May 12, 2026
Gene Gallant, Vice President of Student Affairs at the Native Education College, spoke to the club about the college’s Indigenous-centred approach to education. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience as an educator, Gene shared how the college supports First Nations, Métis and Indigenous learners through accredited post-secondary and adult upgrading programs rooted in Indigenous culture, content and teaching methods. He emphasized the importance of kindness, belonging and community responsibility, while highlighting how scholarship support helps remove barriers for learners and creates lasting impacts within Indigenous communities.
Announcements
Miss Vicky Fundraising Success
The club received a thank you letter recognizing the success of the recent Miss Vicky fundraising initiative.
Foundry Fundraising Update
The first matching $1,000 contribution for the Foundry fundraising campaign has now been unlocked.
South Surrey Rotary Club Shredding Event
The South Surrey Rotary Club shredding event takes place May 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Ocean Park Safeway parking lot. Donations accepted.
Presidential Installation – Save the Date
President-Elect Darryl Walker’s Presidential Installation will be held Saturday, June 13 in the evening at the Elks Hall.
Membership Badge Update
Members needing a pin-backed badge instead of a magnetic badge for medical reasons should contact Winston, Ethan or Irene.
Ongoing Recycling Fundraiser
Bottle and can recycling continues to support the club account. Use Irene’s cell number, 604-316-2090, at Semiahmoo Bottle Depot, or bring items to a meeting.
Speaker Suggestions Welcome
Please keep suggesting interesting speakers for future meetings. Email Adam at asmith@ubmi.ca or Peter at pjones2570@gmail.com.
Next Tuesday’s Lunch Meeting: Exceptional Coffee – Exceptional Communities
At next Tuesday’s lunch meeting, Kingsley Griffin of Kingha Coffee Company will speak about his specialty organic coffee estate in southwestern Uganda and how it supports more than 750 farming families through sustainable agriculture, financial literacy and access to international markets.
Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge for PolioPlus
The Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge has now raised more than $225,937 USD, surpassing its $200,000 goal with 57 days still remaining.