The University of Guelph has appointed Dr. Byron Sheldrick as interim provost and vice-president (academic), effective March 30, 2026.
This appointment will provide continuity in academic leadership during the transition in the provost portfolio, with Dr. Bill Rosehart serving in an advisory capacity to the president and interim provost for the remainder of his time at the University.
Over the past several years, the U of G community has made meaningful progress across several institutional priorities. As interim provost, Sheldrick will work with leaders and teams across the University to help sustain that progress and maintain momentum across the institution.
The University will begin the process to appoint the next provost and vice-president (academic). Additional information about the search process, including timelines and opportunities for community engagement, will be shared in the coming weeks in accordance with the University’s established governance processes.
As Sheldrick moves into the interim provost role from within the University’s leadership team, additional interim or acting leadership arrangements will be put in place to support continuity in his current portfolio. Information about these arrangements will be shared once finalized.
Sheldrick currently serves as associate vice-president (academic), a role he has held since January 2023, where he has provided leadership on academic planning and supported the advancement of academic priorities across the University.
He previously served as interim dean of the College of Social and Applied Human Sciences, associate dean (academic), and chair of the Department of Political Science.
Sheldrick has also contributed to the University’s governance through service on Senate and the Board of Governors, including as chair of the Board of Undergraduate Studies.
A member of the U of G community since 2006, he brings extensive knowledge of the institution and its mission.