All signs indicate we are heading into spring – more sunshine, blossoms and even more rabbits than usual around campus.
I would like to start with a shout-out to our Culinary Arts program, which recently welcomed Culinary Team Canada to our Nanaimo campus. This was a rare opportunity to host the team as they practice for the upcoming Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg this November and the 2027 Olympics in Strasbourg. Many thanks to the staff, faculty and students who volunteered to make it such a positive experience. One of our own culinary students, Simon Martin, has even been invited to travel with the team to Luxembourg – an incredible opportunity.
On Saturday, I also had the chance to visit our Deep Bay Marine Field Station for a research seminar highlighting some of the important work happening there. The station is a unique learning and research space for students and faculty, and I encourage you to take the opportunity to visit if you can.
Academic restructure
A preliminary proposal was recently presented to Senate that would restructure VIU from eight faculties to four. The goal is to help ensure the long-term sustainability of our academic programs while responding to financial and resource challenges facing the university.
A task force made up of academic leaders is continuing to connect with faculty, staff and students across VIU campuses to provide information and gather feedback. We have already met with several groups, including the VIU Students’ Union, and we welcome student questions and perspectives as discussions continue.
Provost's Circle sessions will continue throughout the semester. These informal gatherings provide an opportunity for students, faculty and staff to ask questions, learn more about what is being discussed and share ideas for the future of VIU. Learn more about upcoming sessions on the Provost's Circle webpage.
Library update – AI literacy tutorial
Generative AI tools such as chatbots are now widely used by students and employees. To help build shared understanding, VIU librarians and staff have created an AI Literacy Tutorial available in VIULearn.
The tutorial explores how AI tools work, how to evaluate AI-generated content, responsible use and broader social and ethical impacts. New lessons are being added over time, including a recent module on AI chatbots and mental health.
Students can access the tutorial in VIULearn through the Discover tab by searching “AI Literacy Tutorial.”
As we move further into the semester, I encourage you to take advantage of the many events, research activities and learning opportunities happening across VIU.
I wish you all the best for the rest of the term.
Sincerely,
Claire Grogan, PhD
Interim Provost and Vice-President, Academic
Vancouver Island University
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