UNIVERSITY OF THE FRASER VALLEY
James Mandigo installed as UFV's seventh president and vice-chancellor

The University of the Fraser Valley officially welcomed Dr. James Mandigo as its seventh President and Vice-Chancellor at an installation ceremony on Friday, Oct. 24. 

In a room packed with colleagues, friends, family, and community partners, James delivered an optimistic and inspiring opening address about the future of UFV, one that included a moment of levity.  

James took a moment to point out the black socks he was wearing and give a shout-out to his high school teacher, who was watching online. 

"Mrs. White fostered my love of Shakespeare and also taught me the importance of accountability when I skipped out on an English test to attend a Eurythmics concert," James explained. "At graduation, when I crossed the stage to receive my high school diploma, I wore a pair of white sports socks and sneakers, and she wanted to make sure I didn't repeat that fashion faux pas. 

"I wear these socks today to pay tribute to and honour Mrs. White, and all the members of my academic family whose footsteps have paved the way for me on this journey." 

Nathan Mandigo, James' son, preceded him on stage, delivering a heart-warming speech that brought tears to the eyes of many (including his father). 

"My father's inspiration comes in large part from former activist and president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, who said Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,'" Nathan said. "My father understands this and has dedicated his career to instilling these values with every step along the way. 

"We in the Mandigo family are all very happy for him as we see his passion and dedication for UFV all the time. I couldn't be prouder of him, and I'm excited to see the work he will do along with UFV's students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners." 

The investiture of the new president was performed by Q'um Q'um Xiiem Dr. Jo-ann Archibald, UFV Chancellor, along with Audrey Ackah, UFV General Counsel, and Cristen Gleeson, the new Chair of the UFV Board of Governors. 

"James embodies the spirit of leadership that defines the university - compassionate, collaborative, and rooted in being a changemaker across and within the communities we serve," Cristen said. "His vision for UFV builds on our strong foundation and invites us to imagine what transformation looks like when education truly serves people and place. As a board, we are inspired by his commitment to students, community partnerships, truth and Reconciliation, and creating an environment where innovation and care walk hand in hand." 

The ceremony started with a welcome from Semá:th First Nation Councillor Iris Point and a multilingual land acknowledgement by UFV's Teaching and Learning Centre team.  

The ceremony included uplifting music from Good Medicine Songs   Éy St'elmexw St'elt'ílém, a talented group of musicians using the power of song and storytelling to restore the Halq'eméylem language. It also included an Indigenous Honour Song shared by Veronique Modeste, Jaida Modeste, Malcolm Modeste, and Ronald Modeste. 

UFV Student Union Society president Bilal Faisal Faheem emceed the program, which included the singing of the national anthem by grade 12 student Eden Van Dyke. Following this, the ceremony included the sharing of a letter from B.C. Lieutenant Governor Wendy Cocchia and Jessie Sunner, B.C. Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, addressed the audience through a pre-recorded video. 

When he stepped to the podium, James emphasized themes of family and diversity. 

"Family is not just a group bound by blood or proximity, but by a spirit of unity that comes from celebrating and embracing our differences, welcoming every unique gift every member brings, and forming the bonds that make us stronger together," he said. "Just as no two families are the same, so too are no two people identical. Each person enriches our university with their perspectives, experiences, and talents." 

Diversity, he said, is the thread that weaves together our shared experiences, the fabric that holds us together. 

"While diversity can sometimes feel challenging and we will not always agree, it is precisely through embracing, understanding, listening, and celebrating these differences that we thrive. Families, communities, and institutions flourish when they embrace the strengths found in their diversity," James noted. "I stand here because I've benefited from the mentorship, perspectives, and kindness of countless individuals, each with unique stories and backgrounds.  

"As president, my responsibility is to ensure our university continues to be a place where all voices are valued, where diversity is protected through respectful, inclusive, and evidence-based dialogue. When we lean into diversity as an opportunity to unite rather than divide, we set an example not only for our institution but for our broader community showing what is possible when everyone is empowered to thrive." 

The ceremony concluded with an energetic and entertaining performance by members of the Vancity Bhangra Dancers.