The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Konrad Jonasson, interim president and vice-chancellor of University College of the North since last year, has been appointed to the role on a permanent basis. Lorne Keeper, chair of UCN's governing council, made the announcement June 28. 'We have been very pleased with Mr. Jonasson's work as interim president, and feel that his deep ties to the community and demonstrated dedication to UCN's vision for the future will be crucial attributes as we move forward,' Keeper said in a news release. Originally from Wabowden and a member of the Cross Lake First Nation, Jonasson has been with UCN and its predecessor, Keewatin Community College, since 1989, serving as vice-president of community-based services from 2002 until his appointment as interim president. 'I thank the governing council for the trust they have placed in me by virtue of this appointment,' said Jonasson. 'I am honoured to accept the appointment as president and vice-chancellor for the University College of the North. Education and service to out northern communities has been a passion of mine for 25 years. I look forward to continuing our many partnerships and working relationships with UCN stakeholders to benefit our students and communities.' Keeper noted that the search to replace Denise Henning, who resigned as president in January 2011, had been long and arduous, but that UCN was able to 'reach from within to find the right candidate.' Three applicants were shortlisted for the president's job, said Jim Scott, UCN's acting director of external relations, though he could not provide the number of applications received. The shortlist was then narrowed and Jonasson was chosen. Henning resigned to become president and CEO of Northwest Community College, based in Terrace, B.C., but with campuses in nine different communities. Four days after that announcement, UCN appointed Jonasson as interim president and vice-chancellor. _ Ian Graham, Thompson Citizen
