Related Links

• President's Office
• Trek 2000: UBC's Vision

A Bold Vision

Our Place in the World

How big is your vision for the University of British Columbia? That question is at the heart of a new energy pulsing through our university community. In the past six years, UBC's student body has grown from 33,000 to more than 40,000. Research funding has more than doubled to $343 million. We are seeing unprecedented development of advanced research and teaching facilities. And we will soon open a major new UBC Okanagan campus.

UBC's exceptional teaching and research community, innovative programs, and unrivaled natural setting have generated a certain alchemy that, in turn, is creating a whole new realm of global possibility.

I believe UBC is poised to take its place among the world's great universities. It is a bold vision, to be sure, that pushes us toward the highest of learning and research standards. But it also derives from a sense of stewardship. As the world faces complex new threats, we have a responsibility to further our expertise in service to the people of B.C., Canada and the world beyond.

By striving for excellence in research, we are putting Canadian expertise on the world's front lines, and helping carve out an important place of influence for our country. By providing innovative and compelling international curricula, UBC is helping prepare the next generation of leaders who will shape our world.

Canadians define greatness in a special way. Our heroes are humble, yet innovative and brave. They advance compassion and tolerance. And they make peace in the most dangerous places of the world. From these values, we take our cue. Canadians will consider UBC a great university as it becomes a leader in the world-wide effort to create positive relationships between human beings, the societies in which we live, and the environment upon which we depend.

Last year, UBC ranked 35th among the top 500 universities of the world. It's a stellar recognition of the work of many throughout our campuses -- as well as the dynamic support of government, donors and community. UBC is taking its place in the world, as each of us makes the vision our own.

- Martha C. Piper, President
The University of British Columbia