The University is pleased to announce the establishment of a new dedicated School of Continuing Studies.  

This new school is an exciting step forward in U of G’s Strategic Transformation journey that will build on the success and expertise of Open Learning and Educational Support (OpenEd) to cultivate a future-ready institution and create more pathways for U of G expertise to impact our world.  

Global and national trends are reshaping post-secondary education and the workforce, exposing a need for cost-effective, custom learning solutions. In response to this increased demand for customized continuing studies, the School will continue to build on its already established markets and partnerships while adding a renewed focus on organizational learners, working with organizations and professionals to create solutions that will enable them to upskill and adapt. 

Using our world-leading subject matter expertise and established excellence in adult education, the School will craft an experience that empowers lifelong learning and equips learners with adaptable skills to thrive in today’s dynamic world. At the same time, the School will invest in key people, knowledge, technology and processes. 

“Creating the School of Continuing Studies is an exciting opportunity to rethink how we approach continuing education at U of G,” said Dr. Byron Sheldrick, associate vice-president (academic). “This is a chance to increase access to our expertise in key areas the world needs, such as food and agriculture and sustainability. The programs we’ll offer through the School will enable our alumni and other learners to stay up to date with best practices and new research to continue making meaningful impacts in their fields.” 

Introducing the AVP of Continuing Studies

To lead the new School, U of G welcomes Dr. Dianne Tyers to the role of assistant vice-president of continuing studies, effective September 16. Tyers comes to U of G from Dalhousie University, where she’s served as dean of the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development for the past five years.  

Having led a multifaceted international career and launched her own education consulting business, Tyers brings with her extensive experience of working in the intersection of education and business. 

As AVP, Continuing Studies, Tyers will lead the strategic direction of the new School of Continuing Studies and oversee its operations, supporting the University’s culture of entrepreneurialism, fostering partnerships and strategic alliances across campus and with external partners and working to enhance student success and satisfaction.  

The School is planned to be fully operational by the start of the 25-26 academic year as Tyers works closely with the OpenEd team to transform into the School of Continuing Studies. 

“I’m looking forward to Dianne bringing her experience as a dynamic change leader to this exciting new direction for OpenEd, as she’s expressed her enthusiasm to envision the future of the School of Continuing Studies,” said Sheldrick. 

“Stepping into role, I am excited to enact U of G’s vision for the new School of Continuing Studies while building on the foundation of OpenEd’s success,” said Tyers. “Through my career I’ve developed a deep understanding of the complexities of the rapidly-evolving lifelong learning space and am confident we can address these challenges to build a thriving school.” 

Thank you to co-directors Carolyn Creighton and Robert Devries for leading OpenEd since January 2024 as we navigate this transition to a new chapter of continuing education.