Oxford : The Rhodes Trust has announced the appointment of Chrystia Freeland as the next Warden of Rhodes House and CEO of the Rhodes Trust, effective July 1, 2026. She will succeed Professor Sir Rick Trainor KBE, who has served as Interim Warden since January 2025.
A Rhodes Scholar from Alberta who first arrived at Oxford in 1991, Freeland brings a distinguished background as a senior Canadian political leader, acclaimed journalist, and award-winning author. Her career spans roles as Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and senior leadership positions in global journalism.
Trust officials say Freeland’s international experience and record of driving change make her an ideal fit for the role. Freeland called the appointment an “honour and privilege,” saying her own Rhodes Scholarship was transformative and shaped her global outlook.
The Rhodes Trust, best known for its world-renowned scholarship program at the University of Oxford, says it looks forward to strengthening its impact under her leadership.