Dr. Rene Van Acker Takes Helm as U of G President, Eyes Future

Dr. Rene Van Acker has officially assumed the role of president and vice-chancellor of the University of Guelph (U of G), marking a significant milestone as the first alumnus to hold this esteemed position. His installation as the 10th president took place in October 2024, bringing with it a wealth of experience from his deep-rooted history with the university.

Van Acker, who first arrived on campus in 1985, has dedicated nearly four decades to U of G, earning a Bachelor of Science in agriculture and a Master of Science in crop science before pursuing a PhD in England. He returned to U of G in 2006, serving in various capacities, including department chair and dean, before taking on the role of vice president for research and innovation earlier this year.

Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Van Acker expressed a sense of surrealism about his new role. “I still catch myself thinking, How did I get here?” he stated. His connection to U of G is profound, as he understands the student experience firsthand, from campus traditions to the serene beauty of the university grounds.

Vision for U of G and Higher Education

In an interview with U of G News, Van Acker discussed his aspirations for the university. He emphasized the need for U of G to “think big” as it strives to become a top-tier institution. According to Van Acker, this ambition requires a shift from informal practices to clear strategic direction and effective processes.

He acknowledged the importance of maintaining a personal touch, stating, “We already operate at an immense scale…but it requires clear direction.” Van Acker pointed to the university’s recent achievements, including high scores in the National Survey of Student Engagement and record philanthropic donations, as evidence of U of G’s successful trajectory.

Van Acker’s perspective on a culture shift involves adopting a dual mindset that balances both academic and enterprise missions. “This is not about shifting away from our academic core; it’s about protecting it,” he explained. He believes that securing resources through entrepreneurial efforts ultimately enhances the student experience.

Future Challenges and Opportunities

As he considers the challenges facing higher education, such as the rise of artificial intelligence, climate change, and societal polarization, Van Acker remains optimistic. He noted a significant increase in demand for university education among high school students in Ontario, highlighting that 92% of U of G graduates find employment shortly after completing their degrees.

Van Acker believes that U of G plays a vital role in training qualified individuals who contribute to the economy. He identified specific areas of excellence, including veterinary medicine, agriculture, and food sciences, alongside emerging fields like cybersecurity and human nutrition.

“Our mission is consistent: why are we here, and what’s important? To Improve Life,” he affirmed. By staying true to this mission, Van Acker is confident that U of G will continue to thrive, regardless of external challenges.

In summary, under Dr. Rene Van Acker’s leadership, the University of Guelph is poised for a promising future. His vision reflects a commitment to enhancing the educational experience while addressing the complexities of the modern world, ensuring that U of G remains a vital institution for its students and the broader community.