About me
Gohar Ashoughian joined Simon Fraser University (SFU) as Dean of Libraries and University Librarian in November 2024. She provides strategic and executive leadership for SFU’s multi-campus library system, which includes the W.A.C. Bennett Library (Burnaby), Belzberg Library (Vancouver), and Fraser Library (Surrey). In this role, she is responsible for shaping and executing the Library’s strategic vision to support research, teaching, and learning. She establishes the Library’s priorities, policies, and initiatives in alignment with SFU’s academic and research mission.
A strong advocate for inclusivity, reconciliation, and accessibility, Gohar champions initiatives that enhance library services, expand Open Access, support digital scholarship, and foster interdisciplinary research collaboration. She is committed to strengthening partnerships within SFU and with external stakeholders, including national and international library consortia.
Before joining SFU, Gohar served as University Librarian and Archivist at Wilfrid Laurier University (2012–2023), where she played a transformative role in reshaping the Laurier Library. Under her leadership, the library evolved into a dynamic hub for learning, research, and cultural engagement. She spearheaded organizational change and strategic planning that strengthened the Library’s role as an intellectual and cultural center on campus. One of her most visionary achievements was the successful integration of the Wilfrid Laurier University Press (WLUP) and the Robert Langen Art Gallery (RLAG) into the Library system, ensuring the sustainability of these vital cultural resources. Additionally, Gohar led the Laurier Library Indigenous Mural Project, completed in 2023 in collaboration with the Laurier Office of Indigenous Initiatives and RLAG. Titled One Heart. One Mind. One Vision., the mural stands as a powerful symbol of reconciliation and Indigenous placemaking, reflecting over a decade of advocacy for the recognition and celebration of Indigenous art and culture.
Prior to her tenure at Laurier, Gohar served as University Librarian at the University of Northern British Columbia (2009–2012) and as Associate University Librarian for Collection Services and Assessment at the University of Regina (2007–2009). Beyond her university leadership roles, Gohar is actively engaged in professional organizations. As Dean of Libraries, she represents SFU in CRKN, CARL, ARL, COPPUL, CPSLD, BCLN, and several other national and international professional associations. She has also served on the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) Executive Committee and was Vice President/President-Elect of the Ontario Library Association.
Originally from Armenia, Gohar earned her Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) and Advanced Certificate in Library and Information Science from Louisiana State University.
