Image: Attendees enjoy the activities at Banners and Banter, a work-integrated learning project for one of UFV’s Bachelor of Regional and Community Planning classes. / UFV / Provided

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

COMMUNITY PROGRAM

Newly-established UFV program builds communities through applied learning

Mar 30, 2025 | 3:15 PM

ABBOTSFORD — One of the University of the Fraser Valley’s (UFV’s) latest degree programs is already giving back to the community– by helping to build it.

The Bachelor of Regional and Community Planning (BRCP) is a four-year degree that draws multidisciplinary connections from environmental studies and art to natural sciences and urban design.

In the summer of 2024, BRCP Local Applied Studio students partnered with other UFV programs, the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association, and Tourism Abbotsford to launch two community activation events.

“These projects are integral for students to understand the impact of design on their communities and the importance of visual communication and interaction design in public placemaking,” said Jennifer Deon, one of the professors.

“Students also get valuable lessons on managing the wants and needs of various stakeholders in a project while working against real deadlines.”

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“Banners and Banter” and “Arts in the Alley” filled under-used spaces in downtown Abby by combining food and drinks with a banner-making competition and musical performances from young Indigenous drummers.  

“It was so inspiring to work alongside UFV students and watch them apply imagination, intuition, vigilance and perception in creating opportunities for our community to engage, driving community spirit and engagement at every turn,” said Barb Roberts from Tourism Abbotsford.

UFV is one of only three B.C. institutions offering an undergraduate degree in community planning. More information about the BRCP can be found on the program website.