Published by the University Neighbourhoods Association

Volume 11, Issue 2 FEBRUARY 24, 2020

Letter to the UBC Community from UBC President Robert H. Lee, CM, OBC 1933-2020

It is with deep sadness and a great sense of Bob was extremely devoted to the service loss that we learned of the passing of Dr. of his alma mater, serving two terms on the Robert (Bob) H. Lee, CM, OBC, former UBC Board of Governors. He was installed Chancellor of UBC and Chairman of UBC as chancellor in 1993, served as chair of the Please see story by Michael Li Hearts for Hubei: Lending our Heroes a Hand on Page 8. Properties Trust on February 19, 2020. I UBC Foundation, and was the honorary would like to express my heartfelt condo- chair of UBC’s start an evolution campaign. lences to Bob’s family on behalf of the entire UBC awarded Bob an Honorary Doctorate UBC community; he will be deeply missed. of Laws in 1996, and in 2006 the Robert H. Board Permits UNA Director Lee Graduate School at the Sauder School Esteemed philanthropist, visionary and be- of Business was established in recognition in Self-Isolation to Participate loved community leader Bob Lee was one of Bob’s generous gift to support graduate of UBC’s most accomplished alumni. Bob business education. In appreciation of Bob’s dedicated much of his life, expertise and personal and other contributions to UBC in Meeting from Home resources to building a brighter future for totaling over $15 million, members of the British Columbians and Canadians, and he community came together to name the Rob- Director was under self- cided to remain isolated for a period ending embodied the mission of UBC and its vision ert H. Lee Alumni Centre in his honour; it quarantine after travel to February 20. for its alumni. opened in 2015. China where coronavirus Mr. Mullen – a lawyer – called her decision Bob was born and raised in Vancouver. The Of Bob’s many contributions to UBC, the outbreak began eminently reasonable and commendable, traditional Confucian values of humility, one of which he was most proud is the cre- and when the time came to vote, all mem- modesty, honesty, studiousness, and social ation of UBC Properties Trust, which he bers at the table voted in favour of the Mul- duty were deeply ingrained in him from his founded in 1988 and then served as chair- The UNA Board of Directors faced un- len motion. “This is one of those instances in father, Ronald Bick Lee. Bob, who was af- man for 23 years. The trust was the first in precedented circumstances at the start of which remote participation can be justified,” fectionately referred to as “Mr. UBC,” met North America of its kind, and has earned its scheduled meeting February 18 when he said. his wife, Lily, while they were attending the university over $1.7 billion dollars to Resident Director Terry Mullen – supported UBC, and their four children and three chil- date with a projected $4 billion dollars in by UNA Chair Richard Watson – tabled a Regarding the power of the Board to allow dren-in-law are also alumni. After graduat- perpetuity. Bob’s vision inspired similar memorandum in regard to remote participa- voting from home, Mr. Mullen said: “In my ing from UBC in 1956 with a Bachelor of projects at universities around the world, tion of a Director at the meeting. view, this power should be exercised spar- Commerce degree, he embarked on a suc- making this one of the single most influen- ingly and only in very special circumstances. cessful career in real estate and founded the tial ideas for bolstering education funding in The Mullen memo moved that “the partici- Prospero Group of Companies. recent history. pation of (Director) Jane Kang in the meet- “The quality of the communication amongst ing of the Board by electronic means be per- directors and staff, and therefore of deci- Over the years, Bob touched the lives of I know that the UBC community will be mitted on the grounds that such participation sions made by Directors, is greatly enhanced many. He set the bar for community involve- joined by countless others in our local, na- is deemed by the Directors to be in the best when Director and staff are able to deal with ment through longstanding commitment to tional, and international communities in interests of the UNA and is convenient.” one another in person. Much is lost when a many organizations, including the Robert mourning the loss of this truly accomplished participant is present only as a voice or as an Lee YMCA, the Robert & Lily Lee Family and beloved man. While Ms. Kang was physically available image on the screen.” Community Health Centre and the VGH & to participate, Mr. Mullen wrote, she was UBC Hospital Foundation. Bob was a mem- Santa J. Ono unwilling to do so because she had recently ber of the Order of British Columbia and the President and Vice-Chancellor returned from China and had voluntarily de- BOARD continued on Page 5 Order of Canada. page 2 THE CAMPUS RESIDENT FEBRUARY 24, 2020 Search Goes On for New UNA Leader

Board of Directors is updated Directors at their February 18 meeting, ny expects to whittle this list down to six, The Chief Administrative Officer Execu- on recruitment process; Richard Watson, Chair, said that – as of and then down to three. The new CAO is tive Brief is posted on the UNA website selection is expected by May mid-February – the recruitment company expected to be hired by May. www.myuna.ca/wp-content/uploads/ which the UNA has retained to conduct its 2020/02/UNA-Executive-Brief-Chief- leadership search reported “up to 12” can- Until then, Mr. Watson said, leadership Administrative-Officer.pdf. didates had expressed an interest in being will remain with two senior members of The search for a new Chief Administrative interviewed for the position. staff acting as Interim Co-Executive Di- The condensed version of the Executive Officer (CAO) continues. rectors: Andrew Clements, Recreation Brief is below. Mr. Watson said that through the rest of Manager, and Wegland Sit, Operations In a verbal update to the UNA Board of February/March, the recruitment compa- Manager. Chief Administrative Officer - University Neighbourhoods Association

