Prince George, B.C. – Informed by consultations with individuals and communities from across the region, the University of Northern British Columbia released its new strategic plan. Titled, Ready, the five-year plan includes a renewed mission and vision, four overarching themes, and specific goals the University aims to achieve. 

Anchored by UNBC’s new mission, Ignite. Inspire. Lead Change., and informed by UNBC’s new vision, Leading a Sustainable Future, the plan identifies key actions that will allow UNBC to reach its targets through education, research and community engagement. More than 1,000 people shared their thoughts, hopes and aspirations for UNBC through survey responses, participation in town hall events and by submitting online feedback. 

“We’re ready to make our mark with this framework for the future. A community of engaged students, educators, researchers and employees, backed by passionate northerners that fought for UNBC’s existence, told us we need to be Ready,” says UNBC President Dr. Geoff Payne. “This plan will lead to UNBC identifying initiatives, setting priorities and taking action, leading the path to a sustainable future.”

The plan outlines how UNBC is ready to take on some of the most pressing challenges facing northern B.C., Canada, and the world, ranging from climate change and clean energy production to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and communities, to food and water security.

 “Thank you to all of those who answered questions, completed a survey, or took part in a town hall session. This plan is informed by your insights and ideas,” says UNBC Board of Governors Chair Joel McKay. “The four overarching themes in this plan speak to the essence of what UNBC is all about, from investing in students through teaching, learning and research excellence; to building and maintaining relationships with Indigenous Peoples; to connecting with communities across the North; to using the knowledge generated at UNBC to foster a future built on sustainability.” 

The plan is centered around four themes, each with their own strategic goals:

• Cultivate Curiosity—UNBC will excel at teaching, learning, and inquiry, while supporting, encouraging, and inspiring learners.
•  Act on Truth and Reconciliation—UNBC will continue on its path to advance and meaningfully enact reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, through dialogue, education, research, relationships, and service.
• Empower Northern Communities—UNBC will collaborate, partner, generate knowledge and build capacity for the advancement of healthy, productive, thriving communities.
• Foster Local Solutions for Global Impact—UNBC will leverage its unique position to mobilize knowledge for local and global change.

UNBC’s foundational goals run across all four themes and include supporting fulfilling student learning journeys; celebrating the best of UNBC’s achievements; attracting and retaining outstanding people for our community; and influencing local and global policy. 

To learn more, visit UNBC’s strategic planning website.