Dr. Nilson joined Fulbright Canada in March of 2021 in the newly established role of President Emeritus in Residence. Appointed by the Foundation’s Board of Directors, the President Emeritus in Residence serves as a senior advisor to the President and CEO of the Foundation, provides counsel on new partnerships and innovative new networking opportunities, and, more generally, supports the overall mission and values of Fulbright Canada.
Dr. Nilson’s appointment coincides with a new chapter in the storied history of the Fulbright program, as we celebrate our 75th anniversary worldwide and the 30th anniversary of Fulbright in Canada. Dr. Nilson will add considerably to Fulbright Canada's capacity as we open the Fulbright Canada West office in Vancouver and launch several exciting new initiatives, including Honouring Nations Canada. Dr. Nilson will play a key role in our efforts to grow the program, engage and include underrepresented populations, and introduce and support more new initiatives that align with our core values.
Dr. Ralph Nilson was invested with the honorary title of President Emeritus at Vancouver Island University upon his retirement in June 2019. He has contributed over forty years to teaching undergraduate and graduate students, research and scholarship, international education, and senior leadership in universities across Canada and the United States. He developed an externally funded research program in physical activity, population health, and community development. Ralph is recognized for his values-based leadership approach and advocates for access to excellence in post-secondary education. Dr. Nilson was inducted as a Fellow in the Royal Society of Canada in 2019.
Dr. Nilson continues to be actively engaged in working with communities and recognizes the critical role of post-secondary education success in the economic and social prosperity of the communities and society in which we live. His persistent support for building pathways and access for populations disproportionately represented among postsecondary graduates has been evidenced throughout his career. He continues to support capacity building for indigenous youth, youth impacted by the multi dimensions of poverty, and the reduction of the systemic barriers that persist in a continuing focus on making poverty less hereditary. He fosters opportunities to attract and retain international talent in Canada through post-secondary education.