The North Island College Foundation has welcomed a new board chair, bringing decades of experience in scientific research, education and community service to the organization.

John North, a Comox resident and retired scientist, was selected as chair during the Foundation's September board meeting.

North brings an extensive background in scientific research and biotechnology, along with years of volunteer experience and a longstanding connection to North Island College.

Originally from England, North says his own educational journey helped shape his belief in the importance of making post-secondary education accessible to everyone.

Despite growing up in a family of educators, North admits he wasn't always the strongest student. It wasn't until university that he discovered his passion for science, particularly cell biology.

That discovery ultimately led him to earn a PhD in immunology from Cambridge University.

North went on to spend nearly a decade conducting research in immunology, virology and oncology at academic laboratories in the United Kingdom and United States before moving into management roles in the biotechnology industry.

He moved to Canada in 1998 and retired in Comox in 2012.

A Longstanding Connection to North Island College

North is no stranger to North Island College or the communities it serves.

He has taught courses through the college's ElderCollege program, including at the Comox Valley campus, and previously spent three years as chair of the Comox Valley ElderCollege volunteer management team.

His community involvement has also included serving with the Science Fair Foundation of BC, the Dr. Michael Smith Science Fair Endowment and the Rotary Club of Comox.

Through those experiences, North developed relationships with people involved in both the college and its Foundation.

He says receiving a fully government-funded education in England gave him opportunities that ultimately shaped his career, and he hopes to help provide similar opportunities for today's students.

“There is no question in my mind that having opportunities for higher education makes a real difference in people's lives,” North said.

Helping Students Overcome Financial Barriers

For 35 years, the North Island College Foundation has worked with communities and donors to reduce barriers to education.

The Foundation provides scholarships, bursaries and emergency financial assistance while also supporting innovative learning spaces and essential equipment for students.

Last year alone, the organization distributed $1 million through its student awards program, helping students pursue their educational goals.

As the Foundation's new chair, North says connecting with communities across the region and attracting continued donor support will be important priorities.

He hopes to ensure more students can access the financial assistance and educational opportunities they need to succeed.

North believes education can open doors that students may never have imagined when they first began their studies.

“I have this lifelong belief that education's really good for everybody,” he said.

With his background in science, teaching and community volunteering, North now hopes to help the Foundation continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of North Island College students.

To learn more, visit North Island College.