Former top soldier named chancellor of Memorial University

Gen. Rick Hillier will enter the academic realm when he officially leaves his job as Canada’s top soldier early next month.

Hillier will be the new chancellor of the Memorial University of Newfoundland, Premier Danny Williams announced Thursday. Canada’s outgoing chief of defence staff is a native of the province and graduated from the school with a bachelor of science in 1975. He will take over the position on July 3.

"It is with immense pleasure that I announce the appointment of this distinguished individual, whose stellar contributions to Canada are widely recognized, not only within our country, but well beyond its borders," Williams said in a news release.

"I cannot think of a more qualified individual to take on this role, and I look forward to the General’s contributions to the province in this regard."

A formal ceremony to introduce Hillier to his new post will be held at the school’s fall convocation in October.

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The chancellor is a member of the university’s Board of Regents and the Senate and serves as chair of convocation. All degrees are conferred by the chancellor.

- The Canadian Press