Welcome
‘Uy’ skweyul (Good Day)
Welcome to Vancouver Island University! I gratefully acknowledge the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, Snaw’naw’as and Qualicum peoples on whose traditional lands we teach, learn, research, live and share knowledge.
I am humbled and excited by the opportunity to help lead VIU on the next stage of its journey. I’m inspired by the innovative ways this institution engages with learners and communities, and works to create opportunities for those who might not otherwise have access to post-secondary education. I’m excited to continue with this important work – and build on it.
At VIU, students have access to a high-quality education that features small class sizes, individualized supports and an emphasis on community-based and hands-on learning opportunities. Education is a truly transformative experience, and the best part of my job is watching students use their newfound knowledge to make a difference in the world.
We are proud to host the second-largest percentage of Indigenous learners of any post-secondary institution across BC. We also host a large number of international students from more than 90 countries, ensuring we provide a truly global community.
VIU is a place where all are welcome and all belong, and that sense of community extends to the President’s Office. If you see me on campus, please come and say hello. I look forward to hearing all of your stories, learning more about what you think makes this place special, and how we can better support you.
Hy’chqa Si’em / Thank you very much,
Deborah Saucier
President and Vice-Chancellor
Vancouver Island University
Dr. Deb Saucier
Vancouver Island University's new President Dr. Deb Saucier says her first hello to the community.
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Three Things
Canadian Multiculturalism Day and Canada Day
As we approach the long weekend, I would like to recognize Canadian Multiculturalism Day this week and share some thoughts as we approach Canada Day.
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President’s Message - Pride Month
At VIU, we recognize June as Pride Month. It is a celebration of people coming together in love, diversity and inclusivity to show the progress of 2SLGBTQ+ rights while also acknowledging their history and the hardships. I celebrate our 2SLGBTQ+ students, faculty, and employees and share in the e
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Recognizing Indigenous History Month
In June, VIU recognizes National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. We do this by acknowledging the rich history, heritage, culture, resilience, contributions and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada.
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Recognizing Asian Heritage Month
May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada, an opportunity to recognize the many achievements and contributions of all Canadians of Asian descent and all Asian cultures.
Read MoreRecognizing International Women's Day
Today, Tuesday, March 8, is International Women’s Day, celebrating women and girls’ social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It is also a time to raise awareness, take action for women’s equality, and work towards a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
Read MoreA message of support regarding the situation in Ukraine
Sent on behalf of President Dr. Deborah Saucier and Carolyn Russell, AVP International Education
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A blog for February
February 1 marked two occasions – Lunar New Year and the start of Black History Month. Although they may appear to be superficially dissimilar, they serve to remind us of the diversity of those in our communities.
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A blog for December
Thinking about the state of the world these days, it is easy to think of Dicken’s quote from the Tale of Two Cities, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief
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October thoughts
Pumpkin spice season is in full gear. The sun is coming up noticeably later, and the colour of the light has changed. And the semester is well underway. September flew by in the blink of an eye.
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