Michael J. Girard, Instructor/Department Chair
Michael graduated from UBC in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry. Since then, he has worked in seed orchards, nurseries and tree improvement programs. Michael has been an instructor at VIU since 1986. Besides working in the horticulture technology program, he works as a part-time instructor in the Tamagawa/Vancouver Island University’s joint horticulture program. He also taught at Kwantlen Polytechnic in the Horticulture Apprenticeship Program. In addition to his present position, he works as a consultant for forest seedling nurseries, and has been a professional nursery grower.
Kevin Jones, Instructor
Kevin has a diploma in Greenhouse Technology from VIU (previously Malaspina College) and additional Degrees in History and Education from the University of Victoria. He has teaching experience at various educational levels. His work experience includes working at forest seedling nurseries. In addition he has conducted research on native plant propagation and growing Asian vegetables. He has also worked as a consultant on the Green Wall Project in China. Besides working in this program, he works as a part-time Instructor in the Tamagawa/Vancouver Island University joint horticulture program. This joint program involves teaching Japanese students from a Tokyo University.
Anne Kivari, Technician/Instructor
Anne is a graduate of Niagara College Horticulture Technician Program. Anne has a wide range of experience to draw from. She has operated her own landscape design and installation company for ten years, taught native plant propagation and cultivation to Okanagan Indigenous students at the Nk'Mip Desert and Cultural Centre in Osoyoos, BC, and most recently worked as greenhouse/nursery manager at Linden Gardens in Kaleden, BC. Anne also taught plant identification to continuing education students at Niagara College Department of Horticulture. Propagation and cultivation of Alpine Plants is her passion.