This week marks a year since our lives, work, and the world changed dramatically as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Together we have demonstrated tremendous resilience, kindness, patience, and innovation within our classrooms and communities. We commend all those who persevered in new learning and teaching environments, and express our deep thanks for those individuals that went above-and-beyond to deliver higher education throughout this strange and difficult time.
We recognize that this year has come with immense challenges for many within our community. We know the pandemic has disproportionately impacted seniors, women, those with disabilities, new Canadians, people living in poverty, and Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour. Our heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost loved ones this year, or who are still suffering as a result of the virus. The ability to gather with our friends, family, classmates, and colleagues will never again be taken for granted.
We are also grateful to the many of you who made an impact beyond the BCIT community. From our alumni, students, and faculty who served as frontline workers, to those who supported our heroes with your innovation and expertise. We thank you for providing critical support to the sectors that safeguarded our health, well-being, and economic recovery.
In recognition of just some of the major achievements from our community over the past year, we are pleased to share the BCIT 2020/21 Milestones timeline. While this timeline captures just a small fragment of our many accomplishments, it is a true testament to you – our valued students, staff, faculty, alumni, and industry and government partners. Thank you for being with us on our journey to empower people, shape BC, and inspire global progress.
As we prepare for a return to campus this Fall, we understand there are many questions. With over 40% of programs currently delivered in an on-site format, BCIT will continue to work with the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training to bring more of our community back onto our campuses.
Thank you for patience, kindness, and support as we enter the next phase of this journey. We look forward to seeing you, both virtually and physically in the coming months, and will continue to provide updates on the COVID-19 BCIT site as our work progresses.
Take care!
-BCIT Emergency Operations Centre team