Okanagan College (OC) is sticking with its current president for the long haul.
“The decision to extend Dr. Fassina’s initial five-year contract a year early, and to appoint him to the position permanently, is a reflection of the board’s confidence in his outstanding leadership, abilities and commitment,” said OC Board Chair, Dale Safinuk.
Fassina first joined OC in April 2021. Since then, he’s led the development of a 10-year roadmap called Inspire, which outlines a long-term vision for the institution.
“In the four years that Neil has been president at Okanagan College, he has led our teams through external challenges and complexity, while also helping co-create a vision and strategic direction for OC that is centred on expanding access to post-secondary education for learners across the region,” Safinuk added.
Under Fassina’s leadership, the college has taken big steps toward that vision. Projects include a new $55.8 million Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism in Kelowna, and expanded student housing in Vernon, Kelowna and Salmon Arm. A new residence is also being built in Penticton.
Other accomplishments include launching a Flexible Workplace policy, new wellness and accessibility plans, and completing an Indigenous Strategic Plan developed in partnership with First Nations across the region.
Before joining OC, Fassina served as president of Athabasca University in Alberta. He’s also held leadership roles at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology and taught at universities in Toronto, Calgary and Manitoba. He earned his PhD in Organizational Behaviour and Human Resource Management from the University of Toronto in 2005.
The board made its decision to appoint Fassina permanently earlier this spring.
