Dr. Tom Phenix

President, Luther College, Regina

Welcome to Luther College at the University of Regina

Education changed the trajectory of my life. It shaped who I am. And it is that transformative potential — the power to unlock possibility, to change not just what we know but who we become; that has guided my entire career and my leadership here at Luther College. I have made it my mission to bring that same transformative experience to others.

Luther College is rooted in a tradition that sees education not simply as the transfer of knowledge but as the formation of the whole person — mind, heart, and spirit. Rooted in the liberal arts and the Lutheran intellectual tradition, we believe that questions matter more than answers, that curiosity is a form of courage, and that education is a lifelong calling. We are rooted in a history that has shaped leaders for generations: leaders who think critically, act with compassion, and serve with purpose.

And we are open to new knowledge and new ways of thinking, open to diverse perspectives and lived experiences, open to people of every background and worldview. We are open to the complexity of the world and to the work of reconciliation in this place. Our openness is not just a value — it is a vital part of how we prepare our students to meet a changing world with intelligence, empathy, and resilience.

From these roots and this openness flows our mission: to prepare students to be compassionate, creative, and critical thinkers through academic excellence and a community of care that is rooted in our call to love and serve our neighbors. This mission is both timeless and urgent – reminding us that learning is not only about achievement but about becoming people who use knowledge for the good of others.

And our vision points us forward: Luther College makes transformative change for a more grace-filled, just, and joyful world. It is a vision that invites us to see education as an act of hope – the conviction that when minds are opened and hearts are formed, the world itself can be renewed.

We base our daily work in a set of shared values – the principles that guide how we teach, how we serve, and how we treat one another. Those values: Excellence; Compassion; Care and Stewardship; Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion; and integrity are not decorative. They are the promises we make to one another, the compass by which we chart our course.

We also know that higher education is changing. Demographics are shifting. Policies are evolving and resources are tightening. Student needs are becoming more complex. We will respond to these needs by being:

A community of care. Students will be known by name. Faculty and staff will have the support and resources they need to do their best work. We will take mental health, belonging, and academic integrity seriously — not as add-ons, but as the foundation of excellence.

Student-ready and future-ready. Our programs will remain rigorous and relevant — grounded in the liberal arts and connected to real-world challenges. We will expand experiential opportunities, enhance educational experiences, and create pathways from classroom to career that equip our graduates to make a difference.

Fiscally responsible and mission bold. Stewardship is an act of hope — managing today wisely so that tomorrow is possible. We will make disciplined decisions, invest where impact is greatest, and seek partnerships that amplify our strengths. Sustainability and ambition will go hand in hand.

Partners in reconciliation and community building. We will listen with humility, support Indigenous learners, and integrate learning about this land’s histories and future possibilities into the fabric of our institution. We will be good neighbours — engaged with our city, our faith communities, our alumni, and our partners.

Transparent and collaborative. The best solutions emerge when we bring our expertise, diversity and goodwill to the same table. I will communicate openly, welcome honest dialogue, and strive to ensure that every decision we make is understood – even if some disagree with the decision.

The world needs graduates who can think critically, act compassionately, bridge divides, and persevere when the way is hard. Luther has been forming such people for generations. Together, we will continue to do so — faithfully, creatively, and boldly.