In the bustling corridors of academia, where dreams are nurtured and futures shaped, one figure stands tall, embodying the essence of visionary leadership: Dr. Gervan Fearon, the President of Toronto’s George Brown College. His wise words and thoughtful actions are a testament to his humble yet profound approach to leadership. This ethos has earned him a coveted spot among “The 10 Most Visionary Education Leaders to Follow in 2024.”
Beyond the glossy metrics of success garnered through a long career of post-secondary education leadership, Gervan’s journey is one revelatory of perseverance and empathy. From humble beginnings to the prestigious roles of his later career, his path has been paved with challenges, each one offering invaluable lessons in resilience and compassion. As he navigates the labyrinth of education, Gervan’s heart beats to the rhythm of inclusivity and innovation, infusing every decision with a deep-rooted commitment to uplifting voices often unheard. At George Brown College, his touch is felt not just in policies and strategies but in the warmth of a community united in purpose. Through his leadership, Gervan crafts not just leaders but compassionate stewards of tomorrow, each imbued with the spirit of service and empathy.
In a world often defined by numbers and accolades, Gervan’s story serves as a poignant reminder that true success lies in the bonds we forge and the lives we touch along the way.
Definition of Success, Beyond Enrollment
This skilled academic luminary defines success in an education system beyond metrics such as simply increasing enrollment rates. Gervan emphasizes the importance of looking at the bigger picture. He believes a successful education system fosters the full inclusion of all people, from students to faculty and leadership. Just getting people in the door isn’t enough; there needs to be mechanisms that ensure all groups are included and can thrive and reach leadership positions. This perspective highlights the significance of dismantling barriers that might prevent some groups from achieving their full potential within the education system. It also establishes strategic priorities, policies and programs that incentivize innovation and the full engagement of each individual in the success of the institution, as gateway to the broader engagement in society.
Learning from Discomfort: Gervan’s Core Competency
Gervan is a firm believer in learning from roadblocks. He emphasizes that “Finding comfort in discomfort is equally important as finding comfort in what is comfortable” as a crucial skill. Past challenges may have forced him into uncomfortable situations. However, this veteran views these experiences as positive. They honed his ability to navigate such complexities, a skill he considers essential for future success. Gervan sees this adaptability and optimism as core competencies.
George Brown College: Transforming Lives Since 1968
Founded in 1968, George Brown College has blossomed into one of Canada’s leading post-secondary institutions with more than 26,000 full-time students and 53,500 continuing education
students from across Canada, and more than 100 countries around the world. Its thriving alumni community of over 280,000 individuals is a testament to the college’s impact on businesses, communities, and individual lives.
Under Gervan’s leadership, George Brown promotes a dynamic learning environment rooted in innovation, excellence, and inclusivity. Students gain practical skills through hands-on learning experiences, preparing them to be adaptable professionals in a rapidly changing world. The college prioritizes collaboration, diversity, and community engagement, positioning itself as a leader in the development of the next generation of skilled and socially responsible leaders.
The college’s mission is to translate learning into opportunity. Its focus on outstanding student experiences, inclusive career-oriented educational programs, excellence in community engagement, and research and innovation, reflects this commitment.
Guiding Growth: Gervan’s Impact at George Brown College
Gervan’s multifaceted expertise has propelled George Brown College’s growth and success to new heights – ensuring that the college remains true to its mission, serving as a learning center and a springboard for opportunity. Drawing from his rich academic journey, spanning from a Ph.D. to various leadership roles in post-secondary education, Gervan leverages invaluable insights into the intricate workings of educational institutions. His entrenched commitment to community engagement, evidenced by his active involvement in various community boards, underscores the significance of fostering partnerships between the college, industry, and government.
Gervan’s commitment derives from his lived experience. During his formative years, Gervan worked in a factory and on a farm, and his experiences there fostered a direct connection with the college’s initiatives in advanced manufacturing and the food sector. While working on the farm, he collaborated with a fellow student to develop a mathematical economic model of the farm enterprises and went on to teach his teach a third-year mathematical economic based course even prior to completing his master’s degree. This unique blend of academic rigor and practical know-how has allowed him to bridge the gap between theory and application.At the core of Gervan’s leadership philosophy lies a dedication to nurturing a culture of innovation and integrity within his team. Through extensive consultation with students, faculty, and staff, Gervan ensures that strategic plans and priorities are aligned with the institution’s core values and the needs of its stakeholders. This collaborative approach fosters innovation and upholds the integrity of the college’s mission, ultimately contributing to its continued growth and success.
Life Before George Brown College
Before joining George Brown, Gervan held leadership roles in the university sector, serving as the president and vice-chancellor at both Brock University and Brandon University in Manitoba (where he was also provost and vice-president, academic).
During Gervan’s tenure at Brandon, he was the first Black Canadian to be president of a university. He recalls how he responded when someone asked him how that felt.
“I wanted to make sure that I did the work well, and that I would not be the last or only Black president appointed at a Canadian university or college. It has been gratifying to see others now also being appointed to these roles,” recalled Gervan.
His journey to president included being dean of the G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education at Toronto Metropolitan University, and associate dean at York University’s Atkinson Faculty of Liberal and Professional Studies.
Gervan has also contributed to public service, working as the executive assistant to the deputy minister at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and as a senior analyst at the Treasury Board, Ontario Ministry of Finance.
He began his professional career in Pennsylvania with Chase Econometrics, then a Division of Chase Manhattan Bank, as a research associate on their Canadian agricultural services team.
Additionally, Gervan has been actively involved in various community boards and initiatives, such as the Ontario Trillium Foundation, United Way Niagara, and the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto.
