Dr. Fiona Li appointed as Inaugural Holder of Archbishop J. Michael Miller Chair in Catholic Studies  

Jun 17, 2024

St. Mark’s College at UBC proudly announces the selection of Dr. Fiona Li as the inaugural holder of the Archbishop J. Michael Miller Chair in Catholic Studies, following an extensive international search.  

In recognition of Archbishop Miller’s dedication to Catholic education, the Archbishop J. Michael Miller Chair in Catholic Studies was created in 2023. As Corpus Christi-St. Mark’s and supporting donors honour Archbishop Miller’s impact on the Archdiocese of Vancouver, the establishment of this endowed faculty position will allow his vision and passion for Catholic higher education to inspire generations to come.  

Dr. Li is well-positioned to fulfill the mandate of this new role. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto, a conjoint Master of Theological Studies and a conjoint Master of Theology from the University of St. Michael’s College and the University of Toronto, a Licentiate in Sacred Theology from Regis College and a conjoint Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies from Regis College and the University of Toronto. Drawing from her diverse educational experiences, including studies at Basilian and Jesuit universities, Dr. Li brings a comprehensive understanding of the rich intellectual traditions that underpin Corpus Christi-St. Mark’s.  

She currently works as the Associate Director of the Fraser Centre for Practical Theology at Regis College and served on the Editorial Team for the Canadian Journal of Theology, Mental Health and Disability.  

Dr. Li’s primary area of theological interest is Mariology, an area where St. Mark’s does not yet offer any courses, although it is a focus often desired by students. Her doctoral thesis, “Exploring the Image of Mary as Bridge-Builder (Pontifex) for Contemporary Contextual Theology,” exemplifies her innovative approach to theological discourse.