The university experience is about more than attending lectures, completing assignments, and studying for exams. At least it can be, if students take advantage of the extracurricular and volunteer opportunities available.

Students at the University of the Fraser Valley have been able to engage in many leadership opportunities thanks to the support offered by the Coast Capital Savings Student Leadership Institute.

Coast Capital Savings has provided a quarter million dollars in funding for the institute and associated student leadership opportunities at UFV over the past five years.

At the recent launch of UFV student leadership magazine The Standout, Coast Capital Savings was recognized for the donation and for being a committed partner of UFV.

“We are deeply grateful for this support,” said UFV President Mark Evered, “We all benefit from the inspired leadership shown by Coast Capital Savings. I know that our students value this investment in their futures, but we should also recognize this donation as in investment in the future of the communities these well-trained young leaders will serve.”

Paul Brady, Director of Retail, Investment and Insurance Services for Coast Capital Savings, commended UFV for its efforts in the area of student leadership at the recent ceremony.

“You are helping students and we are proud to help you do so,” he said. “Developing leaders is not just good for the students and the university, it’s good for the community. UFV has shown great foresight in developing the leadership institute and the programs that go along with it. You are giving to your communities and inspiring others to do so.”

A UFV Student Life initiative, the Coast Capital Savings Student Leadership Institute provides numerous leadership opportunities for 450 students over the course of the academic year.

This internationally recognized leadership program challenges students to apply proven leadership techniques through experiential learning activities. These experiences lead to the development of life-long leadership skills.

Students who have participated in leadership programs supported by the institute say that the experience has enriched them.

“The leadership retreat was an amazing learning experience for me,” notes Sunny Kim, a criminology student. “Making life-long connections with other student leaders seemed effortless because of how the retreat was organized. The activities prepared by the retreat organizers allowed me to easily connect with others and learn from every individual leader. As well, the presentations allowed me to reflect on my personal leadership skills and think about ways in which I can apply these skills on campus. Not to mention, the entire process was ridiculously fun!”

“As I approach the end of my nursing program, I would like to continue empowering fellow nursing students to develop their own identities as individuals and as a health care professionals, while encouraging them to do the same for others,” said UFV nursing student Tony Chae.

The Coast Capital Savings Student Leadership Institute encourages personal development through experiential learning. Activities include UFV’s recently launched co-curricular record, the Student Ambassador program, the Student Leadership Challenge program, internal and external student leadership conferences and retreats, The Standout (a magazine highlighting student and alumni leaders), the Leadership Speaker Series and an Evening of Recognition event.