Dear SHHSians,
Welcome to 2017 – a year that I can assure you will be packed with projects, activities, and initiatives which will further increase and enhance our positive impact on the UBC community.
In 2017 we will continue to focus on strategic growth, service excellence, and an outstanding workplace culture. Below, I have summarized a few key initiatives and priorities for SHHS in 2017, which I hope you will take a moment to review.
- In Student Housing we will be opening two new residence complexes – Brock Commons Phase 1, Tallwood House, and Totem Infill Phase 2 – which will provide an additional 758 students with the opportunity to enhance their UBC experience by becoming part of our campus residence community. Additionally, we will commence planning for future residence communities at both the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses.
- Food Services is currently very busy with the launch of Scholar’s Catering – our new catering brand, which is replacing Wescadia. We are also looking forward to the launch of Hero Cafe & Market in Orchard Commons, which will be opening very soon. Finally, Food Services is preparing for exciting renewal projects across campus, plus the opening of three new outlets (Starbucks, Booster Juice, and Subway) in the old Student Union Building once building renovations are complete.
- Conferences and Accommodation is preparing for another very busy summer season with, undoubtedly, another year of record breaking room nights. Additionally, in Summer 2017 C&A will add accommodation in and conference use of Orchard Commons.
- UBC Child Care Services, after opening two new centres in 2016, will continue to focus on delivering amazing and award-winning service to families with children in their care.
And, of course, each of these units and projects are supported by an exceptional team of finance, human resources, IT, communications, procurement, and safety experts. These individuals provide outstanding strategic advice and input on the many projects and initiatives throughout SHHS, in addition to supporting our daily service to the UBC community.
Finally, led by the newly installed President Professor Santa Ono, in 2017 UBC will be undertaking a comprehensive strategic planning process. Prof. Ono would like this to be an open and collaborative process – with opportunity for everyone in the campus community to participate. We will ensure you are kept informed and given the opportunity to share your thoughts. Just yesterday, he published a blog post regarding the strategic plan that included a request for members of the University community, like you, to participate in a survey to kick off the strategic planning process.
I’m sincerely looking forward to an amazing 2017 for UBC – and for all of us in SHHS! Thank you all for the work you do every day to make UBC a better place for students, staff, faculty, and the wider UBC community.
All the best for a great 2017, personally and professionally!
Smile…its contagious. 🙂
Andrew Parr
Managing Director
Student Housing and Hospitality Services
The University of British Columbia
