Ralph Nilson

Biography

 Dr. RALPH NILSON is the President and Vice-Chancellor of Vancouver Island University. Dr. Nilson holds and a B.A. from Simon Fraser University, a M.Sc. from Southern Connecticut University and a Ph.D. from the University of Oregon. He has extensive teaching and administrative experience at undergraduate and graduate levels in Universities across Canada and the United States and developed an active research program in physical activity, population health and community development. He advocates for excellence in teaching and scholarship. He has been actively engaged in working with communities and recognizes the important role of the university in the economic and social prosperity of the region it serves. His active support for building capacity in aboriginal communities through access to Education has been evidenced throughout his career. He also emphasizes the importance of the University in international outreach and in particular bringing a global connection to the local region through being a portal for international dialogue and exchange. He is honoured to be serving as President and Vice-Chancellor at a University which provides education and learning opportunities for a broad spectrum of students who are supported by faculty and staff who focus student success. Dr. Nilson and his wife Dr. Suzanne Nilson, a biologist, moved to Nanaimo from Nova Scotia in January 2007.

Research Interest

 Health