January 7, 2010 Vol. 46 No. 1 The University of Western Ontario’s newspaper of record www.westernnews.ca PM 41195534

Study abroad What’s ahead? Priorities A new door is opening for study at Western – and University planners are adopting a more cautious approach in President Amit Chakma sets out his it’s in France. Expansion of a partnership with the the wake of the financial collapse of 2008. But don’t hit the snooze priorities for the university. University of Tours will add summer courses to the bar – there’s more than enough happening during 2010 to keep academic menu. things interesting. Page 2 Page 3 Page 5 Comic Book Hero Farming manure for megawatts

B y He a t h e r Tr a v i s

n a few years, a herd of Hol- stein cows might be power- Iing the village of Ilderton. This is not so far-fetched, as a locally owned farm has begun turning manure into an energy resource with the help of uni- versity researchers. In 2006, the urban sprawl of London, Ont. forced the Stan- ton family farm to relocate from Hyde Park to its current location near Ilderton. Laurie Stanton and his wife Sandy, along with their child- ren Jeff, Jim, Greg and Amy, decided this change afforded them an opportunity to rebuild their dairy operation from the barn floor up to operate effi- ciently and in an environmen- tally friendly manner. The result? Well, this is not your grandfather’s farm. For- get those sepia-toned images of farm life. The Stanton ope- Heather Travis, Western News ration is a sleek, mechanized business that brings advan- Former Huron University College professor Eddy Smet is donating most of his collection of rare and complete runs of comics to the archives at ced technology and business Western Libraries. Spanning 40 years of collecting, his 10,000-plus comics, including these pieces on display at D. B. Weldon Library, include Star practice to a sector that has Trek, Superman, and Wolverine. See story Page 6. long wrestled with the need for change. “The way we look at it, agri- culture is changing and larger farms are the standard rather More faculty putting off retirement than the exception,” says Lau- rie. “We wanted to do everyth- ing well ... We also want to have B y Pa u l Ma y n e of faculty would work beyond already been bridged by new number of people who have left,” as little impact as possible on age 65. hires, based on an assumption he says. our neighbours.” he elimination of manda- “Our projections were incor- workers were going to retire. The university has also regis- The farm has more than tory retirement in 2006 will rect,” says Weedon. “It looks like A new voluntary faculty retire- tered a slight increase in the num- 2,000 cows, including those Thave a $12-million impact the majority of faculty are choos- ment program was offered to ber of women faculty members used for dairy production and on The University of Western ing to work beyond age 65. This is about 220 faculty members in to 30 per cent of probationary a genetics and breeding ope- Ontario in 2010-11 as unexpect- more than we had expected, so it December, designed for faculty and tenured faculty positions. ration. edly higher numbers of older is causing some pressure on the who meet certain eligibility “We have seen a trend over While cattle manure is often professors take a pass on retiring university’s operating budget, requirements and offering a min- the last 10 years of increased used as a crop fertilizer, the at age 65. since they were unplanned posi- imum incentive of $65,000. Those representation of women,” says family wanted to investigate Heading into 2010, 24 additional tions.” who participate must retire on Weedon, noting the level in 1999 whether the traditional waste probationary and tenured faculty With the total number of years June 30 or July 1. was at 20.5 per cent. Still, com- product could be put to other members who have reached the they will continue to work not Speaking to Senate, Weedon pared to other G-13 universities, uses. normal retirement age of 65 have known, Weedon says costs could says the hiring of probationary Western has a lower level of The Ontario government chosen to continue teaching. This continue to rise. and tenured faculty has flat- women faculty. invested $2.5 million for the brings the total number to about “In subsequent years it will tened to a level just below 1,100 “We have been moving up the completion of a biogas demon- 65. increase if the number of people employees. Recent increases ranks and have managed to close stration facility at Stanton Alan Weedon, Vice-Provost working beyond normal retire- were boosted by the province’s the gap, but we haven’t caught Farms, which was developed (Academic Planning, Policy and ment date increases, and will also Reaching Higher program which up yet.” in collaboration with The Uni- Faculty) says in 2006, when the increase because of the annual is drawing to a close. versity of Western Ontario, the rules were changed, the univer- salary settlements.” “The number of people who Continued on page 7 sity believed about 50 per cent Some of the positions have have joined us is balanced by the Continued on page 8

INSIDE: Academe 12 | Careers 12 | Classified 12 | Coming Events 11 | Student Services Bulletin 12 2 January 7, 2010 WESTERN NEWS

