University of the Fraser Valley

CHASI recognized by Members of the Legislative Assembly in Victoria

CHASI recognized by Members of the Legislative Assembly in Victoria

Community Engagement, Community Health and Social Innovation Hub, Current, enews, featured
Members of CHASI gather in BC’s Legislative Building following an invitation from MLA and Agriculture & Food Minister Pam Alexis.

UFV’s Community Health and Social Innovation (CHASI) Hub was recently invited to British Columbia’s capital by Pam Alexis, MLA for Abbotsford-Mission and BC’s Minister of Agriculture and Food, to recognize their important work in fostering student-centred and community engaged research.

Joined by CHASI director Dr. Martha Dow and UFV’s Vice-President of Community Engagement Susan Mide Kiss, ten students and staff were given a private tour of the Parliament Buildings, met with MLAs, and heard their names read in the Legislative Chamber by Minister Alexis.

The Feb 21-22 invitation was an opportunity to shine a spotlight on CHASI’s work throughout the Fraser Valley and beyond.

Susan Mide Kiss (second from right) walks up to Victoria’s Parliament Buildings with CHASI members on Thursday, Feb 22.

“CHASI’s model of student and community engagement is different, and to have that recognized in such a special way was incredibly meaningful to the entire team,” Dow said.

Senior student research assistant Miranda Erickson said the occasion was a highlight of her UFV experience.

“Having the opportunity to see the work that CHASI has been doing, that I have been a part of, getting recognized and applauded in the BC Legislature was amazing,” she said.

“I never imagined when I started my university career that I would end up here.”

Dow said the experience was a powerful affirmation of the role that CHASI plays in partnering with community on initiatives that support evidence-based approaches to complex social issues.

Mide Kiss noted CHASI’s collaborative and multi-sectoral research offers a strong example of UFV’s commitment to community connection.

“It was so inspiring to see CHASI’s incredible student researchers being recognized for their invaluable work,” she said.

“Their commitment to healthier, safer, and more inclusive communities aligns incredibly well with UFV’s mission of engaging learners, transforming lives, and building community.”

CHASI’s recognition in the Legislature can be viewed on X (formerly Twitter) here: x.com/UFVChasiHub/status/1760764755055350183?s=20

See photos of the CHASI experience here: flickr.com/photos/ufv/albums/72177720315001371