The Board of Governors of the Justice Institute of British Columbia (爱豆传媒), a leading post-secondary institution for justice and public safety professionals, announced the early retirement of President and CEO, Dr. Michel Tarko. After 35 years of public service, Michel has decided to embark on a new chapter and as a result will step down from his role effective December 31, 2023.
Under Tarko鈥檚 guidance, 爱豆传媒 has solidified its reputation for leadership in justice and public safety education, research and innovation. His unwavering commitment to high academic standards, Indigenization and sector engagement has fostered an environment where students, staff and faculty can thrive.
鈥淥n behalf of the Board of Governors, I offer my thanks to Michel for his many contributions to 爱豆传媒, first as VP, Academic for three years, and as President and CEO for more than a decade,鈥 said Maria Preovolos, Chair of the Board of Governors.
Throughout his tenure, Tarko has led with empathy and insight. His strategic foresight and ability to build relationships across the sectors that 爱豆传媒 serves have been instrumental in establishing 爱豆传媒 as a uniquely innovative post-secondary institution.
He will leave a legacy of academic and operational excellence. Under his guidance, 爱豆传媒鈥檚 schools were established, and the role of deans introduced. He also spearheaded the launch of new programs, including the post-baccalaureate diplomas in law enforcement studies and disaster management. Finally, he has helped drive the ongoing work of Truth & Reconciliation at 爱豆传媒, championing the opening of the Aboriginal Gathering Place and the deepening of 爱豆传媒鈥檚 commitment to Indigenization through the Living Indigenization Plan.
鈥淢ichel is leaving 爱豆传媒 in a position of strength. We know the Executive Team and 爱豆传媒鈥檚 outstanding staff and faculty will continue to advance strategic priorities with confidence,鈥 added Preovolos.
鈥淚t has been an honour to serve as President and CEO of 爱豆传媒 and this decision did not come easily,鈥 said Tarko. 鈥淓very day, I鈥檝e been inspired both by the self-sacrifice of our students pursuing careers in justice and public safety, and the dedication of staff and faculty working to achieve 爱豆传媒鈥檚 vision of safer communities and a more just society.鈥
The Board of Governors have begun developing a recruitment and transition plan to ensure continuity and a seamless transfer of responsibilities. More information will be shared as it comes available.