Pat Sifton, founder of UFV’s Library and Information Technology Program, came to Fraser Valley College in 1980 from Fanshawe College in London, Ontario, where she taught in the library technology program.

As a leading advocate for Library and Information Technology education, Pat was instrumental in the development of the library technology program, its courses, and the supportive community that embraces student success at UFV. Many people working in BC libraries today have been influenced by Pat and her legacy.

Pat was determined that her students would be exposed to the cutting edge of library technology, and over the years she became a self-taught expert on the then-fledgling personal computer and on many application programs that she would subsequently incorporate into student assignments. She set a high standard of professionalism for her students, with whom she was endlessly patient and supportive. She was a consummate teacher. Under Pat’s leadership and direction, the Library and Information Technology program achieved high regard in the library community, and this remains true today.

An endowment established in Pat’s memory pays tribute to the leader she was — in and out of the classroom, and perpetually inspires our next generation of library and information technology students through an award. In honour of Pat, we encourage you to make a donation to the Pat Sifton Endowment Leadership Award.