The Honourable Andrew Wilkinson, Minister of Advanced Education, and members of the UBC community:

Welcome to Connected by Commitment: The University of British Columbia’s (UBC) 2014-2015 Annual Report, as approved by the UBC Board of Governors. This online report highlights how UBC students, alumni, faculty and staff are enhancing every part of society by advancing human knowledge and economic prosperity through innovation.

A transparent reporting process that reflects the Taxpayer Accountability Principles ensures that UBC is accountable to all who are invested in the university. This report compares progress against specific performance measures linked to the university’s strategic plan, Place and Promise. It also includes the 2015-2016 – 2017-2018 Institutional Accountability Planning and Reporting Requirements of the Ministry of Advanced Education, detailing progress towards the Ministry’s performance measures and targets. UBC’s strategic direction aligns with the Ministry’s goals and objectives for excellent public post-secondary education and outstanding research and innovation.

A sustainable operating budget informed by UBC’s core academic priorities provides a solid financial foundation to position UBC for excellence. UBC continues to maintain a balanced budget despite a challenging economic context. Developing additional sources of funding through federal government support, strong partnerships with industry, and an ambitious fundraising and alumni engagement campaign remain critical areas of focus.

Expanding industry and community partnerships connects UBC’s teaching and research to the needs of the people of British Columbia, Canada and the world. Linking research and learning to social needs and imperatives remains a priority, as does ensuring that British Columbians have the lifelong education and skills they need to succeed.

We believe the stories and numbers within this report demonstrate our collective commitment to achieving UBC’s vision. As Board Chair and President, we accept responsibility for Connected by Commitment: The University of British Columbia’s (UBC) 2014-2015 Annual Report.

Yours sincerely,