Updates, news and stories

UBCO returns to normal operations and announcing the Principal’s Fall Town Hall

A message from the Office of the President and Office of the Principal and Deputy Vice-Chancellor Dear colleagues, There’s no doubt that these past weeks have been trying for all of us. That said, I’m incredibly encouraged by the real progress being made in the community now that many evacuation orders have been lifted. While campus remains on evacuation alert, staff are now returning to regular operations and the work to welcome our community for the fall term continues at full pace.

How UBCO’s Campus Security team became campus guardians during a wildfire threat

Find out how UBCO's Campus Security team provided round-the-clock support amidst the recent wildfires. Learn more

Supporting older adults displaced by wildfires

In-person classes start September 5, 2023

A message from Rehan Sadiq, Provost and Vice-President, Academic, UBC Okanagan

The resilience of our UBC community during the Okanagan wildfires

A message from Deborah Buszard, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Last week, many of us watched as the wildfire situation in the Okanagan evolved into more and more evacuation orders. It was very difficult to see people leaving their homes, some of whom were UBC students, faculty and staff.

Invitation: Virtual Heads Up Forum—Planning considerations for leaders

Support for the UBC community amidst wildfires in Central Okanagan

In response to the evolving situation regarding the wildfires across the Central Okanagan region over the last few days, a number of UBCO Global messages have been sent to the community, with important information about how to access and provide support:

Air quality advisory in effect for Vancouver and the Okanagan

An air quality advisory is in effect for Vancouver and the Okanagan.Information on how to reduce the effects of smoke exposure is available here:

UBC study explores bias against AI art

AI-generated writing, photography, art and music have been skyrocketing in popularity, but that surging success has also triggered an enormous backlash, with many rejecting AI art — and even asserting that its proliferation marks the beginning of the end for humanity. So why do some people react so negatively to art made by artificial intelligence? According to a new study from the UBC Sauder School of Business, it’s because for some, it challenges what it is to be human.

A diet for healthier lungs and a healthier planet

Each year, respiratory illnesses are among the leading causes of hospitalization and premature death in Canada and across the globe. And those numbers are growing as temperatures rise and air pollution levels shift. “Exposure to air pollution can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, with negative short- and long-term effects on the lungs, heart, and other organs,” says Dr. Emily Brigham, a UBC assistant professor of respirology and research scientist at the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute.

Teaching in focus: Elly Park

Located in Prince George, Elly is an assistant professor of teaching in the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy. Her teaching approach focuses on experiential learning and relationships to ensure students develop the confidence to become compassionate clinicians.

Kelowna wildfires: guidance for faculty and staff

A message from Alex Bayne, Managing Director, Human Resources, UBC Okanagan Dear colleagues, Let me begin by recognizing the resilience, resolve and professionalism of students, faculty and staff during these distressing past few days. I am very grateful that we have a community that remains united and supportive despite the challenges we face.