Since opening in 1974, more than 50,000 students have graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV). They’ve collectively gone on to become leaders in B.C., Canada, and far beyond, and many of them returned to UFV on April 4 and 5 for the Alumni & Friends Weekend, reconnecting with the university that helped them grow into who they were meant to become.

The weekend also marked the conclusion of a year of 50th anniversary celebrations. At an alumni reception on Friday night, Dr. Joanne MacLean, UFV President and Vice-Chancellor, spoke about the university’s deep connections and contributions to the communities it serves.

“For half a century, UFV has been a hub for research, innovation, arts, and culture,” she said. “It’s helped build our community, preparing architects, tradespeople, healthcare professionals and more for success in their fields. Ask a local nurse, teacher, mechanic or business owner where they got their education. The answer is almost always UFV.”

Throughout the past year the university has recognized some of its most influential alumni through the 50 Remarkable Alumni project — a series of stories showcasing the impact they’ve made since graduating.

Tony Dhaliwal, a UFV alumnus and chair of the UFV Alumni Association, said the campaign is more than just recognition.

“It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of our community,” he said. “By highlighting our influential alumni, we aim to inspire others and elevate UFV’s status as a beacon of excellence. This is about coming together to acknowledge our achievements, fostering a sense of pride, and creating an environment ripe for networking and mentorship. These narratives of success aren’t just historical; they’re a blueprint for future generations.”

Alumni & Friends Weekend continued Saturday. The Abbotsford campus was buzzing as the Future 50 Festival provided a wide range of fun family activities. Exhibits, lectures, gatherings, and performances showcased UFV’s growth over the last five decades.

The Baker Battles — Legends versus All-Stars sports tournament matched students currently living in La:lem te Baker against alumni who once lived there.

The Chilliwack campus hosted a celebration of campus radio with the screening of the documentary COUNTERCULTURE: 20 Years of CIVL Radio in the Fraser Valley, an event that included musical performances and a panel discussion hosted by filmmaker/journalist Kier Junos.

The celebration ended with the university community, past and present, filling the Abbotsford Centre for UFV Night with the Abbotsford Canucks. A sea of green cheered on the American Hockey League club as it took on the Laval Rockets.

Joanne was pleased to spend time with alumni, and had a message for all UFV graduates as the university looks ahead to its next 50 years.

“One thing is clear. UFV’s future will be shaped by all of you,” she said. “Our alumni are not just part of our past — they are essential to what comes next. Whether you mentor a student, hire a fellow alum, or simply carry the spirit of UFV into your work and community, you are building a legacy that extends far beyond these walls.”