Jobaaj Stories
King Charles III Coronation Medal Honors UFV President
Dr. Joanne MacLean, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), has received the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal. This award, established by the Canadian federal government in 2023, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and country. Dr. MacLean's seven years at UFV have been marked by remarkable growth and a deep commitment to the university's core values of integrity, inclusivity, community, and excellence.
Transforming UFV: A Legacy of Leadership
During her tenure, Dr. MacLean has overseen a period of unprecedented progress at UFV. She prioritized building strong relationships across the entire UFV community – students, faculty, staff, Indigenous communities, and government. A university-wide visioning exercise led to new mission, vision, and value statements that have guided strategic direction, emphasizing Indigenization, equity, diversity, and inclusion. This commitment is reflected in the opening of a revitalized Mission campus in 2024, a space thoughtfully co-created with Indigenous communities. UFV also celebrated its largest-ever graduating class in 2024, a testament to the resilience of students facing various challenges.
A Broader Impact
Dr. MacLean's influence extends beyond the UFV campus. UFV, under her leadership, has become a leading voice in food security, driven by faculty research in areas like agriculture technology and crop resilience. The university's embrace of the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals shows a wider commitment to sustainability, social justice, and global wellbeing. Before retiring in June 2025, she championed a new six-story residence building and a dining hall expansion to address student housing needs.
A Well-Deserved Honor
The King Charles III Coronation Medal is a fitting recognition of Dr. MacLean’s exceptional leadership. Her dedication to UFV and its community has created a lasting legacy, ensuring the university's continued success for years to come. Her story demonstrates the positive impact individuals can have on their communities.