UNA is seeking a well-rounded leader, ment and leadership of the UNA according policies; review existing policies and rec- sive discipline, and termination of all staff. passionate about public service and com- to the strategic direction set by the Board ommend changes to the Board as needed. • Ensure that all staff receives adequate ori- munity building to become our next Chief of Directors. This position is accountable • Identify and evaluate the risks to UNA’s entation and that appropriate training and Administrative Officer (CAO). to the UNA Board of Directors and devel- people (residents, employees, manage- ongoing professional development oppor- ops plans and initiatives that govern resi- ment, volunteers), property, finances, tunities are provided. Reporting directly to the Board of Direc- dents who live within the UNA residential goodwill, and image and implement mea- • Implement a performance management tors, the CAO will advise the Board in the neighbourhoods. The CAO is responsible sures to control risks. process for all staff, which includes moni- development of strategy and policy, ensur- for UNA and Community Centre staff • Ensure proactive maintenance of the fa- toring performance on an on-going basis ing the Board is provided with relevant policies and procedures, staff development cilities and grounds and that UNA policies and conducting an annual performance re- information necessary to make informed and growth, and is a central contact for and procedures are followed by UNA staff, view. decisions based on sound business and residents. The CAO is also a special liaison residents and other visitors to the UNA fa- • Coach and mentor staff as appropriate to governance practices. with UBC and the UBC Properties Trust cilities or outdoor spaces. improve performance. and maintains a relationship with Metro • Ensure that the Board of Directors and Ideal Candidate Vancouver. UNA carry appropriate and adequate insur- Community Relations / Advocacy ance coverage and that the Board under- The ideal CAO will possess the following The responsibilities of the CAO include, stands the terms, conditions and limitations Assist and collaborate with Board in lead- traits: but are not limited to, the following: of the insurance coverage. ing the following:

• Passion for community, community Leadership and Board Relations Financial Planning and • Communicate with stakeholders to keep building, and an understanding of the chal- Management them informed of the work of the UNA lenges facing growing communities. • Participate with the Board of Directors in and to identify changes in the communities • Experience in a political environment, developing a vision and strategic plan to • Prepare a comprehensive budget for served by the UNA. ideally municipal government. guide the UNA. Board approval in partnership with the • Develop and implement a process to so- • Ability to establish credible and effec- • Identify, assess, and inform the Board of Board, and manage the annual budget. licit ongoing resident feedback and imple- tive working relationships with elected of- Directors of internal and external issues • Identify and implement new revenue and ment operational and management chang- ficials, employees, external stakeholders, that affect the UNA. cost saving opportunities. es, where possible, to meet resident needs and the public. • Act as a professional advisor to the Board • Approve operational expenditures within for municipal- like services. • Experience in management of a Board, of Directors on all aspects of UNA’s activi- the authority delegated by the Board. • Establish good working relationships ideally an elected Board. ties and effective Board governance. • Ensure that sound bookkeeping and ac- and collaborative arrangements with UNA • In-depth knowledge of Board governance • Oversee preparation of and strategic con- counting procedures are followed. residents, UBC, surrounding communities, best practices. tent for materials for Board meetings in • Administer funds according to the ap- media and other organizations such as the • Legislative understanding and an interest order to facilitate a greater understanding proved budget and monitor the monthly City of Vancouver, the Vancouver School in policy. of pertinent issues and comprehensive de- cash flow. Board, Metro Vancouver and the RCMP. • Capacity to absorb and distill written ma- cision making. • Provide the Board with comprehensive, • Plan and coordinate the implementation terial and bylaws. • Drive Board development, education and regular reports on the revenues and expen- of UNA sponsored and community part- • Persistent yet tactful, with an ability to new Director orientation. ditures. nership programs including cultural, sport- keep themselves and others focused on key • Foster effective teamwork between the • Ensure compliance with all legislation ing, arts and community programs in order priorities. Board and the CAO, and with staff. covering taxation and withholding pay- to maintain the “unique” lifestyle promised • Experience in facilitation, conflict man- • Develop annual UNA staff goals and ob- ments. to UNA residents. agement, and creating a collaborative cul- jectives based on the Board’s objectives, • Ensure that the requirement for an annual • Identify and foster new strategic partner- ture. UNA strategic vision, and resident feed- audited financial statement is fulfilled. ships with other organizations that will as- • A strategic leader and skilled delegator. back. sist UNA to fulfill its mandate. • Adaptability and flexibility to move be- • Liaise with and advise the Chair of the Program Planning and Management • Report regularly to the Board on commu- tween governance and operations. Board of Directors on all of the above. nity relations activities and advocacy. • A track record of moving from strategic • Oversee the planning, implementation planning to implementation of policies and Operational Planning and Risk and evaluation of the UNA’s programs and Education, Knowledge & Experience projects. Management services and ensure they contribute to the • A focused, strategic thinker and advocate organization’s mission and reflect Board The minimum qualifications for the Chief for the UNA. • Develop and implement an operational priorities. Administrative Officer position are as fol- • Well-developed interpersonal skills, ex- plan which incorporates goals and objec- • Monitor the day-to-day delivery of the lows: perience coaching high-level volunteers, tives that work towards the strategic direc- programs and services to maintain or im- and managing diverse personalities and tion of the UNA. prove quality. • Significant senior management experi- expectations. • Ensure the mandate of the Neighbours’ • Oversee the planning, implementation, ence, ideally gained from a political or sim- • Progressive and aligned to UNA’s values. Agreement 2015 is fulfilled. execution and evaluation of special proj- ilar multi-stakeholder environment, such as • Ensure that the operation of the UNA ects. a municipal government. Duties & Responsibilities meets the expectations of its residents and • Strong understanding of Board gover- the Board. Human Resources Planning and nance and ability to support and guide stra- The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) • Draft policies for approval of the Board Management tegic Board conversations. is responsible for the successful manage- and prepare procedures to implement UNA • Proven strategic thinker who can also ex- • Determine optimal organizational struc- ecute tactically. ture and staffing requirements to ensure • Interest-based problem-solving skills. effective operational management and pro- • Strong financial acumen; administrative Executive Moves at UNA gram delivery. and organizational skills. • Oversee the development and implemen- • Proven leadership skills; ability to coach tation of human resources policies, proce- and mentor. UBC Appointed Director Takes Over as UNA Treasurer dures and practices. • University degree or diploma in a relevant • Foster a positive, healthy and safe work field, or equivalent experience. Elected Resident Director Matthew Tor Album, a UBC Appointed Direc- environment in accordance with UNA val- Delumpa, UNA Treasurer and Chair tor on the UNA Board, an Associate ues and all appropriate legislation and regu- KCI (Ketchum Canada Inc.) has been re- of the UNA Finance Committee, has Treasurer at UBC, takes over as Trea- lations. tained to conduct this leadership search on resigned. surer of the UNA. • Responsible for the recruitment, selec- behalf of the University Neighbourhoods tion, performance management, progres- Association. THE CAMPUS RESIDENT FEBRUARY 24, 2020 page 3

