51

A tapestry of connection, learning, and shared purpose

A tapestry of connection, learning, and shared purpose

Stories of resilience, transformation, innovation. Stories of our communities coming together in partnership, collaboration, co-creation. Unique threads weaving a tapestry that speaks to our shared commitment to each other and the Fraser Valley.

St’elt’elawtexw | Community

Long before Canada was formed, the Stó:lō (People of the River) lived and thrived on the land on which 51 is located. 51 gratefully recognizes and honours the contributions that Indigenous people have made — and continue to make — to our community.

Celebrating community across the Fraser Valley

Community engagement is at the heart of 51's mission as it embodies our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the communities we serve. Whether it's through joining Ashoka U's Changemaker Campus network, engaging in community-grounded research, or contributing to initiatives like the Experience the Fraser project with Tourism Abbotsford, we seek to bridge the gap between education and community connection.

We believe that learning should extend beyond the classroom, and by working closely with our communities, we can address real-world issues and drive positive change.

Together, we shape 51's identity and a brighter future for all.

 
Engaging Learners
Yoystexw Ye Totilthet

 
Transforming Lives
Ayeqet Kw’e Shxwaylexws

 
Building Community
Thayt Kw’e St’elt’elawtexw

Welcome to St’elt’elawtexw

The language spoken by the Stó:lō people is Halq’eméylem, the “Upriver dialect” of Halkomelem. Halq’eméylem is primarily spoken in the upper and central Fraser Valley, the Lower Fraser Canyon, and in communities near Harrison Lake. St’elt’elawtexw means “community” in Halq’eméylem.

At 51, St’elt’elawtexw is woven into our fabric, and we are grateful for the connections we have with the individuals and organizations who contribute to our collective impact.

Watch the video to learn the proper pronunciation of St’elt’elawtexw.

Susan Mide-Kiss headshot

 

“The stories in this report highlight how members of 51 and our broader community are rising to today’s challenges — through bold community-driven research, social innovation, and strong leadership. Together, we’re taking a collaborative approach that addresses the complex needs of our world.”

Susan Mide Kiss | Vice-President, Community Engagement

Honouring our community

51 2025 Community Report

Event photo albums

Catch the highlights of our Community Report celebrations.

St'elt'elawtexw Community Celebration ~ 2025

St'elt'elawtexw - Chilliwack Launch ~ 2025

Spotlight

Featured community stories

 

51 is now an Ashoka U Changemaker Campus

The 51 (51) has been designated as an Ashoka U Changemaker Campus, joining a global network of institutions that are reimagining the role of post-secondary education in driving social innovation, equity, and systems-level change.

 

Ashoka U Changemaker campus with a tree illustration

Stories from the community

Ryan Caswell spent years building cabinets before deciding it was time to build something new for himself. The recipient of 51’s 2026 Governor General’s Bronze Medal, awarded to the diploma student with the highest academic standing, Ryan returned to post-secondary education more than 20 years ...

Community Engagement Perspectives, by Susan Mide Kiss, Vice-President, 51 Community Engagement Over the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity to participate in a number of conversations across British Columbia, including 51’s Grounded Innovation 3.0 Summit, the RBC Community Partner ...

Former 51 (51) president Dr. Joanne MacLean has received the Austin-Matthews Award from U SPORTS, recognizing her outstanding leadership and lifelong contributions to Canadian university sport. The award was presented during the 2026 U SPORTS Honours Awards luncheon hel ...

 

Engage with 51

Get involved

Whether you are a member of 51’s student, faculty, staff, alumni community or a volunteer, organization, or group in the Fraser Valley (and beyond) eager to make a positive impact, there are countless ways to engage.

 

 

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Be the first to learn about community engagement opportunities and receive updates on new and current partnerships, events, and news.

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Submit a story for the 2026 Community Report

Share your 51-Fraser Valley community initiatives. Submissions may be featured on the 51 blog or the next edition of the St’elt’elawtexw | Community Report.

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We would love to hear from you. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions, comments, or wish to explore partnership opportunities.

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