The Cloverdale District Chamber of Commerce has recognized Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) for its commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive learning and working environment.
At Cloverdale’s business excellence awards, Randall Heidt, Vice-President of External Affairs at KPU, accepted the Excellence in Diversity, Equality, and Inclusivity award on behalf of the university.
“We are very pleased to have earned this important recognition of our ongoing commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion,” says Heidt. “By working to create a positive working and learning environment for everyone, KPU is directly impacting our communities for the better.”
As outlined in its Vision 2026 document, one of five themes of KPU’s goals is justice — to foster decolonization and reconciliation, advance antiracism, and further equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility.
Dr. Asma Sayed, Interim Vice-President, Equity and Inclusive Communities at KPU, says not only does KPU aim to reflect its diverse, dynamic, and growing region, but also to enable the university community to enjoy safe and supportive working and educational experiences.
“At KPU we strive to offer opportunities, supports, and resources for all employees and students of equity-denied groups to ensure they thrive and succeed. We do this by seeking diverse perspectives and addressing and correcting systemic barriers.”
Northview Golf and Country Club in Surrey hosted the awards gala, also known as the Clovies, on Nov. 15.
Also nominated in the category for Excellence in Diversity, Equality, and Inclusivity: Universal Access Design and Clayton Heights Sports and Therapy Center.
Recipients of the award are to have made commitments to address societal disparity and injustice, and established or expanded diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for their current and future workforce.