Vancouver Island University joins Let’s Talk Science Outreach

Let’s Talk Science welcomes Vancouver Island University as our 52nd outreach site, sixth site in British Columbia and 14th in Western Canada.

“The addition of Vancouver Island University will allow us to better serve communities on Vancouver Island and expand our capacity in Northern British Columbia,” said Nathan Kostiuk, Western Canada regional coordinator for Let’s Talk Science Outreach.

Vancouver Island University has locations across the Island including specialized training centres such as the Deep Bay Marine Field Station. This marine research institute features a public outreach space with marine animal touch tanks, high-tech aquaculture farms, and a culinary lab where students innovate on sustainable seafood.

Rebecca Timmons is the Vancouver Island site coordinator in her fourth year of fisheries and aquaculture studies. As a new member to the Let’s Talk Science community, Rebecca is eager to get going. “I chose to join Let’s Talk Science as a site coordinator because I want to get out of my comfort zone and learn new skills while having fun. I can’t wait to have an impact on the local community by igniting a passion for STEM careers in local youth.”  Rebecca will work alongside faculty advisor Dr. Eve Stringham, Dean of Science and Technology and Olivia Alexander who will manage day-to-day operations.

Every year, Let’s Talk Science site coordinators and volunteers are invited to regional and national conferences where they’re given the tools necessary for success in their local outreach programs. Professional development and training opportunities are offered to Let’s Talk Science Outreach coordinators and volunteers across Canada to enhance their employability skills. Coordinators also develop leadership, communication and teaching skills while taking advantage of the opportunity to network and collaborate with industry professionals and like-minded individuals.

If you are interested in becoming a part of a national community that has excited, inspired and engaged over 11.4 million children, youth, educators, and volunteers since 1993, please visit our Volunteer webpage for more information on how you can become involved at a Let’s Talk Science Outreach site near you.

Vancouver Island University is just the latest addition to a cross-country list of outreach sites and we continue to add. Stay tuned in the near future for more announcements about education partners.

Visit our Let’s Talk Science Outreach website for more information or to see if there is a Let’s Talk Science Outreach site near you.