Odumosu-Ayanu appointed new dean of USask Law

Dr. Ibironke Odumosu-Ayanu (PhD) has been appointed dean of the University of Saskatchewan College of Law (USask Law) for a five-year term beginning October 1.

She is currently associate dean, research and graduate studies at the college.

The announcement was made Tuesday by Patti McDougall, interim provost and vice-president, academic and chair of the search committee for the new dean.

“Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu's appointment as dean reflects a distinguished record of academic excellence, collaborative leadership, and dedication to advancing research and graduate education,” Dr. McDougall stated in an announcement shared with USask Law faculty and staff and USask leadership.

“Her work as dean will continue to build on the College of Law’s strong reputation for excellence in legal education and research, while strengthening its leadership in Indigenous legal scholarship and engagement with local and global communities.”

Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu assumes her new role after Martin Phillipson wrapped up two five-year terms as dean and began administrative leave on July 1.

Professor Doug Surtees (LLB'87, LLM'94), who has been acting as interim dean, will continue in the role until Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu begins her term. Dr. McDougall thanked him for his stable and thoughtful leadership throughout the summer.

She also thanked the search committee for its work. Her announcement also included the following biography of Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu.

“Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu has been a valued member of the College of Law since 2008, where she currently serves as a professor and associate dean, research and graduate studies. Bringing an academic foundation that spans legal education and research in both Nigeria and Canada, she holds an LLB degree from the University of Lagos, an LLM degree from the University of Calgary, and a PhD from the University of British Columbia.

“Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu is an internationally recognized scholar in business and human rights, international investment law, and natural resource governance, and has helped to build collaborative research networks spanning continents and institutions.

“Alongside her extensive scholarly work, Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu is a deeply dedicated teacher and mentor who regularly supervises graduate students in law and interdisciplinary programs. Her excellence in student support has been recognized by a Provost's College Award for Outstanding Teaching (2012) and the USask InterD Advisor Award (2026).

“She is also active in academic and community spaces across Saskatchewan and Canada, having served on the boards of various professional associations, academic journals, and community organizations, including the Saskatchewan Intercultural Association.”

Read more about Dr. Odumosu-Ayanu in this February 2026 article that was featured during Black History Month.