Pexman leaves a lasting impact on knowledge engagement

Dr. Penny Pexman, PhD, associate vice-president (research) and professor in the Faculty of Arts, will be leaving the University of Calgary to take on a new role as vice-president (research) at Western University. With 25 years of dedicated service, Dr. Pexman has made significant contributions to the university as a celebrated teacher, researcher, and leader.

Among her many achievements, Dr. Pexman played a pivotal role in establishing the university's Knowledge Engagement (KE) team. As a member of the KE implementation committee, she supported the formation and growth of the team. Under her ongoing leadership as the Associate Vice-President (Research), the KE team developed popular programming and training sessions focused on knowledge mobilization and community-partnered research.

Dr. Pexman was also an integral part of the executive team for the university's Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) initiative. DORA is an international movement aimed at improving how researchers and scholarly research outputs are evaluated. Currently, the KE team is working to implement DORA recommendations at UCalgary through consultations, building awareness, and discussions about research assessment and research impact assessment.

In addition to being an exceptional driver of innovation and growth in the areas of community engagement and research impact, Dr. Pexman has brought warmth, humour and compassion to every interaction. The Knowledge Engagement team wishes her the very best in her role at Western University.

Dr. Pexman's last day at the University of Calgary will be August 31, 2023. Read Dr. William Ghali’s note to the campus community on her departure.