Leadership
The Executive Team at University Canada West sets the strategic direction of the university and leads its implementation to achieve the university’s goals. The team is accountable for ensuring high standards of excellence across academics, programs, operations and student satisfaction.

Dr. Bashir Makhoul
President and Vice-Chancellor
Dr. Bashir Makhoul brings a unique breadth of experience to his role as President and Vice-Chancellor of UCW. An artist by vocation and training, Dr. Makhoul’s works explore themes of conflict, displacement and identity, and have been featured in top galleries worldwide. Dr. Makhoul joined UCW in 2023 following a 6½ year term as President […]
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Dr. Mazi Shirvani
Interim Vice President, Academic
Dr. Mazi Shirvani joins University Canada West as the new interim Vice President, Academic. The distinguished mathematician completed both his BSc and PhD degrees at Queen Mary University of London. Following his doctoral studies, he embarked on a postdoctoral fellowship before joining the General Electric Co. of Britain's Advanced Research Lab from 1985 to 1987, […]
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Sitora Azimova
Vice President Administration
Biography: Sitora Azimova serves as UCW Vice President, Administration, where she champions operational excellence and strategic collaboration across the University. She leads efforts to optimize resources, ensure budget compliance and enhance institutional efficiency, all while aligning operations with strategic goals. With extensive experience in process improvement and budget management, Sitora has a proven track record […]
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Ed Bagg
Vice President of Operations & IT Services

Herneet Dhillon
Vice President, People and Culture (Human Resources)
Biography: Herneet is responsible for human resources, policy and procedures, and executive support at University Canada West. She has an extensive background working in education, administration and private equity groups. Educated in Canada and the United Kingdom, she taught for several years before moving into administration at private equity firm Cabot Square Capital. After returning […]
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Henrique Gea
Registrar

Komil Mamajanov
Vice President, Strategic Development
Komil Mamajanov is the Vice-President of Strategic Development at University Canada West (UCW). He leads the growth and innovation initiatives of the university and oversees the recruitment of a diverse and talented student body. He has over 15 years of experience in international higher education globally through working in leadership roles with various institutions in UK, Germany, […]
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Midya U
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
Biography: Midya is a marketing and branding professional who brings more than a decade of experience in post-graduate and language training sectors. She has worked with various Canadian institutions to create their brand identities and build upon their strengths. Before joining UCW, Midya served as Director of Marketing at Langara Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA) […]
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Lisa Collins
Vice President, Student Experience
Lisa Collins has joined University Canada West in the newly created position of Vice President, Student Experience, effective May 2024. Lisa will provide strategic leadership, direction and oversight for all aspects related to student life and the overall student experience within University Canada West. Reporting to the President and Vice-Chancellor and working closely with the […]
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