Hadih, hello and welcome! 

The University of Northern British Columbia is located on and serves diverse traditional territories that are home to numerous First Nations and other Indigenous communities.

The Prince George campus is situated on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh, part of the Dakelh (Carrier) First Nations. Our regional campuses are situated on the traditional territories of Dakelh and Tsilhqot’in people (South-Central), Dunne-Za people (Peace River-Liard campus) and Ts’msyen people (Northwest campus). We are also pleased to have a federated agreement with the Wilp Wilxo’oskwhl Nisg̱a’a Institute in the Nass Valley.

UNBC is a special place with a unique history rooted in the people who call central and northern British Columbia home. Since joining the UNBC community in 2004, first as a faculty member in the Northern Medical Program and then as an administrator, I have gained a deep appreciation of how important it is to have a University of and for the people of this great region.

Over the past 19 years, I have been fortunate to work with so many bright and enthusiastic people both in my prior roles at the Northern Medical Program and as the Vice-President, Research. As your President, I am committed to collaborating with our exceptional students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters as we explore the many exciting opportunities that await us. Our new strategic plan Ready provides a framework for the University to lead a sustainable future, and to help us listen, think differently, and collaborate to find innovative solutions to the global challenges we face.

As the sign at the entrance to our Prince George campus proclaims, UNBC is Nizdeh Nekeyoh Hohudel’eh Baiyoh, which is Dakelh for House of Learning. It is a House of Learning, not just for our students, but also for the entire community.

I value the relationships I have built with people in the community across our campuses and I look forward to learning from, working with, and getting to know even more of you. 

Geoff Payne
President and Vice-Chancellor
University of Northern British Columbia