Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at SFU: October 2025 in Review  

Guided by the Equity Compass, SFU continues to work towards a more equitable, diverse and inclusive environment on all our campuses. Here is a snapshot of significant progress in EDI at SFU this month.

The Equity Forum and EDI-CoPr Gathering

On October 20, 2025, the Equity Office, in partnership with the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue held the fourth Equity Forum, a facilitated open dialogue with SFU senior leaders and the EDI Community of Practice (EDI-CoPr) members to discuss current equity challenges and opportunities. This session focused on a conversation with Dilson Etcheverry Rassier, SFU’s Provost and Vice-President Academic about SFU’s approach to upholding equity commitments at SFU while navigating a challenging fiscal landscape in the post-secondary sector in B.C. After the open dialogue session, the EDI-CoPr members reconvened to welcome new participants and hear updates from the Pods. Learn more about the work of the CoPr.  

Accessibility Committee welcomes newest members

In response to the Accessible BC Act and to meet the goals of the Equity Compass, SFU created its first pan-university Accessibility Committee in 2023. The purpose of the Accessibility Committee is to set accessibility standards, raise awareness about accessibility and inclusion of people with disabilities and develop an action plan guided by the Equity Compass and interim Accessibility Action Plan. The Accessibility Committee met on October 27, welcoming new members and hearing from guest speakers who shared updates on accessibility initiatives across their respective units and portfolios in alignment with SFU’s Accessibility Plan. Learn more about the Accessibility Plan.

SFU’s commitments to equitable hiring practices

In alignment with the SFUFA Collective Agreement, the Equity Office offers several facilitated Inclusive Excellence for SFU Committees training sessions to faculty members serving on hiring committees as well as to staff members who support faculty recruitment efforts. These sessions serve as a forum for discussing and sharing best practices to ensure fair and inclusive hiring decisions are made. Learn more about SFU’s equitable employment practices.  

Trauma-Informed Care Workshop for student advisors

Student Services hosted a full-day Trauma-Informed Care Workshop in October, bringing together 24 Student Advisors for a day of deep learning, reflection and connection. Student Advisors are staff who provide academic, personal and financial guidance to students. Guided by four skilled facilitators from Health and Counselling and supported by an organizer in Student Advising, participants explored ways to create safer, more affirming spaces for marginalized students, students in government care and those navigating academic or financial challenges.  

The session focused on understanding how trauma impacts learning and engagement, recognizing signs of trauma in students (particularly those from historically marginalized backgrounds), and developing strategies for more culturally responsive and equitable advising. This training is an important step in fostering inclusive, supportive advising environments and deepening our collective commitment to equity, inclusion and student well-being.

BSC presentation at Counsellors’ Day

On October 23, Daniel Sheriff, Associate Director of the Black Student Centre (BSC), presented to a group of high school counsellors from across the Lower Mainland during an event called Counsellors' Day. Daniel introduced the attendees to the BSC's mission, upcoming programs, and the progress of the BSC's renovation project.

This event was especially valuable because it helps high school counsellors better understand the resources and support available to Black students at SFU. By building these connections, the BSC can ensure that prospective Black students are aware of the community, programming, and safe spaces available to them even before they arrive on campus. Ultimately, this strengthens the relationship between the BSC, high school counsellors, and future students, supporting smoother transitions and a greater sense of belonging for incoming Black Students.  

EDI-related supports are available

SFU is committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive community for all. Important work is being undertaken by our Equity Office to ensure that SFU is a safe and welcoming space for all students, faculty and staff. Please see our list of identity-based supports and reach out if you need help. For all other supports, please visit our community supports page.