Kwantlen Polytechnic University has terminated the employment of its president, Bruce Choy, following a mysterious absence that spanned several weeks, with the institution declining to disclose the specific reasons behind the dismissal.
Confidential Termination and Leadership Void
In an official statement, Erin Barnes, chair of the university's board of governors, confirmed that Choy's employment was terminated "for reasons which will remain confidential." Choy, who assumed the role of president in September, had been notably absent from his duties, leading to widespread uncertainty among faculty and staff.
The board has announced plans to commence an immediate search for a new president to fill the leadership vacuum. In the interim, Diane Purvey has been appointed as acting president to oversee university operations during this transitional period.
Faculty Association Left in the Dark
The Kwantlen Faculty Association expressed significant concern over the lack of communication regarding Choy's prolonged absence. Last month, the association issued a note to teachers indicating that Choy had cancelled scheduled meetings and that his official installation as president had been postponed indefinitely.
Mark Diotte, president of the Kwantlen Faculty Association, declined to comment on the recent developments. However, he had previously stated that the university community had "received no formal communication regarding his multi-week absence or of any appointment of an acting president," highlighting a transparency issue that has plagued the administration.
Background of Leadership Challenges
Choy's hiring in June came after a survey revealed that two-thirds of Kwantlen's faculty supported a vote of non-confidence in the previous administration under longtime president Alan Davis. Faculty members cited numerous grievances, including a lack of transparency and communication, autocratic and disrespectful leadership, mismanagement, and poor planning around international enrolment.
The university's board has expressed gratitude to KPU faculty, staff, and administration for their ongoing support and for continuing to provide students with an exceptional learning experience during this time of transition. Despite the leadership turmoil, the institution remains committed to maintaining academic standards and operational continuity.
This incident underscores ongoing challenges in university governance and the critical importance of clear communication between administration and faculty. As Kwantlen Polytechnic University moves forward, the search for a new president will be closely watched by the academic community in Surrey and beyond.
