Victoria Forum named among AACSB’s 2023 Innovations That Inspire

April 17, 2023

Victoria B.C. – The Victoria Forum, co-hosted by the University of Victoria and the Senate of Canada, has been named among the 2023 Innovations That Inspire by AACSB International, the world's largest business education network. The recognition comes in light of the Forum's innovative work in bringing diverse voices and leaders from around the world together to address today’s most pressing issues.

Founded in 2017 by UVic’s Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, the Victoria Forum brings together leaders and activists from diverse fields to stimulate new thinking and ideas in an increasingly divided world. The goal of the Forum is to find solutions to some of the world’s most divisive challenges, including pathways to bridging economic and environmental divides in an age of misinformation; the role of sport in bridging divides; and advancing truth, respect and reconciliation.

Now in its eighth year, the 2023 AACSB's Innovations That Inspire member spotlight program is recognizing institutional leaders who are creating the innovative business schools of tomorrow. The prestigious award highlights the Gustavson School of Business’s commitment to driving change through innovative solutions to challenges that have positive societal impact.

"It is an honour to receive this award and see the business school recognized for our commitment to creating positive change," says Saul Klein, dean of the Gustavson School of Business and chair of the Forum. "The results gathered from the Forum culminate in policy and practice  recommendations for leaders not just in Canada but around the world."

“The 2022 Forum brought together global thought leaders at the University of Victoria for deep and difficult conversations on the issues that divide us. Drawing inspiration from the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, the Forum's 2022 report comprises 38 recommendations, which are being disseminated to leaders across government, business and civil society. We remain resolute in our commitment to fostering ideas for a better world, and this recognition serves as a valuable asset in advancing the conversation on these crucial topics," explains Klein.

Gustavson is proud to be receiving this award for a third time, after being recognized in 2018 for its MBA for TELUS and in 2017 for the Whistler Experience.

To learn more about the Victoria Forum and its work, visit victoriaforum.ca