Royal Roads announces interim Vice-President Academic and Provost

Royal Roads University is pleased to announce Dr. Debora Linehan has been appointed as interim vice-president academic and provost (VPAP), effective January 1, 2026.

As a scholar-practitioner with a wealth of expertise in intercultural leadership, Linehan’s work and research have made significant contributions to advancing both the study and practice of intercultural leadership competencies within organizations, while promoting diversity.

Linehan is the first Royal Roads alum to serve in this senior leadership position, as she holds both a Doctor of Social Sciences and a Master of Business Administration. Joining the university as a faculty member in September 2019, she has taught at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels.

Prior to joining Royal Roads, Linehan, a Certified Management Consultant, held leadership roles within the financial industry, including as regional vice-president with RBC, where she was also an executive champion on RBC’s National Diversity Counsel.

“Dr. Linehan’s unique combination of academic leadership, research excellence and executive experience in the financial services sector makes her exceptionally well‑suited to lead RRU’s academic programs,” says President and Vice‑Chancellor Philip Steenkamp. “Her appointment reinforces our commitment to student‑centered learning, academic excellence and inclusive leadership.”

“I am honoured to take on this vital role at Royal Roads, alongside a committed faculty and staff who share a passion for applied learning and research,” says Linehan. “I look forward to working closely with faculty to strengthen our academic offerings and enrich student experiences, continuing to provide an empowering, transformative and inclusive learning environment.” 

As VPAP, Linehan will oversee the university’s academic mission, including program development, student supports, quality assurance, faculty appointments, and academic operations.