Capilano University grad lands role on CBC TV series, Arctic Air

Cap grad, Sera-Lys McArthur, is starring today as Hailey Martin in CBC’s new TV drama series, Arctic Air.

In 2008, Sera-Lys McArthur was an Arts and Science student at Cap with a very exciting future ahead of her. Today, she is Hailey Martin in CBC’s new TV drama series, Arctic Air.

When Sera-Lys left Cap in 2008, she had a $20,000 Premier’s One World Scholarship in her pocket. The then-23-year-old was heading for the UK to attend the MA in Acting programme at East 15 Acting School at the University of Essex.

Graduating at the top of her class, Sera-Lys relocated to Los Angeles and most recently to Toronto to continue her acting pursuits. Prior to her current role, she was thrilled to be cast in Hard Core Logo II (which was shown at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival) and have the opportunity to work with acclaimed director Bruce McDonald.

Sera-Lys McArthur is a mixed-race Canadian actress from Saskatchewan. She began acting at the age of 12 when she was cast in the CBC miniseries Revenge of the Land, directed by John N. Smith. She has pursued her career and acting training around the globe. She studied Musical Theatre at AMDA in New York, and then stayed in the Big Apple to gain experience as a fashion model.

In 2006 she relocated back to Canadian soil to live in Vancouver, where she was cast in another John N. Smith miniseries called The Englishman’s Boy. She was honoured to be cast in this highly dramatic role based on the experience of her Nakota ancestors. She was also responsible for presenting the language for the first time on an indelible form of media such as film.

Whether it’s theatre, musicals, film, TV, commercials, print work, fashion shows or working on her own writing and creative performing projects, Sera-Lys is up for the challenge of gaining new experiences on her international road to success.

Capilano University students win B.C. Aboriginal student award

Three Capilano University Aboriginal students are recipients of an Irving K. Barber Aboriginal Student Award from the Irving K. Barber British Columbia Scholarship Society. The Cap recipients are: Sage Birley from Baldonnel in the Peace River District, Sheila Hantan from North Vancouver, and an unnamed recipient from Langley.

The B.C. Aboriginal Student Award is funded from the returns on a $10 million endowment fund established by the province of B.C. in 2007 as part of its strategy to improve Aboriginal achievement and access to education. Awards of $1,000 – $3,500 are given annually to Aboriginal students pursuing post-secondary education in B.C.

“Through the Irving K. Barber B.C. Scholarship Society, we are supporting Aboriginal learners to take post-secondary education and training so they’re ready to fill the jobs of tomorrow, which is an important part of the BC Jobs Plan,” said Naomi Yamamoto, minister of advanced education. “Congratulations and best wishes to the recipients as they continue their studies.”

The Irving K. Barber BC Scholarship Society works with the Victoria Foundation to provide scholarships to students attending public post-secondary institutions throughout the province and internationally. To date, the Society has awarded more than $3.8 million from its six scholarship programs.

“Our society board has adopted steps to ensure a stable level of awards each year regardless of market conditions,” said Hugh Gordon, society chair. “It’s part of our commitment to ensuring access to education for deserving students from throughout the province.”

To make a donation or to find out more about the B.C. Aboriginal Student Award and the Irving K. Barber British Columbia Scholarship Society, visit http://www.bcscholarship.ca/web/ or call the Victoria Foundation at 250.381.5532.

 

Instructor picks up 2011 Gemini Award

Congratulations to Dwayne Beaver, an instructor in Cap’s Indigenous Independent Digital Filmmaking and Communication Studies programs, for winning a 2011 Gemini for Best Direction in a Reality Program or Series for Episode 5 of Conviction Kitchen. Dwayne and co-director, Karen Duthie, picked up their award on August 31 during the second night of the 26th Annual Gemini Awards. Airing on CityTV in Canada, Conviction Kitchen follows Marc Thuet, one of the world’s top chefs, and 24 ex-cons with no culinary experience as they try to open a high-end restaurant in just three weeks.

Capilano University to offer new motion picture arts degree

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Contact: Shelley Kean at 604.983.7596

(NORTH VANCOUVER, B.C.)—Students wanting to advance their skills in the motion picture industry need look no further than Vancouver’s beautiful North Shore as Capilano University announces it will begin offering in September a new bachelor degree in motion picture arts.

Home to the largest full-time film program in Western Canada, Capilano University’s popular School of Motion Picture Arts has addressed student demand by doubling its program offerings in the last four years. The new degree program will contribute to the continued growth of the local and national creative communities.

“We are excited to be enhancing the innovative opportunities available through our strong mix of film programs,” said Jennifer Moore, Capilano’s dean of fine and applied arts. “Along with the recent announcement of our new film centre facility, the new degree program reinforces Capilano University as the place to come for a quality education in motion picture arts.”

