From new and revitalized programs, to convocation festivities, to removing barriers to education, here’s how the month of June went at VIU:
Crossing the stage
More than 1,200 of VIU’s newest graduates crossed the stage this month during four separate convocation ceremonies. Autumn Clark, valedictorian for the Health Sciences and Human Services grads, said a highlight for her was having her children “see a powerful woman step into leadership roles and have them know that we can do hard things.” Read more from the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
Honouring Indigenous graduates
VIU honoured 39 Indigenous graduates during its annual Semélshun Indigenous Graduation Recognition Ceremony. Held at the Nanaimo campus during convocation week, the celebration recognizes Indigenous students in a culturally rich event that includes songs, dances, blessings and other traditions that reflect Indigenous cultures and communities. Read more from the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
Removing barriers to education
“We believe that anyone with the desire to pursue an education should have the opportunity to do so, and that financial barriers should never determine whether a student can follow their dreams.” VIU’s Ripples of Change campaign continues, with the goal of raising $2 million for scholarships, awards and bursaries. Read more from the Ladysmith Chronicle.
VIU prof designs giant flower art
A new public art installation in Nanaimo celebrates local ecology with larger-than-life flowers inspired by the rare Crown Brodiaea, a plant native to the Harewood Plains. The artwork was created by Nanaimo artist and VIU professor Eliza Gardiner in collaboration with emerging artist and designer Isaiah Kingdon. Read more from Nanaimo News Now.
Training tech leaders of the future
VIU is now offering an updated technology diploma: the Business Information Technology Systems diploma. The updated offering has a stronger focus on AI, cybersecurity and business skills, shaped by industry feedback. Read more about it in the Academica Top 10.
New leadership program for aspiring politicians
VIU is offering a new pathway for aspiring leaders who are interested in practical leadership training. Starting this Fall, VIU’s Democratic Leadership certificate will be available as part of a degree program or as a standalone credential. This mentorship-based program provides participants with the knowledge, skills and connections they need to work within their communities. Read more in Academica Top 10.
VIU alum highlighted as soccer leader
“It’s possible to live in both worlds – to be Indigenous and to play the game at an elite level.” Mateo Kostering, an Indigenous soccer player, VIU grad and founder of Indigenous Athletics Academy, was recently featured in the “Real Canadians” column. He says soccer changed his life and his non-profit business is dedicated to helping other Indigenous youth develop through sport. Read more about Mateo in the National Post.
Theatre grad gets gig
Recent VIU Theatre graduate Rigby Mugridge will take to the stage as a cast member in 7 Stories, presented by Western Edge Theatre in Nanaimo this month. Read more from the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
Balancing the books
VIU approved a balanced budget for 2026-27 and finished the 2025-26 fiscal year with a $5.3-million surplus. The milestone follows significant efforts to strengthen the university’s financial position while continuing to support students and communities across the region. Read more from the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
Viewing policy through an Indigenous, two-spirit lens
Rocky James, VIU’s Manager of Indigenous Community Partnerships, is paving the way for two-spirit voices in academia and policy design. James, who is also doing his Doctor of Social Sciences at Royal Roads University, received a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Doctoral Fellowship grant of $120,000 for his research on policies related to Indigenous language revitalization and climate (in)justice. Read more from Royal Roads University.
Milner Gardens & Woodland highlighted
World Atlas produced a list of eight best towns to retire in. Qualicum Beach made the list, with VIU’s Milner Gardens & Woodland mentioned as a feature. Read more in World Atlas.
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