Dr. Stephen Price has been selected as the new President and CEO at Portage College in northeastern Alberta.

Holding a PhD from the University of Calgary, a MEd from the University of Victoria, and a BEd from the University of Alberta, Dr. Price has spent the last 25 years working in several leadership roles at Mount Royal University (MRU) in Calgary. He has been the Dean of the Faculty of Health, Community and Education at MRU for the past eight years.

While his roles with MRU have provided direct connections to communities, culture and learning in southern Alberta, Price is very familiar with northern Alberta living.

“I grew up in Fort McMurray and developed a passion for the people and the outdoors,” he says, adding that his wife Susan and their three sons also enjoy the northern region. “My early professional experiences as a teacher and coach for my sons’ teams further solidified my dedication to the community and the region. We frequented Lac La Biche, Bonnyville and Cold Lake regularly.”

Price succeeds Nancy Broadbent who retires from the College in November after 35 years, the last six as President. Price starts his important role on October 1, 2025, allowing for some cross-over time and strategy sharing between the out-going and incoming presidents.

Recognized for his inclusive leadership and a people-first focus, Price says the success and care of students and employees are the core of his leadership philosophy.

“As this new leadership role begins, I am focused on forging strong connections within the Portage College landscape and with the diverse communities that Portage College serves,” he says. “I am committed to engaging with faculty, staff, and students to gain a deeper appreciation of their insights, experiences, and ambitions.”

Beyond the College, Price looks forward to developing meaningful relationships with leaders and community members of the seven campus locations, regional industries and local businesses.

Price also carries a deep-rooted passion for Indigenous culture.

“I am looking forward to sitting with Elders, knowledge-keepers, and other members of the many First Nation and Métis communities across this diverse and beautiful region,” he says.

As an accomplished academic leader, Price has a distinguished record in strategic planning, faculty development, and community partnerships. He has spearheaded initiatives supporting Indigenous engagement and reconciliation to enhance the advancement of Indigenization efforts in education. He plans to enhance and advance those connections at Portage College.

“I believe my commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, combined with a strategic vision, aligns closely with Portage College's core values and objectives,” he says. “The continuing story of Portage College is based on a strong, community-connected foundation that has continued to grow through leadership, understanding, and support. It’s a privilege for me to be part of this story’s next chapter.”

About Portage College

Portage College operates seven campus locations in communities across northeastern Alberta. The College offers a wide selection of certificate and diploma programming, applied research opportunities, degree partnerships with other leading institutions, online course options, and industry-specific training.  First opened in 1968 to serve the needs of rural residents and provide pathways to learning, today's Portage College continues to work from those foundations. In 2025, Portage College graduated more than 1,400 students from 35 programs. The learning journey at Portage College can meet you wherever you are and take you wherever you want to go. At Portage College It’s About You.

For more information about Portage College, visit www.portagecollege.ca