The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) is proud to announce the unveiling of the Kathy Kinloch Lounge and Terrace, a newly dedicated space within BCIT’s Health Sciences Centre designed to enhance student experiences in health education. This was made possible, in part, by Russ Cmolik and The Cmolik Foundation, long-term supporters of BCIT’s mission to educate the next generation of health professionals.
The Kathy Kinloch Lounge and Terrace will be an inspiring legacy and collaborative hub within BCIT’s health sciences programs, offering students and faculty a welcoming space to gather, learn, and connect.
Named in honour of Kathy Kinloch, former BCIT President and educational leader, the lounge commemorates her lasting impact on student success and industry readiness. A cornerstone of her leadership was the development of the state-of-the-art BCIT Health Sciences Centre, which addressed B.C.’s urgent need for health care professionals while delivering world-class education. Kinloch’s dedication to this critical sector has created a lasting legacy, strengthening the health care workforce across the province.
This generous gift underscores Russ Cmolik and The Cmolik Foundation’s enduring commitment to advancing education, health, and community development across the province. It will significantly impact BCIT’s health sciences programs, empowering students to acquire the practical skills and experience necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving field. With high-quality programs spanning from nursing to laboratory science, BCIT uniquely equips graduates to meet the demands of the health workforce through hands-on training and strong industry partnerships, ensuring they are career-ready and poised for success.
“The Kathy Kinloch Lounge and Terrace represents more than just a space—it is a symbol of dedication to student growth and the advancement of health education, supporting BCIT’s mission to prepare graduates with a high-quality education who are then able to make meaningful differences in the healthcare sector.” said Dr. Jeff Zabudsky, President, BCIT. “BCIT is incredibly grateful to Russ Cmolik and The Cmolik Foundation for their generous long-term support that reflects their enduring belief in education as a powerful driver of positive change.”
“I am deeply humbled to witness the unveiling of the Kathy Kinloch Lounge and Terrace, a space dedicated to fostering the growth, collaboration, and resilience of BCIT students. Throughout my career, I have been inspired by the transformative power of education and the boundless potential of learners to drive change in their communities. This lounge and terrace stand as a testament to the values we hold dear at BCIT – innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow,” said Kathy Kinloch, past BCIT President. “My heartfelt thanks to Russ Cmolik and The Cmolik Foundation for their generous support and unwavering commitment to education and health care in BC.”
“We are honoured to be here today to celebrate Kathy Kinloch and her legacy in education and health care across British Columbia. The dedicated naming of the Kathy Kinloch Lounge and Terrace will have a lasting impact on BCIT graduates, creating a place for students to learn, grow, and strengthen their skills before entering the workforce where they will provide much needed support for the BC health care sector,” said Russ Cmolik, Co-Founder and Board Chair, The Cmolik Foundation.
“The Cmolik Foundation is committed to investing in tomorrow’s thinkers and leaders, rooted in a profound belief in the power of education to transform and empower young people. We support students in becoming responsible, contributing members of our community.
BCIT aligns with our vision to uplift communities by enhancing access to quality education and development resources, particularly within health, science, and technology sectors. We are proud long-term supporters of BCIT, including the INSPIRE campaign, and we are honoured to celebrate the unveiling of the Kathy Kinloch Lounge and Terrace.” – The Cmolik Foundation
About The Cmolik Foundation
The Cmolik Foundation, founded by Russ Cmolik, has a rich history of supporting educational and community-building projects in British Columbia. The Foundation has long focused on providing opportunities for youth through scholarships, school-based programs, and partnerships that empower future generations. Their investment in BCIT aligns with their vision to uplift communities by enhancing access to quality education and development resources, particularly within health, science, and technology sectors.
About the INSPIRE Campaign
The INSPIRE Campaign is the largest fundraising initiative in BCIT history. Focused on raising funds for three pillars—Access and Inclusion, Teaching and Learning Innovation, and Campus Redevelopment—the Campaign is creating a new future at BCIT as a destination for applied learning. Through INSPIRE, the BCIT Foundation is helping today’s students become tomorrow’s leaders and continues to receive strong philanthropic support from industry, alumni, and individuals who recognize the importance of BCIT to the economic prosperity of BC. Learn more about the INSPIRE Campaign, including ways to join in building a strong and impactful community of philanthropy.