A RockVIU 2026 thank you

A message from the Centre for Experiential Learning and Student Engagement

On Tuesday, September 8, more than 1,400 students flooded VIU's Nanaimo campus for RockVIU new student orientation. The day's activities included a welcome ceremony in the VIU gym, an opportunity to meet faculty and other students in their programs and the Connect Fair and Community Corner. New student orientation events were happening simultaneously at our Cowichan and tiwšɛmawtxʷ campuses. 

On behalf of the RockVIU team, our heartfelt thanks to the many staff members across the university who contributed, in both big and small ways, to making this year's event such an outstanding success. The collective effort, enthusiasm and support demonstrated from every corner of the university helped create a welcoming, safe and engaging experience for our students. Your commitment to helping students feel connected and supported as they begin their academic journey truly made a difference.

We hope the positive energy, sense of community and school spirit that RockVIU inspired continues to resonate across our campuses throughout the academic year. Thank you for helping make RockVIU 2026 such a memorable and meaningful experience for our students.