5 Questions with Gerry Sylvester – VIU

January 10, 2018

Vancouver Island University (VIU) recently hosted a very special guest – one of the Institution’s first presidents! Gerry Sylvester was Malaspina College’s second president, from 1979 to 1981. Before coming to Malaspina, Sylvester taught at Notre Dame University College in Nelson and Vancouver Community College, and served as the Dean of Instruction at Langara College. He was also successful in business, helping to found an asphalt company in Trail and he built and operated a number of gas stations throughout the Okanagan for a Canadian oil company. After Malaspina, he worked in administration at the College of New Caledonia and Vancouver Community College. His educational legacy continued after retirement when he helped found Corpus Christi College on the UBC Campus. Sylvester’s recent visit to VIU included having lunch and a quick photo op with Dr. Ralph Nilson, VIU’s current President and Vice-Chancellor.

What is your favourite memory from your time at VIU?

I really enjoyed going to the Powell River Campus to help develop academic preparation courses and cultural programs.

How is VIU different now compared to when you were president?

Read More: https://news.viu.ca/5-questions-gerry-sylvester