Arlene Strom

 

 

Arlene Strom, Chancellor-Elect

Over the past 110 years, Mount Royal students, faculty, staff and alumni have created countless connections to build our communities, strengthen the economy and create a positive future — here and around the world.

Arlene Strom is the second Chancellor of Mount Royal University, bringing with her two decades of leadership experience in the energy sector. Throughout her career, she has gained deep insights into reconciliation, and the critical role Indigenous communities play in shaping Alberta’s future.

 

 

 

 

 

Arlene Strom

Accomplished business and community leader Arlene Strom will become Mount Royal University’s second chancellor following unanimous approval by the board of governors.

In her previous role as Chief Sustainability Officer at Suncor, she oversaw strategic initiatives, including sustainability strategy, public policy, government relations, communications, and community engagement. Her work focused on fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples and other engaged community members, aligning corporate strategy with environmental and social responsibility.

Strom brings a wealth of experience in mentorship, leadership, and collaboration. Strom is committed to being an outstanding ambassador for MRU. As a seasoned leader and dynamic connector, Strom embodies Mount Royal's commitment to serving and enriching communities. As chancellor, she will bring her thoughtful leadership and collaborative spirit to help tell the story of Mount Royal’s exceptional education and experience.

 

Biography

Arlene Strom's career reflects a dedication to community engagement, life-long learning and pursuing her passions. With a career spanning over three decades, Arlene’s journey at Suncor began in 2003, when she joined the corporate legal group. Her professional evolution at Suncor saw her take on numerous key leadership roles, culminating in positions as Chief Sustainability Officer, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary.

Before her work at Suncor, Strom practiced corporate and securities law in Calgary, where she laid the foundation for her future leadership roles. In late 2023, she retired from Suncor and spent the following year as a fellow in the Advanced Leadership Initiative at Harvard University, further developing her expertise in leadership and global sustainability.

In addition to her corporate career, Arlene is deeply committed to community service. She chairs the Alberta Lieutenant Governor’s Arts Awards Foundation, the Energy Technology Centre, is a board member of Nature Conservancy Canada and an advisory board member of Portage Energy. Her passion for making a positive impact is evident in her leadership roles outside of the corporate world. At Suncor, Arlene served as Chair of the Suncor Energy Foundation, the Suncor Inclusion and Diversity Council, and was a co-pipe carrier for the Indigenous Youth Advisory Council demonstrating her commitment to fostering inclusive communities.

Strom holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Trinity Western University, a Master of Arts in Public Policy, and an LLB from the University of British Columbia, which have all contributed to her strong foundation in leadership and public service. Her career and service stand as a testament to her dedication to driving change, fostering collaboration, and making meaningful contributions to society.

 

Role

The Chancellor is the ceremonial head of Mount Royal University and represents the public interest in the University.

As an external-facing proponent of Mount Royal, the Chancellor actively participates in University and community activities. The Chancellor represents the University in formal occasions, such as presiding over Convocation and granting degrees to all graduating students. The Chancellor also serves as an advisor and support to the President and as an ex-officio member of Mount Royal’s Board of Governors.

The Chancellor is distinguished in their field as measured by service, contributions, reputation and record of excellence. The person is keenly interested in higher education and the connection between universities and communities. The person has a strong connection to Calgary and Alberta and will promote Mount Royal University’s mission, vision and values to all.

The Chancellor has knowledge and experience with ceremonies and protocols, including feeling a high level of ease with public speaking and is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

The role is for a four-year term and by provincial legislation the Chancellor can only serve one term.

This is a non-remunerated volunteer position, with travel expenses reimbursed.

 

Request the Chancellor's Participation

Please complete the form linked below to request the attendance of the Chancellor at an event, meeting, etc. Key details about the initiative such as date, time, scope, speakers, etc will be required to complete a request. Each request will be reviewed to determine if the Chancellor can attend the event based on the information provided.

We request that all faculty and staff at Mount Royal discuss plans to include the Chancellor with their senior leader prior to submission (Dean, AVP or VP). They will be able to provide guidance on whether the Chancellor’s participation is appropriate.

 

Submit a request

 

 

Contact

 

Arlene Strom
chancellor@mtroyal.ca
403.440.8752

Mandy Slater
Executive Assistant
chancellor@mtroyal.ca
403.440.6532