There is great debate going on right now about the role of universities in our communities. Traditionally post-secondary institutions have acted as leaders in teaching and learning, research, education, and technology. Today universities are looking to envisage a world where they can continue to be relevant given the dramatic technological changes happening in society.
For more than half a century, Capilano University has played a vital role in the North Vancouver, Sunshine Coast, and Sea to Sky communities, developing well-rounded community members in a vibrant, student-centred environment. Recognizing that our world is changing in a very fast-paced way, the university has launched a new planning initiative called Envisioning 2030. Through this community-based initiative, Capilano University will determine its role in the region for the next ten years and beyond.
Here at home, at the kálax-ay Sunshine Coast Campus of Capilano University, faculty and staff undertook an environmental scan in 2018 and a Campus Action Plan was created for 2018 to 2023. Drawing on qualitative research, the Campus Action Plan found five overarching themes that are to inform and guide planning and action at the kálax-ay Sunshine Coast Campus of Capilano University. These include:
• Expanding technology-supported learning opportunities
• Indigenizing the campus and continuing to build on the affiliation agreement with the shíshálh nation
• Enhancing community relationships
• Creating new educational pathways
• Building the campus brand
As a university with a regional mandate, there is a commitment to evolve activities in a positive way that contributes to the social capacity and capital of the Sunshine Coast through education, training, community involvement, and research.
The next steps are Envisioning 2030 at the kálax-ay Campus. This collaborative planning process will allow the university to engage both internal and external partners to identify our preferred future within a ten-year scope.
All members of the Sunshine Coast community are invited to be a part of this event, which will take place on May 27. Please email [email protected] to RSVP.
For more information on the Campus Action Plan go to www.capilanou.ca/about-capu/governance/budget-plans--reports
