News Archives: Dr. Robert Murray Installed as GPRC's Ninth President and CEO
Friday, March 6th, 2020
Dr. Robert Murray, GPRC President and CEO, delivers his address at during the President and CEO Installation Ceremony.
GRANDE PRAIRIE – GPRC Board of Governors officially installed Dr. Robert Murray as GPRC’s ninth President and CEO during a ceremony March 6, 2020.
The ceremony marked the return of the academic tradition to GPRC and included invited dignitaries from across Alberta, fellow college and university leaders from across Canada, along with students, staff, faculty and members of the community.
GPRC Board of Governors saw the importance of returning the ceremony, last held in the 1980s, to celebrate the accomplishments of GPRC over the past 50 plus years and share the bright future ahead for post-secondary education in northern Alberta, said Natalia Reiman, Chair of the GPRC Board of Governors.
“GPRC is at a pivotal point in its history and the entire Board of Governors is confident under the strong vision and leadership of Dr. Murray. The institution will build on its past successes to meet the current and future needs of the students and the communities it serves,” said Reiman.
GPRC was honoured to have the Honourable Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education attend and lead the Oath of Office with Dr. Murray. Following the Oath of Office, Dr. Murray received the GPRC Presidential Robe that will be part of his academic regalia at future Convocation Ceremonies and other formal academic events.
“Grande Prairie Regional College is critical to the growth and success of northern Alberta. I look forward to working with Dr. Murray, who is profoundly suited to lead the College as it expands and evolves to meet the needs of industry and the community,” said Nicolaides.
Dr. Murray, who started at GPRC in December 2019, set out his vision for GPRC as the northern centre of excellence for post-secondary education in Alberta in his installation address. The future ahead for GPRC is that of a modern and innovative institution that contributes to the economic growth and success of the region while delivering academic excellence and unparalleled experiences for all students.
“It is a tremendous honour to take on this role, especially at this point in GPRC’s history,” said Dr. Murray. “This is a moment of incredible opportunity for GPRC if we can act together toward the common goal of pursuing excellence in all that GPRC does.”
Dignitaries from GPRC’s fellow post-secondary institutions such as Athabasca University, Northern Lakes College and Dr. Murray’s Alma Mater institutions, the University of Alberta, and Brock University brought words of greeting and congratulations, along with government and community leaders.
The ceremony featured performances by the GPRC Concert Choir, a piper performance as a continued tradition from GPRC Convocation Ceremonies, and a local Indigenous drummer performed the honour song symbolizing GPRC’s and Dr. Murray’s continued commitment to reconciliation and collaboration with Indigenous communities.
“I look forward to working together to achieve what is possible for GPRC and realizing the vast potential we all know exists for the College,” said Dr. Murray. “I am here because I believe in the role that post-secondary institutions play in our overall human development, and I believe in the potential of GPRC in helping to advance our region and province.”
View the video of the Installation Ceremony here.