Office of the President

Professor Alan Shepard is an accomplished academic leader and scholar of early modern England, literature, science and theatre who is passionate about the future of innovation and the future of universities. He became Western’s 11th President & Vice-Chancellor in July 2019. Read more about President Shepard in his bio.

Speaking & Engagement Requests

New and Noteworthy

Research and Innovation

Western prof investigates power of nutrition in pregnancy

November 17, 2025

Research and Innovation

Signal in the silence: hidden potential in discarded MRI data

November 13, 2025

Community Impact and Partnership, Research and Innovation

Schulich researchers and hospitals advocate for clinical trials

November 10, 2025



Important Initiatives




Video Updates



Western is harnessing the talent, imagination, and resources of our global community to build a better future. We're all in. Join us. 



Photo Gallery

President Shepard connects with Western stakeholders across campus, across the local and regional community, across Canada and abroad. This photo gallery is a sample of candid moments with students, faculty, staff, alumni, visiting scholars, community and business leaders, government officials and other important dignitaries who contribute in vital ways to Western’s dynamic academic environment.