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 and Indigenous people,…

Finding your direction at the start of your career is challenging. You might know what field interests you, but it can take time to find your true niche. It was during her medical residency training in Vancouver that Dr. Jane Buxton she discovered her passion for public health. And that opportunity proved to be a…

On the surface, TYCROP is a manufacturing company located on the outskirts of Chilliwack in the small farming community of Rosedale. But in the eyes of founder Gary Teichrob, one of UFV’s 2025 honorary degree recipients, it’s so much more. “We’re passionate innovators, designers, engineers, and creators, but we pride ourselves in being more than…

Gwen Point had a thirst for learning from an early age. But like many Indigenous children, she faced barriers that made it difficult for her to thrive in the education system. She persevered, never giving up on her dream. Success followed, but not without struggle. She earned her bachelor’s degree. And her master’s degree. And…

Six leaders from a variety of backgrounds who have excelled as leaders in their field will be recognized by the University of the Fraser Valley with honorary degrees at its Convocation ceremonies this June. Indigenous leader Hi:olemtel Clarence (Kat) Pennier, Indigenous educator and former UFV Chancellor Shoyshqwelwhet Gwen Point, business leaders John Anderson, Susannah Pierce,…

The largest-ever graduating class to be honoured on UFV’s Abbotsford campus was celebrated over six ceremonies between June 11-13, 2024.   More than 2,800 students graduated this year, with 1,399 crossing the stage at Convocation — cheered on by nearly 5,000 of their closest friends and family. This was the second consecutive Convocation back on UFV’s…

Sometimes it takes one defining moment to change life’s trajectory. For Dr. Judith Soon, it was in Grade 12 when she and four other classmates toured the inner workings of a pharmacy building.  From this experience, Soon knew she wanted to pursue a career in pharmacy and so far, it has been extremely rewarding for…

Convocation was back with a bang at the University of the Fraser Valley on June 14 and 15 as graduates celebrated their achievements with their families, friends, and faculty in four ceremonies at the Abbotsford Centre. A total of 2,617 students graduated this year, with 1,168 of them attending Convocation ceremonies and crossing the stage.…

Alaina Brocklesby may not have set foot on campus for the entirety of her Master of Social Work studies, but that doesn’t mean she’s not familiar with the University of the Fraser Valley. Brocklesby earned the top grade-point-average in a master’s degree program at UFV this year, earning a perfect 4.33 (A+) GPA, and will…

Reinventing yourself with your career is a daunting idea for anyone. But try doing it at 51-years old like Rose-Mary Siemens. In 2019, after a decade-long career in tourism followed by a 20-year run managing wine stores, Siemens hit a crossroads professionally. Opportunities in the wine industry had dried up. She also felt unfulfilled. And,…

Trying to catch Heather Kelly can be a bit tricky. It seems the UFV Biology standout student and soon-to-be graduate is always on the go, spreading her knowledge and passion for scientific research with the world. Immediately after she was able to squeeze in an interview in early June, she was off to the UFV…

When a young Jo-ann Archibald boarded the school bus daily as an elementary school student back in the 1950s, she stepped from one world into another. Archibald, whose Indigenous name is Q’um Q’um Xiiem, grew up in Soowhalie near Cultus Lake, part of the Indigenous Stó:lō community, and attended the Chilliwack public school system, graduating…