In the Community

Criminology dept. and RCMP host public talk on Reena Virk tragedy Feb. 10

February 10, 2010

No one can describe what it’s like to lose a child to bullying – except the parents. Manjit and Suman Virk will visit Vancouver Island University’s Nanaimo campus Feb. 10 to talk about how they turned tragedy into forgiveness and hope after the death of their 14-year-old daughter Reena Virk. “Bullying is an issue that affects all communities,” said VIU Criminology professor Lisette Patenaude. “... Read more


Olympic spirit alive and well at VIU

February 9, 2010

Olympic fever is spreading at Vancouver Island University. Hundreds of VIU students, staff and faculty are taking part in the Olympics, either as volunteers or spectators. VIU President Ralph Nilson said he’s not surprised by the involvement of VIU employees and students in Olympic festivities. “We’re very proud we have so many professional and dynamic individuals representing our organization... Read more


VIU Culinary Arts students prepare for Olympic challenge

February 9, 2010

Culinary Arts students from the Cowichan campus of Vancouver Island University will be in the midst of festivities for the Winter Olympics as they undertake a three-week challenge at Whistler’s Bearfoot Bistro. On Thursday, Feb. 11, Culinary Arts instructor Allan Aikman and 10 students will head to the Host Mountain Resort for not only the once-in-a-lifetime Olympic experience, but also to learn... Read more


VIU music instructor shapes sound of the Olympics

February 9, 2010

Vancouver Island University music instructor Dr. Alex Tsisserev will play a key role in shaping the experience of athletes, dignitaries, members of the media and others who attend the Vancouver Winter Games. The music industry veteran has the task of programming original and distinctive playlists for use at six venues in Whistler and Vancouver during the Olympics.  The concept is called sonic... Read more


Criminology dept. and RCMP host public talk on Reena Virk tragedy

February 5, 2010

No one can describe what it’s like to lose a child to bullying – except the parents. Manjit and Suman Virk will visit Vancouver Island University’s Nanaimo campus Feb. 10 to talk about how they turned tragedy into forgiveness and hope after the death of their 14-year-old daughter Reena Virk. “Bullying is an issue that affects all communities,” said VIU Criminology professor Lisette Patenaude. “... Read more


International students add value to community

February 4, 2010

“What a relief. What an achievement!” Those were Yugo Charong’s thoughts as he walked across the stage at the Port Theatre recently to receive his Bachelor of Business Administration degree (BBA) from Vancouver Island University. Charong graduated with a concentration in International Business. His proud parents flew to Nanaimo from Jakarta, Indonesia to help celebrate his success. “It feels... Read more


Climate change expert headlines VIU’s 4th annual Urban Issues Film Festival

January 28, 2010

One of the world’s leading experts on climate change, Dr. Andrew Weaver, is the keynote speaker at the 4th Annual Urban Issues Film Festival on energy, transportation and building alternatives at Vancouver Island University Feb. 5. The Festival, presented by VIU’s Department of Geography and the North Island chapter of the Planning Institute of BC, the Geographic Students’ Union, SOLUTIONS: A... Read more


Fundraiser at VIU for ShelterBox aid to Haiti earthquake victims

January 27, 2010

A fundraising drive for the ShelterBox program to aid earthquake victims of Haiti is being organized on the Nanaimo campus of Vancouver Island University. A ShelterBox display and donation table will be set up in the main floor of the Library (Bldg. 305) from today (Jan. 26) to Friday Jan. 29. The donations table will be staffed by Rotarians, university staff and students from 10 am to 4 pm... Read more


Elsie Paul receives Honorary Doctor of Letters

January 27, 2010

Elsie Qaxustala’s Paul, 78, beamed proudly as she received an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Vancouver Island University Tuesday. VIU Chancellor Chief Shawn Atleo said Paul inspires everyone with her support for learning and higher education. “Elsie’s commitment to creating healthy communities extends far beyond the context of First Nations,” said Atleo. “Through her life and teachings she has... Read more


Campbell River mom earns degree with family support

January 26, 2010

It took eight years, but De Robertson of Campbell River achieved her dream. Robertson graduated from Vancouver Island University this week with a teaching degree.  “I’m proud of my mom,” said 14-year-old Mitchell Robertson. “She worked hard.” Robertson commuted between her home in Campbell River and VIU’s Nanaimo campus every day for the past year and a half while completing her post... Read more