Metro Vancouver, B.C. – Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is teaming up with the Vancouver Giants to pilot a premier academic program for the WHL team’s athletes.
Ten hockey players are currently enrolled in the pilot program, which delivers a university-level course adjusted to players’ travel schedules, along with individual academic advising, weekly sessions with an instructor and KPU student-athlete peer tutoring.
“This exciting program gives these talented student-athletes the ability to pursue their athletic ambitions while not having to sacrifice a post-secondary education to do so. KPU is committed to supporting students as they pursue quality education both inside and outside the classroom. This new educational platform is the first of its kind at KPU, and will support our student-athletes as they seek success as Eagles and as Giants,” said KPU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Alan Davis.
Launched for the first time this January, the Vancouver Giants academic platform introduces players to post-secondary education in a way that complements their athletic ambitions. After the inaugural condensed intro to higher education course wraps up March 12, players will potentially have access to courses in journalism, communications, criminology and psychology.
Both KPU and the Vancouver Giants are looking to grow the pilot academic platform into a comprehensive program that meets the individual post-secondary aspirations of the team’s players as they progress through their hockey careers.
"We are excited about working with our education partners at KPU to provide exciting and relevant programs for our student-athletes. Many thanks to LMS Reinforcing Steel Group for their support of the Giants, KPU and this initiative," said Giants co-owner Lewis Bublé.
For more information about KPU’s educational partnership with the Vancouver Giants, contact: Brendan Batchelor at bbatchelor@vancouvergiants.com.
The KPU Foundation builds community and corporate partnerships that benefit students, support faculty and enhance education. Each year, hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships and awards are given to students across disciplines. More on the KPU Foundation is available at kpu.ca/foundation.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region since 1981, 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, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 19,000 students annually have a choice from over 124 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates citations and apprenticeships. Learn more at www.kpu.ca.
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Caption: KPU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Alan Davis (centre) dropped the puck at a Vancouver Giants game Jan. 9 alongside (from left) academic program participant Thomas Foster; Giants co-owner Lewis Bublé, and; Matt Bradley, centre for the Medicine Hat Tigers.
Media contact:
Hayley Woodin
Media Specialist, KPU
t: 604.599.2883
c: 604.364.1288
hayley.woodin@kpu.ca
For more KPU news:
@KPUmedia
kpu.ca/newsroom
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