Last August, Capilano University announced that it had received funding for a new film centre that is currently being built at its North Vancouver campus and will open to students in the fall of 2011. The first graduates of the new motion picture arts degree will complete their studies in the new facility.

The third largest centre for film and television production in North America, British Columbia has the locations, the facilities, and – most importantly – the people to bring it all to life. With skilled crews, technicians and creative experts, B.C.’s extensive talent pool is the foundation of a thriving industry sector.

“For the past 11 years, the main goal of the Capilano film centre has been to graduate students who will become part of the foundation of a broader, more sustainable base of domestic and international film production,” Moore explained. “Students come to Capilano University from around the world to learn in real-world situations in courses such as producing, direction, writing, cinematography, costume design, editing and sound design, to name but a few. We also offer unique programming that specifically serves our First Nation communities, such as Indigenous Independent Digital Filmmaking. This particular program attracts students from across the country.”

As students progress into the higher levels of the motion picture arts degree, they will begin a series of development courses that will enable them to have a project ready for production after graduation. These projects may include a pilot for a series, a webisode series, feature film, or movie of the week. Additionally, students participate in an industry practicum in their fourth year.

“There are other film degrees in Canada, but we see ours as unique in its emphasis on the practical skills foundation at the early levels,” said Moore. “It will appeal to the same audience we have always attracted, which is a combination of high school grads, students who have tried other programs but want more specific technical training, international students, and those who have some industry background and want to get a degree.”

Admission to the program is based upon first meeting the University requirements for high school grads or mature students, a letter of intent, and a successful interview. The degree builds upon a certificate at the first-year level, a diploma at second year and the degree after successful completion of the four-year program.

Capilano University is a teaching-focused university that serves the communities of the Lower Mainland, Howe Sound, and the Sunshine Coast through campuses in North Vancouver, Squamish and Sechelt. Enrolment totals 7,500 students in credit programs each term with an additional 7,000 people taking non-credit courses annually. Capilano offers a complete range of preparatory courses, university-level arts and science courses, business and management studies, creative and applied arts programs, health and human services programs, plus a range of services in support of student learning and success. Credentials awarded include bachelor degrees, associate degrees, post-baccalaureate diplomas, advanced diplomas, diplomas, certificates and statements of completion. More information can be found at www.capilanou.ca

For more information on Capilano University’s film programs, visit www.capilanofilm.ca

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Capilano University names new dean of Tourism and Outdoor Recreation

Dr. Chris Bottrill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, April 19, 2010
Contact: Shelley Kean
Tel: 604.983.7596

(NORTH VANCOUVER, B.C.)—Dr. Christopher Bottrill has been named the new dean of Capilano University’s Faculty of Tourism and Outdoor Recreation. He will also oversee the University’s Squamish campus and Mt. Currie and Whistler programs. Chris has worked at Capilano as an instructor in both tourism and geography since 1998.

“I love Capilano University because it is a place that all of us – students and employees – can call a home,” Chris says. “We’ve had a student-focussed philosophy for the longest time in the Faculty of Tourism and Outdoor Recreation and we do our best to ensure that each and every student receives personal attention and feels part of a community.”

Chris has more than 15 years teaching experience in tourism and outdoor recreation and has been chair of Capilano’s Tourism and Outdoor Recreation (TREC) programs for the past four years. He holds a PhD from the Faculty of Commerce and School of Management at Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand, and has strong interests in tourism inter-organizational relations and network development, climate change and environmental stewardship. 

Most recently, Chris chaired the BC Tourism Educators Conference and in 2008, he facilitated a Statement of Commitment amongst tourism educators to take action on climate change. Chris has been working with the NGO Sustainable Cities on sustainable tourism and climate change networks in Dar es Salaam, Dakar, and Durban, Africa, and is also actively involved in developing cMet, the BC consortium to help prepare and deliver training for major events around the globe.

Throughout his career, Chris has had several opportunities to work closely with First Nations communities around the world; experience that should assist him in building relationships in in the Howe Sound Corridor

The North Shore resident and his wife, Meite, are parents to a nine-year-old son and a 13-year-old daughter. He spends his time away from work coaching rugby for mini’s at the Capilano Rugby Club, and is also a very keen downhill/freeride/cross-country mountain biker and telemark skier.

Capilano University is a teaching-focused university that serves the communities of the Lower Mainland, Howe Sound, and the Sunshine Coast through campuses in North Vancouver, Squamish and Sechelt. Enrolment totals 7,500 students in credit programs each term with an additional 7,000 people taking non-credit courses annually. Currently, 573 international students from 47 countries are studying in 43 programs at Capilano. Capilano University offers a complete range of preparatory courses, university-level arts and science courses, business and management studies, creative and applied arts programs, health and human services programs, plus a range of services in support of student learning and success. Credentials awarded include bachelor degrees, associate degrees, post-baccalaureate diplomas, advanced diplomas, diplomas, certificates and statements of completion.

