Kwantlen Polytechnic University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has 4 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, financial oversight, academic governance, and faculty representation.

Focused on transforming education into real-world applications, Kwantlen Polytechnic University delivers hands-on learning through co-ops and internships to prepare the next generation of professionals for diverse career paths.

Leadership Roles at Kwantlen Polytechnic University

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Gerry Kilcup
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Carole Laplante
  • President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor - Diane Purvey
  • KFA President - Phaedra Burke
  • Gerry Kilcup - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Gerry Kilcup, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, directs the overarching institutional strategy across five campuses. Overseeing the integration of hands-on learning into the academic framework, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all programs align with current industry demands. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and fostering an inclusive environment for international and Indigenous students. By prioritizing career-ready outcomes, Gerry Kilcup drives the university toward excellence in polytechnic education. The President & Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous standards for academic quality while expanding the reach of practical training initiatives. Through consistent engagement with the Board, Kilcup secures the long-term vision of the institution. Ultimately, the President & Chief Executive Officer guarantees that the university remains a leader in transforming education into tangible professional success for every student.

    Carole Laplante - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Carole Laplante, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the entire institution. Overseeing budgetary planning for over 140 programs, the Interim Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial assets support the university's commitment to hands-on learning and internship infrastructure. This leadership role involves analyzing economic trends to optimize operational efficiency across all five campuses. By implementing robust financial controls, Carole Laplante protects the university's ability to serve a diverse student body effectively. The Interim Chief Financial Officer collaborates with academic leadership to fund critical practicum initiatives that bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry practice. Laplante monitors revenue streams and expenditure patterns to maintain institutional stability. Ultimately, the Interim Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary fiscal foundation to sustain the university's mission of preparing students for successful careers.

    Diane Purvey - President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor

    Diane Purvey, the President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, governs academic standards and institutional policy. Overseeing the development of curriculum that emphasizes real-world applications, the President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor ensures that academic programs remain relevant to evolving professional landscapes. This leadership role involves coordinating with faculty and administrative departments to uphold the university's reputation for excellence in polytechnic education. By championing inclusive learning environments, Diane Purvey supports the success of current and future students across all regional operations. The President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor facilitates high-level academic planning to integrate co-op opportunities into the core student experience. Purvey drives initiatives that strengthen the connection between academic rigor and industry-ready skills. Ultimately, the President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor secures the integrity of the educational mission while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and student-centered growth.

    Phaedra Burke - KFA President

    Phaedra Burke, the KFA President at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, represents faculty interests and advocates for professional standards within the academic community. Overseeing the collaborative relationship between educators and the administration, the KFA President ensures that faculty needs align with the university's goal of providing high-quality, hands-on learning experiences. This leadership role involves negotiating working conditions and promoting an environment conducive to teaching excellence. By facilitating communication between instructors and institutional leadership, Phaedra Burke supports the delivery of over 140 programs across the university's five campuses. The KFA President monitors the impact of academic policies on faculty workload and student outcomes. Burke drives initiatives that enhance the professional development of teaching staff, ensuring that industry experience remains a cornerstone of the curriculum. Ultimately, the KFA President maintains the strength of the faculty body to support the university's broader commitment to student career readiness.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Kwantlen Polytechnic University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Kwantlen Polytechnic University?
    Kwantlen Polytechnic University is led by Gerry Kilcup (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Carole Laplante (Interim Chief Financial Officer) and Diane Purvey (President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor).
    Who is part of Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Kwantlen Polytechnic University includes leaders such as Gerry Kilcup (President & Chief Executive Officer), Carole Laplante (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Diane Purvey (President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Kwantlen Polytechnic University have?
    Kwantlen Polytechnic University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Kwantlen Polytechnic University includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, President & Vice Pro TEM Chancellor, KFA President.