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Canada: Louis Patrick Leroux, PhD, a new visionary Rector for Saint Paul University

Ottawa, Ont. Canada

Originally Published on OMIWORLD.ORG

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By Carole Breton, Vice-Rector, Governance and Secretary General, Saint Paul University
Ottawa, Ontario, Can

In the spring of 2024, Dr. Louis Patrick Leroux, PhD, became the new Rector of Saint Paul University, located in Ottawa. This makes him the 7th rector of one of the last pontifical universities in Canada.

Following his appointment, this champion of interdisciplinarity and of the humanities shared his aspirations for Saint Paul University, focusing on human creative possibilities, combined with community work to find innovative solutions to contemporary social issues.

Revitalizing the University’s growth
During the formal installation ceremony of the rector, where members of the university community attended, Dr. Leroux took an oath in the presence of the Most Reverend Marcel Damphousse, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall and Chancellor of Saint Paul University, who presided over a mass in the University’s de Mazenod Chapel. Dr. Leroux’s arrival at Saint Paul University also coincides with preparations for a new five-year strategic plan aimed at revitalizing the University’s growth in its disciplines and areas of expertise such as Canon Law, Theology, Spirituality, Ethics, Ecological Leadership, and Social Innovation.

Dr. Louis Patrick Leroux

An environment for self-discovery and self-fulfillment
“At Saint Paul University, we offer much more than a recognized education in the labour market. We offer an environment for self-discovery and self-fulfillment, an environment for exploration and reflection, an environment where everything is possible regarding the role of our university community in society,” said Louis Patrick Leroux, Rector of Saint Paul University.

Saint Paul University has existed for 175 years.
Established on September 26, 1848, it was originally known as the College of Bytown and founded by Bishop Joseph-Eugène Guigues, O.M.I. In 1856, Bishop Guigues officially entrusted the College to the Oblates of Mary Immaculate. The founding college underwent a transformation in 1965 when it officially became the University of Ottawa. As part of this evolution, Saint Paul University was created, and a federation agreement with the University of Ottawa was signed, marking their federation since 1965.

Steeped in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition
Its mission and values are focused on creating a more just and humane future for all. This bilingual institution offers undergraduate and graduate programs and has four faculties: Canon Law, Theology, Human Sciences, and Philosophy.

International Social Outreach
One of Dr. Leroux’s goals is also to strengthen Saint Paul University’s presence beyond Canadian borders. The new Rector intends to create more learning opportunities, international exchanges, and research, contributing to Saint Paul University’s outreach in training leaders committed to socially transforming the future.

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