Thompson Rivers University has named DeDe DeRose as its new chancellor, with her term beginning on March 1.

DeRose, a prominent advocate for Indigenous education, will be the fourth chancellor in TRU’s history as a university. She will take over from Nathan Matthew, who was appointed to the position in 2018 and was renewed for a second term in 2020.

A member of the Esk’etemc First Nation who was born in Williams Lake, DeRose was the B.C.’s first superintendent of Aboriginal Achievement and was also an educator and principal within Kamloops-Thompson School District.

“Her advocacy for the inclusion of Indigenous languages, history, and culture in the curriculum has been instrumental in fostering a more inclusive and comprehensive educational environment,” TRU said, in a statement.

Nancy Greene Raine served as TRU’s inaugural chancellor, having been in the position from 2004 until 2010. She was succeeded by Wally Oppal was appointed in 2010.

As chancellor, DeRose will preside over convocation ceremonies and serve as a member of the TRU Board of Governors and Senate.

DeRose will be formally installed as chancellor later this spring.