From the president

In the past year it has been a particular pleasure to lead the process of reviewing and renewing the University of Victoria strategic plan, A Vision for the Future. Far from being a dry institutional exercise, this involved passionate discussion and wide-ranging consultation about the future of the university.

This process has reinforced my deep appreciation of how much we have accomplished over the past few years. I have also been impressed again and again by what an extraordinarily dedicated learning community we have at UVic and by the breadth and depth of commitment to serving society by providing the very best in teaching and research.

In the pages of this annual review, we report and celebrate some of our achievements of the past year. We have continued to build our nationally and internationally recognized research strengths. Our pioneering role in research with and for communities is drawing increased recognition. We have built upon our leadership in off ering students the best experiential learning programming in Western Canada. And we have received national and international recognition for excellence in teaching and support for teaching improvement.

Many of these accomplishments were only possible because of our close and productive partnerships with individuals and institutions locally and around the world—members of our extended university community, with whom we share common goals and values. We are grateful for generous support—financial and otherwise—from governments, foundations, corporations and individuals—including our alumni, our students and their families.

I invite you to peruse this report and to share my pride in our university. I particularly welcome opportunities for further mutual engagement. It is by working together that we will ensure many more remarkable accomplishments at the University of Victoria and the many societal benefits that flow from them.

David H. Turpin, PhD, FRSC
President and Vice-Chancellor