New VIU Aboriginal Construction Program to build Gathering Place on campus
July 25, 2008
Vancouver Island University (VIU) is offering a unique Aboriginal Construction Program. Starting in January 2009, this program will combine First Nations cultural components with Industry Training Authority Level 1 Carpentry - the first step to becoming a journeyman carpenter. Learners will benefit from hands-on experience constructing VIU’s Aboriginal Gathering Place, a building that will be a... Read more
Do you qualify for free VIU classes?
July 22, 2008
Starting September 8th, Vancouver Island University’s (VIU) Adult Basic Education (ABE) program is offering a pilot project for parents on income assistance with children under the age of three. Designed to be accessible to students, the program offers free literacy and basic math classes in a downtown location with free child minding, books, bus fare and snacks. “The courses will cover... Read more
Online learning an excellent option for students at VIU
July 22, 2008
If you’re thinking about returning to school, there are lots of exciting courses available in the online world at Vancouver Island University. “Students can learn online anytime they want”, said Sheila Cooper, head of VIU’s online development team. “It’s an excellent option for students.” Starting in September, several dozen online courses will be offered for full university credit, including... Read more
Chief Shawn Atleo appointed Chancellor for Vancouver Island University
July 7, 2008
Robin Kenyon, Board Chair for the new Vancouver Island University (VIU) announced today that Chief Shawn Atleo (A-in-chut) has been appointed as the University's first Chancellor. Chief Atleo will be installed in the role of Chancellor at a community ceremony in Nanaimo, September 2008. "The Board and the Administration at VIU are honoured that Chief Atleo has accepted the position of University... Read more
Boyhood dream comes true for excavator operator
June 27, 2008
When Jarrett Swackhammer was a little boy, he was obsessed with heavy machinery like excavators. His mom couldn’t pull him away from construction sites, and his kindergarten teacher had a hard time keeping him at his desk whenever a piece of heavy machinery drove by outside. It’s no surprise that Jarrett’s passion for heavy equipment grew stronger during his teenage years. Now at age 18, he’s a... Read more
New award for students who love animals
June 27, 2008
The memory of a “great lady” who had a lifelong passion for animals will live on forever thanks to a new $31,000 endowment fund established by Vancouver Island University Foundation. Interest generated by the Diane Caillet Memorial Award endowment fund will create an annual cash award of $1,000 for a VIU student pursuing a career involving animals. Diane, a long-time and well-loved Nanaimo... Read more
Student designers sweep Rock Awards
June 24, 2008
It was a clean sweep for Vancouver Island University (VIU) graphic design students in a prestigious design competition recently. VIU students claimed all three student awards in the print category of the Rock Awards, a competition sponsored by the Society of Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC Vancouver Island Chapter). "As faculty members, we're thrilled and honored to see our students take... Read more
VIU launches photo contest
June 23, 2008
Amateur shutter bugs have until August 1st to enter the “New Point of VIU” photo contest launched by Vancouver Island University (formerly Malaspina University-College). “If you’re a student or community member over the age of 19 who loves photography, we encourage you to email us your best digital photos of Vancouver Island scenes,” said Toni O’Keeffe, Executive Director, Communications and... Read more
University women celebrate $100,000 milestone
June 18, 2008
One of Vancouver Island University’s longest-established supporters marked a milestone yesterday. The Nanaimo chapter of the Canadian Federation of University Women celebrated their endowment fund for student scholarships, awards and bursaries passing the $100,000 mark. The fund has been built up with membership dues and fundraising projects. The club began presenting awards to students in 1972... Read more
Student receives scholarship and summer job at Canadian Western Bank
June 18, 2008
Bertrand Seatter is $2,500 richer thanks to a scholarship from Canadian Western Bank. Better yet, he's guaranteed a summer job at the bank for the next two years, which could lead into an ongoing career. "I was really excited, and kind of speechless when I got the call from Canadian Western Bank saying I'd been chosen," said Seatter. "It's a great opportunity." Seatter recently completed his... Read more