Mary Stewart never planned on being a teacher, until she found herself in the first-ever Halq’eméylem class at the Stó:lō Shxwelí Halq’eméylem Language Program through the Stó:lō Nation Agency. She was 36, with a UFV Social Services diploma under her belt and a permanent job lined up. But when the opportunity came to learn Upriver…

The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) has a new president who brings a passion for changemaking to his new leadership role. Dr. James Mandigo has championed innovative initiatives such as One Health at UFV over the last six years. His leadership has encouraged UFV faculty, staff and students to make a difference in the…

After more than four decades in post-secondary education, including 13 at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), Dr. Joanne MacLean is ready for the next chapter of her life. Joanne is retiring as UFV president and vice-chancellor, stepping away with a sense of pride and peace. As she passes the torch on to Dr.…

When the Harrison Arts Festival kicks off July 11, a University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) alumnus will be in the middle of the action.   Bryan Cutler is the festival’s general manager, a role he’s held since 2016. He’s a driving force behind an amazing community event that’s now in its 46th year, a 10-day…

With support from the UFV community, Vincent Pagot achieved the dream of many a long-distance runner when he competed in the 2025 Boston Marathon.  The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon, dating back to 1897, and it’s been on Vincent’s radar since he took up running in 2013. Vincent, who works on UFV’s…

The University of the Fraser Valley welcomed the community to campus from June 10 to June 12 to celebrate Convocation over six ceremonies in its Athletic Centre. A total of 3,152 students earned credentials to graduate from UFV this academic year, and 1,601 attended Convocation and crossed the stage. Almost 6,000 guests attended Convocation over…

Jael Penner is a problem solver. Give her a computer and a challenge to overcome and watch her go. With a smile on her face and her fingers dancing across the keyboard, she’ll have a solution worked out in no time at all.  “It’s super rewarding and I kind of get a rush of adrenaline…

Roxy Granikovas has spent eight years at UFV building spaces where everyone can feel included. Now that they’re graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy (Honours), their efforts are being recognized with the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal. Each year, this award honours a student who’s made outstanding contributions in support of inclusion, democracy, or…

Thea Bramer of Mission had never heard of the Governor General’s Silver Medal award until she got the phone call telling her she’d be receiving it. After a 20-year break from school, the former administrative assistant came to UFV for a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care — and received the highest academic…

Eleanor Deacon is always looking for the next step, determined to keep learning and developing. In 2023, her quest for knowledge brought her to the University of the Fraser Valley, where she enrolled in the Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Mentorship program.  A teacher at a Chilliwack school, Eleanor graduates from the UFV…

Matthew Grant recently joined UFV’s Community Engagement team as Associate Vice-President, Community Engagement. He brings over 20 years of progressive leadership experience in community engagement, strategic partnerships, marketing, communications, public affairs, and enrollment planning within the post-secondary sector.   He joins UFV from Simon Fraser University, where he served as Executive Director of Community Engagement. There,…

Susannah Pierce didn’t plan to go into the energy industry. But her path took her that way and she thrived, both professionally and as a leader passionate about mentorship and social causes. In recognition of her accomplishments in the business world and her dedication to empowering the next generation, particularly young women, Susannah will receive…