CapU in Photos: The President's Installation

Written by Audrey Wang

Published14 May, 2026

Photo credit Patrick Leung

A collection of photo highlights from a day of celebration, reflection and academic tradition at CapU.

The President raising his arms on the stage

Capilano University installed Dr. Jason Dewling as its eighth president and vice-chancellor on May 7, 2026, in a ceremony that celebrated community, purpose and the power of education to transform lives. The CapU community was brought together for an event that combined academic tradition with moments of connection, underscoring CapU’s community spirit and sense of belonging.

Caption: President Jason Dewling (left) with mace-bearer Alan Jenks (centre) and Chancellor Yuri Fulmer, OBC (right). — President Jason Dewling (left) with mace-bearer Alan Jenks (centre) and Chancellor Yuri Fulmer, OBC (right).

President Jason Dewling with his wife Heather, and his parents, Bob and Joy, who flew out from Newfoundland and Labrador for the special occasion. — President Jason Dewling with his wife Heather and his parents, Bob and Joy, who flew out from Newfoundland and Labrador.

Eagle Song Dancers Willie Lewis and Mark Williams led the processional onto the stage.

CapU Board of Governors Chair RJ Wallia, MC for the installation ceremony.

səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Elder Carleen Thomas offered heartfelt greetings, sharing wisdom and grounding the gathering in respect and connection to culture. — səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Elder Carleen Thomas sharing wisdom and grounding the gathering in respect and connection to culture.

CapU Musical Theatre alum Ava Stark performed a moving rendition of Lean on Me, with Choir Director Hussein Janmohamed, members of the CapU choir and cross-cultural instrumentalists. — Musical Theatre alum Ava Stark performed a rendition of Lean on Me, with Choir Director Hussein Janmohamed and the CapU choir.

Guest speaker Dr. Tom Thompson shared inspiring reflections, honouring Jason and recalling the early potential he recognized during their time at Olds College. — Guest speaker Dr. Tom Thompson honoured the president and recalled the early potential he recognized during their time at Olds College.

Jason’s daughters, Heidi Dewling (left) and Jenna Semmens (right), shared family memories and funny moments in celebration of their dad’s achievements. — Jason’s daughters, Heidi Dewling (left) and Jenna Semmens (right), shared family memories in celebration of their dad’s achievements.

In his installation address, President Dewling shared a vision for the future, inspiring the CapU community with a message of leadership, collaboration and opportunity. — In his installation address, Dewling shared a vision for the future, inspiring the CapU community with a message of leadership and collaboration.

Caption: RJ Wallia, board chair, administering the investiture and oath of office, formally affirming the new president’s commitment to serve and lead with integrity. — RJ Wallia, board chair formally affirmed the new president’s commitment to serve and lead with integrity.

Chancellor Yuri Fulmer, OBC, presided over the ceremonial robing, formally conferring the office as the new president is vested with the responsibilities and traditions of leadership. — Chancellor Yuri Fulmer, OBC, presided over the robing ceremony, formally conferring the office on the new president.

In his address, Dewling reflected on his personal journey, one shaped by mentors who recognized his potential and connected it to CapU’s role in helping students realize opportunities they may not yet see for themselves.

Looking ahead, Dewling outlined a vision for CapU to “stand apart” as Canada’s leading teaching university, focused on experiential learning, workforce-relevant programs and strong community partnerships.