Dear VCC community, 

On Sunday, January 22, 2023, many members of the VCC community will celebrate the Lunar New Year. 

This year marks the Year of the Water Rabbit, and it is considered to be an auspicious year. According to Chinese astrology, the combination of the Rabbit sign and the Water element will bring good luck, prosperity and energy.  

The Year of the Water Rabbit encourages us to deepen our relationships and connections with others. By being open to communication, ideas, and possibilities, we can embrace the positive energy and unexpected opportunities represented by the Rabbit and accomplish great things in 2023. 

This year, VCC is proud to host Lunar New Year celebrations at both our Downtown and Broadway campuses on Monday, Jan. 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Hosted by Students’ Union of VCC and the International Education department, I invite everyone to take this opportunity to learn more about the rich culture and heritage of Asian communities and their significant contributions to our society. There will be food, refreshments, and a traditional Chinese lion dance. I hope to see many of you there! 

On behalf of the VCC Board of Directors and leadership team, I wish our students, employees and all those of Asian heritage in our college community a happy, healthy, and prosperous Lunar New Year! 

Warmly,  

Ajay Patel
President and CEO
Vancouver Community College 

Dear VCC community,

In a few short weeks, we will be turning the page on this year and welcoming 2023. Before we break for the holidays, I would like to take this time to reflect on the past year and thank each of you for your valuable contributions.

There were many moments this year when I was filled with pride for our VCC community. From our students to faculty to staff, I saw so much dedication and hard work. There seemed to be a renewed purpose of learning, working and collaborating – and it has been exciting to see the rewards of our shared focus.

I want to thank our faculty for continuing to give our students a learning experience of the highest standard. To our staff and administrators I’d like to offer deep gratitude for your commitment to the college and its operations.

The world around us is changing quickly, but I am confident in how our VCC community will keep pace because of the care you show for each other. Let’s continue to support each other and make 2023 another memorable one for VCC.

Finally, however you choose to spend the holidays – with family or friends or new acquaintances – I hope it is true to your values, traditions and spirit. Celebrate safely. Be well. Take care of each other, especially those whose loved ones are absent or far away.

On behalf of VCC’s Board of Governors and the Senior Team, I wish you a restful and restorative holiday season. I look forward to seeing you in the new year.

With gratitude,

Ajay Patel
President and CEO
Vancouver Community College