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MRU appoints Dr. Evan Cortens as Dean, Faculty of Continuing Education and Extension


Dr. Evan Cortens 

Aug. 2, 2023

Dr. Evan Cortens, PhD, has been appointed as dean, Faculty of Continuing Education and Extension at Mount Royal University, effective August 1, 2023. Cortens has held this position in an interim capacity since June 2022, while maintaining the role of director, Office of Institutional Research and Planning (OIRP). 

As dean, Cortens will continue to oversee a large and diverse Faculty that includes Professional and Continuing Studies, the Mount Royal Conservatory, Occupational Programs, Transitional Vocational Program, Inclusive Post-Secondary Education, Academic Upgrading, Open Studies, Corporate Training, and more. Combined, the Faculty offers more than 100 programs and serves upwards of 35,000 students each year, playing a critical role in fostering Mount Royal’s relationship with the external community as a first-choice option for lifelong learning.

"The Faculty of Continuing Education is an exceptional community of instructors, staff and students, and I am honoured to be part of this team as dean," said Cortens. “Together, we will embrace a future of possibilities, cultivate a culture of academic curiosity, and empower students to make a meaningful difference in the community.”

Cortens, who holds a PhD in Music History from Cornell University, first joined Mount Royal in 2016 and has held the role of Director of OIRP since 2020.

“There is an increasing demand for flexible education options for all learners,” says Dr. Chad London, provost and vice-president, academic. “Evan’s expertise in strategic planning, academic leadership and partnership development, combined with his connection to the performing arts community and strong reputation throughout Mount Royal, position him well to lead the Faculty of Continuing Education and Extension through continued growth and success.”

Among Cortens' first priorities will be to finalize the new strategic plan for the Faculty of Continuing Education and Extension, a process he has been leading over the past year.