Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is welcoming Erin Barnes as the newly appointed chair of KPU's Board of Governors, effective August 1, 2025.
First appointed to the board in June 2024, Barnes is a lawyer whose practice focuses on advocating for the true implementation of the United Nations Declarations of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and supporting First Nations communities on environmental and regulatory matters within their territories.
"I am honoured to take on the role of chair and to work alongside my fellow board members during what I believe is a defining moment for KPU," says Barnes.
"We are thrilled to welcome our new President, Dr. Bruce Choy, at what is a meaningful time to come together, to strengthen our sense of community among students, faculty and staff, and to deepen our commitment to reconciliation. That includes creating space for Indigenous and minority voices, knowledge systems and leadership in all areas of the institution. I am looking forward to the work ahead and to all that we can accomplish together."
Barnes, who is Mi'kmaw and a member of the Wasoqopa'q First Nation, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Victoria and a Juris Doctor from the Peter A. Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia.
She succeeds Ivy Chen, who served as chair for the past three years.
Elected to the role of vice-chair is Stephanie Smith, an early childhood educator and former president of the BC General Employees' Union. Named one of Business in Vancouver's most influential labour leaders in 2022 and 2023, Smith oversaw countless campaigns during her 10 years as president of the labour union.
Smith has served on several boards and committees, including the B.C. government's Poverty Reduction Advisory Committee and the Canadian Labour Congress executive council.
For more information about the board and its membership, visit the KPU Board of Governors page.
