From the world’s largest Nanaimo bar, to marmot research, to preparing Canada’s next generation of political leaders, it was another busy year in the media for VIU students and faculty. Here are the top stories of 2025:
Earning a sweet world record
An ambitious goal by VIU baking students to create the world’s largest Nanaimo bar captured significant interest from both the local Nanaimo community and a variety of media outlets. Weighing in at 1,100 pounds and at 70 feet long, hundreds showed up to sample a piece of the record-breaking bar. Pieces were flown to Global’s Vancouver headquarters to be enjoyed during the evening newscast and one of our favourite media stories from the day was the segment on CBC National’s #TheMoment.
Weighing in on Vancouver Island marmot conservation efforts
VIU researchers in partnership with the Wilder Institute built a new remote weigh scale to monitor the health of wild Vancouver Island marmot populations. It’s part of research on the benefits of providing supplemental food to the endangered species. Their work and research was highlighted by CBC and other outlets.
Speaker calls for revolution to address failure of reconciliation
A survivor of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit crisis, award-winning journalist and author Brandi Morin was the keynote speaker at VIU’s 2024 Indigenous Speakers Series event. Her talk was rebroadcast on CBC’s national Ideas program last February.
Training Canada’s next generation of political leaders
With political tensions rising and global challenges increasing, The National Post looked at how VIU is working to ensure the next generation of leaders in Canada is equipped to lead with integrity. Creating opportunities for students to engage with democracy is the goal of Dr. Michael MacKenzie, VIU’s Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership.
Delving into the dark side of healthy eating
As healthy eating trends grow across Canada, VIU student researcher Isabelle Desrosiers is investigating a condition where the desire to eat “pure” becomes a harmful obsession. She spoke with The National Post about her work.
Testing for toxic algae blooms
VIU researchers are working on a new method of detecting harmful algae in freshwater bodies. These algae blooms threaten access to safe drinking water as well as recreational opportunities across Canada. Being able to identify issues quickly can help communities manage human or animal exposures.
Safeguarding the next generation in the age of AI
Smart technology is second nature to today’s youth. One VIU researcher is making sure it doesn’t come with hidden risks. Computer Science Professor Dr. Ajay Shrestha is researching how young people interact with devices like gaming consoles, wearable fitness trackers, online learning platforms and virtual assistants such as Siri and Alexa. His goal is to create strategies to better protect their privacy while using smart technology.
Construction begins on student housing expansion
VIU’s new student housing tower and dining hall began rising in 2025. Slated to open in 2027, the new building will include shared kitchens, laundry rooms, lounges, study rooms, bike storage and other collaborative spaces. CHEK News covered the story.
Building the foundation for a national championship title
Every season, the VIU Mariners men’s basketball team looks to put together a national-championship calibre team. This year, they are hosting nationals and hope to win on home turf in the spring.
VIU Foundation raises nearly half a million for students in need
Thanks for a record-breaking number of community donors, more VIU students in financial need can focus on their studies instead of meeting basic needs.
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