A commitment to community: Meet Arlene Strom, MRU's new chancellor

With a deep-rooted connection to Alberta and a wealth of business and community experience, we are pleased to welcome Arlene Strom as MRU’s second chancellor. Strom brings a passion for relationship-building, sustainability, and reconciliation—values that align perfectly with MRU’s mission and vision for the future.

Strom comes to MRU following unanimous approval by the board of governors. As the ceremonial head of the University, she will preside over formal occasions such as convocation and further connect Mount Royal with the community to serve a vibrant economy, environment and society. Along with being an external face for Mount Royal, Strom will also serve as an ex-officio member of the board of governors and work closely with President and Vice-Chancellor, Tim Rahilly, PhD.

"Arlene is a strong leader and an active contributor to the community. Her values align with the mission of MRU, making her an excellent fit for this important role. Arlene's professional experience, belief in the value of post-secondary education, and passion for community connection, including her dedication to supporting the Indigenous community, are why we are excited to welcome her as an ambassador for the University."

Chris Lee, board chair, board of governors, Mount Royal University

Strom is committed to being an outstanding ambassador for MRU. For her, one of the most exciting aspects of her new role is connecting with students, faculty, and community members, and engaging in dialogues that will drive MRU’s mission forward. "I’m excited to spend time on campus, connect with people, and understand where the opportunities for greater engagement are,” she says. “I look forward to hearing from everyone—students, faculty, staff—and supporting them in the ways they need."

When she retired from Suncor at the end of 2023, Strom had most recently held the positions of chief sustainability officer, general counsel and corporate secretary. She previously held a number of leadership positions within the company. Prior to joining Suncor, she practiced corporate and securities law in Calgary.

Strom brings a wealth of experience in mentorship, leadership, and collaboration. Having worked closely with Indigenous youth through the Indigenous Youth Advisory Council at Suncor, she knows firsthand the importance of empowering young people. "The energy, optimism, and potential of young people is what drives me," she says. “That’s why I’m so excited about this role and the chance to engage with students who are starting their careers."

Strom says she has always admired MRU’s role in shaping the next generation of skilled, thoughtful leaders. She believes in the importance of providing students with a broad education that prepares them for their careers and life. "MRU offers an exceptional educational experience, where small class sizes and meaningful relationships with faculty foster a community where students can share ideas, learn from one another, and engage in respectful dialogue. It’s not just about technical skills—students gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration abilities that are essential to thrive in their careers and face the challenges and opportunities ahead."

Strom is also excited to see how students are already making an impact in the community, both through volunteerism and other activities. "I love seeing that students are engaged in community service. That’s a huge part of what MRU offers, and I’m eager to support that spirit of community."

"MRU prepares students to become lifelong learners and active global citizens. As we build on our strong partnerships off campus, Arlene will deepen our community engagement and act as a sage advisor. She is a dedicated changemaker who values building relationships, which are qualities that will help MRU take bold steps over the next four years to reach its goals."

Dr. Tim Rahilly, president and vice-chancellor, Mount Royal University

In addition to her many interests, Strom believes in the idea of sustainability as a lens through which we can view all aspects of our lives—whether that’s our impact on the land or the relationships we build with others. She is also passionate about creating solutions that balance social, economic, and environmental well-being. "Sustainability brings together economics, entrepreneurship, and social well-being, and I’m excited to engage in these discussions at MRU.”

In reflecting on her career and recent time spent with the Harvard Advanced Leadership Initiative Fellowship, Strom notes how her personal growth came from being in community and learning from others. "Some of the most profound experiences came from courses that stretched my thinking— especially those that explored moral conflict and how we engage in relationships with one another. MRU is the perfect place for that kind of growth."

The formal installation of Strom as chancellor will occur in June during convocation.

Strom succeeds Dawn Farrell, who was appointed MRU’s first chancellor in 2020. Farrell completed her term as chancellor in February 2025.

We are honoured to have Arlene join the MRU community. Her leadership, vision, and passion for community will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the University. We look forward to the journey ahead. Welcome to Mount Royal University, Arlene!

More information about Strom and the role of the chancellor at MRU.

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