Klodiana Kolomitro has been appointed as Associate Vice-Principal (Teaching and Learning) for a one-year term, beginning July 1, 2021.

In her role, Dr. Kolomitro will work closely with Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic) Mark Green to provide guidance to Queen’s teaching and learning portfolio while the search for the next Vice-Provost (Teaching and Learning) (VPTL) is underway. The VPTL search process that began in April was paused to ensure the scope and responsibilities of the role are aligned with the needs and strategic direction of the university. Queen’s is committed to the continued success of the teaching and learning portfolio and the Centre for Teaching and Learning. Over the next year, the Office of the Provost will review the VPTL position with a view to strengthening the portfolio and enhancing teaching and learning at Queen’s.

Dr. Kolomitro is an accomplished leader and researcher whose work focuses on educational development, inclusive pedagogy, and well-being in higher education. At Queen’s, she is known for her understanding of emerging trends in the higher education landscape, her leadership of interdisciplinary initiatives to enhance teaching and learning practices, and her ability to cultivate positive and productive working relationships.

“I’m delighted to be working with Klodiana to advance teaching and learning initiatives at Queen’s,” says Mark Green, Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic). “Her understanding of educational and faculty development, Queen’s Quality Assurance Framework, and inclusive pedagogy will be critical to the teaching and learning portfolio over the next year.”

Dr. Kolomitro currently serves as the Director of Education Development in the Faculty of Health Sciences and is cross-appointed to the Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences. Prior to her role in the Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Kolomitro served in Queen’s Centre for Teaching and Learning where she championed university-wide projects that supported institutional policies, strategic planning, and the development of interdisciplinary networks with faculty and students.

Dr. Kolomitro is committed to meaningfully enhancing the student learning experience and advancing inclusion, Indigenization, and anti-racism in the academy. She is currently leading an eCampus Project to create an interactive digital collection that translates the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action into accessible and culturally appropriate strategies that can be implemented in healthcare education and practice.

“It is one of the greatest honours of my life to have been asked to provide leadership to Teaching and Learning at Queen’s, in partnership with the students, faculty, staff, and our local and global communities, says Dr. Kolomitro. “Together, we will strengthen teaching and learning and support the student learning experience by actively listening and taking action.”

Dr. Kolomitro is also internationally recognized for her work in education research and scholarship. She is a recipient of the Educational Developer Leadership Award from the Educational Developers Caucus in Canada in recognition for her contributions to the field. Dr. Kolomitro holds a PhD in Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), University of Toronto, with a specialization in curriculum and pedagogy, and an MSc in Anatomy and Cell Biology from Queen’s.

“I also want to express my sincere gratitude to John Pierce for his work as Vice-Provost (Teaching and Learning),” says Provost Green. “I am especially thankful for his tireless work in helping the university navigate the many challenges brought on by the pandemic. His leadership was crucial in supporting the university’s transition to remote learning and ensuring students could continue with their studies.”