2025-04-22 -- The Board of Governors of Newman Theological College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Darren Dahl as the next president of the college. A scholar of theological depth, an experienced administrator, and a person of deep Catholic faith, Dr. Dahl brings a compelling blend of academic excellence, ecclesial engagement, and visionary leadership to this pivotal role.

Dr. Dahl will begin his role as president starting on July 1, 2025. Dr. Dahl assumes the presidency following nearly two decades of experience in higher education and theological formation across multiple institutions.

He has held teaching and leadership roles at Briercrest College, St. Thomas More College at the University of Saskatchewan, and the Lutheran Theological Seminary. His work spans the disciplines of philosophy, theology, religious studies, and classics, with a particular focus on Catholic thought, phenomenology, and ecumenical dialogue.

“I wish to congratulate Newman Theological College on the selection of its new president,” said Archbishop Richard Smith, chair of the Board of Governors. “I have every confidence that the college will continue to grow and prosper under Dr. Dahl’s leadership.

“Congratulations to Dr. Dahl. Our prayers and support are with you as you undertake this new and vital assignment leading Newman Theological College in the spiritual formation and growth of men and women for service and leadership in the Church.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Dahl as the next president of Newman Theological College,” added Tracey Bailey, vice-chair of the Board of Governors. “He brings with him not only an impressive academic and administrative background but also a deep personal commitment to the Catholic Church and the transformative role of theological education in today’s world.”

Notably, Dr. Dahl served for seven years as executive director of the Prairie Centre for Ecumenism in Saskatoon, where he led strategic growth, interdenominational partnerships, and public programming grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition. In that role, he advanced institutional sustainability through strategic planning, fundraising, and collaborative leadership. His passion for mission-driven education has guided his scholarship, service, and leadership throughout his career.

Dr. Dahl holds a PhD in Religious Studies from McMaster University, a Master of Philosophy from the University of Guelph, a Master of Divinity from Lutheran Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Saskatchewan. His academic publications, lectures, and ecumenical work have made him a respected voice in theological and philosophical discourse both in Canada and internationally.

“I’m delighted to take up the role of president at Newman Theological College,” said Dr. Dahl. “With the exciting new BA program in Catholic Studies coming alongside the graduate degrees in lay ministry, priestly ministry, and religious education, I believe that Newman is very well-positioned to advance and deepen theological formation in the Archdiocese of Edmonton and beyond.

“I’m keen to get to know our students and to get to work with my colleagues at Newman and at St. Joseph Seminary, as well as all our donors, supporters, and friends, to build a strong foundation for the work of transformation at the heart of Roman Catholic theological education. In this season of the Resurrection, I am more aware than ever of the deep richness and beauty of the Catholic intellectual tradition and the powerful presence of the One who leads us ever more deeply into it.”

As president, Dr. Dahl will provide strategic and operational leadership to the college, ensuring that Newman continues to be a vital centre of theological learning and formation. He will play a key role in enhancing the college’s academic programs, strengthening ties with the Archdiocese of Edmonton and St. Joseph Seminary, and deepening partnerships with Catholic institutions and communities across Canada and beyond.