Canadian University KPU to set up School of Design

“We are enormously grateful to Shannon, Chip, lululemon and the Province for this investment,” said Dr. Alan Davis, KPU president and vice-chancellor. “This gift will be transformative for KPU and for B.C.’s design industries.”

The new school will offer innovative education in fashion, interior, graphic and product design, as well as an advanced research studio-laboratory where transformative leaders, design innovators and strategic technologists will emerge to lead design industries. A post-baccalaureate diploma in technical apparel design, launching in January 2014, will combine design, business and technology to develop a new generation of design thinkers.

Highly specialized programs and research in technical apparel and textile design will bolster B.C.’s reputation as a world leader in creating equipment and clothing for athletic and outdoor pursuits.

“Our province is the perfect testing ground for technical apparel – you don’t have to go far to find inspiration,” said Shannon Wilson. “Our vision is for B.C. to become the global hub for athletic performance apparel and recreational products, and the first step is to provide a place to cultivate design talent. I am thrilled that KPU and the Province have partnered with Chip and I as well as lululemon to achieve this.”

“lululemon is about people, leadership and creativity combining to elevate the world. This partnership is an investment in all these things,” commented Christine Day, CEO, lululemon athletica. “We are thrilled to be working with Shannon, Chip, the Province and Kwantlen on this project and are excited about the impact this school will have on creative talent and future innovation in B.C.”

"B.C. is known as a global hub for technical apparel design. The new Chip and Shannon Wilson School of Design will ensure British Columbians are first in line to take advantage of new opportunities in this growing industry," said Premier Clark. "Our government is proud to partner with the Wilsons and Kwantlen Polytechnic University to build this new school."

Kwantlen’s bachelor of fashion and technology program is the only program of its kind in Western Canada. Graduates are in high demand for their creative and technical expertise, grounded by a market-driven approach and strong ties to industry. The degree is a flagship for KPU Richmond, which also offers exceptional undergraduate programs in business, arts and science.

The new school of design will increase academic space on the campus by 124% and act as a catalyst to develop a ‘destination campus’ dedicated to fostering creativity and providing a foundation for the discovery of marketable innovation.