Artist Arthur Vickers and Dr. Skye Creba to Receive Honours at VIU Convocation

An internationally renowned BC First Nations artist currently living on Vancouver Island and a Vancouver Island University (VIU) alumna and Nanaimo resident who fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a medical doctor will be awarded honourary credentials at VIU’s spring convocation ceremonies at Nanaimo’s Port Theatre June 1, 2 and 3.

Arthur Vickers, OBC, DFA – 2015 Honorary Doctorate of Letters: June 1, 2:30 pm

Arthur Vickers is an artist, storyteller and philanthropist. Spending his childhood years in the coastal Tsimshian Village of Kitkatla, his mother was of English and Canadian heritage and his father was of Heiltsuk, Tsimshian and Haida First Nations ancestry. Drawing inspiration from his history and heritage, Vickers transforms traditional designs into breathtaking works of art that are powerful and unforgettable. Major works include the “Leadership Desk” installed in the office of BC’s Lieutenant Governor, the Eagle Aerie Gallery in Tofino, and “Intangible Heritage” created in 24 karat gold leaf. Vickers is recognized for his many contributions to charities, helping to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars; and for his role in sustaining and celebrating First Nations heritage.

Quote from Virginia MacCarthy, VIU Faculty of Education professor: “Arthur Vickers has brought credit to British Columbia through his artwork, and he has contributed equally through support of charity and his work to enlighten and inspire BC children.”

Dr. Skye Creba – 2015 Distinguished Alumni – Early Achievement Award: June 3, 10 am

Dr. Skye Creba is an emergency room physician at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH). A graduate of Nanaimo District Secondary School in 2000, Skye began her post-secondary education in VIU’s Bachelor of Science degree program, which ignited her passion for science and medicine.

Skye conducted outstanding research in VIU’s Chemistry Department’s Applied Environmental Research Laboratory (AERL), published two peer-reviewed papers and won the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Undergraduate Student Research Award.

Graduating with distinction from VIU in 2006 (majoring in Biology and Chemistry), Skye received one of Canada’s most prestigious research scholarships – a $17,500 Natural Science and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) post-graduate scholarship.

After completing a degree in medicine in 2010 at the University of Calgary, Skye returned home to embark on a family practice residency in Nanaimo through the University of British Columbia (UBC). The following year, she completed specialty residency training in emergency medicine through UBC on the lower mainland.

Skye returned to Nanaimo once again in July 2013 to begin her full-time position in the emergency room at NRGH.

Quote from VIU Biology Professor Dr. Tim Goater: “Skye was renowned for her resourcefulness, attention to detail and outstanding interpersonal skills. In her undergraduate career at VIU, she distinguished herself as an excellent experimentalist and terrific team player. She thrived and excelled in the research environment of VIU’s AERL, gaining the respect and admiration of her supervisors and peers.”

Quote from Dr. Creba’s colleague at NRGH, Dr. George Sheppard: “Skye is smart, capable and really easy to work with. She knows her stuff, and isn’t afraid to ask for opinions and assistance, a real hallmark of being a great doctor.”

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Shari Bishop Bowes, Communications Officer, Vancouver Island University

P:250.740.6443  C: 250.618.1535 E: Communications@viu.ca