Nearly a half century ago, Dr. Herbert Armstrong, the University of Calgary’s first president, suggested that our motto—I will lift up my eyes—directs us to “look up and see where we are headed” to plan bold new directions.
Last year, we introduced our ambitious Eyes High strategy, following the largest consultative process in the history of the university. It challenges us to settle for nothing less than greatness and is supported by three foundational commitments: to sharpen our focus on research and scholarship, to enrich the quality and breadth of learning, and to fully integrate the university with the community.
This year, after extensive discussion, input and consultation with students, faculty and staff across campus, we delivered our new Academic Plan and new Strategic Research Plan, which are the roadmaps to delivering on our Eyes High strategy. We have committed to prioritize research in areas where we have recognized strength and leadership, where we can integrate teaching and research, where interdisciplinary contributions can lead to major advances, and where we can have the biggest impact at the local, provincial, national and global levels. We have also identified ways to enrich the student experience and the learning environment to focus on leadership and sustainability, and to make your university an intellectual hub that radiates new discoveries, creativity and ideas.
We still have a lot to do to carry out our Eyes High strategy. And we have already accomplished a great deal. We are proud to present this report as a celebration of the many milestones and accomplishments of the past year, and as a promise of even greater things to come.
As you read on, you will be inspired by the stories of some of our accomplished students, faculty, staff and alumni. You will also find dozens of examples of what your university has done in the past year to serve the growing intellectual, educational and research needs of Calgary.
Our city is home to ambitious leaders who dream big and work hard to make it happen. The same can-do attitude defines the University of Calgary, named in 2012 as Canada’s #1 new-generation university.* Read on to see how our students, faculty, staff and alumni have the strengths, talent and commitment to realize our university’s—and our city’s—remarkable potential. 
*The University of Calgary was named the #1 university in Canada in the 2012 QS Top 50 Under 50 world ranking.
OUR NEW ACADEMIC PLAN AND STRATEGIC RESEARCH PLAN ARE THE ROADMAPS TO ACHIEVE OUR EYES HIGH GOALS.
View the full Community Report 2012
The University of Calgary will be a global intellectual hub located in Canada’s most enterprising city. In this spirited,