CHASI celebrates 5 years of community changemaking

Photo of a crowd of people inside CHASI's office, standing to listen to a speech from Dr. James MandigoOn June 5, 2025, CHASI opened our doors to commemorate five years of serving our communities alongside our many partners.

This was a chance to welcome partners from some of the many community organizations, local governments, and institutional partners who we have had the privilege of partnering with, as well as those working towards similar goals.

The event also served as the launch of Everything All the Time, a new exhibition from CHASI artist-in-residence and UFV student Sharon Strauss. We invited our guests to appreciate her incredible work, hear about what drives her, and understand why art is such a critical part of what CHASI does. The exhibition is now brightening CHASI’s walls, and we invite you to visit if you would like to see it for yourself.

Photo of Sharon Strauss showing her art, which is displayed on the wall, to a guest at the event.

To everyone who joined us at the event, and the many more who have helped CHASI accomplish all that we have done over the past 5 years: thank you. These collaborations allow us all to make a difference in our communities. Together, we are empowered.

CHASI Director Dr. Martha Dow hugs a guest goodbye at the door to CHASI's office, while another guest stands by them. To the side, a guest looks at an art piece hanging on the wall, representing Changemaking work at UFV.

Two members of the CHASI team share a hug.

Walter Foreman speaks to Dr. Satwinder Bains amongst of a crowd of people at the event.

Dr. James Mandigo speaks to another guest at the event, with both smiling widely. Behind Dr. Mandigo, Sharon Strauss' art is visible on the wall.

Photo of three people speaking and smiling around a tall table. The table has a plant centrepiece, and a large, bright pride flag hangs above a window behind them.

Photo of Dr. Joanne Maclean speaking to several other guests.