Capilano University welcomes Dr. Jason Dewling as its next president and vice-chancellor

Release date: January 5, 2026

Tag(s): News & Announcements

News release: CapU welcomes Dr. Jason Dewling as next president (PDF)

NORTH VANCOUVER, B.C. January 5, 2026—Capilano University (CapU) is entering an exciting new chapter with the appointment of Dr. Jason Dewling as its eighth president and vice-chancellor since the institution’s founding in 1968—and its fourth since becoming a university in 2008. Dr. Dewling most recently served as chief learning officer of LCI Education and president of LaSalle College Vancouver. A visionary leader with a global perspective and a deep commitment to student success, Dr. Dewling officially begins his five-year term on March 2.

“The Board of Governors is pleased to welcome Dr. Dewling as Capilano University’s new president,” said RJ Wallia, board chair. “His proven leadership, commitment to collaboration, and experience across public and private sectors, including work with Indigenous communities, position him to navigate the University confidently into its next chapter.”

Dr. Dewling, who holds a PhD in Education from the University of Alberta, brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education. He studied theology and earned a master’s degree from Acadia University. His career spans leadership roles in public and private institutions across Alberta, British Columbia and internationally. His higher education career began at Lakeland College where he served as instructor and later associate dean before advancing to vice-president, academic and research, at Olds College, where he introduced innovative learning models and earned national recognition for technology integration.

At LCI Education, he served as president for Western Canada and Asia Pacific, overseeing campuses in Vancouver, Melbourne and Jakarta, as well as e-learning and language divisions. As global chief learning officer, he led international initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. His academic background also includes degrees in theology emphasizing youth development, and his leadership philosophy is rooted in equity, innovation and sustainability—values that align strongly with CapU’s mission.

Reflecting on his appointment, Dr. Dewling said: “I am honoured to join Capilano University and to serve a community so deeply committed to Truth and Reconciliation, creativity, inclusion, and student success. CapU has a remarkable legacy of inspiring learners to make meaningful contributions both locally and globally, and I am excited to build on that foundation together with our talented employees and students.”

The appointment follows a comprehensive search led by a presidential search committee appointed by the university board of governors. Dr. Dewling succeeds Dr. Laureen Styles, who has served as interim president and vice-chancellor since April 2025. The board extends their gratitude to Dr. Styles for her dedicated service during this transitional period.

Submitted by: Communications