FAQs: Canada-Saudi Arabia Diplomatic Crisis and its Impact on VIU Students
August 16, 2018
As many of you are aware the diplomatic situation between Canada and Saudi Arabia is directly impacting thousands of students across Canada. This includes the 93 Saudi students who are enrolled at VIU for the fall semester. What is the latest information? Earlier last week, all Saudi students received a communication in Arabic from the Saudi Cultural Bureau in Ottawa directing them to make plans... Read more
VIU Fulbright Canada Jarislowsky Foundation Visiting Research Chair Focuses on Aboriginal Learning
August 16, 2018
Vancouver Island University (VIU) welcomes Dr. Virginia Drywater-Whitekiller, the Fulbright Canada Jarislowsky Foundation Visiting Research Chair in Aboriginal Studiesfor 2018. “I feel very humbled,” says Drywater-Whitekiller. “It seems surreal that I have been honoured to contribute in this way.” “I am excited to welcome Virgina Drywater-Whitekiller to Vancouver Island University as the... Read more
VIU Supported Business Program Inspires Indigenous Youth
August 15, 2018
As the only Indigenous student in his university undergraduate and graduate classes, Bernard Gilbert struggled to find connection to campus life. “There were times where I felt I did not belong in university,” says Gilbert, whose traditional Nlaka’pamux name translates to “Running Elk.” He is Shuswap from the Secwépemc territory. In high-school, he developed a crippling fear of failure, and... Read more
VIU English Professor Explores Inter-cultural Dialogue with Play Collaboration
August 3, 2018
Dr. Nelson Gray and renowned Métis playwright Marie Clements tackle one storyline from two different perspectives How we perceive the world through our cultural beliefs can vary so much that if two people are asked to recount the same event, the result can be two radically different stories. That is certainly true in Vancouver Island University (VIU) English Professor Dr. Nelson Gray’s latest... Read more
VIU to Increase English Language Requirement for International Students
August 2, 2018
To better support students’ academic success, Vancouver Island University (VIU) will be increasing the English language proficiency requirement for international students. “A number of studies demonstrate that English language proficiency is a critical factor in academic success. By requiring a higher level of academic English, VIU is ensuring that future students are better set up for academic... Read more
VIU Gives Students Accessibility to Succeed as Entrepreneurs
July 24, 2018
With the support of Vancouver Island University’s (VIU’s) pilot program, people with disabilities will have the opportunity to learn about becoming their own boss. “Equipping people with the skills they need to thrive and succeed is vital. I’m proud of the work being done at Vancouver Island University to help people with accessibility challenges improve their quality of life and contribute to... Read more
VIU Receives International Recognition for High Teaching Standards
July 19, 2018
Vancouver Island University is now recognized as a world leader in teaching excellence. At a special ceremony in Edinburgh, Scotland, on July 18, UK-based Advance HE announced the overall winner for its 2018 Global Teaching Excellence Award, Canada’s McMaster University, and presented trophies and certificates to VIU and the other 16 finalists from six continents. Here’s what Advance HE had to... Read more
VIU Receives International Attention for Teaching and Learning Excellence
July 12, 2018
Vancouver Island University’s (VIU’s) dedication to a high standard of teaching and learning is gaining international recognition. The University is a finalist for the Higher Education Academy’s 2018 Global Teaching Excellence Award (GTEA). The award is given to an institution in recognition of outstanding approaches to teaching excellence. VIU is one of the 17 finalists shortlisted from... Read more
VIU Program Trains First Nations in Resource Management
July 4, 2018
The community-based First Nations Stewardship Technicians Training Program developed to meet needs identified by different Nations A unique program at Vancouver Island University (VIU) is helping First Nations communities monitor their lands and waters. The First Nations Stewardship Technicians Training Program provides specialized training to work in the field of resource management. Designed... Read more
VIU Announces New Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic
June 13, 2018
Dr. Carol Stuart accepts key academic leadership role with University Nanaimo, BC: Vancouver Island University (VIU) is pleased to announce Dr. Carol Stuart has accepted the role of Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic. Dr. Stuart will provide leadership and direction to the academy, ensuring that VIU continues to achieve excellence in teaching, learning, scholarship, and service. Dr.... Read more