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Capilano University Aboriginal students benefit from HSBC Bank Canada donation

HSBC Bank Canada presents a cheque for $30,000 over three years to support the HSBC Bank Canada Aboriginal Bursary at Capilano University. Pictured from left to right are: Loree Gray, district vice-president, HSBC Bank Canada; Dr. Greg Lee, Capilano University president and vice-chancellor; James Beck, First Nations representative for the Capilano Students’ Union; Shahla Besharati-Rad, branch manager, Edgemont Branch, HSBC Bank Canada; and David Kirk, Capilano’s First Nations advisor.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Contact: Jessica Thoms, Executive Director, Capilano University Foundation
Tel: 604.984.1765

(North Vancouver, B.C.)—Aboriginal students studying at Capilano University will continue to benefit from HSBC Bank Canada’s support thanks to a recent donation of $30,000 over three years.

The donation to the HSBC Bank Canada Aboriginal Bursary brings HSBC’s support to a total of $71,000 since the fund was established in 2003. Through interest and matching dollars, the fund has grown to $99,127 and provides one annual student bursary in the amount of $5,000.

“We are extremely appreciative of the ongoing financial support provided by HSBC Bank Canada over the years,” said Jessica Thoms, executive director of the Capilano University Foundation. “Their generosity has created a number of valuable learning opportunities for so many of our deserving students.”

The HSBC Bank Canada Aboriginal Bursary is intended to promote equality of opportunity and give students the gift of education when they might not otherwise have the chance.

“HSBC is committed to supporting improved access to higher education,” said Matthew Bosrock, deputy CEO, HSBC Bank Canada. “We are proud to support the HSBC Bank Canada Aboriginal Bursary so that more Aboriginal students have the opportunity to attend Capilano University and realize their full potential as future community leaders.”

Aboriginal students studying in all disciplines at Capilano University are eligible to apply for the HSBC Bank Canada Aboriginal Bursary. The next application deadline is September 2010. Complete details can be found in the Financial Aid and Awards booklet at www.capilanou.ca/services/financial/financial/scholarships

Capilano University is a teaching-focused university that serves the communities of the Lower Mainland, Howe Sound, and the Sunshine Coast through campuses in North Vancouver, Squamish and Sechelt. Enrolment totals 7,000 students in credit programs each term with an additional 7,000 people taking non-credit courses annually. Capilano offers a complete range of preparatory courses, university-level arts and science courses, business and management studies, creative and applied arts programs, health and human services programs, plus a range of services in support of student learning and success. Credentials awarded include bachelor degrees, associate degrees, post-baccalaureate diplomas, advanced diplomas, diplomas, certificates and statements of completion.

HSBC Bank Canada, a subsidiary of HSBC Holdings plc, has more than 260 offices, including over 140 bank branches and is the leading international bank in Canada. With around 8,500 offices in 86 countries and territories and assets of US$2,422 billion at 30 June 2009, the HSBC Group is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organizations.

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Aboriginal project at Capilano University receives federal funding

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Contact:  Shelley Kean at 604.983.7596

(NORTH VANCOUVER, B.C.)–Capilano University will receive $458,157 over three years for its Inter-Act project through the Government of Canada’s Office of Literacy and Essential Skills. This project will provide a model for Aboriginal health organizations to integrate specific skills training into their existing health programming, benefiting Aboriginal learners as well as their families. The project will also strengthen partnerships between Aboriginal health organizations and educational institutions in addressing health literacy issues.

“This funding will make it possible for us to support First Nation communities in their efforts to achieve health and wellness,” said. David Kirk, Capilano University’s First Nation’s Advisor. “We will work together with Lil’Wat Health Centre (Mount Currie), Sechelt Indian Band, So-Sah-Lath Health and Family Centre (Squamish Nation), and Tla’amin Community Health Services (Powell River) to build a shared understanding of the relationship between wellness and literacy and to embed literacy in day to day family and community wellness activities.”

Aboriginal people in Southern British Columbia will benefit from this federally-funded project aimed at improving their literacy and essential skills.

“Our government is proud of its partnerships with educational institutions to provide Canadians with the skills they need to get jobs and build better futures,” said. Andrew Saxton, Parliamentary secretary to the president of the Treasury Board and Member of Parliament for North Vancouver, who made the announcement January 12 on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. “In today’s economic environment, it is more important than ever that all Canadians have the skills they need to participate in the job market.”

The Government of Canada’s Office of Literacy and Essential Skills works with partners, including provincial and territorial governments, employers and community organizations to provide Canadians with the tools and supports they need to maximize opportunities for themselves, their families and their communities. 

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