and to build on collective passion.”

Following this, Dr. Turcotte spoke about specific plans he has for the future. He is firmly dedicated to the continued development of new degrees in Psychology, Liberal Studies and Science. He outlined his support for the growth of research opportunities and for the continued celebration of St. Mary’s already excellent teaching record.

Dr. Turcotte plans to continue moving forward on the excellent work of the Site Planning Committee to develop a university quadrangle that would incorporate the location of the old Father Lacombe Home. Plans for buildings to include space for athletics, a new library and a convocation hall are all a top priority for him.

Dr. Turcotte completed his address with the proposal that the university college work to build its brand recognition. A few ideas to accomplish this include celebrating the site’s heritage buildings, with a particular focus on the water tower, increasing the number of smaller community events hosted on campus such as a forthcoming ghost tour and the addition of new and innovative exhibitions and fundraising events.