Luther Board Appoints New Principal-Dean

Penny Smiley, chair of the Board of Governors of Martin Luther University College (Luther), is pleased to announce on behalf of the Board that Rev. Dr. Daranne Harris has accepted the position of Principal-Dean. Her five-year term begins Aug. 10, 2026. The position was previously held by Rev. Dr. Lund, who is retiring after 26 years with Luther, the last sixyears as Principal-Dean. The Board thanks Kristine for her dedicated service and wishes her well.  

Harris brings to the role more than 25 years of leadership experience across congregational ministry, humanitarian aid and development, healthcare, and education organizations. An ordained ELCIC pastor, Daranne served as pastor at Hope Lutheran Church (Calgary) and as both interim and supply pastor during ministry transitions for multiple congregations in the Synod of Alberta and the Territories.  

Her work as Director of Communications and Education at Canadian Lutheran World Relief and as Vice President and Chief Mission Officer at Bethany Care Society reflects a deep commitment to the intersection of faith and public life that advances the well-being of communities and contributes to a more just and compassionate world. Daranne is currently the Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program and pastoral care faculty at the Saskatoon Theological Union, which encompasses Lutheran Theological Seminary, College of Emmanuel and St. Chad, and St. Andrew’s College. Her interdisciplinary scholarship explores the intersections of awe, compassion, healthcare practice, and pastoral theology.

                                            

Her appointment follows an international search that drew qualified applicants from across North America. The search committee, led by the Board Chair, with representation from the Eastern Synod, faculty, staff and board members, unanimously recommended her appointment, agreeing that her combination of pastoral, academic and leadership experience was well-suited to meet the challenges facing post-secondary education today. “I am delighted to welcome Dr. Harris as the new Principal-Dean at Luther."

Daranne brings a wealth of experience, which will serve us well as we move forward,” said Smiley. “I look forward to introducing Daranne to the college, our community and the congregations of the Eastern Synod”.

“I am excited to join Martin Luther University College in preparing leaders who can engage the challenges and opportunities of our time with thoughtful scholarship and spiritual depth,” said Harris.

“Luther’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity demonstrates that communities can be deeply rooted in their traditions and genuinely welcoming to people of different backgrounds and perspectives to learn with and from one another. I believe this model of community is one of Luther’s distinctive strengths and offers a form of leadership needed in our increasingly pluralistic world. I look forward to working together to deepen and extend this expression of learning and belonging.”

An installation service will be planned for the fall term, providing an opportunity for the faculty, staff, and broader community to welcome Rev. Dr. Harris to Luther.