Editor & Business Manager John Tompkins Email: [email protected] Tel: 604-827-3502

Design Production Published monthly by the University Neighbourhoods Association Rebecca Ind Email: [email protected] #202-5923 Berton Avenue, Vancouver BC, V6S 0B3

Community Gardens: Wonderful Adventure and Responsibility

As the UNA is embarking on the expansion of the community gar- dens, it may perhaps be worthwhile to reflect on the lesson of the past decade, and on what it takes for a community gardens initiative to be truly successful

Andrzej Jan Wroblewski Hampton Place Resident

I was very pleased to read in the January 2020 edition of The Campus Resident that the UNA Board is undertaking an initiative to expand the community gardens at UBC Neighbourhoods. As one of the founding Neglected plots in Hawthorn Garden. members of the first UNA Community Hawthorn Garden, I am pleased that this ing some shared basic tools, containers for important recreational program for the green waste, a wheelbarrow, and fast cou- UNA residents has found a strong support plings for the watering hoses’ nozzles. A Garden Volunteer Opportunities of the UNA Board. shed soon replaced rotting toolboxes, and other improvements were put in place that Community gardens bring benefits not only made gardening easier and more efficient. The Old Barn Children’s Garden Welcomes Volunteers. by allowing us to grow healthy crops but Families are encouraged to join in on the fun from 10 am – 12 pm every Saturday. also through the social interactions, learn- The paths between plots were regularly ing how to understand nature and the re- weeded by the members and covered by the The Old Barn Children’s Garden unacg2014.wordpress.com/ opened in 2009. laxation stemming from the pleasure of UNA with bark nuggets to prevent prolifer- It supports community engagement and teaches children, youth and adults about observing plants grow. As we now look ation of the weeds. Although this young of- organic gardening. forward to their long overdue expansion, it ficer did not have any personal experience is a good opportunity for reflection on the in gardening, he was carefully listening to brief history of the UNA community gar- the gardeners’ input and was willing to help dens and on how to ensure that they contin- to secure funding and appropriate contrac- but persistent enforcement of the garden- group of dedicated volunteers to help the ue to be a successful community initiative. tors for the necessary work to be done in ing rules that allowed all of us to enjoy our existing and new gardens prosper into the gardens. There was clarity on and gentle gardens and made them a pride of the com- future. I remember the gardens in their early days. munity. The enthusiasm of the initial group of gar- Gardening in a community is a wonder- deners, numerous common initiatives and As time passed, the gardeners and UNA ful adventure but it also is a responsibility. contributions of volunteer work for the staff changed, it seems that much of the en- Gardens need a certain amount of a dedi- development of the gardens’ infrastructure thusiasm and care that allowed the gardens cated time to flourish – time that needs to was overwhelming. Volunteer work is a to be so successfully launched have disap- be invested not just into cultivating one’s priceless capital, but it works well when peared. During the 2019 growing season, individual plot but also to the maintenance those contributing their time and energy the pathways between the gardens were of the shared space and property. New, feel respected and can see the results of overgrown with weeds or even used as a aspiring community gardeners should care- their efforts amplified through the support place to deposit green waste, and although fully consider and welcome the new re- of those overseeing the initiative. At the the gardeners are expected to adhere to a sponsibility they are undertaking, and the time the UNA gardens were first set up, a set of rules established to protect com- exiting gardeners should make effort to be young, energetic UNA staff member was mon property and keep the garden in good good role models. assigned to supervise the gardens and coop- workable shape, these rules were increas- erate with the garden volunteers. This part- ingly neglected, with no serious attempts While the UNA garden regulations may nership resulted in the community secur- by the UNA to encourage compliance. I sometimes appear cumbersome, they have am not sure what happened to the “Garden been devised to balance individual gar- Committee” of elected volunteers that used dening interests and preferences with the to monitor and volunteer in the garden. The common good. The garden plots are not a UNA Garden Facts only visible “garden” initiative was cen- private property but a shared privilege, and tred on young children’s art projects, one as such, they need to be cultivated in ways of which resulted in repainting the numbers that preserve them over time and allow ev- The UNA has three plot-based community gardens available to its residents. on the boxes (some of which are now im- eryone a chance to be successful in their The first UNA community garden – Hawthorn Garden – opened in 2008, followed possible to read). gardening endeavours and have an uncom- shortly by Rhodo Garden, also located in Hawthorn Place neighbourhood. Nobel promised, safe access to their plots. Garden – located in Wesbrook Place neighbourhood – was opened in 2012. There I have to confess that after more than ten are 180 plots between the three gardens. years of active volunteering in the Haw- To this end, it is really important for the thorn Garden, I have found this situation gardeners to honour their obligations and The community gardens are managed by the UNA, supported by a volunteer com- discouraging. I hope that with a few sim- for the UNA designated staff to regularly munity garden committee. There is an approximate wait of 1-2 years for Rhodo and ple adjustments to the ways in which the inspect the gardens, note any needed re- Hawthorn Gardens, and 2-3 years for Nobel Garden. gardens are currently managed, it will be pairs, promptly act on the required remedi- Plot assignment for 2020 is complete. www.myuna.ca/sustainability/gardens/ possible to find again the energy and enthu- al work and, if required, effectively ensure siasm of the early days and inspire a new compliance with the garden regulations. page 4 THE CAMPUS RESIDENT FEBRUARY 24, 2020 Young Resident Raises Awareness about Pet Overpopulation

