Lifting Up Our Leaders: Robina Thomas Named Acting President of UVic

Kw’umut Lelum proudly celebrates the appointment of our President and Board Chair, Qwul’sih’yah’maht (Dr. Robina Thomas), as Acting President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Victoria (UVic), effective August 1, 2025.

Dr. Thomas is a widely respected academic, leader, and advocate who has dedicated her career to advancing Indigenous rights, education, and reconciliation. As a long-serving member of UVic’s leadership, her appointment reflects not only her exceptional experience and wisdom, but also a deep commitment to collaborative, inclusive leadership during this important transitional time for the university.

“Robina is a fearless leader, a visionary thinker, and a compassionate advocate for our people,” said Bill Yoachim, Executive Director of Kw’umut Lelum. “Her appointment as Acting President of UVic is a powerful moment for all Indigenous communities. We raise our hands to her for continuing to blaze trails, centre Indigenous knowledge, and model what strong, values-based leadership looks like.”

 Dr. Thomas has served as UVic’s inaugural Vice-President Indigenous, championing equity, decolonization, and the integration of Indigenous worldviews into the academy. She will now guide UVic through a three-month interim period following the departure of President Kevin Hall, with the full support of the university’s executive team and Board of Governors.

 Throughout her tenure as President and Board Chair of Kw’umut Lelum, Dr. Thomas has brought the same passion and clarity of purpose to her governance work—supporting Indigenous self-determination, culturally grounded child and family services, and community wellness across our nine Member Nations.

 Chief Michael Wyse of Snuneymuxw First Nation shared:
“On behalf of Snuneymuxw and the Kw’umut Lelum Board, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Qwul’sih’yah’maht. Her appointment to lead one of B.C.’s top universities is a proud and historic moment for all Coast Salish people. She has always brought deep integrity, heart, and cultural strength to her work—and now she carries those teachings into a role that will impact future generations of learners. We are with her every step of the way.”

We are deeply honoured to walk alongside Dr. Thomas and celebrate her continued achievements as a scholar, leader, and changemaker. Her leadership uplifts not only UVic, but all those working toward reconciliation and Indigenous resurgence in education and beyond.