Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane has announced that Bob Lemieux will conclude his term as Interim Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science at the end of day on March 26, 2026, and he will be commencing an administrative leave.  

“I would like to thank Dean Lemieux for his contributions to the university and to the Faculty of Arts and Science over the past year and a half,” says Principal Deane. “He has led the Faculty through a challenging financial period, maintaining a clear focus on responsible budget management, while continuing to advance key academic and strategic priorities including research supports and fundraising efforts.”

Bill Nelson will be filling the position of Interim Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science until a permanent dean is appointed this summer. Dr. Nelson is currently serving as Associate Dean, Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Arts and Science. He has extensive experience in curriculum innovation and course design and has led major teaching initiatives over the past several years in this role. Dr. Nelson is also a Professor of Population Ecology in the Biology department at Queen’s, and his research and teaching have contributed to the areas of population biology, community ecology, biostatics and invertebrate diversity.  

“I would like to thank Dr. Nelson for taking on this leadership role at Queen’s during a transition period for the Faculty of Arts and Science,” says Principal Deane. “His significant leadership experience within the faculty will no doubt be of benefit over the coming months.”

The search for a new Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science, led by a 16-member Advisory Committee chaired by Provost Matthew Evans, is currently underway. Launched in June 2025, this search process is expected to be completed this summer, with a permanent dean in place by July 2026.