Dr. Tony Fields just after receiving his new robes as chancellor of MacEwan University.

On July 12, Dr. Tony Fields was officially installed as MacEwan University’s first chancellor.

“Words can scarcely express how thrilled I am and how honoured I feel to be selected as MacEwan’s first chancellor,” said Dr. Fields. “I thank the Board of Governors and President Trimbee as I accept this responsibility and this honour. I will strive to champion MacEwan, this vibrant downtown university, within Edmonton and Alberta – and even beyond. I will do so with confidence, convinced that our impact is considerable and our future is great.”

Dr. Fields was both welcomed and celebrated during a virtual ceremony that blended deeply rooted university traditions.

After Her Honour, the Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, administered the oath of office and installed Dr. Fields as chancellor. Congratulatory messages were received from Minister Demetrios Nicolaides, MP James Cumming and Mayor Don Iveson among others.

Dr. Annette Trimbee, president and vice-chancellor, offered a welcome on behalf of MacEwan.

“Dr. Tony Fields stood out to us as a leader who has worked with an eye toward creating solutions. Someone who has demonstrated collaborative leadership and engaged with community in a compassionate and humble way,” she said. “Dr. Fields’s hope, his optimism and his collaborative nature will set a standard to help guide our community toward a brighter future.”

The event included virtual performances from the MacEwan University Big Band and the Edmonton Winds, whose 56 members each separately recorded their parts for First Chancellor, a piece composed in recognition of the installation by Dr. Allan Gilliland, dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts and Communications.

Watch the installation ceremony

Read the program