Together again: A new academic year at CapU
Dear CapU community,
Welcome to a new academic year at the University. For me this is always a time of positive energy and activity as we commence fall classes.
I hope the summer brought you time to enjoy the things that bring you joy and some rejuvenating rest. Over the last months since stepping into the interim president role there have been many connections, much learning and meaningful progress. We’ve focused deeply on organizational sustainability and operational stability—work that is essential as we navigate a shifting post-secondary landscape. Our shared purpose and values, especially our commitment to “sustainable actions to enable a better place for future descendants,” continue to be key to our activities and decisions.
We face real challenges: demographic shifts, policy changes affecting international students and aging infrastructure. Yet, I remain confident. Why? Because of you. Because of the strength we find in collaboration, in diverse perspectives and in our collective commitment to learning and community betterment. Progress is not made alone, but through shared effort, humility and hope. We move forward in unity focusing on our shared purpose as a university: cultivating life-enhancing learning experiences in diverse and inclusive environments.
We’ve seen this spirit in action: in new academic programs, expanded research initiatives, our continued work with the local First Nations and the Metis in our journey towards truth and reconciliation and our growing presence in the Sea-to-Sky region. We’ve also deepened our commitment to equity and belonging, launching a new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee to ensure every voice is heard.
As we begin this new chapter, let us do so together, with purpose. Let us be curious and ask bold questions, support one another and imagine a future worthy of the next 50 years.
To our students: we’re so glad you’re here. To our employees: thank you for your dedication and choosing to invest your time, effort, and energy with students, colleagues and the communities that we are connected to.
Warm regards,
Laureen Styles, EdD
Interim President & Vice-Chancellor
Submitted by: Communications