GAIL MARTIN

What brought you to KPU and your program of study?

After high school, I studied at Vancouver Community College but did not finish my diploma, instead starting work at BC Tel (now Telus), married and had 2 children. When the children started school I decided to return to college part time and in 1985 completed my studies at Kwantlen, while working at BC Tel. I enrolled in Kwantlen for personal satisfaction and fulfillment.

Can you briefly describe your current position and your main day to day responsibilities?

I am now happily retired from paid work. During my working career, I was a community volunteer in many different roles, and an active union member but took it to another level after retirement. I was on the board of directors of the Surrey Memorial Foundation from 2004-2006, the board of directors of the Boys and Girls Club of South Coast BC from 2007-2022, and am now on the board of directors and past president of the Delta Community Foundation.

Which skills, knowledge, or experiences from KPU have been most valuable in your career so far?

my time at KPU taught me to be receptive to a variety of views and cultural norms, as well as critical thinking.

What advice would you give current KPU students who want to build a successful career after graduation?

I would tell them that "you do not have to be a titan of industry to be fulfilled personally and professionally."