The installation of a new university president is among the most significant traditions in higher education.
The Board of Governors proudly invites the community to come together to celebrate the formal beginning of a new chapter in the life of our institution by honouring our history, celebrating our mission, and looking toward the future with hope and purpose.
Students, faculty, staff, alumni, benefactors, community partners, and friends are invited to join us for this historic occasion as we celebrate together and pray for the University’s continued growth and success.
Installation Mass & Ceremony
September 10, 2026
11:00 a.m. MT
St. Mary’s Cathedral
219 18 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
Reception
September 10, 2026
1:00 p.m. MT
The Ranchmen’s Club
710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
Kindly RSVP by August 24, 2026
About the New President and Vice-Chancellor
Dr. Scott Morrison has deep connections to St. Mary’s University, spanning 17 years. As a sessional instructor in the Education department, he helped shape the Bachelor and Master of Education programs and has previously served on the Board of Governors and as Chair of the Governance & Nominating Committee. Prior to his official appointment as President and Vice-Chancelor, Dr. Morrison served as Interim President.
During his extensive career in education, Dr. Morrison served as Chief Superintendent of Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools, and has held leadership roles, including Executive Director of the Catholic School Superintendents of Alberta.
As a proven leader, Scott is assuming the role of President of St. Mary’s University during a crucial time of expansion and growth, with plans to double the student population and physical campus, while expanding academic offerings—plans that are well underway.
Dr. Morrison expresses his gratitude to the Board of Governors for their confidence in him to lead the university during this time of growth. “What sets this University apart is its commitment to each student and the strength of its community. I look forward to working together to expand opportunities for our students and to ensure they are prepared to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.”
Submit Your Words of Congratulations to Dr. Morrison:
A Longstanding Tradition
The installation of a new president is more than a ceremonial event. It is a public affirmation of leadership and a celebration of the community and institution that the president is called to serve.
Presidential installations connect today’s modern post-secondary institutions to centuries of academic tradition and serve as a reminder of the immense responsibility of leadership in higher education. Rooted in our Catholic identity, we recognize leadership as a vocation of service that seeks wisdom, strengthens community, and advances learning for the good of our students and society.
One of the distinctive traditions at St. Mary’s University is celebrating the installation of a new president during the Holy Mass. During the liturgy, the President will formally accept the responsibilities of office before the University community, followed by the ceremonial investiture and installation. Together, these traditions symbolize both the authority entrusted to the office and the shared responsibility of the entire St. Mary’s community to support the University’s mission.
Whether you are a member of the Catholic faith or simply joining us to celebrate this milestone, all are warmly welcomed to witness this historic occasion.
Additional questions can be directed to installation@stmu.ca