For immediate release

Kwantlen student wins new car in the university's SMARTEN UP campaign

Metro Vancouver, BC – (March 20, 2012) - Standing in the cold has its perks, especially if you're Bhavya Sharma. Last Friday, the Kwantlen Polytechnic University student was declared the winner of the university's SMARTEN UP campaign, offering students and the community the chance to win a car. Sharma is trading in his bus pass for the keys to a 2011 Smart Fortwo Coupe.

"I'm so excited. I usually take the bus to school, and I won't have to anymore. Today couldn't get any better!" commented a very happy Sharma who was talking to his Mom on the phone for good luck when he successfully started the car.

"The response to the campaign has been overwhelming," says John McKendry, Kwantlen's president and vice chancellor. "While the focus was on the University, new brand launch and a renewed commitment to the region as a Polytechnic University, it had a wonderful outcome for Bhavya. We are very pleased and thank all those who made this a success, particularly our sponsors."

Kwantlen's SMARTEN UP campaign ran from September to March and received more than 10,000 entries. From those entries, 10 finalists were randomly drawn, with one additional finalist being added at the Grand Prize Event held March 16. In the end, it was Sharma‘s key that started the car, therefore winning the grand prize.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 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 17,500 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.

-30-

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