Visit to Vancouver

The Community Foundations of Canada is the national membership association for the country's 178 community foundations. These organizations have connected donors to community needs and opportunities since 1921, and are one of the country's largest supporters of local charities.

Opened in 1968 as a community college, Capilano was officially designated a university in 2008. It offers a complete range of preparatory courses; university-level arts and science courses; business and management studies; creative and applied arts programs; health and human services programs; plus a range of services in support of student learning and success.

In front of an audience of students, faculty, staff, alumni and board members, His Excellency and Ms. Kris Bulcroft, President of Capilano University, unveiled the university’s coat of arms.

Upon his arrival at Capilano University, His Excellency was welcomed by 40 children from the University's Children’s Centre.

The Governor General listened to professors, researchers and students who shared their perspectives on the innovation landscape in Canada.

His Excellency also participated in a roundtable discussion with Leaders from the University of British Columbia’s Innovation Panel.

The Governor General then proceeded to the University of British Columbia to meet with Dr. Stephen Toope, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University.

The University of British Columbia, established in 1908, educates a student population of 50 000 on major campuses in two cities, and holds an international reputation for excellence in advanced research and learning.

The Vancouver Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy Council empowers young people in the region to take action on issues of common concern by supporting programs that encourage youth growth and dignity; that foster inclusiveness, fairness and equality; that promote youth voice; and that increase opportunities for youth participation.

His Excellency believes that philanthropy and volunteerism are key components in establishing a smart and caring nation, and has incorporated them into the three pillars of his mandate as the 28th governor general of Canada.

The Governor General heard their success stories, and learned about what motivated them to accomplish their work, and what drove them to pursue their outstanding efforts.

During his visit to Vancouver, His Excellency participated in a discussion facilitated by the Vancouver Foundation that brought together participants from the Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy Council as well as young people from across Canada engaged in the community foundation movement.

Official photo of His Excellency with participants from the Vancouver Foundation's Youth Philanthropy Council and young people from across Canada.

As keynote speaker, His Excellency spoke on the importance of volunteerism and philanthropy, and inspired to action as we move towards Canada’s 150th anniversary in 2017. The Governor General is patron of Community Foundations of Canada.

His Worship Gregor Robertson, Mayor of Vancouver, offered remarks. This international gathering of members of the philanthropic sector is held every two years.

His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, delivered the opening address at the 2011 Community Foundations of Canada (CFC) Conference entitled A World of Opportunity. Chief Ian Campbell welcomed participants.

On this special occasion, the Governor General delivered remarks: "As Governor General and Head of the Canadian Heraldic Authority, it is a great privilege for me to be here to present the recently-granted arms of Capilano University. Speaking as someone who has spent over four decades working in the academic world, it is fitting that my first presentation ceremony of corporate arms is to a university."