Making campus a more welcoming place

Beginning today, the barbed wire on top of fences around the Royal Roads University campus will be removed, symbolic of the university’s commitment to being a good neighbour and a welcoming part of the community.  

Royal Roads President and Vice-Chancellor Philip Steenkamp made the symbolic first cut of the wire Wednesday, Feb. 3, near the campus’ Belmont Gate on College Rd., a popular entrance for hikers, dog walkers and cyclists.

“When we launched the university’s new Vision, one of our goals was ‘invite in, venture out’ – to engage communities locally, nationally and globally, leaning into partnerships, learning from others and warmly welcoming all people. This is a tangible and visible expression of that goal,” says Steenkamp.

“It is a gesture of openness to the community, as Royal Roads warmly welcomes all people and communities, and strengthens relationships with its West Shore and Greater Victoria partners, and visitors from around the world.”

While the campus fences will remain, all barbed wire topping them will be removed over the next few months. The fences surround the 230-hectare (565-acre) campus; the gates are always unlocked for walkers and cyclists.