Media Release
VCC Commits to 50 — 30 Diversity Challenge
VANCOUVER – Vancouver Community College (VCC) has accepted a national diversity challenge to ensure that the leadership of the college and its Board of Directors reflects a commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
Developed by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the 50 – 30 Challenge asks companies and organizations to make two aspirational commitments to increase diversity on their boards and in senior management, and report on their progress.
The 50 – 30 Challenge asks that organizations aspire to two goals: Gender parity ("50 per cent") on Canadian board(s) and senior management; and significant representation ("30 per cent") on Canadian board(s) and senior management of other under-represented groups.
“I thank VCC for joining the 50 – 30 Challenge and for being a part of this initiative. As a member of the education industry, VCC is fostering innovation by embracing diversity and inclusion, which invites new perspectives and insights into their work,” says François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
“Ensuring diverse leadership in these areas will create a more equitable, inclusive Canada for everyone.”
Known for its inclusive programs and accessibility for all learners, VCC was eager to accept the challenge set forth by government.
VCC’s current executive team is comprised of 50 per cent women (persons who identify as female) and 50 per cent of the team identify as ethnically diverse or from an under-represented group. As well, the 14 members of the college’s Board of Governors identify as 71 per cent female and 64 per cent as ethnically diverse or from an under-represented group.
"Initiatives like the 50 – 30 Challenge are a way for organizations, like VCC, to evaluate their position and be intentional around creating diverse representation in leadership. It is a point of pride for us that our leadership reflects our community," says Jane Shin, Vice President Students & Community Development.
A requirement of the challenge is for participating companies, organizations, and not-for-profits agree to voluntarily take action towards achieving meaningful and substantive improvements in supporting diversity and inclusion within their organization.
Adds Shin, "We are committed to developing and supporting all voices in leadership at VCC. It is meaningful to be a woman and a person of colour help steward this remarkable college with my colleagues. And it’s so important that we continue to foster diverse ways of being in positions of leadership at VCC, and across the post-secondary sector.
About Vancouver Community College
VCC has been inspiring students to reach their career goals for over 50 years through hands-on instruction in culinary arts, business, design, health sciences, hospitality, transportation trades, music, and more.
Media contact:
Jen Hill
Communications Manager
Vancouver Community College
T: 604.828.0974
E: jehill@vcc.ca