Research Western is pleased to announce the following competitions: Study abroad launched Petro-Canada Young Innovator Award with French university Created by an endowed donation from Petro-Canada, this program recognizes, promotes and supports the work of new faculty researchers The University of Western Ontario is expanding its partner- whose work is particularly innovative, impacts positively on the ship with the University of Tours learning environment in the department in which they study, and has in France through a new summer the potential to be of significance to society at large. The program is study abroad program beginning intended to help attract and retain bright young minds at Canadian in the summer of 2010. Universities, colleges and major research institutes and to help young Western students can take sum- researchers launch their scholarly careers and enable them to carry their mer courses, taught in English, at the University of Tours for research forward. Full-time faculty members with an appointment at Western credit (subject to depart- Western are eligible from the date of their initial offer of appointment mental approval) in a variety of at a university up to their 8th year on faculty. Priority is given to disciplines in Social Science, Arts research related to Petro-Canada’s areas of interest. and Humanities and Music. They can also take French courses in Grant Amount: Up to $12,500 Tours. Western is offering financial assistance to cover part of the Deadline: travel costs. RD&S Deadline February 16, 2010 Tours is a modern city with a Western students participating in Kinesiology activity course bike trip in population of about 136,000, situ- Touraine in May 2009 meet with University of Tours students. ated in the heart of the historic Touraine region, known for the To see “What’s Happening in RD&S” and for more program châteaux where the royals would Centre region for an international information, please visit: http://www.uwo.ca/research/rds.html. sojourn during the Renaissance. experience in teacher training. Information meeting It is a one-hour train ride from Tours has also been the home An information meeting will be held Paris. Its university, the Univer- base for the annual Kinesiology on Wednesday, Jan. 20, at 4:30 p.m., Contact: sité François-Rabelais de Tours, Touraine Bike Tour (http://www. in University College Room 138A. All located in the downtown area, is a uwo.ca/pvp/loire_tour2009/), interested students are encouraged Florence Lourdes dynamic multidisciplinary centre recently opened up to students to attend. Information about the new Internal Grants Coordinator of teaching and research with from other faculties in addition program can be found on the Depart- more than 20,000 students. to Kinesiology students. The 2010 ment of French Studies website: uwo. Research Development & Services Western’s President Emeritus trip will involve even more inter- ca/french/summertours.html [email protected] Paul Davenport now resides in action than in the past between Tours and is collaborating with Western and Tours students. 519.661.2111 ext. 84500 French Studies Professor Jeff The course “Europe in the Mak- Students taking one of these Tennant to launch the new pro- ing: Understanding the History courses can also take an optional gram, which builds on an estab- and Workings of Today’s Euro- French language course. Or, lished partnership. pean Institutions” gives students students can choose to travel to Western has had an exchange who have completed at least a France to work on their French program with the University of year of university studies an by taking a three-week language Tours since 1997 and a total of 25 overview of the European Union, course offered by the Institut de University Secretariat Canadian and French students with field trips to deepen their Touraine, for a Western French have had the opportunity to cross insight. A series of courses in credit. 2010 Spring the Atlantic to participate in it. In the program “Renaissance and Financial assistance is avail- CALL FOR NOMINATIONS addition, the Faculty of Education the Invention of Modern Europe” able to Western students par- FOR THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS has had a successful program for (prerequisite: at least two years ticipating in the program ($500 several years that twins B.Ed. of university study) allows stu- toward travel costs for the first 20 The Board of Governors will hold elections during February 2010 to elect students with counterparts in the dents to explore specific aspects students to register). members in accordance with the provisions of The University of Western Instituts Universitaires de Forma- of European history and culture Ontario Act (1982). For this election the following members are required: tion des Maîtres of Tours and the in the Renaissance period. one member of faculty - from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2014 one graduate student - from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2012 one undergraduate student - from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2012 Puck drops for Family Hockey Festival Nominations open officially at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 7th, 2010 and close at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 21st, 2010. The names of nominees Hurry hard. Oops, that a dif- Athletic Centre and a variety of n children’s games will be posted on the election website and on the bulletin board outside the ferent sport, but hurry anyway. family activities. Complimentary n face painting University Secretariat [Room 290, Stevenson Lawson Building] on Friday, The deadline is today (Jan. 7) for food and children’s activities will n contests/door-prizes January 22nd, 2010. The University of Western Ontario be scheduled between 6 p.m. and n meet the team community to order free tickets 8 p.m. n tours of the new Western Stu- CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE SENATE and join President Amit Chakma The Mustang women’s hockey dent Recreation Centre The Senate will hold elections during February 2010 to elect members in and his family in cheering on the team takes on the Windsor Lancers To order tickets visit western- accordance with the provisions of The University of Western Ontario Act Mustang hockey teams on Jan. 9. beginning at 4 p.m. and the men’s mustangs.ca. (1982). For this election the following members are required: The Western Family Hockey hockey game against the Lakehead Order complimentary tickets Festival includes free admission Thunderwolves starts at 7:30 p.m. today by 5 p.m. For more informa- 28 members of faculty - from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2012 to the Thompson Recreation and Activities will include: tion, e-mail [email protected]. one member of administrative staff - from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2012 four graduate students - from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011 Campus Digest 14 undergraduate students - from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011 Nominations open officially at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 7th, 2010 for New CIM courses the Continuing Studies website [email protected]. Visit the new all constituencies. Deadlines for nominations for all constituencies (with the New courses begin next week and select the Western CIM link. site at sustainability.uwo.ca. exception of undergraduate student AAt Large@ constituency) will close at 4:00 for Western’s Canadian Institute uwo.ca/cstudies. p.m. on Thursday, January 21st, 2010. Nominations for the undergraduate of Management program. The LET’S READ student AAt Large@ constituency close at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, January 25th, program is for Western academic Sustainability at The first of three LondonR eads 2010. The names of nominees will be posted on the election website and on and administrative leaders and Western events takes place Jan. 14 with the bulletin board outside the University Secretariat [Room 290, Stevenson staff in human resource, account- Western’s new sustainability celebrity readers Gitta Kulczy- Lawson Building] on Tuesday, January 26th, 2010. ing or financial management func- website now has a new sustain- cki (Vice-President, Resources Full information on the Board and Senate elections (including candidate tions (managers, directors, chairs, ability calendar of events to go & Operations) and Kevin Swit- and voter eligibility, the election schedule, the nomination form and voting administrative officers, unit lead- with it. The calendar is a bit thin at zer (Chair, London Chamber of procedures for each constituency) can be found at: ers, or roles in any bargaining unit the moment but will finally bring Commerce) discussing the merits - in a faculty or support unit). The together in one place the many of Richard Wagamese’s Ragged http://www.uwo.ca/univsec/election/ 13-week winter courses are Intro- campus green events – lectures, Company. Things get underway duction to Public Sector Manage- forums, tree-plantings, you name at 7 p.m. at the Central Library ment, and Strategic Analysis. Visit it. Send your notices to comin- (Stevenson & Hunt Room). WESTERN NEWS January 7, 2010 3 Looking forward to 2010

