Tamara Taggart had thousands of conversations in living rooms across British Columbia, but it took just two to change her life forever. It started with a phone call five days after the birth of son Beckett. Tests confirmed the first child for Taggart and husband Dave Genn had Down syndrome. "The doctor said 'I’m…

Four exemplary citizens will receive honorary doctorates at the University of the Fraser Valley Convocation ceremonies, to be held June 6 and 7 at the Abbotsford Centre. They include Kirsten Brazier, an aviation professional and mentor of young women in science and technology; Dr. Nadine Caron, Canada’s first female indigenous surgeon and an advocate for…

Canadian punk rocker and motivational speaker (no, that is not an oxymoron) Bif Naked spoke to an enthusiastic crowd on International Women's Day about the struggles women are faced with, and the power of friendships to help them through tough times. At the end of her presentation, UFV president Mark Evered announced that Naked will…

Sheldon Kennedy is returning to UFV to bring his personal message of empowering individuals to stand up to bullying and abuse on Pink Shirt day. Kennedy will be featured on Wed, Feb 27 as part of the President’s Leadership Lecture Series at 4:30 pm in the lecture theatre (room B101) at the Abbotsford campus. The…

Fourteen years ago, Sheldon Kennedy stood up to a bully and abuser on behalf of himself and all victims of childhood sexual abuse. The former pro hockey player was the first to accuse Graham James of abusing junior hockey players, which led to a conviction and, eventually, further charges. It was a very brave thing…

Honorary degree — Jean Scott Scott honored for commitment to social justice  Jean Scott of Chilliwack has become the first woman to receive an honorary degree from the University College of the Fraser Valley. Jean, who turned 90 in April, has been a social activist longer than most people have been alive. She has devoted…