October 28, 2006

“In the name of the University of Northern British Columbia, and by theauthority vested in me by the Board of Governors, I now install you,Don A. Cozzetto, in the Office of the President and Vice-Chancellor,and I invest you with the authority and privileges and charge you withthe duties and responsibilities pertaining to that highOffice.”   With these words, UNBC Chancellor Peter Bentleyofficially installed Don Cozzetto as UNBC’s fourth president. Among the400 attendees were UNBC founders, Dr. Cozzetto’s family, faculty,students and employees, and representatives of two-dozen colleges anduniversities from throughout BC and across Canada.

“It is clear that UNBC has accomplished a great deal over the past 16years, but much remains to be done,” said President Cozzetto in hisinaugural address. “Demands and expectations from government, industry,and students will continue to grow. UNBC is now at a crossroads in itsdevelopment: we can either choose status quo or we can become activelycommitted in new and creative ways to advancing the role of highereducation in improving the lives of all British Columbians.”

Dr. Cozzetto further outlined a vision for UNBC that involves embracingchange in ways that promote excellence. These opportunities includeexpanding regional program delivery, using multimedia technology tobetter serve rural regions, connecting research to the needs ofcommunities and industries, and energizing the 5500 UNBC alumni. TheUniversity is planning to undertake a major fundraising campaign,implement a four-year scholarship guarantee, and use the new NorthernSport Centre as a platform for expanding participation in universityathletics.

“Imagine for a moment what remarkable opportunities lie ahead for theUniversity of Northern British Columbia if, together, we dare to dreamof a better future, if we embrace change with conviction and tenacity,and if we steadfastly promote excellence in all we do.”

Dr. Cozzetto came to UNBC after spending 18 years as a universityadministrator in the United States. He was born and raised insoutheastern BC, however, and worked for a decade in Canada’s North. Hefollows Geoffrey Weller (1991 – 1995), George Pedersen (1995), andCharles Jago (1995 – 2006) as President of UNBC.

Media:

Download high-resolution versions of the photos on this page:

Click here for group photo of Dr. Cozzetto with Chancellor Peter Bentley (left) and Board Chair Don Rix (right).

Clickhere for the photo of Dr. Cozzetto in his new robes of office in frontof the Presidential chair and the Convocation banner.

Contact:
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC – 250.960.5622