By Cheryl Jahn

Dr. Geoff Payne officially “sworn in”

Oct 21, 2022 | 4:11 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – There was the usual pomp and ceremony of convocation at UNBC today, but it was preceded by a very special ceremony all on its own. Dr. Geoff Payne was installed … or sworn, of sorts, as the President of the university. And while he arrived on the campus 18 years ago as a physiologist and, regardless of who is today, he’s still humble.

“You know I always tell people, you know, I’m now “Geoff President,” I was “Geoff VP, Research,” I was “Geoff Faculty.” It’s always been “Geoff.” My goal is to continue to be Geoff and work hard and now I have the opportunity to lead the university. But to work with the university and that’s what’s really important.”

Another “different” aspect to this event is the convocation of graduates over two years – the Classes of 2020 and 2021. The last years were held virtually and for valedictorian Holly McVea, this event is bittersweet in some ways.

“They’re happy that we get to do something and we do get to celebrate with friends and family,” she says. “But there was still a little disappointed that it’s not the same. Not everybody could make it or they’ve moved on, across the country for jobs. But for those who could make it, I’ve seen quite a few get-togethers being planned.”

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Dr. Payne started this journey as the Acting President, then the interim President through some very challenging times with labour action followed by two years of a global pandemic. But he says UNBC is a tough little place.

But once this celebration is over and everyone is back to the grindstone, Holly will head back to work on her Master’s Degree and Dr. Payne will head back to the office to guide the place he had called his home for nearly two decades