The University of Northern British Columbia is inviting communities across the region to help shape its next Regional Plan, a roadmap that will guide the University in serving the diverse communities of northern B.C. in the years ahead.
“The future of the North is being shaped by the people who call this region home,” says UNBC Interim President Dr. Bill Owen. “These engagement sessions give UNBC an opportunity to sit down once again with community members and collaborate on identifying priorities. This input will help ensure UNBC continues to grow alongside the region it serves.”
The Regional Plan, aligning with UNBC’s overarching Strategic Plan Ready, is UNBC’s opportunity to ask northern communities directly what that should look like.
Engagement opportunities will run through the fall with in-person sessions in Fort St. John, Terrace, Quesnel, Prince George and other communities across the region. Additionally , there will be separate virtual sessions and an online survey. Access to the survey and full event details are available on the Regional Plan website. New events and opportunities will be added over the coming weeks and months as the engagement process continues.
“Northern B.C. is composed of many communities, each with its own priorities, challenges and opportunities,” says Provost and Vice-President Academic Dr. Michel S. Beaulieu, who is leading the planning process. “This plan only works if it is built with the people who live and work across the region. Getting out into communities will ensure UNBC’s programming and research keep pace with what northern B.C. actually needs.”
The planning process is guided by the University’s Regional Plan Advisory and Working Committee, which is engaging with interest-holders throughout the region to evaluate current activity and assess needs and opportunities.
“Building a bold and inclusive regional strategy starts with listening,” Beaulieu says. “We want to hear about what has worked, where the gaps are and where UNBC can do more to support the communities we serve.”
Members of the public and UNBC community are encouraged to participate via any of the opportunities listed on the Regional Plan website throughout the plan development process.