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Simon Fraser University, dubbed “Berkeley North” for its history of embracing radical thinking, considers Bitcoin as an innovation that fits well with the school’s mission of engaging the world. SFU understands that the Blockchain protocol already has an important role in shaping our future – a world that may be vastly different than what any of us can imagine it to be today. So to stay ahead of the curve and to engage its students, SFU, with the support of Mark McLaughlin, SFU’s executive director of ancillary services, has undertaken a Bitcoin pilot project to adopt and endorse the technology on across its three campuses.

Since 2013, SFU’s Bitcoin Club has engaged thousands of people locally and globally on matters relating to cryptocurrencies. In July of this year, the university held an event that featured an insightful presentation and panel discussion on Bitcoin by David Andolfatto, a Professor of Economics at SFU and VP of Research at the St. Louis Federal Reserve. In August 2014, SFU became the first university in Canada to accept bitcoins for donations. SFU received a total of 12 bitcoins from Scott Nelson (a SFU alumni) and myself. Nelson is a personal mentor who introduced me to Bitcoin in 2011. He is also the co-founder of Dana.io, a cryptocurrency-enabled crowdfunding platform. The donations were used to fund two students who are spending the Fall semester in India, helping a NPO improve the lives of women who are victims of human-trafficking.

Later on this Fall, SFU will install multiple Bitcoin ATMs across its campuses and accept bitcoins at its bookstore and dining services. SFU is also aiming to have Bitcoin integrated into its campus parking systems by next Spring. In early 2015, SFU will be hosting the International Bitcoin Expo, a digital currency conference and tradeshow. The goal of this expo is further the growth of Bitcoin by connecting key, recognized leaders in the space such as the foundation, with professionals from diverse backgrounds such as accountants, bankers, educators, entrepreneurs, lawyers, regulators, and students. Through various means such as guest panels and an optional ski-trip, IBX will be a fun, intimate, and thought-provoking event for its multi-disciplinary attendees.

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About Simon Fraser University Founded in 1965, SFU’s vision is to be Canada’s leading engaged university. SFU currently has three campuses in British Columbia’s largest municipalities *— Vancouver,Burnaby and Surrey — and deep roots in partner communities throughout the province and around the world. SFU just launched their *50th anniversary campaign – *“The Power of Engagement” – which aims to raise $250 million for programs that will engage students, increase research capacity, and contribute to the social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being of the university’s communities.*