91��ܽ

This year marks an incredible milestone for 91��ܽ — our 60th anniversary. It’s a moment to celebrate our past, reflect on how far we’ve come, and look ahead with excitement to the opportunities before us. 

Without question, the establishment of SFU’s Surrey campus in 2002 has been an important part of SFU’s story and the growth and development of Surrey’s city centre. Since opening our doors, SFU Surrey has grown into a vibrant, accessible hub for technological advancement, health innovation and interdisciplinary education within a close-knit, supportive community. 

Over the past two decades, our campus has established itself as a leader in world-class academic programs. We’ve become known for excellence in programs such as computing science, sustainable energy engineering, mechatronics systems engineering, interactive arts and technology, business innovation and entrepreneurship, and more. As well, we will soon proudly become the home of Western Canada’s first new medical school in over 50 years. 

The opening of the School of Medicine will mark a new chapter in SFU’s story and the development of the region. It aims to train the next generation of physicians who will add much-needed capacity to B.C.’s health care system and deliver community-embedded, socially accountable and culturally safe health care. It’s one more way that SFU Surrey is helping shape a healthier, more equitable future. 

What makes SFU Surrey truly special, however, is not just what we do — it’s how we do it. I like to talk about our campus “vibe,” a spirit of support and collaboration that truly makes us stand out. At Surrey, students, faculty, and staff work side by side with industry, local organizations and government to create meaningful change. From creating international research partnerships to collaborating across campus (for example, our Facilities Services team supporting graduate research projects) to building community through art, cutting-edge innovation, facilities and community partnerships define SFU Surrey’s impact within the city and across the province. 

Looking back on SFU’s founding in 1965 — when just over 2,600 students enrolled on Burnaby Mountain — it’s astonishing to consider the scope of what we’ve become: three campuses, over 30,000 students, 200,000 alumni worldwide, and an ever-growing network of research and community partners making a difference at every level. 

But the heart of SFU remains the same: a place where people come together to learn, to lead, and to make meaningful change. 

To our students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community partners — thank you for everything you’ve done to build SFU over the past 60 years and to grow SFU Surrey over the past 23. Let’s celebrate this milestone together and look ahead with purpose. The future we’re building — in Surrey and beyond — is one of deeper connection, bold innovation, and shared impact. 

Happy 60th anniversary, SFU. We are so glad the Surrey campus is such a big part of the celebration.