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, Announcements

Western expands doctoral, postdoc funding to secure top talent

July 08, 2025

Community Impact and Partnership, Alumni, Announcements

Western professor, three alumni appointed to Order of Canada

July 08, 2025

Research and Innovation

Study uncovers potential treatment for Parkinson’s-related dementia

July 08, 2025

Important Initiatives

The Impact Project
Never has a discussion of impact been
more important

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Promoting, recognizing, celebrating
and engaging various voices around campus

Indigenous Initiatives
Elevating Indigenous voices
and presence across campus

Sexual Violence Prevention
Working to create a campus
culture of safety and respect

Entrepreneurship
Cultivating the spirit of
innovation on campus

Video Updates

Degrees of change: Higher education’s role in a shifting world | Ivey Impact Podcast

How can post-secondary institutions prepare students – and society – for a future defined by rapid technological shifts, geopolitical uncertainty, and unprecedented global connectivity? Watch my conversation with Julian Birkinshaw, Dean of Western's Ivey Business School, as we delve into these issues and more as part of the Ivey Impact Podcast.

Campus Conversations with Student-Athletes

Western student-athletes Jackson Findlay (Football), Favour Okpali (Track and Field) and Pyper Sennecke (Ultimate Frisbee) sat down with President Alan Shepard to share their experiences and insights about balancing varsity athletics with their academic programs, staying well mentally and physically, and their plans for the future.

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.

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