Concordia's Executive Committee of the Board has recommended that Dr. Fred Lowy, who served as president from 1995 to 2005, resume the position on an interim basis.
If approved by the full Board of Governors, Lowy could take up his post before the end of January, replacing Dr. Judith Woodsworth, who resigned in December.
In an open letter Monday to Concordia students and staff, Board Chairman Peter Kruyt said Lowy will lead efforts to strengthen the board's relationship with senior administration and the Concordia community.
"Clearly, there is some work to be done in this area as a result of recent events," he said in the statement.
Controversy has swirled since Woodsworth's resignation shortly before Christmas, with some faculty calling for an inquiry into the way the university is governed.
Critics have argued the university has failed to provide the real reason for Woodswoth's resignation, and speculation has run rampant on why she suddenly left the post midway through her term.
In the letter, Kruyt said Lowy was selected by the executive after a review of the 21 candidates suggested.
"He brings experience, deep knowledge about Concordia's mission, values and strategic initiatives, and personal qualities that will help ensure a continuity of vision and leadership," Kruyt said.
The full letter is available on Concordia's website.
