Universities are the way forward

A few short months ago, it was my privilege and honour to begin a five-year mandate as President of UBC, a great institution that I have long admired. Since then, every day has been both a gift and an adventure. UBC is brimming with world-class research talent, brilliant and motivated students, and all kinds of initiatives that push the boundaries of human knowledge and strive to build a better world. It is an endlessly fascinating place, and one that inspires hope.

For the past 15 years, I have been serving university communities in leadership roles because I know that what happens at places like UBC matters on a grand scale. When I think of the biggest challenges that our world faces – climate change, social inequity and division, chronic health issues, and massive geopolitical upheaval – I know that our best hope for a better world is through research, through reasoned and respectful debate, and through a great education that sends our students out into the world smarter and hopefully wiser than we were. The way forward can only be forged here at UBC, and at other great universities around the world.

That is why FORWARD, the campaign for UBC, is so aptly named. Publicly launched in 2022, the campaign is a critical step in our response to these challenges. Already, we are well on our way towards our goal of raising $3 billion. These gifts will supercharge important research, greatly enhance the student experience, and support our brilliant people in fulfilling UBC’s mandate to advance healthy lives, shape thriving societies, and find solutions for our planet. The goal is always social impact and improving quality of life for everyone, near and far.

The campaign also aims to keep you, our almost 400,000 alumni, engaged and invested in these efforts and involved in the life of the university. The number of you who already are is growing year after year, whether it be by volunteering to mentor a student, making a donation to support research into things you care about, or simply taking advantage of the many services offered by alumni UBC to enhance your life and career (because when our alumni thrive, it can only reflect well on UBC).

I look forward to the next number of years at this phenomenal place of discovery and learning, and urge you to stay connected as crucial partners in realizing its full potential.