A community where differences are valued
“When everyone is elevated, we all succeed.” These words from VCC President Ajay Patel reflect a belief that shapes every corner of the college. Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are woven into teaching, leading, and growing. We are committed to creating a culture where students, staff, and faculty feel included in the decisions that shape their learning and working environments.
This vision comes to life in practical, often quiet ways that reflect who we are as a community. VCC is the only college in the Lower Mainland offering fundamental English instruction for newcomers, refugees, and others with interrupted education, removing barriers to access from the beginning. Our EDI work is deeply connected to our commitment to decolonization and Indigenization. We continue to learn what it means to share space intentionally, guided by Indigenous knowledge holders, community partners, and the Host Nations on whose land we live and learn. This work is ongoing and spearheaded by the partnerships we nurture with local First Nations, WorkBC, and grassroots organizations to deliver low-cost and tuition-free programs to Indigenous students and at-risk youth. It’s reflected in the everyday experience of our campuses, where free menstrual products, gender-inclusive washrooms, and accessible learning support are simply part of how we care for one another.
Equity, diversity and inclusion are a shared responsibility
EDI at VCC is a shared effort led by students, faculty, and staff. From inclusive teaching to accessible services, everyone plays a role. Our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee brings staff together monthly to lead college-wide initiatives. Through small grants and collaborative planning, we support grassroots efforts across departments. This collective action is rooted in our Strategic Innovation Plan, which invites us to think boldly. Explore what EDI in action looks like across VCC:
We exceed the Government of Canada’s 50–30 challenge goals by having inclusive representation on our board and executive teams.
We work with WorkBC, MOSAIC, and Indigenous Nations to deliver tuition-free and low-cost education to equity-deserving learners. Discover how we support Indigenous learners here.
From Lunar New Year to Black History Month, we host student-led, college-wide celebrations that reflect our communities.
We’re part of Accessible Employers and the 2024 Pledge to Measure, which aims to increase inclusive hiring. We also provide San’yas Cultural Safety Training for all employees.
Discover our EDI initiatives
Through small grants and collaborative planning, we support grassroots efforts across departments. Here’s how equity shows up across campus life:
Get involved
Do you have questions or want to contribute to a specific initiative? Please reach out to us, and we would be happy to connect.
Contact rnoel@vcc.ca to get started.