President's message

LOOKING BACK, REACHING AHEAD

Grounded in the richness of the past, universities reach ahead to the future that they are creating.

In looking back over the past year at the University of Victoria—a year rich in achievement—my thoughts turn to the future and the benefits that will flow from the
accomplishments of our students, faculty and staff.

This report briefly outlines a small selection of their recent achievements.

This year, UVic was chosen as the lead Canadian institution in creating the world's largest undersea observatory, which will revolutionize our understanding of the oceans. As well, UVic became the home of the Centre for Addictions Research of BC and the national Institute for Aboriginal Peoples' Health.

We also reached two important goals for our students: rising to the top 20 per cent of Canadian universities in terms of student financial aid and increasing residence spaces to offer each first-year student on-campus accommodation. Moreover, to ensure UVic students achieve their goals for the future, we intend to raise $50 million over the next decade for scholarships, bursaries and fellowships.

The achievements of our students, faculty and staff, and the future that these promise, would not be possible without the generous support of governments, foundations, corporations and individuals—including our students and their families—who provide our funding. For this, the university is deeply grateful.

I invite you to peruse this report and to share my pride not only in what we have accomplished together but also in the new opportunities, increased understanding and social benefits that will flow from these achievements.

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