Nomination Papers, Candidate Bio and Q&A

About

Anup Grewal was born in Victoria, B.C. and has his roots established on Vancouver Island. Anup graduated from Mount Douglas Secondary and pursued an education at the University of Victoria. With a degree in economics, he embarked on his professional journey in the financial sector.

Since 1994, Anup has been in the financial industry, serving as an investment advisor at CIBC Wood Gundy. Over the years, he has garnered extensive experience and expertise, specializing in fixed-income strategies and identifying trends in interest rates that will affect financial plans and global equity markets.

In addition to his professional career, Anup ventured into the realm of construction and investment properties. A decade ago, he co-founded Novus Properties Inc., a construction and real estate development company. Under his leadership, the company has flourished, earning a reputation for excellence in the industry.

Anup's unique blend of financial background and real estate expertise has been instrumental in the success of Novus Properties Inc. He leverages his deep understanding of economic trends and market dynamics to identify investment opportunities and execute strategic development projects.

Driven by a commitment to quality and a passion for creating vibrant communities, Anup and his team at Novus Properties Inc. have undertaken numerous successful projects, ranging from residential developments to commercial ventures. Their portfolio showcases a dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and thoughtful design.

Anup has been an active member of the Victoria Hospitals Foundation board since the fall of 2024. With a deep passion for supporting the healthcare system and improving patient care, this role has allowed him to play a key role in driving initiatives aimed at enhancing hospital services, expanding research, and increasing access to healthcare for the community.

Anup has been married for 28 years and is the proud father of two children. Both of his children recently graduated from SMUS. His son graduated in 2020, followed by his daughter in 2023. SMUS has been an integral part of his children’s academic achievements.

Growing up in Victoria provided Anup with a strong sense of community. For years, he had volunteered his time as a team manager at the Victoria Minor Hockey Association. Through his involvement with the association, Anup contributed to the development of young athletes while fostering a sense of sportsmanship within the community.

What is your connection to SMUS?

My connection to SMUS began in 2010 when my daughter entered kindergarten and continued until her graduation in 2023. My son entered SMUS in 2011, joining in grade 4, and concluded with his graduation in 2020. This timeline has given me a deep association, witnessing both my children grow and flourish within the school's environment.

Throughout these years, SMUS has played a vital role in the lives of my children. The school holds immense importance to me as it has been instrumental in shaping my children's academic, social, and personal development. Beyond being an institution for learning, SMUS has provided a nurturing and supportive environment that has contributed significantly to their growth.

One of the key aspects I valued was the opportunity to develop relationships with the teachers. Over the years, these educators have not only imparted knowledge but have also acted as mentors, guiding my children through their educational journey. This close connection with the teachers allowed for a collaborative approach to my children's education, ensuring their individual needs and potentials were recognized and nurtured.

Overall, my connection to SMUS transcends mere education. The school's commitment to excellence, coupled with its nurturing environment and dedicated faculty, has left an indelible mark shaping my children into well rounded individuals ready to embrace the future.

Why do you want to be on the Board of Governors for SMUS?

Serving on the Board of Governors is a compelling opportunity to contribute to SMUS’s visions and goals. It stems from a sense of gratitude for the wonderful experiences I enjoyed while my children attended SMUS. As a parent whose children benefited from their experience at SMUS, I can inspire fellow alumni to stay connected and contribute to the school's success.

My role on the board would present an opportunity to engage with various stakeholders, including parents, alumni, donors, and community members. By fostering open communication and collaboration, I hope to garner support for the school's initiatives and cultivate a sense of pride and belonging within the SMUS community.

My experience in the financial industry is a strength I can share with the board, assisting with informed financial decisions and optimizing resources. My expertise includes an understanding of risk management principles and regulatory compliance.

In addition, my years of experience in the local development industry will help the board make decisions on the development of school facilities. I can offer insights into optimizing existing facilities, planning renovation or expansion projects and ensuring the school's physical infrastructure aligns with its educational mission and goals.

I approach board discussions with an open mind and a willingness to engage in healthy debate on complex issues. I believe bringing diverse perspectives to the table leads to stronger decisions. I am committed to supporting the collective vision and working together as a unified team.

What personal and professional experience would you bring to the Board if selected?

My experience in both the financial industry and property development, positions me to make significant contributions to the Board of Governors at SMUS.

With 30 years of experience managing portfolios as an investment advisor, specializing in fixed income strategies for institutions. I can help ensure sound fiscal policies, effective budgeting, and strategic allocation of financial resources to support the school's mission and goals. My experience in managing institutional portfolios includes risk assessment and mitigation strategies.

As a steward of significant institutional funds, I understand the importance of fiduciary responsibility and acting in the best interests of stakeholders. I would bring this commitment to my role on the board, advocating for prudent financial decisions and responsible stewardship of the school's resources to maximize their impact on students, faculty, and the broader SMUS community.

I have spent the past year on SMUS’s Finance and Facilities committees. The experience on both committees has given me a unique opportunity to apply my skills. My financial background, my decade long experience in property development, both in residential and commercial sectors, provides valuable insights into real estate management and infrastructure development. I’m able to offer guidance on facilities planning, renovation projects, and property management strategies to ensure that the school's physical infrastructure meets the needs of students, faculty, and staff.

I have been an active member of the Victoria Hospitals Foundation board since the fall of 2024. With a deep passion for supporting the healthcare system and improving patient care, this role has allowed me to play a key role in driving initiatives aimed at enhancing hospital services, expanding research, and increasing access to healthcare for our community. I have participated in fundraising events and made securing donations for capital campaigns my priority.

Do you understand and agree to the principles of good governance as outlined on the Society Webpage?

Yes, I believe in aligning with the principles of good governance outlined by the society. By adhering to these guidelines, I will help promote trust and confidence among all stakeholders and contribute to the school's overall success. My commitment to these principles will contribute to the school's reputation, credibility, and overall impact, ultimately benefiting students, families, faculty, and staff. As a board member my goal is to provide leadership that inspires confidence, fosters collaboration, and drives positive change within the school community. I would promote continuous improvement, innovation, and excellence in governance practices. As a former parent I will practice fairness and impartiality, prioritizing the best interests of the school and its constituents.

Do you understand and support the Strategic Plan, Floreat, for SMUS?

I am aligned with the Strategic Plan, Floreat, and its four strategic priorities: Foundation, Preparation for Life, Sustainability, and Community. Each of these priorities plays a crucial role in shaping the school's vision and guiding its efforts to provide an education that prepares students for success.

The strategic plan requires strong relationships with stakeholders, including students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader community. As a board member I would encourage active participation and collaboration to ensure that the entire school community is engaged in the achievement of the goals laid out in the plan.

Serving as an advocate for the strategic plan will play a vital role in shaping the future of SMUS and ensuring that it remains a leading institution of education and community engagement.

Do you understand and support the need for a culture of philanthropy at SMUS, both
amongst the Society Members and the Board itself? If elected to the Board, please confirm that you plan to contribute to both the Annual Fund and the Journey for Life Campaign for each year that you are on the Board?

The culture of philanthropy plays a pivotal role in the success of independent schools. Generous donations allow the school to invest in programs and enrich the learning environment. Philanthropy enables schools to stay competitive and offer educational experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and excellence. My commitment to contributing to the annual fund and the Journey of Life campaign, started in our early days at SMUS. In recent years I have supported the Sun Centre and most recently allocated resources to the Junior School. I am committed to developing the culture of philanthropy. By cultivating a culture of giving and generosity, SMUS can fulfill its mission of providing an exceptional education and preparing students for success.

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