B y He a t h e r Tr a v i s facility will be the second Leader- ship in Energy and Environmental eginning a decade is like Design-certified (LEED) building turning over a new leaf – on campus. Bfull of promise and new The university has completed ideas, the start of a new era. the last phase in renovation of And many new adventures are the Biology and Geology Build- on the horizon for The University ing and received an occupancy of Western Ontario, as President permit in December. Staff and Amit Chakma begins acting on researchers have started moving new priorities for the university. into their new locations. (See Page 5 for more about those Students have begun using new priorities.) classroom space on the first and But, it will be difficult to step second floors of the University into 2010 without a bit of caution Community Centre. It marks the in the face of financial challenges. culmination of a one-year proj- Exercising restraint will likely be ect to renovate space vacated by part of the financial mantra for Campus Recreation, including the next few years. demolition of the swimming pool, Few surprises expected in bud- squash courts, cardio/aerobic get. studies and support space. Seven- The financial markets have teen classrooms with a capacity improved from a year ago but for 50 to 250 people occupy the Western is not going to make 45,000 square foot space. Heather Travis, Western News any sudden financial movements The renovation of Stevenson based on this assumption. Wasn’t there a pool here? The year kicks off with some shiny new classrooms and lecture halls in areas vacated by and Lawson Halls continues in With the end of the fiscal Campus Recreation in the University Community Centre. These seats won’t be empty for long as classes begin to 2010. The project includes a sub- year in April, the university is occupy the space. stantial realignment of space to preparing for a difficult budget create academic offices, general year. Fred Longstaffe, Provost & university teaching facilities and Vice-President (Academic) says Graduate expansion several building upgrades. The the university is unlikely to use Colleges for support on three London teaching hospitals. continues first phase has been completed, investment income in the upcom- fronts: international student Other contracts up for renewal with occupants already moving ing operating budget. Financial recruitment, educational oppor- in 2010 include TAs, operating Graduate expansion funding is into the space; the second phase guidelines put into place for the tunities for Aboriginal Canadians engineers and Professional and the only guaranteed money for- is expected to be completed in 2009-10 operating budget should and a spending boost for the three Managerial Association. warded to universities from the August, with completion of phase remain in place for 2010-11. federal granting agencies. The provincial government, making three in 2011. The university is approach- federal budget is expected to be New vice-presidents it imperative to meet targets for Modernization of the Physics ing the final year of its four-year made public in March. take charge 2010. and Astronomy Building was planning process. As Western Plans will likely take shape Chakma has signaled graduate put on hold in 2009, however the administrators stress the need over the next year to initiate new The newly named Vice-Presi- expansion and research intensity university is anticipating the to keep expenditure growth at a revenue sources for Western. dent (External) Kevin Goldthorp as a top priority for the univer- start of construction as early as rate equal to revenue growth, the takes over his post in April. He sity. Look for work to advance on next month. The outcome of the importance of spending restraint Expiring labour comes to Western from Toronto’s expansion of professional mas- renovation will be more efficient will be central in budgetary plan- contracts Sunnybrook Foundation where ter’s programs and establishing a design of space to create modern ning. In 2009 the university settled he served as Chief Executive research cluster to make Western faculty/staff offices, classrooms, It remains uncertain whether contract agreements with sev- Officer. Helen Connell, Associate a hub for specialized study. teaching laboratories, research further budgetary reductions eral employee groups, including Vice-President of Communica- In the works will be preparing facilities, and support spaces. As will be needed. A great deal will the Professional and Managerial tions and Public Affairs, is filling for the next planning stages, par- well, 15,600 square feet of new depend on funding promises from Association and The University of the position in the interim. ticularly the transition to a new space will be added to one of the provincial government, and Western Ontario Faculty Associa- Goldthorp inherits Western’s four-year plan in 2011-12. the oldest campus buildings by Western’s ability to secure rev- tion – Librarians and Archivists. most ambitious fundraising cam- enclosing a courtyard. enue sources and control costs. The faculty association, which paign yet, pushing ahead on the New buildings and The design work for the Cana- One of the biggest unknowns went down to the wire with the $500-million campaign with the renovations dian Foundation for Innovation- is the amount of funding that will librarians’ contract, will return to help of campaign chair Geoff The new location for the funded expansion of the Museum be provided by the provincial the table this year. The collective Beatty. Richard Ivey School of Business of Ontario Archeology was started government. Not only is Ontario agreement for about 1,100 faculty In another changing of the will start to take shape just east in November and construction experiencing a record deficit, but members expires in June. guard, Fred Longstaffe steps of Brescia University College. could begin this year. the province is approaching the Also expiring in June is the down as Provost and Vice-Pres- Construction on the $100-million Similarly, the Wind Engineering end of the multi-year Reaching contract for The University of ident (Academics) on June 30 to building to house Ivey’s grow- Energy & Environment “Wind- Higher Plan. Western Ontario Staff Associa- return to full-time teaching and ing undergraduate and gradu- EEE” project will get underway. Meanwhile, the federal gov- tion, representing nearly 1,200 research. His replacement is ate programs is scheduled to be ernment is being lobbied by the administrative and technical expected to be announced early completed by March 2011. The Association of Universities and staff and Western employees at this year. 234,000-square-foot, three-storey Stephenson awarded Order of Canada Carol Stephenson, dean of the goes beyond boardroom tables strands essen- and which creates respect and Canada’s centennial year, to rec- Richard Ivey School of Business, and balance sheets to encompass tial to mod- success for all involved. Hers is ognize a lifetime of outstanding has been appointed an Officer of the vital role business plays in ern business an inspirational form of leader- achievement, dedication to com- the Order of Canada by Gover- the quality of life in Canada and education and ship that brings great repute to munity and service to the nation. nor General of Canada Michaelle beyond. Through Carol’s leader- research have Ivey, to Western and indeed to Over the last 40 years, more than Jean. ship, Ivey has reshaped business been woven the nation.” 5,000 people from all sectors of Stephenson received the education to ensure our next gen- together into a Of the 57 new appointees, 25 society have been invested into appointment for “her contribu- eration of global leaders have powerful new were named Officers (O.C.) and the order. tions to the development of our the strategic ability to resolve way of think- 32 were named Members (C.M.). For a complete list of the 57 national telecommunications increasingly complex global ing about the These appointments were made new appointments, including industry and for implementing issues.” whole system on the recommendation of the Burton Cummings, lead singer innovative changes to business Fred Longstaffe, Provost & – not only busi- Advisory Council for the Order of The Guess Who; former presi- school education in Canada.” Vice President (Academic), Stephenson ness but also of Canada. dent of the International Criminal “This is one of the highest hon- also expressed support for the the society in Recipients will be invited to Court Philippe Kirsch; retired ours given to Canadians and Carol appointment. which business operates and the accept their insignia at a cer- NHL superstar Mario Lemieux; is more than deserving of this “At Western, Carol Stephen- people it affects. emony to be held at a later date. and Canadian singer-songwriter recognition,” says President Amit son has elevated Ivey to national “And she has done so in a quiet, The Order of Canada, one of the Neil Young, visit gg.ca/document. Chakma. and international prominence as consensus-building fashion that country’s highest civilian honours, aspx?id=13469. “Her strong vision for business the institution where the many is supportive of collaboration was established in 1967, during 4 January 7, 2010 WESTERN NEWS

The Way We Were: 1972

Contributed by Alan Noon ([email protected]) London Free Press Collection/Western Archives Football coach Frank Cosentino taught PHE 260, a course on the history of sport and physical education. This particular year he gave students the choice of submitting a traditional paper or illustrating their topic in other media. Football players Bill McDonnell, left, and Mike Fess look over half of a Roman Coliseum made from cardboard and polyfilla. They had planned to create the whole thing but as McDonnell put it, “It got too big.” Meanwhile hockey player Al Worsley created a mosaic of a discus thrower. Thank Santa and her helpers

