Squamish, BC

With a population of 15,000, the District of Squamish offers the ambience of small-town living in a tranquil and majestic setting. The seaport town, a deep-water port at the head of Howe Sound, nestles between towering mountains and shimmering waters in the heart of 'Sea to Sky Country.'

Because of its unparalleled natural amenities, District Council in 2002 trademarked for Squamish the phrase Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada. Our QUC students, faculty and staff will certainly learn why as they enjoy a host of activities such as fishing, white-water rafting, windsurfing, hiking, mountain biking or rock-climbing. Those less adventuresome will enjoy walking the abundance of safe, interesting and well-established nature trails.

The District also provides its residents with a comprehensive range of community requisites and amenities, including health, educational, social and recreational services, programs and facilities.

Our QUC family and visitors also will appreciate the fact that Squamish, some 68 km north of Vancouver, is virtually equidistant between the attractions of the big city and the world-class skiing and year-round recreational opportunities offered by the Resort Municipality of Whistler, some 65 km north of Squamish.

Quest University Canada and The Squamish Nation

The District of Squamish, and Quest University Canada, is located in the traditional geographic region of the Squamish Nation, an amalgamation of Coast Salish peoples. QUC enjoys a close relationship with the Band, two of whose Elders performed a touching "Blessing of the Land" ceremony at our university site in July 2002 when we hosted an International Consultation of academic leaders.

Additionally, in March of 2004, Chief Gibby Jacob confirmed in a letter to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans that "The Squamish Nation is familiar with and supports and welcomes the establishment of the Sea to Sky University Project (now the Quest University Canada Project) on the 240-acre D.L. 512 in Squamish, B.C."

Dr. David Strangway, our Chair and CEO, together with members of the QUC Executive, plan to meet with Chief Jacob to discuss Squamish Nation involvement in various aspects of the QUC curriculum, including our students' outdoor studies that will enable them to develop a keen sense of environmental stewardship.