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Jim Tomkins

BA ’65 Mathematics, University of Saskatchewan
H ’66 Mathematics, University of Saskatchewan
MS ’67 Statistics, Purdue University
PhD ’70 Statistics, Purdue University
(Nominated by: Nominated by Statistics)

"At Purdue, I learned to analyze research papers and look for ideas that could be expanded or improved upon. After graduation, having accepted an academic appointment in a relatively isolated place -- both geographically and academically -- I was well placed to succeed in research on my own, until I could develop some academic networks. Moreover, I discovered that the same analytic approach applies well to administrative issues and, indeed, in daily life."

Jim Tomkins spent his career at the University of Regina beginning in 1969 when he joined the faculty in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. During his career at the university, he served as president and vice-chancellor, administrative vice-president, head of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, and academic advisor to the president. He has chaired the University of Regina Faculty Association and has been a member of the committee overseeing the university's academic and administrative pension plan for nearly 40 years. Tomkins was also seconded to the Government of Saskatchewan as a senior policy analyst in post-secondary education. In 2013, Tomkins was elected to a three-year term as chancellor of the University of Regina.

Tomkins had an active research career. He authored or co-authored more than 60 articles in mathematical and statistical journals. His research work was recognized and supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council for 33 years, and Tomkins has chaired three different NSERC selection committees.

From 1992 to 1998, Tomkins served as a Board Member of Regina Palliative Care Inc., and he was as a council member of the Canadian Red Cross Society. He is currently a Trustee of the Saskatchewan Healthcare Employees' Pension Plan, President of the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation, a director of Bentall Kennedy Prime Canadian Property Fund Ltd. of Vancouver, and a member of the Academic and Administrative Benefits Committee at the University of Regina.

Later in his career, Tomkins was honored with the Distinguished Service Plaque from the Statistical Society of Canada, the Distinguished Service Award from the Canadian Association of University Business Officers and the 2006 Saskatchewan Centennial Medal.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • 2013 - Elected chancellor of the University of Regina
  • 2008 - Received Distinguished Service Award from University of Regina Board of Governors
  • 2007 - Installed as president and vice chancellor of the University of Regina
  • 1998 - Appointed administrative vice president of University of Regina
  • 1993 - Elected President of the Statistical Society of Canada

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