Editor’s note her, she’s finished exams early. license ….. Oakville. OMG. I say, Richmond Street to the train sta- I pull up beside her, she’s been We carry on to the ValuMart, I know her, I just dropped her off, tion. One girl starts dialing and crying, I hand her the purse, she The following story was written out comes the suitcase, have a and she’s going to the train station ends up on the phone with the bursts into tears, and the girls by a Western staff member and safe trip and Merry Christmas. to go home. train station, convincing them to cheer again. She thanks us, she volunteer driver for the Western I carry on back to the Alumni The girls all talk at once. We page the purseless girl. We’ll look hugs me through the window and Community Vans that picked up Circle and pick up my next load should go find her, we’ll call the for her! The other girls say. then hops into a cab. thousands of students, staff and of students. train station, OMG. She’s LOST On the way to the station I get I look back at the girls in the faculty during the London Transit The first girl in the van, squeals, HER PURSE! How WILL SHE closer to the ValuMart. Should I van who are all sitting there smil- strike. The driver, recounting an SOMEBODY LEFT THEIR GET HOME? pull in and make sure she’s not ing, and say, anyone getting out at experience about a week before PURSE HERE! OK, should we go and find there? YES they say. I pull in and the ValuMart? Christmas, asked that her name All I can think is, it was inevita- her? YES, they say, all at once, they all start cheering/squealing/ Merry Christmas! not be used so as not to single ble. So many kids, so much chaos, HURRY. yelling, THERE SHE IS, YAY, out her contribution from those of so many things on their mind, Buckle up! Off we go down OMG. dozens of other volunteers. it’s inevitable, amazing it didn’t happen before. I drove some young ladies in By this time there are four the community van one night this girls in the van. They hand me Looking Back week. the purse and ask me what I am From the Western News archives of Jan. 7, 1993 I remember the girl with the going to do. I say, hmm, drop it suitcase because she opened the off at the Campus Police? NO!! n Fifty bicycle racks capable of holding seven and Rush Week in September is an initiative of back of the van to put her lug- they say, you should look inside to ten bicycles using u-locks have been delivered four MBA students. Details have been delegated gage in. Nothing wrong with that, and find the phone number and to campus. The new, more functional racks are to the Clean-up Committee which includes many but she was the first person who we can call her. I am not comfort- made of galvanized steel and cost $160 each, half stakeholder groups -- among which sit a few USC had done that after five weeks able with this, I waffle. I’m SURE as much as traditional handlebar racks. clubs themselves. of driving. My first drop off was there will be a phone number in n Mustang Cheerleaders are cast in The Air n The Student Placement Service, a division Blackfriars. The travelling girl there, one of them says. I buckle Up There starring Kevin Bacon. Casting agents of Counselling & Career Development, has relo- was going to the train station and open the purse. I pull out the spotted Coach Trace’s team winning the 1992 cated to a portable on the UCC patio. and asked if she should get off at wallet saying, where will I find the National Cheerleading Championship at Sky- n Libraries are about to toughen up on anti- Blackfriars or at the ValuMart. phone number? On her driver’s Dome. food and drink policy: On Jan 18, 1993, warnings ValuMart, I say, and then walk license, one says. I say that I’m n Advertisement: LTC semester pass $135 for will be replaced with a trespassing fine of $53.75 straight down Richmond Street. pretty sure your phone number is the winter term Jan. 4 - April 4, 1993, on sale now for a first offence. The conversation continues, she not on your driver’s license, they until Jan. 15. is going home to Oakville; lucky ignore that. I pull out the driver’s n Special clean up at the next USC Clubs Week – compiled by Joshua Safer

COPY DEADLINES PUBLISHER: Helen Connell PRODUCTION/DESIGN: VICE-PRESIDENT (External): POSTAGE RECOVERY noon Friday TMI Media Helen Connell (acting) Letters: $50 Canada, EDITOR: David Dauphinee noon Wednesday ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER: FOUNDING EDITOR: Alan Johnston Events Section: US $65 USA, $85 other Advertising: noon Thursday REPORTERS: Paul Mayne, Jennifer Davila Western News is published by Post Office: Please do not forward. Heather Travis The University of Western Ontario ISSNO316-8654 ADVERTISING CO-ORDINATOR: Return to Western News, Department of Communications and Denise Jones DEPARTMENT OFFICES: Suite 360, University of Western Ontario, Public Affairs every Thursday. [email protected] Westminster Hall London, Ontario N6A 3K7 A reduced schedule is in effect ADVERTISING SALES: TELEPHONE: 519-661-2045 with new address where possible. “Western provides the best during December, May, June, July FAX: 519-661-3921 student experience among CampusAd, 519-434-9990 www.WesternNews.ca Canada’s leading research- and August. intensive universities.” EMAIL: [email protected] WESTERN NEWS January 7, 2010 5 Students, research top president’s priorities

B y He a t h e r Tr a v i s closer look at some of the presi- housing. doctoral fellows,” he explains. sources, to provide new revenue dent’s priorities. Building on the professional streams. he direction The Univer- Students master’s programs does not sity of Western Ontario Strategic Leadership As a key component to West- conflict with Western’s commit- External Community Twill take under a new presi- Over the next year Chakma ern’s success, Chakma is look- ment to research intensity, but For Western to make a mark dency is coming into focus with hopes to increase the university’s ing to improve the student will supplement and strengthen on the international stage, it the release of Amit Chakma’s pri- international profile and reputa- experience. Part of this lies with graduate studies, says Chakma. needs to start locally. One way orities for 2009-10. tion through the establishment of increasing international student “To grow and to sustain our to strengthen connections with Chakma has outlined five key one major international initiative. enrolment. research-based graduate pro- the City of London is by initiating areas to focus on in the coming What the initiative will look like is “For the 2010-11 admission year, grams at the current level, we at least one major collaborative months: still taking shape. I am suggesting that we admit 100 need to bring in more research project with the city. n strategic leadership “We are at the very early additional international students,” dollars ... To grow further, we Chakma has met this priority n students stages; there are several we are he says. “I have also suggested need even more resources,” he with the recent announcement n graduate education and looking at,” he says. “It is very that we should gradually increase says, noting revenue from course- of a joint collaboration between research intensity likely one that will involve us cre- international student enrolment based master’s programs can help Western, Trojan Technologies and n financial accountability ating a program that will allow us at the undergraduate level to the close this gap and meet a need in the City of London to develop n the external community to send our students to Europe provincial average.” the community. a Wastewater Treatment Tech- “This is really a work in prog- for a study abroad program, but “There is a growing need to nology Centre, a unique test-bed ress,” says Chakma. a more co-ordinated one.” Graduate Education cater to that demand and if we facility for researchers. “What I was trying to do is send Providing transferrable cred- and Research don’t, somebody else will.” In November, Western, the City a signal of my priorities. What I its and the possibility of sending Intensity Chakma also wants Western of London and Fanshawe College hope people will see is students professors abroad to teach such Among the priorities on the list to become a hub for specialized also announced the creation of an remain my priority No. 1, both courses at a partner institution are the expansion of professional research. advanced manufacturing indus- graduate and undergraduate; are aspects under review. master’s programs and establish- Research clusters “create criti- trial park. Although he can check (and) research intensity remains The university will also plan ing at least one major research cal mass of scholars to advance these items off his list, Chakma my priority.” for “a modest expansion in cluster. research ideas and projects says there is “more work to be In the 22-point document, undergraduate enrolment, rec- In many fields of study, an which could benefit from the done.” Chakma lays the groundwork ognizing that this will necessitate undergraduate degree is no lon- collaborative work of a group of “We have a few other things for a plan to strategically posi- an increase in housing for stu- ger sufficient, says Chakma. To scholars. The proposed Canada- that are in the works.” tion Western as a major player dents.” help graduates continue their U.S. institute is one such example Overall, Chakma says the list on the international stage and No final decisions have been education, he feels Western of a research cluster,” he says. of priorities is not conclusive, to respond to challenges facing made on the expansion, as this should explore offering course- but will serve as a guide for the post-secondary institutions. move will depend on government based master’s programs. Financial coming years. The Senior Operations Com- policies and available funding, “A major university like ours Accountability “Most of the activities outlined mittee of the Board of Governors says Chakma. has the capacity to meet the needs With limited money guaranteed will continue beyond 2009-10. The approved the list at its meeting in The university is planning vari- of a diversified group of learners. from the provincial government goal would be to advance these December. ous scenarios related to under- Many great institutions, such as in the coming years, Chakma activities as far as possible,” he To learn more about the direc- graduate growth. In spite of the Harvard, offer programs for a reiterates the need to develop says. tion Western will move over the extra students, Western will wide variety of learners ranging an income diversification strat- next year, Western News takes a continue to guarantee first-year from high school students to post- egy, including non-government Time to hang up the keys and celebrate! Volunteer drivers across campus provided tens of thousands of rides during the transit strike through the Western Community Van, Share-A-Ride, and Flag- A-Ride programs.

