The Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) B.C. Council held its 36th annual general meeting in Abbotsford from May 2 to 4.
The event, held at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Centre, was attended by 80 women from around the province. This year's theme was Embracing Change Together.
The keynote speakers were Lenore Newman and Martha Dow.
Newman is the director of the Food and Agriculture Institute at University of the Fraser Valley, associate professor in the School of Land Use and emeritus member of the Royal Society of Canada’s New College.
She spoke on Innovative Research on Improving Food Production – the growing and accessing of affordable food, her innovative research on food production and the groundbreaking work utilizing agricultural technology, and enhancing land use to facilitate productivity.
Dow is the UFV director of the Community Health and Social Innovation (CHASI) Hub and associate professor in the School of Culture, Media and Society.
Her work emphasizes action-oriented research, community collaboration, and evidence-based decision-making. Dow has worked on a variety of programs with all levels of government, the United Nations and community organizations.
She spoke on the topic Current Challenges Facing Universities.
From scholarships and bursaries to other supporting platforms, CFUW has been making a tangible impact on the lives of women and girls in Canada since 1919.
The Abbotsford chapter was formed in 1953 and offers a forum for women of all ages to meet for fellowship, networking and involvement in the community.
The organization also offers several interest groups and activities, including bridge, theatre, book clubs, lunch groups and outdoor activities such as golf, gardening and walking. The group activities happen on a weekly and/or monthly basis.
Contact cfuwmembershipabb@gmail.com for more information on the local chapter.