The Campus Resident received a letter Big credit is due to the Grade 5 teacher that don’t spay or neuter their pets. This ter a male pet by removing its testicles which Wesbrook Place resident Pedja Lee, Alexis Cassap-Hanson who motivated and has many consequences, but there is a and spay a female animal by removing its a grade 5 student from Jules Quensel El- engaged each student on these animal wel- simple solution that can prevent animals uterus and ovaries. ementary School, wrote to his community. fare projects. from ending up on the streets: you can go to a veterinarian and ask them to spay your Please be sure to inform the public and The letter was part of a class project on Please see below the letter from Pedja Lee. female pet or, if you have a male pet, they spay or neuter your own pet because ani- awareness of animal related issues. One will neuter it. mal overpopulation is a big problem in of the assignments was for each student British Columbia. to think of something they could do to in- Letter to the Community A male dog’s surgery costs $45–135 and crease awareness of their particular issue. takes about 5–20 minutes, whereas a fe- Pedja Lee, Pedja’s answer was to try to publish a let- male dog’s procedure takes 20–90 min- Grade 5 Student ter in the local newspaper, and The Campus Dear community, utes and costs $50–175. Jules Quensel Elementary School Resident is grateful to parents and children who helped to make this happen. Have you ever visited a place where there A male cat’s surgery costs $50–100 and Editor’s Note: According to the SPCA are lots of animals on the streets without a can be done in under 2 minutes, however website, in just seven years, one unspayed As a culmination to the project, the entire dry place to stay, food to eat, and proper a female cat’s procedure is done within cat and her offspring can produce over class visited the British Columbia Society medical care? This problem is due to ani- 15–20 minutes and you must pay $50–80. 450,000 cats (average litter of three, twice for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals mal overpopulation. a year). You can help stop the cycle. Pet (BC SPCA). The students made presenta- If you are worried that it will hurt your overpopulation is the greatest cause of tions on variety of subjects – puppy mills, Animal overpopulation is when there animal, you needn’t be, because animals animal mistreatment, and reducing it will effects of fire works on animals, pest con- are too many animals in a space and not are anesthetized, so they feel no pain dur- address the suffering of the tens of thou- trol, the story behind different types of enough resources to look after them prop- ing the surgery. Your pet may, however, sands of abandoned and feral cats in our chicken eggs, etc. erly. This happens when there are owners be a little uncomfortable after. They neu- province.

Pedja Lee (in pink shirt) and his groupmate Perry Lin (in white shirt) at the Take Action presentation at Jules Quesnel Elementary School. Photo credit Alexis Cassap-Hanson.

Is This Fair? Metro Markups Make Water More Costly for Local Residents

Greater Vancouver Water District “The markup imposes a substantial addi- • 5% – Legal and Operational Risk has be to interpreted to mean that either the charges UEL 20% markup on the tional cost for water. We have been told • 10% – Infrastructure provincial government become a member that the estimated amount of the markup or that Metro Vancouver Regional District cost of water; UEL then charges for 2019 was $710,000. For 2018 the Acknowledging the rationale for the 20% (MVRD) become a member (as the only UBC additional 10% markup was $650,000 and for 2017 it was markup provided by the Board Policy, the other government with responsibilities for $630,000.” letter says that “to the best of our knowl- the UEL and UBC area). Either option John Tompkins edge, it has never been determined whether faces a substantial hurdle: the GVWD Act Editor To supply UBC with water, the UEL that rationale is applicable with respect to only allows municipalities to be members. charges UBC an additional 10% markup. the purchase of water by the UEL and (in- Legislation would be required to enable Both UEL Manager Jonn Braman and directly) by UBC. In our view, it is not ap- the provincial government or MVRD to UBC Campus and Community Planning plicable. We believe that fair treatment of become a member of the GVWD. (The Electoral Area A Director Jen McCutch- Associate Vice-President Michael White the UEL and UBC would involve charging Tsawwassen First Nation is a member pur- eon and Alternate Director Mike Feeley re- have recently asked Metro Vancouver the member rate with no markup. suant to legislation.) cently submitted a letter to Metro Vancou- to reconsider the 20% markup, and the ver requesting a review of the rate charged McCutcheon-Feeley letter is in support of “We should emphasize that we are not “We cannot imagine that the provincial for water supplied to the University En- finding a solution – such as a new water seeking a change to the policy itself. Rath- government would be willing to enact dowment Lands (UEL) and indirectly to supply agreement. er, we are requesting that the UEL be ex- the necessary legislation if no compel- the University of British Columbia (UBC). empted from the policy. We recognize that ling case can be made for it. In our view, According to the letter, in 2013, the this may require that the UEL enter into a eliminating the 20% markup would not be The letter points out: “The B.C. govern- GVWD Board formalized its long-stand- water supply agreement with the GVWD.” regarded as a valid reason. That objective ment, as the administrator of the UEL, ing practice of charging non-members a can be achieved simply by a decision of the purchases water from the Greater Vancou- 20% markup over the member rate (unless Addressing the suggestion made that if GVWD Board.” ver Water District (GVWD), a portion of the non-member has a water supply agree- the UEL wants to pay the member rate, it which is for use within the UEL and the ment). should become a member of the GVWD, In conclusion, the EAA directors say: “It rest of which is sold to UBC. The rate the letter says: is our view that the 20% markup for water charged by the GVWD for this water is the The GVWD Board Policy states that the sold to the UEL (and indirectly to UBC) rate charged from time to time for water 20% markup generally reflects the follow- “The UEL is not a legal entity; it is an un- cannot be justified. We respectfully request supplied to GVWD members plus a 20% ing breakdown: incorporated area administered by the pro- that the markup be reviewed and that we be markup. • 5% – Administration vincial government. Thus, the suggestion involved in the review process.” THE CAMPUS RESIDENT FEBRUARY 24, 2020 page 5

