UFV President Honored with King Charles III Coronation Medal
Wow, what amazing news! Dr. Joanne MacLean, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), just received the King Charles III Coronation Medal! It's a seriously prestigious award, given out by the Canadian government to people who've made a huge difference in their communities and the country. And honestly, Dr. MacLean totally deserves it.
Seven Years of Transformation at UFV
She’s been at UFV for seven years now, and during that time, things have just exploded with growth. I mean, real growth. She didn't just sit back and let things happen; she built bridges, connecting students, faculty, staff, Indigenous communities – everyone! It wasn't just about ticking boxes; she genuinely fostered strong relationships. One of the first things she did was spearhead a university-wide visioning exercise. This led to totally revamped mission, vision, and value statements, putting a strong focus on Indigenization, equity, diversity, and inclusion. You can see that commitment in action – they just opened a revitalized Mission campus in 2024, a space that was thoughtfully designed in partnership with Indigenous communities. And get this: UFV celebrated its biggest-ever graduating class in 2024! That's incredible, especially considering all the challenges students have faced recently.
Making a Difference Beyond Campus
But her impact goes way beyond UFV’s campus. Under her leadership, UFV has become a real leader in food security, thanks to faculty research in areas like agricultural technology and crop resilience. It’s inspiring to see how they’ve embraced the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, showing a commitment to sustainability, social justice, and global well-being that's truly impressive. And before she retired in June 2025, she even pushed through a new six-story residence building and expanded the dining hall – tackling student housing needs head-on. That’s dedication!
A Fitting Tribute to Exceptional Leadership
This King Charles III Coronation Medal? It’s perfectly deserved. Dr. MacLean's leadership at UFV has left an incredible mark. She’s created a legacy that ensures the university's continued success for years to come. Her story is a powerful reminder of the positive impact a single person can have. It’s truly inspiring.
