Ron Burnett is one of the world’s most distinguished academics in the areas of media, arts and communications.

Ron has served as president of the Emily Carr University of Art and Design since 1996. Recognized as one of the top art and design institutions in the world, he has raised the profile of the university and brought attention to the importance of the Arts to people’s well-being. Ron has also written three books, most recently, How Images Think.

Ron also had significant roles at Vanier College and McGill University in Montreal, York University in Toronto, LaTrobe University in Australia, University of Otago in New Zealand, and Ben Gurion University in Israel. Known for his work in media and distance education, Ron served on an “eminent persons panel” at UNESCO to provide advice on Internet resources in developing countries.

Ron was inducted to the Royal Academy of Art, has received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee medals and is a Member of the Order of Canada. In 2010, he was invested into France’s prestigious Ordre des Arts and des Lettres for his work to strengthen the cultural relationship between Canada and France.