University president gives fond farewell

Leaving the University of Alberta as my presidency comes to an end during COVID -19 has meant that Suromitra and I haven’t been able to say goodbye to the Edmonton community as we might have wished.

It was the warmth of Edmontonians that first drew us to the

U of A and we will miss the culture and vibrancy of the city — the river valley, shows at the Citadel and Fringe Festival, and so many excellent restaurants.

Support from Edmonton’s exceptional volunteer and philanthropic community has been overwhelming — in times of economic challenge, our donors’ record levels of support has been remarkable.

The university’s dedicated volunteers give tirelessly to the U of A; an intricate network of partnerships connects faculty and students with the City of Edmonton, local businesses, and community organizations.

Each one of you has helped the U of A play a key role in the social, cultural and economic development of this province and our country.

Incoming president Bill Flanagan and his husband Saffron Sri are fortunate to now make this incredible city their home. Substantive change lies ahead and I have every confidence in Bill’s ability to lead the U of A through this transformation, and to continue building one of the world’s great universities for the public good.

Thank you for the support you have shown us these past five years.

We will forever be ambassadors for the U of A and for Edmonton.

David H. Turpin and Suromitra Sanatani