Simon Fraser University has appointed Gohar Ashoughian dean of libraries and university librarian for a five-year term beginning November 15, 2024.
Gohar brings over two decades of experience from a variety of senior leadership roles at several universities both within British Columbia and across Canada, including her most recent role as university librarian and archivist at Wilfrid Laurier University.
Beyond her university roles, Gohar is deeply involved in professional organizations. She currently serves as vice president/president-elect of the Ontario Library Association and is a member of the HathiTrust Board of Governors. Additionally, she has held leadership roles on the Ontario Council of University Libraries Executive Committee.
Gohar is pursuing an EdD in educational leadership–higher education from Western University. She holds a certificate of advanced study in library and information science (LIS) and an MLIS from Louisiana State University, as well as a diploma of higher education with distinction from the Armenian State Pedagogical University.
At Simon Fraser University, Gohar will succeed Gwen Bird, who will end her term as dean of libraries and university librarian on October 11 after leading the libraries for 10 years. Mark Jordan will be stepping in as dean pro tem October 12–November 14.
For more information about this transition, see the Simon Fraser University news release, “A New Dean of Libraries and University Librarian—Gohar Ashoughian.”
