A New Era for Conestoga College

Conestoga College is embarking on an exciting new chapter as it officially begins the search for a successor to President and CEO John Tibbits. After nearly 40 years at the helm, Tibbits has seen his share of triumphs and challenges.

Challenges on the Horizon

Despite its history of accolades and recognition as one of Canada’s premier research colleges, Conestoga is navigating tough financial waters. Earlier this year, the institution reported a staggering $121 million surplus but is now bracing for a projected deficit in the upcoming fiscal year.

The International Student Crisis

One of the core issues affecting the college’s finances is the federal cap on international students. Since 2023, Conestoga has lost a staggering 20,000 international students, translating to a whopping $450 million in financial losses, according to Tibbits.

Controversies Surrounding Leadership

Tibbits’ tenure has not been without controversy. Recently, he became embroiled in legal disputes, including a lawsuit filed by Sault College for alleged derogatory comments. Furthermore, he faced backlash for receiving a 28.5% salary raise, pushing his earnings beyond $636,000 at a time when the college was making staff cuts.

The Search for a Successor Begins

Though Tibbits’ contract extends until the end of 2026, the Board of Governors has emphasized that they have been planning for leadership succession for some time. The recent announcement requesting proposals for a recruitment service marks a significant step forward in identifying potential candidates to lead the college into the future.

What’s Next for Conestoga?

As Conestoga College embarks on this pivotal search, the community eagerly awaits updates on the timeline and the candidates that will emerge. What direction will the next president take? Only time will tell!