"Dave Hardy is an experienced and very successful administrator who understands the special character of a Catholic school," said John Nixon (Board of Directors Chairman). "He brings proven leadership skills and a strong commitment to the values of Catholic education to Vancouver College. We're delighted that we have found a candidate of Dave's ability."

Mr. David Hardy attended Catholic elementary and high schools in Saskatoon. He then spent two years studying commerce and business administration at the University of Saskatchewan before switching to education. He graduated with a Bachelor of Education with a double major in English and Physical Education. He spent fourteen years teaching English, religion and physical education before returning to the University of Saskatchewan to complete a post-graduate diploma in education administration. He served as vice principal for a total of nine years in three different Catholic high schools, four years as principal in two schools and three years as Superintendent, all in Saskatoon.

"I have been involved in Catholic education throughout my career and see this move to Vancouver College as an opportunity to enjoy a different dimension to my personal experience as an educator," said Hardy. "I truly look forward to working with the parents, students, staff, administrators and the Board to continue the tradition of excellence in Catholic education at Vancouver College."

Vancouver College requires strong leadership in many demanding new areas, particularly fundraising and planning, along with the day to day running of the school. Following the settlement of the legal challenge last fall, the Board decided to split the administrative burden into two executive-level positions to ensure that top quality people are deployed on these management challenges.

The new administrative structure creates the position of President as the chief executive officer of the organization accountable to the Board of Directors with specific responsibility for finance, fundraising, personnel and external relations. Accountable to the President, the Principal will be the chief education officer with specific responsibilities for day to day operations including the supervision of curriculum, the assignment of teacher schedules, classes, evaluation periods, extracurricular activities and long-range planning of academic programs.