New guy in the library block

By Ina Sidhu

A university registrar is a very busy guy, and the University of Calgary has a new busy guy.

Newly appointed registrar David Johnston’s duties are numerous. Not only must he deal with all the procedures and policies of registration, he must also address anything pertaining to academic records. His office ensures grades are submitted on time, issues transcripts and when faculties accept students.

Though Johnston could not be reached for comment on his selection, U of C Associate Vice-President of Student Affairs Dr. Peggy Patterson was enthusiastic about his appoinment.

"He has a wide range of experience that we’re quite pleased with," she said. "I believe that he will provide strong leadership for the Registrar’s office.

"The Registrar position is extremely important, as it is one of the few senior positions solely focused on academic policies and procedures," added Patterson, who chaired the Advisory Selection Committee that recently selected Johnston as the next U of C Registrar.

Johnston started his career in registrarial services at Simon Fraser University, eventually becoming Director of Registrar Services and was closely involved with the establishment of the innovative Simon Fraser University at Harbour Centre campus. He has devoted 21 years to the higher education field and holds an MA in Higher Education Administration from the University of British Columbia. Currently he resides at the University of California, Davis as the Senior Associate Registrar.

"The Registrar is responsible for managing records, policy, procedures and systems to support the undergraduate and graduate student population, which includes 28,000 students, 16 faculties and 53 teaching departments," said Patterson.

In addition to the numerous duties he must undertake, Johnston has some large shoes to fill. Outgoing U of C Registrar Dr. Gary Krivy occupied the position for 35 years.

"Dr. Krivy has left a good legacy of student responsibility services and continuation to make services useful to faculty staff and students," said Patterson.

Johnston will will take office on June 10.

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