Dr. Eli Ahlquist poses with North West College's mascot. (Image Credit: North West College/ Facebook)

By battlefordsNOW Staff

"I LEAVE WITH CONFIDENCE IN THE COLLEGE'S FUTURE"

North West College president and CEO steps down after five years

Nov 12, 2026 | 11:23 AM

North West College’s president and CEO is leaving after five years to take a senior leadership position with the College of Registered Nurses of Saskatchewan.

“It has been an incredible privilege to serve as president and CEO of North West College,” Dr. Eli Ahlquist said. “I am immensely proud of what the instructors, staff and leadership team have accomplished together. They have expanded opportunities for students, strengthened partnerships and demonstrated the important role regional colleges play in developing the skilled workforce our communities need. While I am excited about this next chapter in my career, I leave with confidence in the college’s future and the people who will continue this important work.”

During his time, enrolment rose in consecutive years, existing programs were revitalized, and new post-secondary programs were introduced.

Highlights include expanded nursing education, the introduction of a Bachelor of Education program and delivery of a Bachelor of Social Work program through university partnerships. The Industrial Learning Centre and Frontier Mall Learning Locations also opened.

The college also strengthened ties with educational institutions, industry, Indigenous communities and regional partners. Investments in technology, flexible learning and expanded academic pathways improved access to education and helped the college respond to workforce needs in northwestern Saskatchewan.

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“Dr. Ahlquist has quite literally left his mark on North West College,” said Ron Crush, vice-chair of the board of governors. “The college’s rebranding is emblematic of the change we have witnessed under his leadership. Beyond these accomplishments, I have respect for the humility and integrity Dr. Ahlquist has demonstrated throughout his leadership. That is a leadership legacy of which he should be very proud.”

A new post-secondary campus in the Battlefords has been among Ahlquist’s top priorities. Construction hasn’t started, but the board says he helped secure well over $1 million in provincial funding for planning and development.

“Although a new campus is not yet under construction, Ahlquist has laid the essential groundwork to continue advancing this critical project,” said Glenda Rye, board chair. “Through his advocacy, strategic planning and engagement with government and community partners, the college is better positioned than ever to realize this long-standing priority. The board remains firmly committed to seeing this vision become a reality.”

Ahlquist also supported a renewed focus on institutional effectiveness, financial stewardship, employee engagement and continuous improvement.

The board thanked Ahlquist for his contributions and will begin a search for the college’s next president and CEO. Tanis Studney has been appointed acting president and CEO in the interim. Ahlquist’s last day will be Jan. 15, 2027.

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Cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

by battlefordsNOW Staff

North West College president and CEO steps down after five years

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