Innovators Change Everything

Can you remember what it was like to communicate with a friend across the country or make business arrangements abroad before the arrival of e-mail?

In just a few short years e-mail has become an integral part of our business and personal communications, and it is hard to imagine life without this capability.

That is the nature of innovation. It changes everything. And behind each new idea, behind each new technical, scientific, or social development there is a person or a group whose imagination and creative brilliance have led them-and us-to look at the world in a new way.

In this annual report, we profile just a few of the innovators who are making positive contributions to society on a local, national, and international level. We are proud of the accomplishments of these UBC students, faculty, staff, alumni and donors, and we are pleased to share their stories with you.

The scope and diversity of research and innovation taking place at UBC is truly extraordinary. From progress in the mapping of the human genome to community service learning opportunities and new undergraduate co-op programs, innovation is rapidly changing the quality and character of university life for all members of the UBC community.

In the spirit of innovation and for the first time, we are making UBC's annual report available online. I invite you to share your thoughts with us.

Martha C. Piper
UBC President