Cambrian pres resigns after 3 months on job

After only three months on the job, Cambrian College president Peter Lawlor resigned his position Oct. 4, citing personal reasons.

The college's board of governors accepted his resignation, which is effective immediately. The process for selecting a new president is underway.

Lawlor, previously the dean of the School of Trades at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, replaced Sylvia Barnard, who retired at the end of June after serving in the position for 11 years.

The board has appointed Sonia Del Missier, vice president, academic, as the college’s interim president.

“This is a temporary setback for Cambrian College and for Sudbury,” said board chair Eric Kohtakangas, in a press release.

“At this time, we need to respect Mr. Lawlor’s privacy. The board wishes him well and recognizes the energy and enthusiasm he brought to his role.”

Cambrian has strong succession and contingency plans, Kohtakangas said.

“The board is confident in Sonia’s ability to lead and to maintain the college’s daily operations,” the press release said.

“She is a well-respected leader who has been with the college for 35 years in a number of senior positions. She is also well-known community champion and active volunteer.”

Del Missier said that she is committed to minimizing the impact of Mr. Lawlor’s departure on students, staff, and the community.

“Cambrian has benefited from new programs, enrolment growth, and a strong local economy that is supporting employment and career opportunities for our skilled and knowledgeable graduates,” she said.

“My goal is to maintain the momentum that we’ve built over the past two years.”

The board is aiming to select a new president by spring 2014.