Office of the President
President's Welcome Message
Welcome to Kwantlen Polytechnic University. We live, work and study in a region that overlaps with the unceded traditional and ancestral First Nations territories of the xwməθkwəyə̓ (Musqueam), qi̓ cə̓ y̓ (Katzie), SEMYOME (Semiahmoo), scə̓ waθən (Tsawwassen), qiqéyt (Qayqayt), and kwikwəƛ̓ə̓ m (Kwikwetlem); and with the lands of the qw̓ ɑ:nƛ̓ə̓ n̓ (Kwantlen First Nation), which gifted its name to this university.
We describe our institution as the place where thought meets action – and it’s not simply a tagline, but an approach that runs through all that we do.
With more than 140 programs across health, science, trades, upgrading, arts, business and design, our programs range from the technical to the academic. Our students benefit from our small class sizes and applied education, which prepares them to work in many in-demand fields or supports a continuing academic journey. Researchers at KPU focus on finding solutions to problems that affect our communities, and our faculty can engage in interdisciplinary projects that inspire new thinking.
Kwantlen means “tireless runner” and KPU is tireless in its mission to transform lives and empower positive change. The university created the xéʔelɬ Pathway to Systemic Transformation Framework to advance Indigenization and decolonization. Our Office of Equity and Inclusive Communities is working to foster anti-racism, and advance equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility. And we are committed to sustainability, pledging to reach carbon neutrality by 2050.
Our focus on accessible education, and quality teaching and learning, makes KPU a wonderful place to study and work.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Alan Davis, PhD
President and Vice-Chancellor
Strategic Planning
VISION 2026
VISION 2026 builds on the four themes of VISION 2023 (Experience, Sustainability, Creativity, Quality), and adds an important fifth: Justice.
The goals of this theme include fostering decolonization and reconciliation through the xéʔelɬ Pathway to Systemic Transformation Framework, advancing anti-racism, and promoting equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility.
Learn more about VISION 2026
Presidential Initiatives
The President’s Outstanding Graduate Awards
These awards are presented annually and are meant to encourage KPU students in all fields of study to excel in their program of choice and participate in university, student and community activities that benefit others.
One degree program graduate and one diploma program graduate will receive this $500 award. Contact Student Awards and Financial Assistance for more information.
The President's Diversity and Equity Committee
The President's Diversity and Equity Committee (PDEC) is a group dedicated to furthering the goal of diversity and equity within the KPU community. Made up of a diverse array of individuals and representatives, PDEC aims to link diversity and equity initiatives with policies and procedures.
The committee, which, generally, meets monthly, endeavours to ensure KPU provides learning and working environments that are inclusive and supportive for all members of the KPU community. If you are interested in meeting us, please contact pdec@kpu.ca. We look forward to hearing from you.
The President’s Dialogue Series
The President’s Dialogue Series is an initiative started by Dr. Alan Davis. This series invites speakers to KPU who are leaders in the private and public sectors, both locally and globally. Visiting speakers exemplify a commitment to the values of KPU and help bring about the key elements of KPU’s polytechnic vision. Events are free and open to the public.
Governance and Administration
Who is the President and what does the Office of the President do?
British Columbia's University Act empowers the Board of Governors to appoint the President. The President serves as KPU's Vice-Chancellor and chief executive officer. The President is a member of the Board of Governors and Senate, and leads the University Executive.
The Office of the President provides institutional leadership and oversight for KPU, develops and champions the university's vision, and strategizes how the university will achieve its goals. The President reports to the Board of Governors. This report summarizes the notable updates, activities and initiatives at KPU since the previous report was submitted.
Mandate Letter
B.C. public post-secondary institutions are issued a mandate letter, outlining statutory obligations and government priorities for the public post-secondary system. Signed letters are posted on the official website of the Government of British Columbia.
Contact the Office of the President
University Secretary and Executive Assistant to the President
Address: 12666 72 Avenue, Surrey, B.C. V3W 2M8
Phone: 604-599-2078
Fax: 604-599-2235
Email: president@kpu.ca
KPU is committed to good governance, transparency and fiscal responsibility. As part of our commitment to this, the President voluntarily discloses their expenses incurred in their duties as President. If you have questions, please contact communications@kpu.ca.