The University of Northern British Columbia is located on and serves diverse traditional territories that are home to numerous First Nations and other Indigenous communities.

The Prince George campus is situated on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh, part of the Dakelh (Carrier) First Nations. Our regional campuses are situated on the traditional territories of Dakelh and Tsilhqot’in people (South-Central), Dunne-Za people (Peace River-Liard campus) and Ts’msyen people (Northwest campus). We are also pleased to have a federated agreement with the Wilp Wilxo’oskwhl Nisg̱a’a Institute in the Nass Valley.

UNBC is a special place with a unique history rooted in the people who call central and northern British Columbia home. Since joining the UNBC community in 2004, first as a faculty member in the Northern Medical Program and then as an administrator, I have gained a deep appreciation of how important it is to have a University of and for the people of this great region.

As your President, I am committed to collaborating with our exceptional students, faculty, staff and supporters as we explore the many exciting opportunities that await us. By building out and implementing our strategic vision, we will work together to ensure UNBC is prepared to meet challenges head-on.

Over the past 19 years, I have been fortunate to work with so many bright and enthusiastic people both in my roles at the Northern Medical Program and more recently as the Vice-President, Research. I value the relationships I have built with people in our community across our campuses, and I look forward to learning from, working with and getting to know even more of you in this new role. 

I took on the role of Interim President just before the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything, including how we engage in teaching, learning, research and service. It has been a period of adjustment for all of us, but through it all, it re-affirmed our shared commitment to the safety of everyone in our community.

As the sign at the entrance to our Prince George campus proclaims, UNBC is Nizdeh Nekeyoh Hohudel’eh Baiyoh, which is Dakelh for House of Learning. It is a House of Learning, not just for our students, but also for our entire community.

Geoff Payne
President and Vice-Chancellor
University of Northern British Columbia