Letter from UBC President Faith in the Academy

Did you know that UBC has been named one day I would be called to be a leader. of all faith groups, and also of students who one of the world’s most international uni- My passion and curiosity towards science are still searching or have decided that there versities? There are several reasons for this, led me to an academic career in medicine is no room for faith in their lives. I still need including our commitment to student mo- and biology. As I progressed in my aca- to serve them, regardless of what their be- bility and embracing international students, demic career, I also began to assume ad- liefs or interests might be. and our involvement with global research ministrative and leadership responsibilities, initiatives. UBC also partners with over first at Emory University and then at the Faith invites us to welcome discourse and 200 universities and institutions worldwide University of Cincinnati, and now at UBC. dialogue and difficult questions in our spiri- for domestic students to study abroad for a My own leadership style is based on a phi- tual life. Through questioning our faith, I semester. Leaving home to study in another losophy called “servant leadership,” where believe we become stronger individuals. country, students learn to approach differ- a leader must start from a position of humil- For me, a real gift of the spiritual path is ent situations and people with respect and ity and respect. Servant leadership doesn’t that you grow as an individual and your sensitivity, to remain humble, to make the mean that you don’t, at times, have to make faith becomes stronger because you’re effort to learn things about other cultures, tough decisions or assert yourself, but the constantly asking yourself questions and and to become aware of their own biases. foundation of how I interact with people perhaps sometimes doubting your decision. The very nature of a campus environment is one of mutual respect. A large part of This is really at the heart of what it means is a place to foster diversity, where students how I reach out to others comes from my to innovate. How do we welcome innova- encounter people whose views and back- faith. I’m a Christian and have been very tion in our spiritual lives? There are church- Professor Santa J. Ono. grounds differ from their own. This is why involved in churches in the different cit- es and congregations where there is active Photo credit Paul Joseph, UBC. “Faith in the Academy” is a topic that is ies that I’ve lived in. But as a university debate and sometimes tension between very important to me; and, indeed, funda- president, my focus on service is agnostic different members of the congregation or ual potential and to acquire the knowledge, mental to how I’ve come to understand my of denomination or faith. It’s really about different parts of the congregation and the skills and abilities they need to contribute purpose in life. my responsibility for others and focusing minister. And some people don’t want to be to society. on them. As a result, it’s entirely consistent in that kind of environment, but I believe I certainly didn’t start out imagining that with my own faith that I can be supportive that those are the strongest churches. We The very nature of a post-secondary en- really come to believe when our faith is vironment is a place to foster diversity. challenged, and we work through inconsis- Higher education is a transformative ex- tencies or differences of opinion. perience, as students learn not only about themselves, but others as well. In the same way, the best universities are the ones where people have the freedom to Education is an enabler of social develop- voice different points of view, and to either ment and mobility, and UBC is committed change their mind or strengthen their belief to advancing the inclusion of all those who based upon honest discourse. To explore have been excluded based on gender, race, the questions and mysteries of science and religion, sexuality, age, physical ability or faith together. And to acknowledge the economic circumstances. I believe higher humility of what we do not know. A cam- education holds great promise in meeting pus environment that fosters conversation the social, geo-political and economic chal- about faith, identity, race, religion, politics lenges that lie before us, and in supporting affords students opportunities to step out of all of our students and graduates to be the their comfort zone and grow – intellectu- best they can be at home and everywhere ally, spiritually, and emotionally. Urban in our very diverse world, to be citizens of students, inner-city students, Indigenous the world. students, racial and ethnic minorities, rural students, immigrants, refugees, and stu- Best wishes dents of all sexual orientations and gender UBC has been named one of the world’s most international universities. identities – all reflect the world we live in, Santa J. Ono Photo credit Paul Joseph, UBC. and we want them to develop their individ- President and Vice-Chancellor

