CAPILANO UNIVERSITY
University announces Kari Wharton as Vice-President, University Relations

Capilano University (CapU) is pleased to announce that Kari Wharton will be the next vice-president, university relations. Wharton has been serving the role on an interim basis since December 14, 2023 and, after a recruitment process, assumed the role permanently as of May 1, 2024.

Wharton will provide strategic direction to raise the University's profile, secure support for its priorities and strengthen University relationships. The university relations portfolio Wharton leads includes philanthropy & alumni relations; communications; government and community relations; marketing & digital experience; and university events and ceremonies.

Wharton joined CapU in June 2012 as manager, development & alumni relations. Most recently, she held the position of director, university relations & capital campaigns, leading the $5-million capital campaign in support of the University's Centre for Childhood Studies. She has been the lead on several key projects, including project manager for CapU's 50th anniversary program; project lead in the restructuring of the University's communications and marketing & digital experience service areas; and the University's first asset inventory and naming framework.

"Kari has been a committed member of the University for the past 12 years and has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision," says Paul Dangerfield, president and vice-chancellor. "Her wealth of knowledge will cultivate community relations and help create a distinct university experience. I'm delighted to have her continue in the role of vice-president, university relations."

Wharton is a senior executive with over 30 years of experience in government and post-secondary education. Her previous roles include director, North American operations, Golden Key International Honour Society (10 years); manager, undergraduate recruitment (domestic) UBC; and communications officer, youth and student programs, BC Yukon, HRDC (federal government). Prior to joining CapU, she also worked in corporate development for five years in the advancement portfolio of UBC.

As a volunteer for many years, her community service focused on the volunteer board of the North Shore Royal Canadian Army Cadets, 2573 6 Engineer Squadron, as well as several other North Shore grade school committees, fundraising events and UBC alumni activities.

Wharton is a graduate of UBC, with a bachelor's degree in arts, majoring in economics. She continued her lifelong learning through UBC's Sauder School of Business Executive Education program, taking courses focused on financial management, labour law and strategic planning.

More information

Capilano University's Executive Leadership team

The university's Envisioning 2030 strategic plan