To thank and recognize the commitment of these volunteers, Western is hosting a reception:

Tuesday, January 19 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Great Hall (Somerville House)

All volunteer drivers and riders are welcome to attend.

RSVP by emailing [email protected]

www.uwo.ca 6 January 7, 2010 WESTERN NEWS

Letter to the editor

A word of thanks to visit former library colleagues first day I began my professional and professors with whom I’ve career as a librarian at Western First of all, thank you, Western bonded over the years. Libraries in September of 1971. residence life staff News reporter Heather Travis, I also want to take this oppor- I wish all of you the success you for spending so much time with tunity not just to thank Heather deserve as you go on to discover Applications are invited from full-time undergraduate students me and writing such a lovely but to thank the entire Western new things, new ways of looking article (and taking such a flat- community for its friendship and at old things, and ways to make for the (live-in) positions of: tering photograph to accompany support over these years, espe- the world a better place in which it) to recognize my 40 years at cially to those who came out to to live. • Head Dons Western in the Dec. 10 issue of my retirement party and/or “Last Thanks again for 40 great • Residence Dons the Western News. Actually, they Lecture” on Dec. 7 and 11. I have years. aren’t over yet as I plan to visit been purple and proud of my for the 2010-2011 academic year. the campus often to audit courses, association with Western since Walter Zimmerman Members of the Residence Life Staff are responsible for to join the Retired Academics’ the first day I arrived on campus Librarian Emeritus ensuring the overall aims of residence life are achieved, and that Group and the Senior Alumni, and in early August of 1969 and the Western Libraries these aims are in keeping with the mission of Huron University College. For more information about the positions and the application process, please contact Ms. Sharon Robertson-McKillop at 519-438- 7224, ext. 202. Head Don applications are due by 4pm Jan. 18, Lifetime collector donates 2010. Don applications are due by 4pm on Jan. 28, 2010. Applications are available in the Student Services Office. Sharon Robertson-McKillop comics to library Director of Housing and Student Life Huron University College B y He a t h e r Tr a v i s 1349 Western Rd. London, ON N6G 1H3 ddy Smet gets emotional when he talks about his Ecomic book collection as they have played a significant role in his life for the past 40 Research Western is pleased to announce the following competitions: years. “I had my first comic book collection when I was a boy in SSHRC Internal Research the mid-50s,” he says. Although he temporarily stopped collecting when he and Travel Grants was completing university, he resumed in 1972 and has been SSHRC Internal Research Grant acquiring them ever since. Now Funding is provided annually by the Social Sciences and Humanities he has made the weighty decision Research Council to support the cost of research initiatives in disciplines to share his beloved collection with The University of Western normally supported by SSHRC and is intended for research projects of Ontario. modest scope. The competitions are for seed money, one-time requests, “It really hit me that I can’t and projects of short duration. Applications may be made for new read all these comics in my life- research initiatives. Requests for funds to supplement existing operating time anymore,” he says. or research grants, to augment funds for larger projects (funded or applied The retired Huron University for), or to attend conferences generally will not be accepted. College professor is in the process of gifting a significant portion of Grant Amount: Up to $7,000 his 10,000-plus, single-issue and Heather Travis, Western News original graphic novel collection Star Wars, Wolverine and Action Comics Weekly are among the titles donated Deadline: to Western Archives, the archival to Western Libraries by retired Huron University College professor Eddy Dean’s Deadline February 1 research department of Western Smet. RD&S Deadline February 16 Libraries. Smet retired in 2006 after 30 years of award-winning teaching. Whites, comic books produced Smet owned the Comic Book SSHRC Internal Conference Travel Grant Smet’s donation has been added in Canada during the Second Collector on Dundas Street Funding is provided annually by the Social Sciences and Humanities to the Alexander Norman Comic World War. These homegrown near Adelaide Street for eight Research Council to enable faculty and post-doctoral fellows to take part Book Collection, which together comics were developed out of an years, which was operated by in research-rated meetings of major scholarly significance in disciplines currently total more than 4,000 importation ban of U.S. comics his wife. He’s pleased genera- comic book issues, volumes of into Canada during the war. tions of students will be able to normally supported by SSHRC. The program will fund participation pulp fiction and comic book refer- “From a Canadian cultural point further explore the increasingly in both regular international congresses and more narrowly focused ence works. of view, I think they are really influential medium through his conferences and seminars which take place more than (500 kilometers) “I was attracted by the comics’ important,” he says, explaining collection. from London, Ontario. Applicants must be presenting a paper. entertainment,” says Smet, noting the books are scarce - only about “I want them to be used by rather than superheroes, Tarzan, 750 were published. people; I want them to be made Grant Amount: Up to $7000 for Travel and Subsistence western and movie comics were This is believed to be the larg- available ... and there are some Deadline: among his favourites. “My family est and most valuable collection things, like Canadian Whites, that is first, but comics have played a of comic books ever donated to a should be preserved. Dean’s Deadline February 1 large part of my life, as well as Canadian university. “Comic books are not printed RD&S Deadline February 16 my teaching.” “Over the next number of years as much as they were 30-40 years With an estimated value in I will donate my collection as I ago, but they are a huge part of the tens of thousands of dollars, To see “What’s Happening in RD&S” and for more program can bear to part with it,” he says. people’s lives – Superman, Bat- the Dr. Eddy Smet Comic Book “I was quite surprised how man, Iron Man ... I think (the col- information, please visit: http://www.uwo.ca/research/rds.html. Collection includes rare Batman emotionally attached I was. The lection) will be useful for many appearances from the seventies comic books also go back to my years to come.” Contact: and eighties written by living leg- childhood. It’s not only 40 years John Lutman, the James Alex- end Denny O’Neil, Frank Miller’s of collecting with the hope of ander & Ellen Rea Benson Special Florence Lourdes revolutionary run on Daredevil, enjoying; it’s really giving up Collections Librarian at Western Internal Grants Coordinator Alan Moore’s complete runs on something of pride ... Giving my Archives, has been working on Watchmen, Miracleman and collection to a good home makes the donation with Smet since 2008 Research Development & Services Swamp Thing, and the first 14 it easier.” and says, “Comic books are a seri- [email protected] issues of Captain Canuck, argu- He plans to keep some copies, ous area of academic study and 519.661.2111 ext. 84500 ably Canada’s most popular and but the bulk of the collection will this donation will significantly important superhero comic. be delivered in parts to Western support those pursuits at Western He also has an extensive col- in regular installments in the for our students, our faculty and lection (about 125) of Canadian months and years ahead. our visiting scholars.” WESTERN NEWS January 7, 2010 7 Bassi takes lab research to high-tech farm

