A Year of Listening, Learning, and Leading: Dean Erin Oldford Reflects on Her First Year at Hill and Levene Schools
A year into her leadership as Dean of the Hill and Levene Schools of Business, Dr. Erin Oldford reflects on the milestones, lessons, and moments that have shaped her leadership journey so far. In this Q&A, she shares what she’s learned about the Schools’ vibrant communities, what continues to inspire her about the students, and what’s guiding her vision for the future. From favourite moments on campus to life in Regina, here’s a look back and a look ahead with Dean Oldford.
Looking back on your first year as Dean, which moments or milestones have been the most meaningful to you?
This past year has been filled with moments that reaffirmed the privilege of serving as Dean. Meeting our students and celebrating their successes — whether at case competitions, student-led events, or in classrooms — has been inspiring and energizing. I’ve also cherished the chance to connect with alumni across Canada, who consistently express how their time at Hill and Levene shaped both their careers and their values. I have been equally inspired by our faculty, whose research achievements, teaching innovations, and mentorship of students highlight the depth of talent within our Schools and the impact we have on both local and global stages. Another milestone was securing recognition as a PRME signatory, a meaningful step in aligning our work with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and strengthening our commitment to responsible management education. Most importantly, I’ve been moved by the sense of community here — the willingness of students, faculty, staff, and partners to come together to achieve something greater than any of us could do alone.
What has this past year taught you about the Hill and Levene communities?
This has been a full year of learning! But in particular, I have learned that the Hill and Levene Schools are defined by their people. Faculty and staff demonstrate an incredible dedication to their students and to advancing scholarship and learning that makes a difference locally and globally. Alumni and business partners regularly give back, not only financially but also through mentorship, guest lectures, and opening doors for our students. The generosity and passion of this community reinforce that our Schools are deeply embedded in Saskatchewan’s social and economic fabric. Most of all, I’ve seen that when we collaborate across disciplines, professions, and sectors, we create opportunities that transform lives, often in our own local communities.
What impresses you most about the students at Hill and Levene?
Students are the reason I do what I do. Here at Hill and Levene, our students continue to impress me with their ambition, resilience, and sense of purpose. They bring diverse experiences and perspectives into the classroom, enriching the learning environment for everyone. What stands out is their commitment to contributing not just to their own career success, but to their communities and society at large. Through student leadership, volunteerism, and engagement in experiential learning opportunities, they consistently find ways to put theory into practice. I truly believe they embody the next generation of leaders who will redefine what it means to succeed in business.
If your first year had a theme or title, what would it be?
I would call it “Listening, Learning, and Leading Together.” This year has been about listening carefully to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners to understand their experiences and aspirations. It has also been about learning — learning the culture and strengths of the Schools, learning what has worked well, and learning where there are opportunities to grow. With that foundation, I have been able to begin leading in partnership with others, ensuring that our direction is inclusive and shared. I believe this approach has built trust and set the stage for meaningful progress in the years ahead.
As you look to the future, what priorities are guiding your vision for the Schools?
Looking ahead, five priorities are guiding my vision. First, Continuous Improvement and Excellence — we are preparing for AACSB accreditation in 2026, a milestone that will elevate our standing nationally and internationally, while also advancing curriculum reviews to ensure our programs are rigorous and relevant. Second, Student Experience and Impact — we want to give students every opportunity to apply classroom learning in real-world contexts, from experiential education to non-credit leadership development initiatives. Third, Inclusion and Societal Relevance — as a PRME signatory, we are embedding values of inclusion, Indigenization, and sustainability into everything we do. Fourth, Community Engagement — we are expanding partnerships both locally and globally, to ensure our students and faculty are connected to opportunities at every scale. Finally and most importantly, Elevating the Hill and Levene Brand — strengthening awareness and reputation so that our Schools, our students, and our alumni are recognized as leaders who drive business and societal progress.
What is the best part about living in Regina?
Without question, the best part about Regina is the people. From the moment I arrived, I felt a genuine warmth and welcome from the community. There is a spirit of collaboration here that extends across the University, the business community, and civic life. I’ve also enjoyed experiencing Regina’s lively sports and arts community — from the passion of Roughriders fans to the energy of local theatre, music, and festivals — which adds to the vibrancy of the city. On top of that, the beautiful parks and, of course, the unforgettable prairie sunsets make Regina a city that combines a strong sense of community with opportunities for growth and innovation, and it has quickly become a place my family and I are proud to call home.