United College at the University of Waterloo is pleased to announce the appointment of
Dr. Tracy Penny Light as its next President, following the conclusion of a national search launched in mid-2025. Dr. Penny Light will serve a five-year term, commencing
July 1, 2026.
As previously announced, this appointment also marks a transition in leadership title from Principal to President, aligning United College with post-secondary leadership practices across the sector.
Dr. Penny Light currently serves as Interim Vice-President, Academic and Provost in the President’s Office at Capilano University in British Columbia. She brings extensive senior leadership experience in higher education, with a strong background in teaching, academic research, student success and innovation, and stakeholder engagement. Dr. Penny Light is also a proud University of Waterloo alum, having completed her PhD and establishing her academic teaching career at the university.
Known for her student-centred and values-driven approach, Dr. Penny Light’s strategic vision aligns with United College’s mission to advance academic excellence, social responsibility, and community engagement.
Tracy Mann, chair of United College’s Board of Governors, said “Dr. Penny Light’s leadership embodies the College’s collaborative culture. We are confident that Dr. Penny Light’s experience and leadership will facilitate the future success of United College in delivering on our mission. We look forward to introducing her to United’s community and stakeholders.”
Dr. Penny Light also expressed her excitement about joining the College at this time.
“I am very much looking forward to joining United College at this important and exciting moment in higher education. United has a clear sense of identity and a strong foundation to build on. I’m excited to bring my experience in learning, academic leadership, collaboration, and change to support United’s distinctive role within the University of Waterloo and to work alongside the community as we navigate the opportunities ahead together,” Dr. Penny Light said.
As President, Dr. Penny Light will lead United College into its next phase of strategic growth, strengthening its academic programs, partnerships, and commitment to equity, innovation, and student success.
Additional details about the leadership transition and opportunities to welcome the new President will be shared with the United College community in the months ahead.