By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
As of June 1, Jean-Pierre Perreault will step into the role of rector at the Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS), taking the helm at a time of uncertainty and ambition for one of Quebec’s largest universities. In an interview conducted on Mar. 25—just hours before the release of the provincial budget—Perreault expressed pride in the appointment and outlined a bold vision for the university’s future, while acknowledging the challenges ahead.
“I’m very proud,” he said. “We will have a wind in the face based on many decisions outside, but I’m excited to take this position.” His election was confirmed by the university’s board of directors on Mar. 20 following a vote by a 43-member electoral college. That body includes representatives from the administration, unions, part-time lecturers, professors, and students. Perreault won the position with 65 per cent of the vote, defeating two other candidates, including one from the University of Victoria. “It’s a big mandate,” he said. “That’s the confidence of our community.”
According to a related press release, Perreault will be the 11th rector of the university since its founding in 1954, succeeding Pierre Cossette, who has held the position since 2017. A biochemist by training, Perreault earned his doctorate at the Université de Montréal and completed postdoctoral work at Yale before joining the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at UdeS in 1993. Over the last three decades, he has served as department director, associate dean, vice-dean, and most recently as vice-rector of research and graduate studies. During his tenure, the university rose to 10th in Canada for research income. He has played a key role in major initiatives, including a graduate scholarship fund of over $25 million, contributions to the national quantum strategy, and the development of the university’s precision health and research facilities.