Continued from page 1

University of Guelph and the Uni- versity of Waterloo. All of the cow manure and on- farm wastewater is processed through the biogas system to generate methane gas. “We’ve taken what some may see as a problem – waste that’s generated and turned it into a valuable by-product with a grea- ter community-wide benefit,” says Garry Fortune, a consultant for Stanton Farms. A contentious issue in the area of generating alternative fuels has been the use of crops that are also a food source for fuel, such as converting corn into ethanol. By generating biogas from manure, Stanton Farms can fuel its operation without relying on non-renewable resources or com- peting with the food supply. In addition to manure, the farm also processes off-farm waste, such as biodegradeable material from grocery stores. “We want to create valuable products out of low-value products ... We would sooner utilize farm waste or products than valuable products,” says Laurie. “That’s much more sustainable long-term than the other approach.” Aside from its unpleasant smell, manure used as fertilizer produces methane, a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon diox- ide. By putting manure through the biogas process, methane is contained and burned as energy. The process kills pathogens Heather Travis, Western News that can foul the water system Top - The more than 2,000 dairy cows at Stanton Farms are valued for and, as a bonus, odour is virtually more than just milk. Researchers are working with the Stanton family to eliminated. turn manure into electricity. Right – Technology plays a key role in setting The farm can produce 300 Stanton Farms apart as more than just a dairy operation. By incorporating kilowatts of electricity daily and new technology, the farm has minimized its environmental impact. Below – has the capacity to ramp up pro- Stanton Farms consultant Garry Fortune gives University of Western Ontario duction to 1.3 megawatts, enough Chemistry professor Bernie Kraatz a tour of the biogas facility. power for the town of Ilderton or more than 800 homes. How does the process work? Manure is collected from barns used as an organic fertilizer. There is a strong push in the and deposited into troughs, much Engineering professor and United States for dairy farms like an urban sewage system. Associate Dean (Academic) to have anaerobic digesters Farm wastewater is captured and Amarjeet Bassi is among the because of the energy production used to flush the troughs, bring- researchers using Stanton Farms and the environmental benefits ing the waste to the facility to be as a large-scale test tube. in reducing greenhouse gases, processed by the digester tanks. In collaboration with Stanton says Laurie. Stanton Farms is the Manure solids are pumped into a Farms, Bassi is testing the liquid largest of six agricultural biogas mixing tank and combined with byproduct as a nutrient source facilities in Ontario. off-farm organic waste, which for growing microalgae (chlo- But, before the farm starts is continuously pumped into the rella) to produce oil, which can be powering lights in the neighbou- eight digester tanks. The anaero- converted to bio-diesel. The lefto- ring community of Ilderton, a few bic digestion process produces ver algae is food and a high-value issues need to be worked out and methane gas. protein supplement. Leftover a contract must be struck with The gas is collected and burned water can be cleaned and used as the Ontario Power Authority to in a cogeneration system to pro- drinking water for the cows. get their power onto the grid. duce electricity supplied to the This year, Bassi will take what Meanwhile, the Stanton family neighbouring community. he has learned in his Western lab continues to collaborate with “We are the reliable renewable and transfer it to a pilot-scale researchers to keep the farm energy,” says Fortune. “Here we system on the farm. operation abreast of the changing are at maximum capacity 24-7, Bassi will build a greenhouse agricultural landscape. Working so we are a much more reliable with a bio-fence of five gallon with Bassi is one way the family source of generation.” tubes filled with microalgae is making farming more environ- Heat generated from burning grown on 5,000 litres a day of mentally friendly. methane gas in the cogeneration effluent (treated wastewater rich “From getting something that system is recaptured and used in fertilizer value). The algae pro- works in the lab, it’s a big step to to heat the biogas building, the duction process uses minimum getting it to something that will waste material for processing energy – using only natural light, work commercially and if that and the hot water for the farm’s carbon dioxide captured from step isn’t taken, to some extent in-floor radiant hot water system burning the methane gas, and that research will be wasted,” that heats the building during waste effluent – to produce a high- says Laurie. “When we bring the cooler seasons. value product, he says. two elements together, it could The nutrient-rich liquid bypro- “We are closing the environme- go on and be commercially viable duct of the processed manure is ntal loop on the farm so they actu- and be a win for both ourselves virtually odourless and can be ally have no waste,” says Bassi. and Western.” 8 January 7, 2010 WESTERN NEWS Recession skews stats

Continued from page 1 members in mentoring younger professors. “Punishing the facul- University of Western Ontario ties is not a productive strategy.” Faculty Association President Darnell adds the statistics about Regna Darnell says faculty have professors continuing to work traditionally had a steeper career are being skewed by the reces- salary curve than most profes- sion and its affects on the pension sions, reflecting the increased plan, which she says places all of value attributed to their experi- the risk with the plan member ence, especially in a research- and none with the university. intensive university. She says the experience in the “The university will certainly United States is many faculty have to plan its finances differ- members stay on initially but ently because of this change in over time the pattern settles into the law,” says Darnell, noting a modest increase of a year or two the importance of older faculty in average retirement age. ‘CulturePlex’ lab explores cultural heritages

