Appreciative Inquiry Background

Back in December 2010, the College put out an RFP seeking a consultant who understands and believes in the community college vision and who could take the College through a process of community-based inquiry to discover what Bow Valley College will look like at its best in the year 2020. Dr. Joan McArthur-Blair, former president of Nova Scotia Community College and a leading facilitator in the Appreciative Inquiry approach, was awarded the contract in January 2011. Since that time, Dr. McArthur-Blair has taken the Executive Team through an extensive two-day training session, preparing them to undertake the Vision 2020 experience.

Community-based Inquiry: Adding value

Appreciative Inquiry, a process of community-based inquiry, isn't about being thankful for input or about agreeing with one another as we share our hopes and dreams for the future. Rather, Appreciative Inquiry (or AI) takes people through the act of affirming past and present strengths, successes, and potentials; to perceive those things that give life (health, vitality, excellence) to living systems such as Bow Valley College. Much like a house appreciates in value when you paint it, so too will BVC appreciate in value when the community comes together to discover the positive core of the organization and how that core can be fostered to enhance the future.

More information

Find out more about Appreciative Inquiry here.

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