The University of the Fraser Valley is launching its 50^th year with an exciting new UFV 50 Program Fund.

The product of a bold community vision and a determined, decade-long effort to bring that vision to life, UFV was introduced to the world on April 4, 1974, by then-Minister of Education Eileen Dailly. It evolved from the Fraser Valley College to the University College of the Fraser Valley, and now to the university we know today.

Over the next year, UFV revisits and celebrates that rich history as we mark our semi-centennial. Kicking off on April 4, 2024, with a ceremony commemorating 50 years since the announcement of UFV’s formation, festivities will continue into the fall and the new year, culminating in April 2025 with a community celebration and alumni reunion weekend.

“UFV has a special connection to the community that founded this institution,” says UFV President and Vice-Chancellor Joanne MacLean. “This anniversary is an opportunity to express gratitude and build pride and momentum as we start our next 50 years.”

To foster engagement and participation from the wider UFV community, the university is launching the UFV 50 Program Fund. This cornerstone of UFV’s anniversary plan encourages grant applications, ranging from $500 to $5,000, to support vibrant and diverse anniversary projects.

Laura Authier, Associate Vice-President of Community Engagement, is leading the rollout of 50th-anniversary celebrations.

“We have some exciting programs launching in the next year,” she says, “I’ve heard from many people who have amazing ideas to mark the occasion. The UFV 50 Program Fund will make it possible to bring those ideas to life.”

The fund welcomes applications from university departments, units, and officially recognized student organizations for programs or projects that take place within the 50^th anniversary year. There will be two rounds of application intake: January 15 to February 11, 2024, and June 3 ‒30, 2024. Proposals will be assessed for their audience engagement and for alignment with the goals of UFV 50 and those of UFV’s Integrated Strategic Plan.

Applications for the current cycle are open online until midnight on February 11. Click here for the form.

An information session for the UFV 50 Program Fund will be held on Zoom on Wednesday, January 24. Register online.