The College of Law at the University of Saskatchewan, Canada, has appointed Ibironke Odumosu -Ayanu, a Nigerian-born law professor, as dean for a five-year term beginning October 1, 2026.
TheNewsGuru reports that Odumosu-Ayanu, a member of the University of Saskatchewan College of Law since 2008, is also the college’s associate dean of research and graduate studies.
The interim provost and vice-president, Patti McDougall, announced the appointment in a statement on Tuesday, September 1, saying:
“Dr Odumosu-Ayanu’s appointment as dean reflects a distinguished record of academic excellence, collaborative leadership, and dedication to advancing research and graduate education.”
“Her work as dean will continue to build on the College of Law’s strong reputation for excellence in legal education and research, while strengthening its leadership in Indigenous legal scholarship and engagement with local and global communities.”
According to McDougall, Odumosu-Ayanu will succeed Martin Phillipson, who completed two five-year terms as dean and began administrative leave on July 1.
According to the college website, Odumosu-Ayanu grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, where she developed an early interest in reading and writing.
Although she initially considered pursuing communications, encouragement from her teachers and support from her parents led her towards law.
By the end of secondary school, she had decided to study law and enrolled at the University of Lagos, where she earned her Bachelor of Laws degree.
She later moved to Canada to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Calgary, drawn by its research strengths in natural resources, energy and environmental law.
“Since I started law school, I always knew that I wanted to do a master’s and to do one abroad. But I always thought I would go to England.”
She had initially planned to return to Nigeria after completing her master’s degree and work as a lawyer. Instead, she continued her academic journey by pursuing a PhD at the University of British Columbia.
She said she had not initially intended to pursue a doctorate.