Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/609048
6 simon FALL 2015 W hen Simon Fraser University opened its doors in 1965, it was set apart from the com- munity high on Burnaby Mountain. But, even then, its students and faculty were not prepared to be disconnected from society. The University was quickly dubbed the "Radical Campus" in recognition of its activism and impatience with the status quo. Over the past 50 years, as SFU has devel- oped into one of Canada's top comprehen- sive research universities, it has still managed to retain an adventurous spirit and willing- ness to do things differently, reaching out to the community physically as well in its educational programs and research ventures. Physically, it began by establishing a downtown Vancouver campus, which the Vancouver Sun now calls "the intellectual heart of the city." When we opened a third campus in Surrey, it became the catalyst for developing a new Surrey City Centre. And when we began to build a model sustainable community next to our original Burnaby campus, everyone from the U.S.- based International Living Future Institute to the U.K.-based Prince's Foundation for Building Community took notice. So, in f ive short decades, we have grown from our radical roots to become Canada's "Engaged University"—known for its dynamic integration of innovative education, cutting-edge research and far-reaching community engagement. We are also recognized as a leader in fostering social and economic innovation, and in supporting service learning and student entrepreneurship. There are many who have contributed to this success, including our brilliant faculty, exceptional students and dedicated staff. But we must in addition thank you as citizens and supporters. In half a century, we together have built an outstanding educational and research institution uniquely committed to community engagement and betterment. We are profoundly grateful, and incred- ibly excited for the future and what we have yet to accomplish together. From Radical Campus to Engaged University Andrew Petter President and Vice-Chancellor WORDS FROM THE PRESIDENT