Dr. Florentine Strzelczyk is a distinguished scholar and academic leader, currently serving as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at Western University. Her career reflects a deep commitment to student success, equity, and global engagement in Canadian higher education.

Originally from Germany, Strzelczyk earned her MA there and completed her PhD at the University of British Columbia. She began her academic career at Queen’s University before joining the University of Calgary, where she rose to full professor and held several leadership roles, including Deputy Provost. Her research in film and cultural studies has been widely recognized and supported by SSHRC, DAAD, and the Killam Trust.

At Calgary, she led initiatives in internationalization, academic policy reform, and equity, including chairing the national Dimensions EDI pilot. She later served as Provost and Vice-President Academic at Memorial University, where she laid the groundwork for a new Labrador campus and modernized budget and governance structures.

Since joining Western in 2022, Strzelczyk has advanced the university’s strategic plan, led the integration of Brescia University College, and co-led the development of the Bioconvergence Centre. She also spearheaded Western’s Global Engagement Plan.

A mentor and facilitator in national leadership programs, she serves on advisory boards including CHERD and eCampus Ontario. Locally, she contributes to Museum London and the London Economic Development Corporation. Internationally, she sits on the editorial board of Schüren Publishing.

In 2024, she was honored with a Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award for her contributions to higher education.