Michael Crowe brings a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and student-centred growth

The Board of Governors of College of the Rockies is pleased to announce the upcoming appointment of Michael Crowe as the college’s ninth President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 1. Crowe succeeds Paul Vogt who is retiring after five years in the role.

“Michael joins us from Bow Valley College where he served as Vice President Academic,” said Board Chair Jared Basil. “He is a visionary and dynamic leader with a proven track record of achieving remarkable milestones in his career. We are excited to welcome him and look forward to the positive impact his leadership will bring.”

Crowe holds a Master of Science in Ecology and has a diverse background in academia. He began his career as a teaching assistant at the University of Lethbridge and later served as a faculty member at both Lethbridge College and Lakeland College, where he was also appointed president of the Lakeland College Faculty Association.

His career continued to advance as he took on leadership roles, including Dean, Teaching and Learning and Vice President, Academic and Research at Lakeland College prior to his appointment as Vice President, Academic at Bow Valley College.

After Paul Vogt announced his retirement in September 2024, the college began the search for a new president. The search was guided by an internal search committee, which included members from the board, students, senior administration, management, faculty, support staff and the Ktunaxa.

The consultative process included interviews and discussions with employees and external community stakeholders, including the broader Ktunaxa Nation.

Vogt will remain on until Crowe’s arrival in May, supporting a seamless transition.

“On behalf of the board, I want to congratulate Paul on his upcoming retirement and thank him for his leadership for the last five years,” Basil said.

During his time at Bow Valley, Crowe achieved notable accomplishments, including partnering with Microsoft to advance Artificial Intelligence projects at 13 colleges nationwide, piloting two apprenticeship-style diploma programs, leading the vision for a Health Care Centre of Excellence, and overseeing substantial enrolment increases over a period of three years.

“During the selection process, Michael’s passion for the college sector was apparent,” Basil said. “He is a relationship builder which enables him to create impactful new opportunities for students and institutions and to develop new solutions designed to address the workforce needs of the community.”

“I am honoured to join College of the Rockies and excited to work alongside our dedicated faculty, staff, students, and community partners,” said Crowe.

“The institution has a remarkable reputation for providing a world-class learner experience, its innovative work with industry, and its commitment to Indigenous collaboration.  I look forward to building on that foundation as together we shape an even brighter future – one that fosters learning, ensures belonging, and bolsters economic vitality for the entire region.”

Having lived in southwestern Alberta, Crowe is familiar with the East Kootenay and is excited to soon call it home

“I grew up just on the other side of the Rocky Mountains, and then got to spend three field seasons in the East Kootenay earlier in my career while working on environmental science contracts with Canadian Pacific Railway, BC Ministry of Forest and Range, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada,” Crowe said.

“Not only was it an incredible landscape to work in, but we also enjoyed countless hours of mountain biking, hiking, and paddling. We are really looking forward to not only reconnecting with the community, but also with the land. It’s always been a special place to be.”

Lead image: Michael Crowe will become College of the Rockies’ ninth President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 1. Photo submitted

College of the Rockies

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