Win-Win Scenario Seen for Nobel Park Upgrades

Renovations proposed by UBC Athletics Planning and (2) to proceed with fundrais- The comments included concerns about tion, and will be stored in Thunderbird Park and Recreation to the field in Nobel Park ing efforts related to field naming. electronic scoreboard, increased noise from when not in season. would upgrade the facility to improve safe- practice and rentals, increased parking de- • Hardscape area behind home plate will be ty and increase informal and youth com- UBC planners say that the majority of lo- mand, strong need for public washrooms in reconfigured to retain open space for bas- munity usage while also allowing UBC cal residents have registered support for the area and online access to field booking ketball and other activities. Women’s Varsity Softball team to train and the Nobel Park upgrades and expressed schedule. • Water fountain will be repaired. compete on campus. support for the UBC Softball Team. The • Future contemplated electronic score- residents also expressed desire to ensure UBC Athletics and Recreation Executive board will be removed from project pro- UBC Athletics and Recreation has request- that UNA does not pay for renovation or Kavie Toor led a three-member team to the posal. ed UNA Board endorsement to (1) proceed increased maintenance costs, and informal February 18 meeting of the UNA Board • Noise – Varsity softball practices will be with a Development Permit Application community access is prioritized. and spoke in glowing terms about the fu- scheduled during weekday hours; games through UBC Campus and Community ture of Nobel Park field if renovations are will be scheduled midday weekends. There undertaken. will be no increase in late night or early morning use. “Win. Win. Win. A winning scenario,” Mr. • Washrooms – temporary washrooms will Toor said after running out details about be available for use during softball season. the proposed renovations which also reflect • Parking – UBC A&R is pursuing oppor- BOARD continued from Page 1 “Accordingly, to permit a Director to partici- resident feedback. tunities to access parking at Triumf to ab- pate by, for example, videoconference tech- sorb increased demand during games. Cur- In his memo, Mr. Mullen argued that while nology is within the powers of the Directors • UBC Athletics and Recreation (A&R) rently there are only 7 game dates annually. there is no provision in the UNA bylaws for if a majority of the Directors deem such par- will cover the cost of renovation and in- remote participation of a Director at a Board ticipation to be convenient.” creased maintenance costs. Further public stakeholder engagement meeting, this matter is addressed in Section • UBC A&R and UNA will develop frame- – through Development Permit Process – 54 (1) of the Societies Act, which states that While in self-imposed isolation, Jane Kang work to protect prime times for informal will take place in March 2020. “Unless the bylaws of a society provide wrote a story about the Self-Isolate Group community use. otherwise, the Directors may meet at any set up by Chinese residents in the UNA area • Field will not be lit. Construction start targeted for late May/ location on any notice and in any manner to help prevent coronavirus spread. Please • Bleachers will be situated to avoid im- June 2020, and project completion – for convenient to the Directors. see story on Page 6. pacting sunlight to any surrounding vegeta- summer 2020. page 6 THE CAMPUS RESIDENT FEBRUARY 24, 2020 UNA Chinese Residents Set Up Self-Isolate Group To Help Prevent Virus Spread

Jane Kang viding very helpful voluntary services. particular, a team of ten volunteer drivers in eight vehicles have effectively sterilized Wesbrook Place Resident In the Greater Vancouver area, there are items and picked up people arriving from UNA Board Elected Resident several self-isolate groups helping people: China to prevent cross-infection. Director picking them up at the airport, shopping for groceries, distributing protective and disin- Services of the Self-Isolate Group have fection kits, communicating with Health- been widely publicized on WeChat –the LinkBC by phone (8-1-1) and providing popular Chinese social media platform, Many travellers who come to the Greater online emotional guidance. connecting Chinese residents. Vancouver area from China consciously isolate themselves for 14 days – in order In the UNA area, nearly 200 members and Volunteers deliver daily necessities and to prevent spread of the novel coronavirus 50 volunteers have joined the Self-Isolate groceries to self-isolated people so that (nCoV). To assist people in self-imposed Group, organized by Wesbrook Place resi- residents need not worry about supplies. quarantine, the UNA Chinese community dent Elisa Wei. Among the volunteers are Residents with English language barriers Self-Isolate Group volunteers Elisa has set up a Self-Isolate Group. Through campus residents Frank Kong, Kevin Hu, can receive help with translations. At the Wei and her husband, Wesbrook Place self-discipline and mutual assistance, it Fang Fang, Poken Wong, Monica Wang, same time, there are professional psycholo- residents. hopes to effectively reduce the potential Alan Zhao, Roy Yang and Cecilia Wang. gists available to provide emotional sup- risk of the virus’s transmission while pro- So far, 16 people have been assisted. In port and counseling, to help residents iden- tify rumours and false information, reduce unnecessary panic and build a platform for good communication and mediation. 隔离不隔心：UNA华裔居民防范新冠病毒隔离互助组 The Self-Isolate Group is grateful for all at- 为了防护新冠病毒的扩散，新从中国来 时，互助组有专业心理工作者，提供情绪 tention and donations received from local 到大温地区的华人自觉进行自我隔离14 识别和疏导工作，做到既要重视、有效防 residents, however, the group accepts only 天，UNA华人社区成立隔离互助组，通过自 范，同时识别谣言和不实信息，减少不必 donations of protective supplies and fuel 律和互助，希望有效降低病毒的潜在传播 要的恐慌心理，搭建起一个良好沟通疏解 cards. The list includes disposable medical 风险，体现了华裔居民对本社区和BC省的 的平台。 or N95 masks, disposable protective cloth- 负责态度，互助志愿者们提供了非常有力 ing, goggles, disinfectanting alcohol swabs 的义务服务。 隔离互助组也得到了各界人士的关注，收 and hand sanitizers, disposable gloves, UV 到很多捐资捐助的意愿，但是互助组只 lamps, and thick plastic cloth (to isolate the 目前在大温各城市隔离互助组服务包括： 接受防护用品和油卡的捐助，具体名单包 front and rear seats of vehicles). 接机、日常生活用品采购、防护及消毒用 括：一次性医用或N95口罩、一次性防护 品包、811沟通及线上情绪疏导等。互助组 服、护目镜、消毒酒精棉片、消毒洗手 有近200人加入，并有义工45人，截至目前 液、一次性手套、UV灯、厚塑料布（用于 The Self-Isolate Group embodies the re- 已经援助16人。特别是爱心车队8辆互助车 负压隔离包裹车辆前后座）、加油卡（给 sponsibility of Chinese people as residents. 和10位义工司机，经过负压包装车辆，在 爱心车队使用，暂时只接受10张）；疫情 We hope more Chinese residents can par- 接机和传递物品方面有效消毒，防止交叉 结束后，多余物资将返还给捐赠者或捐赠 ticipate, and welcome the understanding 感染，对于隔离潜在传染源起到了至关重 给大温地区的慈善机构。 and support of the campus community. 要的作用。 隔离互助是华裔作为本地居民担当和负责 If you see Chinese people wearing masks, 互助小组同时开发了线上对接小程序，尊 的体现，他们组织起来，为了减少新冠病 do not assume that they are virus carriers. 重自愿自动的方式，达成既能服务又能 毒的潜在传播，对维护大温地区的正常生 保护隐私的目的，非常具有加拿大的安全 活、教学、工作都具有积极的意义。希望 They are voluntary quarantines or volun- 品质。隔离互助组采购消毒和防护品做成 更多的华裔参与和支持，也欢迎各族裔的 Quarantine help poster – teers who contact the quarantines. Let us 服务包，带给隔离的人，保障相应防护用 理解与支持；对于带着口罩的华裔，不代 widely circulated on WeChat – offers cheer on these volunteers and residents. 品。特别日常用品及食品采购，提供周到 表他们是带毒者，他们是自愿隔离者或者 residents arriving from China pick-up 服务，让隔离着生活无忧。有英文障碍的 接触隔离者的义工。请我们的社区为自愿 services and contact information Editor’s Note: This story in Chinese lan- 居民，又一共提供与811的必要沟通。同 隔离的居民和义工们加油。 for volunteers. guage is to the left. UBC Experts Answer Coronavirus Questions

