Statement from John Furlong on UBC Apology for Cancellation of Speech

VANCOUVER, Jan. 3, 2017 /CNW/ - "Today UBC has apologized for and explained their cancellation of my participation in their February Student Scholarship Event and recognized the deep hurt and embarrassment it has caused me and my family. My relationship with UBC goes back many years as I have always believed that a great UBC is manifestly important to the soul of our province. Student sport also contributes to the University's character and reputation. I appreciate the massive outpouring of support from friends, community and government leaders, perfect strangers and many engaged at UBC. I accept UBC's apology and regret for this decision and while very disappointed, I want to continue to put the students first. I ask that everyone including supporters and UBC's long standing friends continue to support the event as it is imperative that vital funds are raised to support and entice aspiring athletic stars to UBC. I trust that UBC will commit my full speaking fee to jump start the funding efforts as I had intended to do. I wish the event every success and trust that this most disheartening, humiliating experience can be a tipping point for improvement and that there can be some lasting good achieved."    

SOURCE John Furlong

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