After leading Sault College as president for a two-year term, David Orazietti has officially retired. The Sault College Board of Governors informed CBC Sault Ste. Marie that Orazietti chose to step down from his position. The Board expressed gratitude for Orazietti’s contributions to the college during his tenure.
Following a leave of absence since the summer, Orazietti’s departure led to Sherri Smith being appointed as the interim president until further notice. The Board of Governors expressed confidence in President Smith’s leadership abilities to guide the college through this transitional phase.
Orazietti, who previously served as the Liberal MPP for Sault Ste. Marie for 13 years, held various ministerial positions in the governments of Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne. He assumed the role of Sault College’s sixth president in 2023, succeeding Ron Common.
In a notable incident last year, Orazietti was embroiled in a $200,000 defamation lawsuit initiated by Conestoga College president John Tibbits. Tibbits had referred to Orazietti as a “whore” in response to comments made by Orazietti regarding colleges relying on high international student tuition fees. Tibbits later issued an apology on behalf of Conestoga College for his remarks.
The Board of Governors emphasized their commitment to supporting students, staff, and the community as Sault College strives for stability and remains dedicated to its mission.