Dr. Rene Van Acker Commits to Elevating University of Guelph

Dr. Rene Van Acker has officially taken the helm as the new president and vice-chancellor of the University of Guelph, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s history. At an installation ceremony held on October 18, 2023, Van Acker expressed his commitment to enhancing student success, fostering growth, and maintaining the university’s legacy as a leader in various fields.

Having first stepped onto the Guelph campus over 40 years ago, Van Acker emphasized the importance of the university’s roots, which are deeply embedded in local and global contexts. “Now, we need to embrace who we’ve become and let it fuel our growth and our prominence,” he stated. As the first alumnus to occupy this role, he aims to build upon the university’s more than 150 years of history while steering it toward a bold new chapter.

During his speech, Van Acker outlined his vision for the university, which he believes stands on the brink of reaching its full potential as a top-tier academic institution. He highlighted his extensive background in academia, having spent nearly 30 years in various leadership roles, including chair of the Department of Plant Agriculture and dean of the Ontario Agricultural College (OAC). His tenure as the 10th president officially begins in July 2025, following his unanimous appointment by the Board of Governors.

Focus on Student Experience and Research

Van Acker’s agenda prioritizes enhancing the student experience and maximizing research impact. He aims to create an environment where public and private sector partnerships can flourish, providing students with opportunities for hands-on learning through co-op programs, field schools, and research projects. “We prepare graduates who are thoughtful, adaptable, practical and ready to lead,” he noted, reflecting on the demand for U of G graduates in today’s job market.

In tandem with student development, Van Acker emphasized the university’s commitment to addressing real-world issues through innovative research. “Teaching, research, discovery and innovation are the heart of our mission, and everything else must serve to strengthen that,” he asserted. This approach underpins his vision of a top-tier university—one that nurtures the excellence of its graduates, staff, and faculty.

Community Engagement and Resilience

Addressing the challenges currently facing higher education, Van Acker urged the university community to focus on its core strengths while adopting a dual mindset that balances academic integrity with enterprise achievement. “This is not about shifting away from our academic core; it’s about protecting it,” he explained, underscoring the importance of resilience in the face of change.

In a reflective moment, Van Acker shared his upbringing on a farm in southern Ontario, where he learned the value of hard work and adaptability. “Our work today, for the University of Guelph and its future, in many ways is no different,” he remarked. “We face challenges and change, and yet we endure and thrive because we are driven and inspired by the value of what we are doing, where we are going and what we are building together.”

As Dr. Van Acker embarks on this pivotal role, he carries with him a vision that is rooted in the university’s rich history while looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. His commitment to fostering a thriving environment for students, staff, and faculty alike sets the stage for a transformative era at the University of Guelph. For further insights into his vision, a Q&A with Dr. Van Acker is available through U of G News.