DOUGLAS COLLEGE

Douglas College is the largest public degree-granting college institution in British Columbia, Canada, serving a diverse student body of close to 17,000 credit students, 8,500 continuing education students, and 4,210 international students. The college offers a range of educational programs, including bachelor’s degrees, general university arts and science courses, and career programs in fields such as health care, human services, business, and the creative arts.

Douglas College was founded in 1970 and is named in honor of the former Governor of British Columbia, Sir James Douglas. In 1981, Kwantlen College separated from Douglas College, leading to the distinct existence of both institutions.

On January 21, 2020, Douglas College unveiled its coat of arms to the public. This emblem was created by Coast Salish artist Carrielynn Victor as part of the college’s 50th-anniversary celebration. It is significant for being the first coat of arms in Canada to be entirely designed by an Indigenous artist.

The coat of arms features a crowned heart in the center, a common motif in coats of arms of the Douglas family, including Sir James Douglas, the college’s namesake. The crowned heart also reflects the college’s motto, “Do what you love.” The crown atop the heart is made from cedar, a locally sourced wood. A raven stands above the crest, symbolizing cleverness and intelligence. Two Douglas fir trees flank the raven, connecting to the college’s name.

In the Coast Salish language, below the shield, are the words “Excellence, Knowledge, Passion.” This inclusion of Indigenous language recognizes that the college operates on First Nations territory, paying tribute to the cultural heritage of the region.