Aurora College Appoints Interim President

Aurora College’s board of governors has appointed Dr. Nora Houlahan as interim president. The board announced the decision on March 26, 2026. Houlahan will begin on May 4 and serve until a permanent president is selected.

Profile of the interim president

Houlahan currently serves as vice-president of academics at Yorkville University’s British Columbia campus. Yorkville is a private university with campuses in Ontario, New Brunswick, and B.C.

She previously held senior roles at Aurora College, including vice-president of education and training. She also led the college’s Centre for Learning and Teaching Innovation.

Her career includes positions at the University of British Columbia. She has been a sessional instructor at both UBC and the University of the Fraser Valley.

Priorities and remarks

Houlahan said she is honored to take on the interim role. She cited her work as co-chair of the college’s strategic plan.

She emphasized commitment to the idea of a Northern university. She praised staff dedication to education and research grounded in Northern knowledge systems.

Board response and transition

Kenny Ruptash, chair of the board of governors, welcomed the appointment. He highlighted Houlahan’s institutional knowledge and commitment to Northern post-secondary education.

Heather McCagg-Nystrom will continue as acting president until Houlahan assumes the post. Houlahan replaces Dr. Angela James, who announced her retirement on March 16.

Background and timeline

Angela James began her presidency on August 1, 2024. That appointment was described at the time as a five-year term.

James was expected to guide the college toward transformation into a polytechnic university. The board has named Houlahan to lead the college during the search for a permanent president.

Filmogaz.com will continue to report updates as the search for a permanent president progresses.