December 12, 2023
Aanii. Greetings.
I’m excited to connect with each one of you— students, staff, instructors, faculty, alumni, donors, and other members of our community—as we reflect upon all that we have accomplished this calendar year, define our aspirations for the year ahead, and wind down, looking forward to resting and rejuvenating over the holiday season.
Throughout the year, the Faculty of Education has been bustling with innovative, dynamic and diverse activities. From opening a new NITEP field centre in Lake Babine to launching Canada’s first early childhood education certificate program for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people to uplifting Black flourishing through a cluster search for Black scholars and educators, and so much more. Collectively, we are supporting a thriving community on our campuses and beyond.
I recognize that the holiday season can bring about many different emotions, and it’s important that we take care of one another to foster a community of care. I invite you to extend a helping hand to those around you. Through small acts of kindness, we nurture our own spirits and strengthen our community’s wellbeing.
I would also like to take a moment to reflect on the many challenges and uncertainties that many members of our communities are weathering. From witnessing social inequities and injustice, to navigating wildfires in central British Columbia, to experiencing the impact of ongoing geopolitical crises, I am proud of the commitment to support one another through difficult times. The remarkable acts of resilience that have emerged from our collective are shaping a future that is defined by cooperation, compassion, and a shared goal to building a better world for generations to come.
The Faculty of Education embodies the vision to inspire people, ideas, and actions through education for a more equitable and just world. Let us draw inspiration from the impactful stories within our Faculty, especially as we learn, teach, and engage in research and work on our Okanagan and Vancouver campuses, field centres, and sites of engagement across Canada and around the world.
As we carry bright hopes for the year ahead, I extend my warmest wishes for a safe and restful winter break. Enjoy the Faculty’s holiday video, including a collection of candid snapshots, cherished moments, and special occasions captured by our community.
Miigwech. Thank you. All the best.
