Keynote Address

Åsa Kachan

Åsa Kachan is the CEO & Chief Librarian for Halifax Public Libraries. In her role, she oversees 450 staff working across the 14 branch library system. Halifax Public Libraries recently received international acclaim with the opening of Halifax’s new Central Library, and continues to capture the attention of the community as they work to reach diverse populations and serve as a model of equality and respect. Prior to taking on the CEO role in November 2014, Åsa spent 16 years in senior administrative roles within universities, most recently serving 10 years as the Assistant Vice-President Enrolment Management & Registrar for Dalhousie University. During Åsa’s time at Dalhousie, she undertook critical transformations to improve the student experience, including revamping undergraduate scholarships and bursaries and improving front-line service.

Åsa volunteers her time with a number of community organizations, including serving as a Board Member and Chair of the Governance Committee of the United Way of Halifax, on the Board of Halifax Dance and the Halifax Grammar School. She was recently named a Circle of Justice Champion by the Michaëlle Jean Foundation.