Dr. Elisé Saraceni has been appointed as the Dean of Education at St. Mary's University in Calgary, Alberta. The announcement was made on June 18, 2026. Dr. Saraceni is recognized as a leader in Catholic education, known for her dedication to student success, faith formation, and educational innovation.
Extensive Leadership Experience
With more than two decades of experience in educational leadership across Western and Northern Canada, Dr. Saraceni has spearheaded transformative initiatives in teaching and learning. She has fostered strong partnerships that support student achievement and organizational excellence. Her vision and deep commitment to the Catholic Intellectual Tradition make her well-suited to lead the Faculty of Education at St. Mary's University.
Academic Background and Awards
Dr. Saraceni holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Western Ontario. Most recently, she served as Assistant Superintendent of Learning with Yellowknife Catholic Schools. She has received several prestigious awards, including Canada's Outstanding Principal Award, the Alberta Distinguished Leadership Award, and the Shepherd Leadership Award. Additionally, she has a strong connection to St. Mary's University, having previously worked as a sessional instructor in the Bachelor of Education program.
Statements from University Leadership
Dr. Sandy Vanderburgh, Vice-President, Academic at St. Mary's University, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment. “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Elisé Saraceni as our new Dean of Education,” said Dr. Vanderburgh. “Following a nation-wide search, we are grateful to find someone with extensive leadership experience, a commitment to student success and excellence in teaching and research, and someone who will uphold the values of the Catholic Intellectual Tradition at our university. We look forward to Dr. Saraceni joining the St. Mary’s community and to the leadership she will bring as we continue to strengthen our education programs.”
Dr. Saraceni's Vision
Dr. Saraceni shared her excitement about the new role. “I am deeply honoured to join St. Mary’s University as Dean of Education,” she said. “Throughout my career, I have witnessed the transformative power of Catholic education to shape lives, strengthen communities, and form educational leaders committed to the service of others. I look forward to working alongside faculty, staff, students, and educational partners to strengthen teacher education, advance scholarship and innovation, and prepare future educators who will lead with faith, compassion, wisdom, and excellence.”
Start Date
Dr. Saraceni will officially begin her role as Dean of Education on June 15, 2026.
About St. Mary's University
St. Mary's University is an innovative teaching and research university located on a historic site in Calgary, Alberta. Rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, the university inspires students to combine academic excellence with a passionate commitment to ethics, service, social responsibility, and respect for diversity of opinion and belief.
For media inquiries, please contact Adam Bowen, Director of Communications and Marketing, at 403.560.9888 or adam.bowen@stmu.ca.
