This is an exciting and pivotal time at UPEI. We are adapting in constructive and innovative ways that will enrich the experiences of our community and amplify our impact—both here at home and across the globe.
 

The landscape of post-secondary education is shifting. Federal restrictions on international students and evolving provincial funding models are reshaping how universities operate. Students, too, are changing, approaching their education with a longer view and seeking flexible, multi-institutional pathways to build credentials. 

At the same time, the broader context of 2025 is marked by uncertainty: persistent threats to the global and local economy, the urgent and visible impacts of climate change, and the growing influence of socio-political forces at every level.

These changes are not just challenges; they are opportunities for UPEI to lead, adapt, and reimagine how we deliver education that prepares our graduates for a rapidly changing world. In asking ourselves what role universities and especially UPEI must play in such a complex and ever-shifting context, our answer is clear: to make our world a better place. 

At UPEI, our greatest contributions lie in our graduates and in the scholarship and research of our faculty.

Our graduates leave our University and disperse across our Island, our country, and our world, equipped to take on complex challenges in human, animal, environmental, technical, biological, health, performing arts, sports, and socio-political fields. They are innovators and problem-solvers, grounded in principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion, and guided by an extraordinary commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples on PEI and across Canada.

Our scholars and scientists push the boundaries of understanding and discovery. Their work creates pathways to solutions, advancing knowledge that supports people, animals, communities, and ecosystems.

"Every one of us has a role to play. Big changes and small daily actions alike move us closer to a better world. Every act of kindness, every effort to support one another, every commitment to work with our environment and our communities contributes to lasting change. Together, through our teaching, our research, and our shared commitment, we will make UPEI and our world a better place."

The reach of UPEI is wide and deeply impactful. From the One Health initiative addressing human, animal, and environmental well-being, to the sciences, humanities, and arts, we contribute to every dimension of society. Our programs produce not only skilled professionals but also empathetic leaders who are ready to make a difference. To sustain this impact, we must continue to offer strong, accessible programs, protect our independence, and ensure sustainability is woven into everything we do.

UPEI is actively and conscientiously pursuing innovative approaches to create a culture of trust, safety, and inclusion on our own campuses, and extending these to our close partners and communities. Through the ambitious and steadfast implementation of the UPEI Action Plan, we are calling on every member of UPEI to help us create the kind of institution where people and communities can truly thrive.

This transformation requires discipline and accountability. Each year, we will set clear goals, define the measures that matter, and revisit them to assess our progress. In five years, we will be able to demonstrate, clearly and confidently, the impact of our choices and collective actions.

Every one of us has a role to play. Big changes and small daily actions alike move us closer to a better world. Every act of kindness, every effort to support one another, every commitment to work with our environment and our communities contributes to lasting change. Together, through our teaching, our research, and our shared commitment, we will make UPEI and our world a better place. 

Dr. Wendy Rogers
President and Vice-Chancellor, UPEI