A Message from ECU President + Vice-Chancellor Trish Kelly

Dear ECU Community,

Welcome to a new academic year! Whether you are a returning student, staff or faculty member, or you are joining us for the first time, we are coming together as a community during a pivotal moment for the university.

Founded in 1925, Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECU) has been a space of innovation in visual arts, media arts, and design, consistently pushing the boundaries of creativity. This year marks the final year in ECU’s first century, giving us the opportunity to reflect upon that past, while celebrating where the university is moving in our next decade and beyond.

In the midst of planning centennial events, we will be launching our 2024-2030 Strategic Plan this fall, which will guide our shared purpose and priorities over the next five years. Co-created with community, the collaboration and consultation that went into this work over the last two years is extraordinary. The strategic plan reflects a new vision, mission and values for the university, while also embodying the integrity, aspirations and lived experience of us all. I am looking forward to sharing the full document with you soon.

Our campus is located at the heart of a rapidly changing neighbourhood, with enormous growth and potential all around us. This is an exciting time in our shared history, but it also requires us to be resilient, agile, and creative in the face of change.

The challenges facing students today are more complex than ever before, from the housing and affordability crisis to the impacts of climate change, geopolitical uncertainties, and the rapid evolution of technology. At ECU, we recognize these realities and are dedicated to fostering a caring and inclusive environment where all students are supported by a compassionate community of individuals who are here to help them succeed. If at any point during the year you find yourself in need of support, please remember that resources are available to all students, faculty, and staff.

As someone who has spent many years at ECU, I am excited to deepen my understanding of the many facets of what makes this campus so special — our vibrant studios, classrooms, departments, and research spaces. At the same time, I am committed to building strong connections with external partners, creating a dynamic balance that will help strengthen ECU's long-term future. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to represent the university as President + Vice-Chancellor, and I look forward to connecting with our talented community, listening to your stories, learning from your experiences, and celebrating your successes.

As we look ahead, I hope you all remember to take a moment to dream in connection to the impact that we can have in our spheres of influence: be curious, bold, creative and imaginative as we build a better world through art and design education.

Trish Kelly
President + Vice-Chancellor