The World Health Organization has de- is currently no need to alter your routine. respiratory viruses are very much more Should we be wearing masks? clared a global health emergency due to the There is no need to avoid public places. likely to affect B.C. children than the novel outbreak of a novel coronavirus. Experts The best way to keep safe is to wash your coronavirus. No, masks are not recommended for most at the UBC Faculty of Medicine answer hands, keep your hands away from your We have really limited data on children at people in the general public. The best way some common questions for people in B.C. face, and cover your coughs. this time. Globally, only a very small pro- to protect yourself from novel coronavirus www.med.ubc.ca/news/ubc-experts- portion of the identified cases have been in infection, and the many other viruses cir- answer-novel-coronavirus-questions/ What are the psychological impacts of children, so we really don’t know about the culating at this time of year, such as in- #murthy isolation and quarantine on people and effects on children as a whole yet – we are fluenza, is to clean your hands frequently their families? certainly watching it closely. with alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap Dr. Steven Taylor and water. Other ways to prevent the Professor and Clinical Psychologist, The psychological effects of being held in What can I do to protect my children? spread of infections include not touching Department of Psychiatry quarantine can vary among people. Some your face, covering your mouth and nose people cope reasonably well, while others Take the same measures as you would to when coughing or sneezing, staying home You are the author of The Psychology of find it very stressful. The nature of the quar- prevent other respiratory illnesses. Make when unwell, and avoiding others who are Pandemics: Preparing for the Next Glob- antine contributes to how well people cope. sure your children are washing their hands sick. al Outbreak of Infectious Disease. How People tend to cope better if they are pre- or using alcohol-based hand rub, particular- do people commonly respond to virus pared and told what to expect regarding the ly after playing with other children. Teach Masks should be used by health care outbreaks? time in isolation and can maintain contact kids to use good ‘cough etiquette,’ which workers who are in close contact with pa- with family and friends. can be tricky with little kids. But the peren- tients who may have many different types We typically see a range of responses. Most nial ‘cover your cough’ and ‘sneeze into of infections. Masks should also be worn people will take reasonable precautions, your elbow’ are important. Try to avoid by sick people to prevent the spread of in- but some people will become excessively play dates when kids are sick or have kids fection that may occur through coughing anxious and misinterpret minor coughs as Dr. Laura Sauvé stay home when they are sick. These mea- and sneezing. There is no evidence that signs of the novel coronavirus. Clinical Assistant Professor, sures help to prevent all respiratory infec- wearing masks in public will protect those Division of Infectious Diseases, tions. who are not sick, and in fact they may be What advice would you give to people Department of Pediatrics at increased risk of picking up infections who are fearful of contracting the virus because they have a false sense of security or they touch their face more frequently to through their working environment, or Are children more vulnerable to adjust the mask. from visiting a local restaurant or this virus? Dr. Jocelyn Srigley shopping mall? Clinical Assistant Professor, It’s important to recognize that we are in Department of Pathology and For people in Canada, unless you hear oth- the middle of influenza season, so influ- Laboratory Medicine erwise from the health authorities, there enza, respiratory syncytial virus and other THE CAMPUS RESIDENT FEBRUARY 24, 2020 page 7 Making My Voice Heard: Visit to Public Open House on Proposed Minor Amendments to Wesbrook Place Neighbourhood Plan

Judy Hyojoo Rhee the staff of UBC Campus and Community Grade 12 student, University Hill Planning (C+CP) who organized this event. At the entrance, I wrote my name to sign up Secondary School as a participant and entered the lounge.

