The University of Calgary has selected respected legal and philanthropic leader John S. Osler, KC, as its 16th Chancellor-Elect.
Osler will officially begin his four-year term on July 1, 2026.
"John Osler is a respected business leader with a deep commitment to service and community. His optimism, collaborative spirit and belief in the power of education make him an exceptional choice to serve as Chancellor of the University of Calgary," says Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor of UCalgary.
A Calgary-born business and community leader, Osler has played a significant role in shaping Canada's economy throughout his career, including leading teams on many multi-billion-dollar transactions.
For Osler, it's not about the size of the deal, but what a thriving economy can mean for all Canadians. He believes that the key to a thriving society is to build community on a national level, which means keeping Canada's economy and industry strong.
Osler spent 36 years as a corporate lawyer at McCarthy Tetrault LLP, one of Canada's pre-eminent law firms. He holds a designation of King's Counsel (KC), a distinction recognizing exceptional contributions to the legal profession and public life.
Alongside his professional achievements, Osler has demonstrated a deep commitment to community service. He has contributed his time and leadership to numerous organizations and causes, earning respect for his integrity, generosity and dedication to building inclusive and resilient communities. His efforts have been recognized by Calgary Influential Women in Business for advancing gender equality and diversity. He has also served on the board of Calgary Economic Development.
"John's vision, generosity of leadership and ability to connect people around shared purpose stood out throughout the search. His appointment strengthens UCalgary's ties to community and positions the university for continued impact," Michael Bosdet, Anette Ceraficki and Linda Thomas, co-chairs of the Chancellor Search Committee and current members of the UCalgary Senate, said in a group statement.
After being personally touched by cancer, Osler became a strong advocate for improving outcomes for others. He has played a significant role in advancing cancer research and care, including his involvement in the OWN.CANCER $250-million capital campaign a partnership between the University of Calgary, Alberta Cancer Foundation and Alberta Health Services. His leadership extends to organizations such as Wellspring and the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer. He currently serves on the board of the Canadian Cancer Society and is co-chair of The Next Chapter capital campaign for the Bethany Care Foundation.
"Becoming Chancellor of the University of Calgary is a great honour," says Osler. "Our university is on an incredible upward path and is firmly among the world's leading academic institutions.
"I am excited to use the magical platform that the chancellor has to connect with our community and celebrate the University of Calgary's bold ambitions, innovative thinking and academic rigour.
"I look forward to working with stakeholders, inspiring philanthropy and representing our university as a safe place for all."
A proven leader, mentor and collaborator, Osler approaches life with optimism and the belief that strong relationships are what make our world work, that community is central to all that we do, and that meaningful change can be achieved when thoughtful, committed people come together.
The Chancellor is the University of Calgary's most senior volunteer role, serving as an ambassador and champion of the university's mission, values and long-term vision, and having the power to grant degrees. Selected every four years by the Chancellor Search Committee, the Chancellor chairs the University Senate and presides over convocation and other major ceremonial events. Beyond these formal responsibilities, the role plays an important part in strengthening relationships and building new connections in Calgary, across Alberta and beyond.
UCalgary thanks current Chancellor Jon Cornish for their dedicated service, leadership and commitment to advancing the university's values throughout his term. Over the past four years, Cornish has been a deeply engaged and respected champion for the university, strengthening connections across the campus community and beyond. Cornish will continue in the role until the conclusion of their term on June 30, 2026.
UCalgary also extends its gratitude to the Senate and the Chancellor Search Committee for their work and dedication in selecting a candidate who reflects the university's values. Special thanks to co-chairs Michael Bosdet, Anette Ceraficki and Linda Thomas, along with fellow voting members representing the Senate; the General Faculties Council (Jeffrey Priest, Mark Bauer and Jennifer Winter); the Alumni Association (David Holub, Akash Asif and Nina Rehill); the Graduate Students' Association (Josiah Lansang); and the Students' Union (Lorraine Ndovi).
The university also recognizes the contributions of non-voting members, including Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor; Kate Hamilton, vice-president (External Relations); Kathy Sieben, Senior HR Partner; Amanda Affonso, Senate Secretariat and associate vice-president (Community Engagement); Varun Agarwal, Senate operations manager; as well as executive search partners Janet Soles, Nathen Berko, and Tim Hamilton of Janet Soles & Associates.
