Our stories are woven together

Our stories are woven together

St’elt’elawtexw, UFV’s 2026 Community Report, celebrates the people, relationships, ideas, and experiences that shape our university and the Fraser Valley. Discover stories of learning, transformation, partnership, and the impact we create together.

St’elt’elawtexw | Community

Long before Canada was formed, the Stó:lō (People of the River) lived and thrived on the land on which UFV is located. UFV gratefully recognizes and honours the contributions that Indigenous people have made — and continue to make — to our community.

Celebrating community across the Fraser Valley

Community has always been at the heart of UFV. Our relationships with Indigenous communities, schools, businesses, health-care organizations, municipalities, non-profits, alumni, and partners across the Fraser Valley strengthen learning, inspire discovery, and create opportunities for positive change.

Community engagement isn’t something we do in addition to teaching, learning, and research. It shapes how we approach them. By listening, learning alongside our communities, and bringing different perspectives together, we can better understand the challenges and opportunities facing our region and work together toward meaningful solutions.

These relationships are woven throughout UFV. They create opportunities for students to learn through experience, connect researchers with real-world challenges, and help strengthen the communities we call home.

Together, we are engaging learners, transforming lives, and building community.

 
Engaging Learners
Yoystexw Ye Totilthet

 
Transforming Lives
Ayeqet Kw’e Shxwaylexws

 
Building Community
Thayt Kw’e St’elt’elawtexw

Welcome to St’elt’elawtexw

The language spoken by the Stó:lō people is Halq’eméylem, the “Upriver dialect” of Halkomelem. Halq’eméylem is primarily spoken in the upper and central Fraser Valley, the Lower Fraser Canyon, and in communities near Harrison Lake. St’elt’elawtexw means “community” in Halq’eméylem.

At UFV, St’elt’elawtexw is woven into our fabric, and we are grateful for the connections we have with the individuals and organizations who contribute to our collective impact.

Watch the video to learn the proper pronunciation of St’elt’elawtexw.

Susan Mide-Kiss headshot

 

“The stories in this report highlight how members of UFV and our broader community are rising to today’s challenges — through bold community-driven research, social innovation, and strong leadership. Together, we’re taking a collaborative approach that addresses the complex needs of our world.”

Susan Mide Kiss | Vice-President, Community Engagement

Honouring our community

UFV 2026 Community Report

This is your place

Introducing UFV's new brand

Spirited. Resourceful. Inquisitive. Empowering.

This is your place.

A space to challenge ideas, push boundaries, and step outside your comfort zone.

Here, learning goes beyond lectures and textbooks. It’s about the moments that shape you, the risks you take, the connections you make, and the discoveries that change everything.

Explore the UFV brand »

Spotlight

Featured community stories

Stories from the community

UFV Continuing Education builds pathways for learners and communities 

There is no single path to a University of the Fraser Valley education.  UFV welcomes learners from all walks of life and at every stage of their journey, with many finding their path through the School of Continuing Education (CE).  With a focus on people who may be switching careers, learning ne ...

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UFV’s Peace and Reconciliation Centre earns international recognition

The University of the Fraser Valley’s Peace and Reconciliation Centre (PARC) has been recognized internationally for its ongoing success creating partnerships with Indigenous communities.   The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) presents annual Circle of Excellence Awa ...

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Jaspal Singh, CPA: A UFV alumnus who chose community first

Jaspal Singh’s connection to UFV did not end when he graduated.  A UFV alumnus and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Jaspal has stayed connected to the university’s accounting community through mentorship, professional networking, and support for students preparing to enter the fie ...

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Read more community stories

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Whether you are a member of UFV’s student, faculty, staff, alumni community or a volunteer, organization, or group in the Fraser Valley (and beyond) eager to make a positive impact, there are countless ways to engage.

 

 

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Share your UFV-Fraser Valley community initiatives. Submissions may be featured on the UFV blog or the next edition of the St’elt’elawtexw | Community Report.

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