I love the start of the new school year – the hope, the optimism, the fun and excitement, the opportunity for new shoes!
I want to extend a warm welcome to all of the new students who are joining us from around the world. At UBC we strive to create an inclusive environment where we see our difference and diversity as qualities that strengthen teaching, research and campus life. UBC Equity & Inclusion Office offers a number of opportunities for you to get involved in building inclusion on campus – by joining our dialogues, attending events organized by our student ambassadors, or by bringing a great idea to life through the Equity Enhancement Fund.
You may notice a colourful spot near the AMS Nest. UBC’s new Pride Installation symbolizes our commitment to make UBC welcoming to all our LGBT2SQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans – transgender, genderqueer, non-binary, two-spirit, queer, questioning, intersex and asexual) students, faculty, and staff – as well as wider community members and allies. Funding for this project is provided by the graduating class of 2018 as a gift to the university community.
Faculty and staff across both campuses are excited to welcome you, and many continue to work to call out issues of racism and bigotry. Each of them will extend to you a warm welcome, no matter who you are. They will be your guides and inspirations as you join us in making inclusion a reality at UBC.
Sara-Jane Finlay, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President, Equity & Inclusion
The University of British Columbia