Erin Kastner, a sustainability champion for twenty years
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Sustainability Coordinator program, Campus & Community Planning spoke to Erin Kastner, Geospatial Information Manager with Energy & Water Services on her role and commitment in the creation of the Workplace Sustainability Fund, her participation in creating Sustainability Coordinators Program content, as well as piloting for a Certification and a Sustainability “Tri-Mentoring” program.
Philip Beck promoted as new Head in Soft Landscape, Municipal Services with Building Operations
Philip Beck is the successful candidate for the new Soft Landscape head position that was introduced to support Chris Longford, head of the Soft Landscape team. Chris and Phil will work closely together to manage a growing team of over 35 people on the Soft Landscape team.
Kayna Merchant joins UBC as Facilities Architectural Manager with Building Operations
Kayna is joining the Transition Team as Facilities Architectural Manager, reporting to Nikii Hoglund, Director of Asset Replacement and Improvements. In this new role, Kayna will be working closely with the Architectural Trades Team to gain a fulsome understanding of architectural maintenance considerations to provide a better balance of the diverse needs of multiple stakeholders within UBC.
Looking ahead to Fall 2020
It has been encouraging to see the gradual resumption of research, programs and activities on campus in accordance with UBC’s COVID-19 Safety Planning Framework. In addition to increased research activity, you can also expect an increased number of faculty working on campus over the coming months and some smaller classes and lab courses, that cannot practically be held online, will be delivered in-person. Student Housing is currently expecting overall residence occupancy of approximately 40-45% this fall.
Safe reoccupancy for your building & spaces
With the gradual and phased reoccupancy of the university, we want to remind faculty and staff that the Facilities Group will require a minimum of five business days notice before a building is ready for reoccupancy. Our custodial and trades staff are currently working on rotation, and we will require advance notice in order to more effectively schedule our teams to prepare your space for safe reoccupancy.
Hoi Ying Yu joins Building Operations as Contract Manager
Hoi will be responsible for managing Building Operations’ service contracts and oversee internal revenue generating contracts. She will be working closely with the trades, project coordinators, and managers to ensure Building Operations’ Preventative Maintenance and Service contracts continue providing value to UBC.
Museum of Anthropology (MOA) Great Hall Renewal Open House
Due to precautions in place for COVID-19, public consultation for this project will take place online on Monday, June 29. Join the meeting anytime between 4:30-6:30 p.m. Construction is anticipated to start mid-late September 2020.
In memory of Lorraine Beckett
It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of our friend and dear colleague Lorraine Beckett. This is a very difficult loss for us all. If there is any comfort, it is knowing that Lorraine passed away peacefully with her family by her side.
New 12 MW biomass boiler arrives on campus
As part of the Bioenergy facility expansion, the anticipated 12 MW biomass fueled hot water combustion boiler arrived on campus at the Bioenergy Research Demonstration Facility (BRDF), and was craned into place for the next phase of the boiler placement.
Facilities is supporting UBC’s approach to safely resume campus activities
With the University’s announcement of a phased resumption of research in campus facilities, UBC Facilities operations teams are working to ensure re-opening buildings are properly cleaned, operated and maintained to provide a safe environment for faculty, students, and staff.