By Cheryl Jahn

Busy weeks ahead for both university and college

Aug 25, 2023 | 4:18 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – August 31st is moving day at U.N.B.C., the starting gun for the new academic year.

“It’s an exciting time of year for everyone at the university. Sometimes it’s, you know, students that are leaving home for the first time,” says Dr. Geoff Payne, President of UNBC. “And, you know, parents are dropping them off and getting them all settled, trying to fit as many things into this basket to get them into the room. Lots of excitement, lots of nervous energy. ”

The first day of school, so to speak, follows Labour Day. That’s September 5th.

“We are expecting a lot of students this year,’ says Dr. Dennis Johnson, President of CNC.

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“Things are back to normal and we’re full in most programs and lots of students coming. So lots of activity. We’ve got great kickoff events, and orientation for the students the first week and we’ve been busy working on improving the student experience overall. Those that are coming to CNC should have a great year.”

The pandemic hit post-secondary institutions extremely hard, with classes being conducted online. It was a slow progress to return to what many may call normal.

“Obviously, the programs and the opportunities that we’ve had over the years are there and students are enrolling in those and we’re excited for that,” says Dr. Payne. “This is sort of the first year in quite some time where it’s normal-ish, you know, in terms of coming back. So very excited for that. And yeah, it’s going to be a lot of energy, a lot of excitement about new faces on campus, people returning, lots of energy.”

Earlier this year, Dr. Johnson announced a personal decision. Dr. Johnson joined CNC in October of 2019 after a career as an instructor, program coordinator, Dean, and Vice president in post-secondary institutions across three provinces.

“I had announced my retirement and given notice quite some time ago, and so at the end of November, I’ll be done and we’ll have a new president. Cindy Heitman. Bittersweet. Very bittersweet. I’ve been in the sector a long time. I still enjoy it, but also looking forward to new adventures.”

As part of Orientation week at the college, there will be a scavenger hunt, campus tours, and a barbecue, amongst other things. As part of what is called Welcome Weeks at UNBC, there will be tours around the campus and the city as well. There’s a tailgate party on September 8th.