DR. SHANNON LEINEN NAMED PROVOST

Dr. Shannon (Sukraw '07) Leinen was named the provost of York University in January. She had served in this role in an interim capacity since June 1, 2023.

In announcing the appointment, President Sam Smith stated, “When she was named interim provost last June, Dr. Leinen tackled the looming challenge of finalizing the self assessment documents for our 10year comprehensive review with the Higher Learning Commission combined with the task of organizing the campus community for the accreditation team's visit in October. She did a masterful job. I am fully confident in her ability to perform at the highest level as our provost."

In her most recent roles at YU, Dr. Leinen has served as the dean of online learning and academic initiatives for York University Online and chair of the Elijah A. Levitt School of Business since 2020.

Reflecting on her appointment as provost and her experience in an interim capacity, Dr. Leinen said, “York University has shaped me personally and professionally. Stepping into the role of provost is not just an honor, it's humbling. It is exciting to be in a leadership role walking alongside others who are focused on preserving York’s mission to transform lives through Christ-centered education."

Leinen’s York Experience began in the fall of 2004 as a first-year student. She completed her bachelor’s degree three years later and went to work for YU as an admissions counselor in 2007.

In her capacity as an admissions counselor, Leinen quickly attracted the notice of co-workers and supervisors with her strong work ethic and capacity to respond well to the many unexpected twists surrounding student recruiting. She was promoted one year later to assistant director for admissions and served many roles in that capacity. In 2009, she stepped into the classroom for the first time teaching communication coursework, concurrently serving as the assistant women’s soccer coach. In 2012, Leinen was offered and accepted a tenure-track professor appointment in the university’s communication department.

Leinen left YU in 2015 to be the director for Concordia University-Nebraska’s MBA program. During her five year stint with Concordia, she also served as administrator of their online, fast-track degree completion program. She returned to York in mid-2020.

Dr. Leinen holds the M.A. from Gonzaga University, M.Ed. from Concordia University-Nebraska, M.B.A. from Harding University, and received her Ph.D. from Regent University. Her studies have ranged from communication and leadership to instructional technology and curriculum to business ethics. She is currently working on doctoral studies in organizational leadership and health care administration.

Shannon and her husband Jared '08 have three children, Graham, Sidney and Maisy. Jared has worked at York University since 2010, and currently serves as registrar. n