Laboratory space at Western n A Live-Cell Fluorescent Imag- has been earmarked for the study ing and Proteomic Laboratory for of cultural complexity and the Studying Proteins Implicated in creation and application of infor- Aging and Neurodegenerative mation technologies to better Diseases - $169,304 understand cultures as complex n A Novel High Speed Opti- systems. cal Flow Measurement System Explaining the flow of cultural - $201,189 ideas across time and space, and n Cellular Reprogramming supporting new explorations into Laboratory to Evaluate Epige- our global cultural heritages will netic Programming Events Dur- be the work of Arts and Humani- ing Development and in the Gen- Get started today by bringing this coupon to Curves ties professor Juan Luis Suárez eration of Induced Pluripotent (Hispanic Studies, Modern Lan- Stem Cells - $208,254 to waive the service fee. Available only Jan. 4-16th. guages and Literatures). n Centre for Study of Whole This $200,105 Canadian Foun- Body Vibration - $251,423 dation for Innovation (CFI) proj- n Development of a Quantita- ect is one of 12 recently awarded tive Laser Imaging Platform for to Western researchers, totaling Plant Canopies - $275,200 more than $2.6 million. n Imaging Platform with Scan- For Suárez, the building of ning Probe Microscopy: Unveil- the ‘CulturePlex’ will design the ing and Manipulating Nature’s digital tools to make analysis of Form and Function at the Nano- large amounts of data and texts scale - $198,679 possible for new approaches to n Laboratory for the Assess- the formation, adaptation, and ment of Cardiovascular and Met- Call 438-7447 to book your appt. today, or visit us at archiving of cultural flows. abolic Phenotypes in Genetically Traditional research frame- Modified Mice - $193,593 101 Cherryhill Blvd. - Oxford just west of Platts Lane works of the humanities will be n Laboratory of Neurochemis- expanded with several computing try of Dementia - $398,227 tools that will allow researchers to n Research Infrastructure to store and analyze large amounts Study Rapid and Repeated Evolu- *Not valid with any other offer. Valid at all London locations. of cultural data and texts. tion of Salmonids - $179,535 Suárez’s successful CFI pro- n Studies in Behavioural Genet- posal follows his earlier $2.5-mil- ics: Infrastructure for Molecular lion Social Sciences and Humani- Biology and Genomic Research ties Research Council MCRI - $167,744 grant to study Hispanic Baroque. n Laboratory for Multi- Other CFI funded research functional Nanocomposites - projects include: $216,342 Food drive a success With more than 14,000 pounds Cares Food Drive. of non-perishable food collected More than 218,000 pounds of across campus this past Decem- food was collected for the London ber, Western played a key role Food Bank – up from last year by in the record-breaking success about 37 per cent. of this year’s city-wide Business “It’s a been a tough year in the community, and when things get tough you can always count on the Western community and their boundless generosity,” says West- ern Cares Food Drive co-chair Scott May, noting the support of more than 30 ‘building champi- ons’ helped spread the word. “There is no one person that can be singled out. This only hap- pens because the entire campus worked together on a common cause. And the numbers don’t lie.” WESTERN NEWS January 7, 2010 9 Brown remembered as trusted leader

Dr. John Brown, of the Depart- and ears in AFP negotiations, and most nights and weekends but He was repeatedly recognized as and could play squash and tennis ment of Clinical Neurological Sci- his continuing appointment as the graduated from medicine with a leader. with either hand. ences and Chair of the Academic neutral chair of AMOSO. no debt. He was also a gifted athlete. He is survived by his son Adal- Medical Organization of South- Brown served as Assistant He won the Prowse Prize for Despite a weakened leg from polio steinn; daughter-in-law Erica, and western Ontario (AMOSO), died Dean of Postgraduate Medical his PhD (Manitoba) and studied he was recruited for the Bruins grandchildren Njála and Bran- Dec. 21 at the age of 71. Education 1981-1987, Program at the National Hospital for Neu- farm team, an offer rejected to dur. Brown started at Western in Director of Neurology 1990-1998, rological Diseases (London) as a go into medicine. He won national Donations may be made to the 1972 and retired from full time Chair of PGE: COFM 1982-1985, Medical Research Council Fellow. championships in TaeKwonDo John D. Brown Memorial Fund staff in 2003, as professor emeri- Chair of PGM: COFM 1990-1996. at the Schulich School of Medi- tus, and immediately commenced He also served as Chair of the cine and Dentistry, University of a part-time appointment which Royal College Examination Com- Western Ontario. was held until 2007. mittee in Neurology from 1997- in memoriam Brown was instrumental in the 1999, and served as Chair of the governance of clinical appoint- Specialty Committee in Neurol- Kenneth Asquith Tracy Burk ments including the Alternative ogy from 1999 to 2002. Funding Plan (AFP). He was Chair His early life was difficult. By Retired Faculty of Science Earth Sciences staff mem- Retire With of the Academic Medical Organi- age 10, he had spent years in hos- staff member Kenneth Asquith ber Tracy Burk died Dec. 13 zation of Southwestern Ontario pital for polio and other problems. died Dec. 7 at the age of 89. following six months of service Dignity (AMOSO) and had been the lead His mother died shortly after he Asquith had 17 years of ser- at the university. She was 48. negotiator in the Alternate Fund- came home. By the age of 15 he vice at the university when A memorial service was held “Fee-based investment consulting ing Plan since 2003. was self sufficient. He put himself he retired in 1984. A funeral Dec. 21 in the Health Sciences and asset management for He was described as a fair and through university and through service was held at Wellington Addition, Room 110. portfolios in excess of $500,000.” honourable leader, as attested to medical school (Manitoba), work- United Church (156 Wellington by his appointment by all of the ing as a baker, a bartender, and a St., London). Ontario deans to be their eyes laboratory assistant. He worked Community vans helped 30,000 riders

B y He a t h e r Tr a v i s learning and to see Western stu- lary Services, says more than The USC has informed students dents be successful, what more 30,000 people used the shuttles, it will receive compensation in the o the relief of London Tran- can we ask for?” which had pickups at six local form of 50 cents per student per sit users, including thou- The University Emergency businesses. day after the first 72 hours of the Mitch Orr, Tsands of Western students, Operations Control Group worked Although a settlement had been strike, as laid out in the contract. HBA, CMA, CFP, CIMA, RS faculty and staff, a contract was with leadership from the Univer- reached, transit buses did not Some additional expenses were Director, Wealth Management struck with the union on Dec. 14, sity Students’ Council and the resume a regular schedule until incurred by the USC and the uni- ending a 29-day strike. Society of Graduate Students in Jan. 4. To make sure students versity during the transit strike. 519-660-3230 Several formal initiatives coordinating response. had transportation during exams, A formal audit will be performed ™ – Mustangs Moving Mustangs, Information systems experts community vans continued until and more information will soon community vans, share-a-ride from various departments built the last day of the exam period be made available to students. TM Trademark used under authorization and control of The Bank of Nova Scotia. ScotiaMcLeod is a division of Scotia Capital Inc., Member CIPF and flag-a-ride programs, and a the “share a ride” portal in three on Dec. 22. bike check – as well as informal days. The volunteer van program More than 150 volunteers drove arrangements provided rides for - with all of the logistics around the vans during the 30 days the students, faculty and staff. dispatching, getting vans, arrang- service was offered (weekdays “I know what a talented group of ing staging locations, and coor- only) and on the busiest days, 40 people work at Western, but occa- dinating initial volunteers – was vans were on the roads. sions like this serve to reinforce assembled in a similar timeline. “Our volunteers came together just how blessed we are,” says The van service was among the to help our students and staff who Gitta Kulczycki, Vice-President most-used alternative transporta- rely on public transit to get to (Resources and Operations). tion methods. campus,” says Grindrod. “Since we are here to further Susan Grindrod, Associate According to the London Tran- the interests of education and Vice-President Housing & Ancil- sit Commission, credits for the tuition-based bus pass programs will be arranged as set out in con- Tribute tracts with the student councils. Psychology/Westminster Hall Celebrating excellence on campus

