With gratitude from Interim President Laureen Styles
Dear CapU community,
As I conclude my time as interim president at the end of the month, I have been reflecting on the journey we’ve shared. At our June convocation ceremonies, I spoke of hope—the hope that education transforms not only minds but communities and futures. When I welcomed you last fall, I spoke about the strength we find in collaboration and our shared commitment to creating life-enhancing learning experiences.
I believe those themes remain true today. We have faced a range of challenges with resilience and imagination, and we have celebrated achievements that speak to the heart of Capilano University: curiosity, dedication and connection.
Since joining CapU in 2018, I have had the privilege of serving as vice-president, academic & provost, and later as special advisor to the president. Together, we laid out a 10-year plan for CapU in Envisioning 2030 and brought those aspirations to life in our academic plan, Illuminating 2030. We established the Office of Creative Activity, Research and Scholarship (CARS), launched our Squamish campus, significantly advanced new programming at the degree level and quality assurance processes, and deepened our commitment to Indigenous education through the creation of Indigenous Education & Affairs and ChénĚ“chenstway—a living document guiding our journey of reconciliACTION and learning.
These accomplishments are shared accomplishments, the result of collaboration, much effort, creativity and dedication across our community. As I step away from this role, I do so with both immense gratitude for all of you that I have had the privilege to work with, and also confidence in the path ahead for Capilano University.
CapU’s values along with commitments of —learning with community, embracing diversity and acting with purpose—are what make this University a remarkable space to thrive. These values will continue to guide our future under the leadership of incoming President Dr. Jason Dewling, Jason brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education, a global perspective, and a deep commitment to student success and inclusion. His leadership in academic innovation, sustainability and collaboration positions CapU for an exciting new chapter.
To our students: you are the reason we do this work as a university community, and certainly the foundational motivator for me in my various roles. Your curiosity and passion inspire hope for a better future. To our employees: thank you for your dedication, for contributing your expertise and enthusiasm, and for showing up every day with open minds and care. Together, you make CapU a place where learning transforms lives.
As I wrap up my role and support the leadership transition, I do so with much gratitude—for the connections we’ve made together, the progress we’ve achieved, and the shared purpose that guide us. Thank you for the privilege of serving alongside you.
With appreciation,
Dr. Laureen Styles
Interim President & Vice-Chancellor
Submitted by: President's Office