James Moore, a graduate from the University of Northern British Columbia, is the first UNBC alumnus to be named to the Federal Cabinet, following an announcement by Prime Minister Harper earlier today.

Click here for the Government of Canada announcement

Mr. Moore graduated from UNBC with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science in 2000. He was first elected as a Member of Parliament later that year when he was only 24 years old, becoming the youngest elected MP in British Columbia history. With today’s announcement that Mr. Moore will join Cabinet as Secretary of State responsible for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, 2010 Olympics, and Official Languages, he also becomes the youngest cabinet minister in BC history.

“James was an exceptionally bright student,” says John Young, a professor in the University’s Political Science program. “It is great for UNBC and this region that James is overseeing federal involvement in the Asia-Pacific initiative and the 2010 Olympics, as both appear to be integral to regional development efforts. He is seen to be among the rising stars on Parliament Hill, in part because he has real passion and respect for the political process and the role of government. To be in Cabinet is an honour and I’m confident that James will succeed in his new role.”
 
Others recognize Mr. Mo0re’s potential. During his first term as an MP, he was named “best up-and-coming MP” for four years in a row by his fellow MPs and Parliament Hill staff. He was subsequently re-elected in the riding of Port Moody – Westwood – Port Coquitlam in 2004 and 2006.

This past September, he was selected by the Alumni Association to be the keynote speaker during the Association’s first annual Alumni Homecoming on campus.  

Contact:
Dr. John Young, Political Science professor, UNBC – 250.960.6636
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC – 250.960.5622

 

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