Former Canadian Army head becomes Fanshawe president

Dr. Howard Rundle, left, outgoing president of Fanshawe College, stands next to the incoming president, retired lieutenant-general Peter Devlin in London, Ont. on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2013.

Retired lieutenant-general Peter Devlin, a 35-year veteran of the Canadian Army and its former commander, has been named the fifth president of Fanshawe College.

The 53-year-old will take over this fall for Dr. Howard Rundle, who is leaving after 17 years as president.

Crispin Colvin, chair of the Fanshawe College Board of Governors, expressed his excitement saying “The Board of Governors was struck by Peter’s unquestionable leadership abilities, his integrity, and his experience in managing with difficult budgetary constraints. Peter has made a career of leading and motivating people, and preparing them for the future – areas in which Fanshawe also excels.””

During his time with the army Devlin commanded troops in Canada, Europe, the Middle East and the U.S.

He has also been awarded the Meritorious Service Cross and Orders of Military Merit from the United States, Brazil and Columbia.

General Walter Natynczyk, president of the Canadian Space Agency, calls it a great selection and says “You have chosen a leader with great wisdom, experience and someone who really cares about people.”

Devlin studied economics at Western University before earning his Masters in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College, among other studies.

For his part, Devlin says “I am very pleased to be joining Fanshawe and look forward to bringing my team-oriented leadership experience to a new challenge in the post-secondary sector…I am keen to help Fanshawe meet the challenges of continued growth and success for the future.”