We are pleased to welcome three new leaders to the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) membership, strengthening our presence and impact in British Columbia:
- Benoit-Antoine Bacon, President & Vice-Chancellor of the University of British Columbia
- Joy Johnson, President & Vice-Chancellor of Simon Fraser University
- Ajay Patel, President & CEO of Vancouver Community College
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a global centre for teaching, learning, and research, consistently ranked among the top public universities in the world. As one of BHER’s work-integrated learning (WIL) delivery partners, UBC understands the importance of preparing the next generation of workers through hands-on experience. Benoit brings deep academic leadership and strong commitment to innovation and workforce development.
“UBC is pleased to join the Business + Higher Education Roundtable. We look forward to working alongside partners across sectors to advance talent development, the future of work, innovation, and prosperity for all Canadians.”
- Benoit-Antoine Bacon, President & Vice-Chancellor of the University of British Columbia
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Ranked Canada’s top university for innovation and recognized as a leader in artificial intelligence and climate innovation, SFU seeks transformational partnerships to address global challenges and drive our economy by supporting research and development, providing training and helping companies to commercialize, scale and grow. As Chair of the Research Universities’ Council of British Columbia and Chair of the Universities Canada Board, Joy brings national leadership and strategic perspective to BHER’s work.
“SFU is proud to be one of three B.C. post-secondary institutions joining the Business + Higher Education Roundtable. I look forward to continued work with post-secondary and industry partners as we strengthen cross-sector collaboration and build an inclusive, sustainable and prosperous future for all Canadians.”
- Joy Johnson, President & Vice-Chancellor of Simon Fraser University
Vancouver Community College (VCC) provides accessible, applied education that equips learners with real-world skills for in-demand sectors. As Canada transitions to a net-zero economy VCC is helping prepare a workforce that is technically skilled, adaptable, and ready to contribute to long-term economic growth. Ajay’s leadership strengthens BHER’s engagement with applied and community-based education.
“VCC is proud to join the Business + Higher Education Roundtable to strengthen collaboration between post-secondary institutions and industry. By expanding skills-based learning opportunities across B.C., we will help ensure learners are prepared for the workforce needs of both today and the future.”
- Ajay Patel, President & CEO of Vancouver Community College
These institutions share a commitment to turning ideas into action, aligning closely with BHER’s mission to connect talent, innovation, and opportunity. Their membership will create new opportunities to strengthen partnerships, share leading practices, and inform national conversations on the future of work and learning.
“The addition of these three new members in British Columbia will unlock new opportunities for innovation, inclusion, and economic growth on the West Coast and beyond. At a time when collaboration across sectors is more important than ever, BHER remains committed to deepening partnerships, advancing research, and driving system-level change.”
- Valerie Walker, CEO of Business + Higher Education Roundtable
BHER membership provides access to exclusive insights, a network of senior leaders, and opportunities to shape strategy and programming at a national level. To learn more about joining BHER, get in touch.