Over the past few decades, Yuri Fulmer has grown to be a prominent figure both within Capilano University and in B.C. at large. Today, he’s ready for the political stage.
Yasmine Modaresi (she/her) // Crew Writer
Cassandra VP (she/her) // Illustrator
Capilano University’s Chancellor, Yuri Fulmer, joined the B.C. provincial election race in West Vancouver-Sea to Sky Riding. As a successful businessman, local philanthropist and CapU chancellor, Fulmer has built a significant resume, as well as a long list of local and national awards. Now, he is broadening his prospects further, and delving into the realm of politics as a candidate for the B.C. Conservatives.
Fulmer stated in an interview with North Shore News July 2024 that he felt it was necessary for him to become involved with local politics. He moved to B.C. over 30 years ago, and like many other British Columbians who remember times of greater economic and housing stability, Fulmer believes that there is urgent need for significant change in B.C.’s housing, health, and educational sectors.
Fulmer comes from a rather modest upbringing, and says his interest in business began while working at an A&W in North Vancouver. He was inspired to become an A&W franchise owner; an objective which he pursued with the financial support of his mother. Since this first project, Fulmer has significantly expanded his enterprise through the absorption of several other restaurant franchises like Pizza Hut and Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse.
Aside from his business endeavours, Fulmer has received numerous awards for his community involvement and philanthropy, such as the Order of British Columbia (OBC), which celebrates British Columbians who have dedicated immense service to the province. While his involvement in various volunteering positions is quite extensive, a notable pattern across his endeavors is his dedication to creating more employment opportunities, specifically for marginalized populations. During his time as a CapU Chancellor, Fulmer has expressed commitment to community engagement, Truth and Reconciliation, leadership in higher education, supporting student success and innovation, philanthropy, fundraising and promoting CapU’s reputation as a higher education institution.
Fulmer’s platform are most vocal regarding issues in B.C. such as the housing crisis, healthcare system reform and the economic challenges facing British Columbians, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. Some controversy has arisen regarding a mismatch between what Fulmer wants to address and the values of the party he is aligning himself with. Jeremy Valeriote of the Green Party, for example, welcomed Fulmer to the local race, but expressed confusion as to why “he’s chosen to run for the party of climate change deniers who are deploying U.S. style culture war politics, including transphobic and homophobic rhetoric.” For a man who’s resume is packed with community building and humanitarian projects, Fulmer’s peers and voters alike may be skeptical of the apparent misalignment between Fulmer’s personal ideals and the ideals of his political party. Fulmer has not made a comment in the media regarding his choice to run in the Conservative Party, aside from his liking for the Conservative leader John Rustad.
The major party running other than the British Columbia Conservatives, is the British Columbia New Democratic Party (NDP). All Canadian citizens that will have turned 18 before October 19, 2024 and have been residents of British Columbia since April 18, 2024, are eligible to vote. That represents a considerable part of Capilano University’s student population, and Capilano Courier will follow the election closely. Campaign news will be reported daily on our website, and we’re moderating the all-candidates forum for the North Vancouver–Seymour provincial election candidates hosted by the CSU. The event will be on October 9th from 5:30-7:30pm. The Capilano Students Union has also organized to provide students a convenient place to cast their ballot. The election booth will be in the Birch Building Upper Food Court #2, on October 15th between 10:30 am and 3:30 pm.
Currently, Fulmer’s political campaign is in its infancy. While he has chosen critical topics of concern for British Columbians, inconsistencies in his campaign and party loyalties are still need to be ironed out. Fulmer is yet to propose specific policy details, and further expand on how he plans to promote citizens’ well being.