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University of Victoria

President's Update - October 2026

October 27, 2026

flashmobwelcome

My first two weeks at the helm of the University of Victoria have been a memorable whirlwind of activity and engagement. The following is not an extensive list, just a few highlights from what has kept me busy in October.

My UVic Welcome

  • I received an incredible welcome in the form of a flash mob from the UVic Caribbean community, i-Land Fest, and the Vancouver Island Caribbean Club.  
  • I want to thank the Elders of the Elder’s Voices program at the First People’s House for our meeting on my first day and for sharing their wisdom, knowledge and advice. Thank you for the work you do to support our students and programs every day. 
  • I look forward to the upcoming Installation and Convocation events. What an exciting time of year!

Visiting our campus

  • I toured the campus, popping into student spaces like the Cove, the Student Union Building, Grad House, and Jamie Cassels Centre, chatting with students along the way. 
  • ⁠I had the chance to thank our hard-working staff and faculty at the Long Service Awards. We are so fortunate to have talented and engaged staff and faculty in every area and every department. Your collective dedication makes UVic really shine. 

Travel to Ottawa

  • I was in Ottawa at the Universities Canada Fall Membership Meeting representing the University of Victoria.
  • I was able to meet with alumni and connect with senior government to help move some of our strategic priorities forward and learn about new opportunities. 
  • It was wonderful to metaphorically raise the UVic flag at this conference and engage with so many during my time there. 

BC Elections

  • A new chapter for British Columbia begins following the results of the provincial election. Congratulations to Lorne Doerkson and the Conservative Party of British Columbia on their election victory. This is also the beginning of a new chapter for me as President and Vice-Chancellor of UVic. I look forward to welcoming our provincial and municipal partners to UVic and working together on the opportunities that will shape British Columbia’s future.