Through the display boards at the event and explanations provided by the C+CP staff, I If you reside in Wesbrook Village, you are learned the following about the background probably familiar with construction sites. of the amendments and the purpose of this You may often encounter site boards con- Public Open House. taining phrases such as ‘Notice of Land Use’ and ‘Development Plan’. Reading In November of 2019, in response to in- these signs and notices, I have always won- creasing demand for affordable faculty and dered what my neighbourhood would look staff housing on UBC campus, UBC Board like in the future – especially with regards of Governors Housing Action Plan Work- to the population, densities, and safety. ing Group asked C+CP staff to find sites for faculty and staff housing. As a result, In the January issue of The Campus Resi- C+CP are proposing to change design reg- dent, a Public Open House advertisement ulations for some of the undeveloped sites caught my attention. The advertisement by in the Wesbrook Place Neighbourhood. If UBC Campus and Community Planning approved, the proposal would provide fac- invited residents to “provide input on pro- ulty and staff rental housing below the mar- posed minor amendments to the Wesbrook ket rate, allowing for up to 500 faculty and Place Neighbourhood Plan”. staff rental units. This, moreover, would enable UBC to meet the Housing Action I was intrigued. What did ‘minor amend- Plan target of 20% of all new housing be- ments’ mean? What exactly is a Public ing used for faculty and staff rental in the Open House, and how does this event func- next 10 years. tion as part of the public consultation pro- cess? To find the answers, I wanted to par- The plan for the UBC largest neighbour- ticipate in the Open House, even if I wasn’t hood – Wesbrook Place Neighbourhood certain what the proposal being discussed Plan – was approved in 2005. It covers 44 was about. sites, the majority of which have already been developed or are under construction. On February 11, I visited the Wesbrook Only nine sites remain; four of these avail- Community Centre (WCC). Previously, able sites will be affected by the amend- I had assumed that a Public Open House ments, which will allow 6-storey buildings proposals? With respect to the number of approve or reject the plan. The 500 units of would involve a formal presentation and for faculty-staff rental housing. faculty-staff housing units, how was the additional housing is based on the current question-and-answer period, which would number 500 derived? demand and the number of available sites allow me to listen and observe while seated According to Lia Gudaitis, a Senior Plan- in the Wesbrook area.” in the back row. Upon arriving at the event, ner at C+CP, these amendments would re- I brought these questions to Ms. Gudaitis, however, I realized it was an informal, sult in no change to overall buildable area who responded: “The engagement princi- Public consultation has been sched- friendly Q-and-A session. or open space in the neighbourhood. ples created by C+CP require that the pub- uled to take place between February 10 lic is consulted – depending on the impact and 24, and the UBC Board of Gover- Surrounded by several information display Is public consultation a requirement for and scope of the project. Feedback from nors will be reviewing the amendments boards, a dozen people were standing and C+CP? What is the purpose of this Pub- the public will be incorporated into a report report in April. Residents can provide conversing in the WCC lounge. Approxi- lic Open House? What would happen if submitted by C+CP to the UBC Board of their input through an online survey: mately half of those present appeared to be members of the public were to oppose the Governors, who will refer to the report and planning.ubc.ca/wesbrookplace. page 8 THE CAMPUS RESIDENT FEBRUARY 24, 2020 Hearts for Hubei: Lending our Heroes a Hand

Michael Li finally realized, but it was too late. Dr. Li Hearts for Hubei youth was already severely affected by the virus, campaign organizer and on the 7th, after every effort made to rescue him failed, he passed away.

Wuhan used to be called the “City of He- roes” for its intriguing history. And now, I just stepped down from a plane depart- that name fits perfectly. These medical ing from Beijing when I was informed of staff are dedicating every second of their a revenant horror, the coronavirus, coming lives to fight the virus. They are heroes, back from the long-gone SARS, and it’s and our heroes need our help right now, even deadlier than before. I was relieved the ill need our help right now. And ev- I didn’t go to Hubei. But many people ery donation is a brick, building atop our aren’t at ease like I am, like we all are. foundation, stretching to Hubei; one hand might never reach the other side of the In the China Mainland, more than 60,000 world, but with our collective effort, we patients were reported to be diagnosed will be able to aid our heroes and even be- with coronavirus. The breakout happened come one ourselves. less than three months ago. That averages 20,000 people in just one month. 20,000 Youth campaign organizers (from left) Rose Wang, Coco Li, Michael Li and Bohan Tang. In the spirit of February, the month of is just a number, but every one of these love, let’s show Hubei’s frontline doctors 20,000 is a living person; and 1,380 of ended up as one of them. More than 1,700 tor at Wuhan Central Hospital, reported some of our love. these people – who were part of our world medical staff were infected by the virus, the possibility of a new virus that affects – have died in these three months. That’s and six of them have died. Again, six is the lungs, perhaps scarier than SARS. If you would like to donate, here’s the link right, while we are all panicking here, peo- not a big number, but lives aren’t quantita- No one believed him. People thought he (also on the poster on Page 1): ple are dying – lots of them. tive, not to mention that they are people was stirring up drama to become famous. www.gofundme.com/f/hearts-for-hubei who sacrificed themselves for the people. He stayed in the hospital to research the And amongst these deaths, there are doc- virus and became infected, as he himself tors and nurses, medical staff who dedi- The virus also took away the sentinel who confirmed on February 1st. When the out- cated their lives to save these patients and reported its first case. Wen Liang Li, a doc- break happened, the people at the hospital Community Connection Night 2020 SPRING/ SUMMER Workshop on Community Building Puts PROGRAM Faith in GUIDE Knowing Your Neighbours

Richard Watson, a Hawthorn Place resi- dent and Chair of the University Neigh- bourhoods Association Board of Directors led a workshop for campus residents at the The Old Barn & Wesbrook Old Barn Community Centre, encouraging Community Centres them to get to know their next-door neigh- bours.

This is one of the best ways of building your community, Mr. Watson said. To start, he said, get to know the names of your neighbours.

A dozen or so residents attended the work- LOOK FOR A shop organized by the UNA Multicultural Committee, and applause at the end of it COPY IN YOUR was enthusiastic.

MAILBOX IN THE After the workshop, the UNA Chair – who COMING WEEKS is a pastor in the Presbyterian Church – said he felt residents responded well to the ma- terial he presented, particularly, to a ques- tion-and-answer session which focussed on the need to know next-door neighbours and suggestions for steps residents can take to start the conversation and build mutual trust.

Born in Calgary, Mr. Watson arrived in UNIVERSITY NEIGHBOURHOODS Vancouver to study at Regent College. ASSOCIATION He ran as a candidate in the UNA elec- tion in November 2019 and won a seat on the Board of Directors. A month later, the Board elected Mr. Watson as Chair.