Louise Mandell Reappointed Chancellor

VIU is like family for Louise Mandell, Q.C. It’s one of the reasons she viewed the news of being reappointed to the role of VIU’s Chancellor as a gift.

“It’s a powerful experience being part of the VIU family. Here education goes beyond the mind – it touches the heart,” says Mandell, adding that education is a force for change and innovation. “I am proud of the University’s values and leadership in reconciliation education, which removes barriers to post-secondary education. It provides an education which brings understanding, engendering fresh paths of thinking and action.”  

Mandell is known for her passion and kindness, and for being an ardent ambassador for the University. She is a tireless voice committed to removing barriers to education and is devoted to ensuring VIU remains accessible to anyone who wants to pursue post-secondary education.

She is one of Canada’s foremost Aboriginal rights lawyers. For four decades she devoted her professional life to the advancement of Canada’s Aboriginal and Treaty rights. She weaves her knowledge and spirit into every aspect of her work at VIU. Mandell has been recognized for her achievement with various awards, including being appointed Queen's Counsel in 1997 and receiving the Georges Goyer Q.C. Memorial Award for exceptional contributions to the development of the Aboriginal and Treaty Rights jurisprudence across the country. 

“She embodies many of our core values, which she has demonstrated through her work with First Nations communities and her dedication to recognizing the important role education plays in reconciliation,” says Dr. Ralph Nilson, VIU President and Vice-Chancellor.

*This article originally appeared in the Fall 2018 edition of VIU Magazine. Check out more stories on the VIU Magazine webpage.