For immediate release
March 11, 2013
KPU to showcase community partnerships at the inaugural Arts Community Partnerships Conference
(Metro Vancouver, BC) – Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) will be hosting the inaugural Arts Community Partnerships Conference on March 14 and 15, 2013, at its Surrey campus. The conference is coordinated by the faculty of arts, dean’s office, and the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research: Community Learning and Engagement (CIR:CLE).
Everyone is invited to attend this free event that showcases a wide selection of community based projects that have involved KPU faculty and students. From the evaluation of the Surrey School District's Alternative Suspension Program to The Acting Together study of youth violence, KPU has developed authentic community partnerships with a broad range of stakeholders. There will be 15 different presentations of community partnerships and a keynote address from Dr. Bernie Pauly who will be discussing a community based evaluation of an innovative project to support homeless people in Victoria, BC.
“At KPU we have consistently demonstrated that we walk the talk of meaningful community engagement,” said Stephen Dooley, director, community engagement, KPU.
Dr. Bernie Pauly is an associate professor in the school of nursing and a scientist with the Centre for Addictions Research of BC. A focus of her research is promotion of health equity for people impacted by substance use, poverty and/or homelessness. Dr. Pauly is a research collaborator with Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness, Victoria Cool Aid Society and AIDS Vancouver Island, SOLID (Society of Living Illicit Drug users) and member of the Canadian Homelessness Research Network. She has been recognized as an Honorary Citizen of Victoria and recipient of a University of Victoria Community Leadership Award and Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
The event will begin with a video and poster session on March 14, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, followed by a reception until 8:00 pm. The conference and dialogue sessions will take place from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm on March 15, 2013. The purpose of this conference is to celebrate the vast array of community partnerships that are part of the work in the faculty of arts. KPU will be showcasing existing partnerships as well as facilitating conversations about potential new connections between faculty, students, and community partners. For further information please visit: kwantlen.ca/arts.
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, science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 18,000 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.
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For more information about Kwantlen, contact:
Cara Johnson
Media Specialist
Tel: 604.598.6196
cara.johnson@kwantlen.ca