by Ainsley Carry
This post was originally an email sent to VPS staff on June 25, 2024.
As Janet Mee prepares to retire on June 30th, I would like to recognize her illustrious career, leadership, the tremendous impact that she has had during her career at UBC and express our heartfelt thanks for all her contributions to UBC over the past 30+ years. Janet, throughout her career has been a leader and champion for students supporting the advancement of accessibility and in creating a student experience where all students can access all that the university has to offer. Her contributions have had a deep impact on our portfolio, the university, and the overall student experience. Janet started at UBC in 1993 as an Advisor in the Disability Resource Centre (DRC). In 1996, she was appointed Director of the DRC and played a key role in its evolution. In 2003, the Disability Resource Centre merged with the Women Students Office to form Access and Diversity, dedicated to fostering inclusive, welcoming, and accessible environments for students. Notable initiatives during her tenure included the launch of Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the establishment of CampOUT, now with the Faculty of Education.
In 2015, under the broader UBC-wide mandate around Equity & Inclusion, Janet led the DRC’s transition to the Centre for Accessibility. Under her leadership, the Centre facilitated disability-related accommodations and programming to remove barriers for students with disabilities and ongoing medical conditions in all aspects of their university life. The Centre plays a crucial role in ensuring that students can access the resources and support they need to succeed academically and personally.
Janet took on the role of Managing Director, Student Affairs, in July 2021. In this role, she has provided exceptional leadership to the Student Affairs unit and continued to support the VPSPortfolio’s ongoing efforts to enhance the student experience and support the goals of the Student Strategic Plan.
In all her roles at UBC, Janet’s efforts have supported students in accessing all that the university has to offer and supporting an exceptional experience for all students.
Please join me in thanking Janet for the many contributions she has made during her distinguished and impactful career at UBC.