After UNBC’s announcement that current President, Dr. Geoff Payne would be stepping away from his role, he’s been taking in his time with the school.
He will be joining the Michael Smith Health Research Council BC as the organization’s President and CEO, concluding an over two decade tenure with the University.
Dr. Payne said the decision brought mixed emotions.
“Obviously I’ve grown up here at UNBC when I came in as an assistant professor with the medical school, and then moving through and becoming the President. It wasn’t a decision made lightly.”
He added that over the five and a half years as President, a lot has been done across the University, and felt it was an ok time to step away.
Since having a slower transition, Dr. Payne has had a better opportunity to step back and reflect on his time with UNBC.
“I think about what the University has accomplished, and I don’t attribute that to me, I always attribute that to a team effort.’
“I think about the new strategic plan, the impacts we’ve had with research, you think about what our students are doing while they’re here at UNBC and seeing them go on. Those are things that really give me pause for thought.”
Dr. Payne said he’s looking forward to working with great people in the new position, but also continue to work with those at UNBC.
He gives his thanks to everyone at UNBC that has supported his career up to this point, adding that the north and the University is imprinted on his heart.
There’s no concrete timeline on when he will be stepping down, as the school continues to look for an interim President.
The previous story can be found here.
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