It’s been just over a year since we launched SFU’s Strategic Vision as The Engaged University.

That document sought to capture the essence and energy of SFU, but it counted on the people of this university to see its potential and transform the words into reality.

Since then, I've constantly been delighted and amazed by the many ways in which the Vision’s theme has been taken up and advanced by different groups within the campus community — the latest example being Student Services’ new Engagement Peers program.

This team of student volunteers works out of the new Thelma Finlayson Centre for Student Engagement to help SFU students find fun and productive ways to get involved at SFU.

The Burnaby-based drop-in program grew out of the envision>SFU consultation process, and is testimony to how that process and the resulting Strategic Vision are producing positive change from the ground up.

The Engagement Peers program fosters engagement even as it promotes engagement — and at very little cost!

A similar program — the Student Ambassador Program — has been underway at the Surrey campus for several years, and I am invariably impressed by the calibre of the students who give their time to ensure their peers have the most enriching student experience possible.

Every time a student chooses to support another student, whether by serving as an Engagement Peer, a Peer Educator, a Volunteer Scribe, or a Student Ambassador, everyone involved is enriched by the experience.

Thanks to the Engagement Peers program — and the many students who choose to participate — SFU is one step closer to realizing its “engaged university” vision.