DR. PAULA BURNS
President and CEO
Langara College, Canada
From Disruption to Discovery: Leading Change with Purpose
Abstract:
In an era marked by rapid transformation and uncertainty, post-secondary leaders are increasingly called upon to navigate disruption with clarity, resilience, and innovation. This presentation explores the essential competencies required to lead effectively during times of change, including adaptive thinking, strategic communication, emotional intelligence, and systems awareness. Drawing on recent disruptions to international education in Canada and proven change leadership frameworks, we will discuss how crises can serve as catalysts for innovation when approached with purpose and vision. Designed for senior leaders in post-secondary and international education, this talk offers practical insights and hopefully some inspiration for turning disruption into discovery—and for leading change that matters.
Biographies:
Dr. Paula Burns is the fourth president and CEO of Langara College located in Vancouver, BC, Canada. With over 25 years of experience in higher education, Paula has demonstrated innovation in leadership that prioritizes diversity and inclusivity, collaboration and community building, and the ability to cultivate a progressive, positive, and welcoming culture.
Paula has established herself as an active leader locally, provincially, and nationally. She is committed to advancing education and creating a safe and respectful learning environment for students, faculty, and staff. Since joining Langara, she has overseen the development of the College’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Framework, Strategic Enrolment Plan, Student Success Plan, and the College’s new Strategic Framework for 2025 – 2028.
In addition, Paula is the incoming chair of the Council of Presidents of BC Colleges after serving as its vice chair for a year. Previously she served as the board chair of Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan). She also served on their National Indigenous Education Advisory Committee as the governance committee chair who developed CICan’s Indigenous Education Protocol.
Paula has a Respiratory Therapy diploma from Fanshawe College, a B.Sc. from the University of Waterloo, a M.Ed. from Central Michigan University, a Ph.D. from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education/University of Toronto, and an MBA from Royal Roads University.
