Kwantlen Polytechnic University will present Janice Unwin with an honorary degree at the June convocation to recognize her work over the past 40 years in the education sector.
Unwin started her career in 1979 as a physical education teacher and then a high school counsellor. She went on to work in many different roles including elementary and secondary school principal, as well as superintendent in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.
Most recently, Unwin has been recognized for her work with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Advanced Education to modernize the K-12 education system. She has also worked with post-secondary institutions to ensure a seamless transition from K-12 to post-secondary.
“The one that brings me the most pride is the last chapter of the journey which was to assist the Ministry of Education and Advanced Education in transforming education across this province. The people I met, many of whom were from KPU gave me such hope for the future as we all wrestle with creating an educational journey that needs to exist in a rapidly changing world,” Unwin says.
“Janice Unwin has contributed considerably to the education sector in British Columbia. Her work with post-secondary institutions while revitalizing the K-12 curriculum so the next generation of students is ready for university speaks to her passion for education,” says Dr. Alan Davis, president and vice-chancellor of KPU. “KPU is proud to present her with this honorary degree.”
Looking back at her career she says her advice to the new graduates is to stay passionate in whatever adventure they embark upon.
“Try to give back in whatever way makes sense to them. Stay positive and don’t get down when tough times come along. It is all part of the learning journey which we all are hopefully on for life.”
Unwin will receive the Honorary Doctor of Laws on June 4, 2019. To watch the ceremony live, please visit kpu.ca/convocation/live.