Dr. Jeff Hennessy,
President and Vice-Chancellor

Biography


Introducing Dr. Jeff Hennessy: Acadia University's 17th President and Vice-Chancellor

Acadia University is proud to introduce its 17th President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Jeff Hennessy (’99). A distinguished alumnus of Acadia, Dr. Hennessy boasts an impressive repertoire of academic achievements and experience.

An accomplished leader with a deep-rooted connection to our campus, Dr. Hennessy was the Director of the School of Music from 2007-2013. Under his leadership, he spearheaded innovative music curriculum initiatives that contributed to a remarkable 30 percent surge in department enrollment and enhanced its national reputation. Furthermore, he served as Dean of Arts from 2014 to 2019. He was instrumental in leading Acadia’s response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, paving the way for the university's decolonization strategy.

Before assuming his role at Acadia, Dr. Hennessy recently served as Interim President and Vice-Chancellor and was Provost and Vice-President Academic and Research at Mount Allison University since 2020. In this capacity, he also acted as the Chief Transition Officer during Mount Allison’s presidential search. During this time, he also served as Chair of both the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission and the Maple League of Universities.

Regarding academic accolades, Dr. Hennessy holds a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Toronto, a Master of Arts from the University of British Columbia, a Bachelor of Music from Acadia University, and a Bachelor of Science from Trent University.

As an accomplished musician, Dr. Hennessy ardently believes in harmony and collaboration – values he brings to his position at Acadia. His inclusive approach invites everyone to join him in fostering excellence at Canada's premier liberal arts institution.

Please welcome Dr. Jeff Hennessy as Acadia University's 17th President and Vice-Chancellor. He assumed the role on September 1, 2023.