Gervan holds a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Western Ontario, along with master’s and bachelor’s degrees in agricultural economics from the University of Guelph. He is also a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CGA) and holds the Institute of Corporate Directors designation (ICD.D).
Vision for Empowering Students
This senior educator isn’t just passionate about education; he’s zealous about shaping the leaders of tomorrow. He believes that guiding the next generation goes beyond textbooks and tests. “Positively influencing the leaders of tomorrow means supporting the students of today,” he says. Gervan’s vision encompasses the whole student experience – facilitating their academic and career goals, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being, and immersing them in the vibrant and welcoming community of George Brown. He recognizes the immense responsibility of shaping future leaders and comprehends the salience of collaboration in achieving this significant undertaking.
The Best Recognition as a Leader
Gervan recalls his most fulfilling recognition, not as an award or title, but as a personal connection made at a fundraiser.A parent approached him a year ago at an event for the Augmented Education program. This program supports students with diverse backgrounds, including those who have struggled with mental health or addiction. The parent expressed their deep gratitude, acknowledging that the program didn’t just benefit their child but their entire family and community. It opened doors to opportunities they never imagined. This heartfelt appreciation stands out as a testament to Gervan’s impact as an educational leader – his dedication to programs that empower not just students but their entire support system.
George Brown’s Bold Future
The President’s vision for George Brown College is one of continuous evolution, building upon the institution’s established strengths. Strategy 2026 serves as the foundation, solidifying George Brown’s commitment to high-quality education, inclusivity, experiential learning, strong industry partnerships, and its prime location in Toronto. These pillars will propel them towards a future focused on exceptional student experiences, career-oriented programs that cater to diverse needs, and research excellence.
Looking ahead, Gervan and the George Brown community are setting their sights even further. With Vision 2040 in development and core values undergoing revision, the college is actively forming its long-term trajectory. We can expect even bolder steps towards inclusivity, innovative learning approaches, and a continued dedication to molding industry-ready graduates. George Brown College recently expanded its Waterfront campus, making George Brown College one of the Toronto’s most prominent waterfront educational institutions and a showcase recognized around the world. This bold step is being coupled with a focus on academic programs, research and community and international partnership engagement to build a future institution that supports the success of our students and our effectiveness in meeting societal and labour market needs.
“Going forward, the big issues of global warming, building and maintaining inclusive societies, and artificial intelligence, will require bold leardership on the part of all of us,” says Gervan. “We need to recognize that our students of today will be the decision-makers of tomorrow, addressing these challenges facing humanity. If humanity is still struggling with issues of inclusion and social harmony, how will we deal with global and technological issues, that do not discriminate in the vastness and gravity of their impacts?”
A Day in the Life of President Gervan Fearon
Gervan’s role as President extends beyond administrative duties. He leads the development of George Brown’s strategic direction, nurturing an educational environment prioritizing academic excellence and groundbreaking ideas. Every day brings opportunities to collaborate with faculty, staff, and students, determining the college’s future together. He actively participates in key decisions and champions the college’s commitment to quality education and positive community impact on various platforms.
Approach to Work-Life Balance and Team Motivation
His dedication to education might lead some to believe his work-life balance is non-existent. However, Gervan highlights that his passion for teaching fuels him, not drains him. He prioritizes personal time, using it to explore new interests. Ten years ago, he took on a new challenge of learning the saxophone. Doing so revitalized him personally and professionally.
“I firmly believe that when we take on challenges with curiosity and rigor, stretching our sense of our own capacity, we can better maintain our motivation as individuals and as a team,” he states. This philosophy extends to his leadership approach. By encouraging his team to embrace fresh challenges and continuously develop their skill sets, Gervan boosts a culture of continuous learning and shared enthusiasm. This ensures the team stays motivated and delivers exceptional services, propelling George Brown College to even greater heights.
Personal Goal
Gervan isn’t content with simply imparting knowledge. His personal goals paint a vivid picture of an individual driven by the desire to make a significant difference. He aspires to be a transformative force, not just in the lives of his students but also within his community, family, and on a global scale. He actively seeks to “build his capacity and use his capacity” – a powerful aspiration that highlights his pledge to seek continuous growth, and his passion for using his knowledge and skills to empower others. He is a champion for the institutions within which he works, fostering a culture that elevates not just academic excellence but also the well-being of the entire community. Gervan is dyslexic so some of his personal goals, such as reading effectively out loud, might be irrelevant hurdles for others. He sees personal goals as neither big nor small – they are simply things for which we have passion and we aim to accomplish within a given time period. Ultimately, Gervan works to contribute to experiences that celebrate the multifaceted nature of humanity, nurturing well-rounded citizens who will contribute to a flourishing society.
Message for Aspiring Leaders in the Education Industry
Aspiring leaders in the education field, take note! Gervan wants them to understand the profound impact their decisions have on individuals and society. He urges them to cultivate a deep understanding of how their choices affect the lives of others – a quality he terms “direct empathy.” This awareness, he argues, is crucial for making effective decisions. Ultimately, Gervan challenges these aspirants to define their leadership style. Explaining things, Gervan shares: “At one time, I structured myself to be a transformative leader. But today, I’d think of myself as a coach leader. If I can support the team and others in accomplishing their goals, and institutions in inclusively benefitting communities and humanity, I think I’ve succeeded as a leader.”
So, aspiring leaders must ditch the cape and grab the coaching playbook. Gervan challenges them to be the kind of leaders who inspire others to reach their full potential. The future of education hinges on their ability to guide and support, not dictate and control.
