About the Institute
The UBC Student Success Institute is a professional development event, designed for UBC staff and faculty who support students in navigating both academic and student life experiences. Grounded in UBC’s Strategic Plan, Student Strategic Plan, Indigenous Strategic Plan, and the Strategic Equity and Anti-racism (StEAR) Roadmap for Change, the Institute fosters a culture of excellence while promoting a student-centered, inclusive, and supportive environment.
Hosted by the Office of the Vice-President, Students, the Institute provides a dynamic platform for sharing leading practices, enhancing skills, and expanding learning and networking opportunities.
History
The Institute is built upon the previous UBC Academic Advising Conference which launched in 2014 and ran annually until 2020. In response to the pandemic, it transitioned in 2021 to an online Advising Professional Development series featuring workshops and webinars from January to May.
Student Success Institute 2025
In 2025, the UBC Student Success Institute will focus on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in higher education, equipping staff and faculty with the knowledge and tools to enhance student success.
Event details
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Jack Poole Hall, Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre, 6163 University Blvd
Program overview
8:30 – 9:00 AM – Registration
9:00 – 9:30 AM – Welcome and land acknowledgement
9:30 – 11:00 AM – Opening session
- What is on the Horizon for Higher Education? A discussion with Dr. Ainsley Carry and Dr. Melanie Stewart
Facilitator: Kimberley Rawes, Manager, Career and Professional Development, UBC Career Centre
11:15 – 12:45 PM – Session 1
- International Student Needs & Support
Dr. Philipp Reichert, Director, Global Engagement
Aska Nakamura, International Student Advisor
12:45 – 1:30 PM – Lunch
1:30 – 3:00 PM – Session 2
- Advancing holistic student success: Safety, Equity, Inclusivity, and Community
Dr. Arig al Shaibah, Associate Vice-President, Equity and Inclusion
Dr. Silvia D’Addario, Director, Strategic Partnerships & Capacity Building
Pam Garcia, Manager Student & Community Engagement
3:00 – 3:15 PM – movement break with the Move U Crew
3:15 – 4:30 PM – Session 3
- Supporting Student Success: Mental health and Wellbeing at UBC
Dr. Kirby Huminuik, Registered Psychologist, Director, Student Health and Wellbeing Counselling Services
Dr. Tracy Gard, Registered Psychologist, Associate Director, Student Health and Wellbeing Counselling Services
Dr. Longena Ng, Registered Psychologist, Director, Student Health and Wellbeing Counselling Services
4:30 – 6:00 PM – Networking event
Lunch and light refreshments will be provided at the event.
Reasons to attend
- Enhance skills and knowledge focused on advancing student success
- Foster a strong community and network with opportunities for collaboration
- Engage in emerging trends and research
- Professional development
Who should attend
- Professionals supporting student success
- Advisors
- Staff and faculty who support students navigating both academic and student experience
How to register
Seating for this event is limited so we suggest registering early to secure a spot. The registration fee is $50 per person.
To register, choose a payment option and click on the appropriate link below. Note that credit card payments will incur a 5% tax. Alternately, you can register using a departmental worktag.
If you have questions
Please contact vpsassist@mail.ubc.ca if you have any questions about the Student Success Institute.