For immediate release

February 11, 2011

Kwantlen Polytechnic University hosts third annual Leadership Journey

(METRO VANCOUVER, B.C.) Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Department of Student Leadership and Development recently hosted their third annual Leadership Conference on Saturday January 29 – “The Leadership Journey.”

Kwantlen’s president and vice-chancellor, David W. Atkinson, officially opened the conference Saturday morning to more than 200 participants, including university students, alumni, community members, Kwantlen faculty and local high school students.

18 professional guests delivered workshops on diverse topics, ranging from teambuilding and networking, to conflict management, environmental leadership, self-awareness and emotionally intelligent leadership. Presenters included Joel Hilchey, founder of The Beanstalk Project, Austin Nairn, coordinator of Vancouver Board of Trade’s ‘Leaders of Tomorrow’ program, Dale Laarz, senior portfolio manager with Electronic Arts Inc. and executive coach, Ray Williams.

“The conference was extremely well received,” reports Kurt Penner, student leadership and development coordinator at Kwantlen. “94% of participants confirmed they would definitely recommend the conference to others next year.”

Both presenters and attendees alike expressed their pleasure with the event. Josh Miller, a General Studies student, reflected, “Overall it was a great conference, it was very inspiring and different. It has inspired me to be better and to look at life differently.” Gail Watson, sales and marketing strategist with eXtra Contact, presented a networking seminar, and commented, “Congratulations for doing such an exceptional job! With these grads we have a great future ahead—dynamic and professional.”

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 200,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs including business, liberal arts and science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 17,000 students annually have a choice from over 135 programs including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.

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For more information about this story, contact:
Kurt Penner
Coordinator, Student Leadership & Development
Tel: 604.599.2927
kurt.penner@kwantlen.ca

For more information about Kwantlen, contact:
Joanne Saunders
Director, Marketing and Communications
Tel: 604.599.2243
joanne.saunders@kwantlen.ca