Takahashi lauded gram in 1996-97, and inaugurated by mayor the Leyshon Trophy (Most Dedi- Western wres- cated Wrestler), and the Leyshon tling head coach Award (financial need award). Ray Takahashi has pinned Margaritis elected another accolade, Fellow being named to Chemical and Biochemical London Mayor engineering professor Argyrios Anne Marie Margaritis has been elected a Fel- DeCicco-Best’s low by Engineers Canada, which New Year’s hon- represents 180,000 professional ours list. engineers. Takahashi, Margaritis has long been active Takahashi who has in provincial and national engi- coached the neering bodies. Recently, he was Mustangs since 1985, has helped reappointed to the selection com- the program thrive under his mittee of the Premier’s Discovery leadership and guidance, with Award in the Science and Engi- OUA team titles in 1990, ‘91, ‘93, neering Category. He has served and one CIS title in 1990. The twice as PEO Chair of the London women Mustangs won their first chapter and also on PEO Aca- OUA team title in 2007. He earned demic Requirements Committee, OUA coach of the year honours Co-Chair in the PEO Bioengineer- six times and CIS coach of the ing Task Force Committee, PEO year honor in 1990. courses examiner, PEO Awards Takahashi, a Kinesiology fac- Selection Committee, and PEO ulty member, established the Emerging Disciplines Committee Wrestling Wall of Fame in 1985, on Nanotechnology and Molecu- implemented the women’s pro- lar Engineering. 10 January 7, 2010 WESTERN NEWS

IN PROFILE: New Faculty A Passion for baroque art

B y Ka t i e At k i n s o n Background hen Alena Robin received At 17, Robin decided to live in Argentina her PhD she was 33, an for a year because she got bored being Wage that had particular a CEGEP student in Montreal. resonance for her because it was Robin gets travel bug genes from her the age Jesus Christ was when mother, who was a travel agent. he died. Her favourite food is her mother’s “My field of specialty is the cooking. Passion of the Christ, so I always She speaks Spanish even a bit better used to make jokes that when I than she speaks English. was 33 I was finished. I could die,” Her favourite vacation spot is any says Robin with a laugh. colonial city in Mexico. Robin studies the Passion as While studying at UNAM, Robin boarded an art historian. Her focus is on with the same Mexican family for seven Latin American baroque art, a years and she keeps in touch with them to this day. style popularized in the 17th cen- tury that depicts religious events. Many pieces portray the suffering of Jesus before his crucifixion, an biking, speaking Spanish and event referred to by Christians as travelling. She found the perfect the Passion. way to combine these interests Robin may joke that she could when she decided to travel to have quit her studies when she Mexico on exchange while she graduated, but in reality this was an undergraduate at McGill scholar has only continued pursu- University in Montreal. This deci- ing her career. sion came when one of her profes- Robin, 35, is a professor of sors suggested she go to Mexico, comparative literature and Span- a country containing more Latin ish at The University of Western American art than Canada could Ontario. ever offer. Long before she got her PhD, Robin studied at the Univer- Robin was raised as a Roman sidad Nacional Autónoma de Catholic in Trois-Rivières, Que., México (UNAM). Moving from Heather Travis, Western News a city of about 130,000 people Montreal to Mexico City was a Alena Robin, a professor of Spanish and comparative literature, has a research interest in Latin American baroque an hour and a half east of Mon- culture shock for her. “Mexico art. treal. Growing up, she was always City is 25 million people in one exposed to the stories of Jesus city,” she says. “It’s a whole Can- and his life. She describes the ada in one city.” come back to Canada that you art that she didn’t have access to it’s very interesting,” says Courn- Passion as part of her Catholic Robin was always very cau- realize you have a good quality in Canada. But being busy is just oyer, adding that Robin shared tradition and says that’s why she’s tious when travelling around. of life.” part of who she is. her passion for art without being so interested in its artistic repre- “You have to be extremely care- Robin returned to Montreal “Alena’s always doing some- boring. sentations. ful because there’s a lot of crime,” after her year in Mexico, but she thing,” says Martine Cournoyer, As a professor at Western, But art isn’t Robin’s only pas- she says. “There’s a lot of poverty, didn’t stay for long. After gradu- a friend who has known Robin Robin can continue sharing this sion. She’s very close to her fam- but there’s also a lot of richness. ating with her bachelor of arts for almost 25 years. “She’s hiking, passion for art with students. ily and friends. Her parents and It’s just not well-balanced.” degree she returned to UNAM travelling, socializing with her She looks forward to incorporat- younger brother, Frederick, still Robin learned to protect her- where she completed not only her friends and family ... She’s go, go, ing her favourite pieces of Latin live in Quebec, but she’s regularly self. She never carried expensive master’s degree, but her doctor- go,” says Cournoyer. American baroque art into her in touch. She also has a special items or wore expensive jewelry, ate as well. Cournoyer had the chance to lectures. companion. “I have been sharing and she kept only a small amount For the 10 years she was in visit Robin in Mexico 10 years my life with a wonderful man for of money with her. “But these Mexico, Robin kept herself ago. She describes Robin as a The writer is a master’s student 13 years,” she says. are tricks and you get used to it,” busy by travelling to libraries, good travel mate. “She took me studying journalism. Robin’s many hobbies include Robin explains. “It’s when you archives and museums to study to all the churches and art, and

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Careers Academe

A central Web site displays advertisements for Associate or Full Professor with a specializa- PART-TIME ACADEMIC PhD Lectures Zealand at the Gold Coast where she presented all vacant academic positions. The following tion in American Cinema. Applications must be APPOINTMENTS (Anticipated) two papers entitled “Determinants of Innovation positions are among those advertised at uwo. received by Feb. 28. Anita Hardeman, Music, Representing Venus: Don Wright Faculty of Music - Music Per- in Community Sport Organizations” and “Critical ca/pvp/facultyrelations/jobs/index-jobs.html. Music, Drama, and Allegory in André Campra’s Elements of Organizational Capacity in Commu- Please review, or contact the faculty, school or Faculty of Arts and Humanities – Department formance Studies - Music Performance Stud- and Antoine Danchet’s Hésione, Jan. 5, N/A ies expects to have Limited-Duties (Part-time) nity Sport.” She also attended the 23rd Annual department directly. of Visual Arts - Nominations and applications Conference of the Australia and New Zealand are invited for the position of Chair, a tenureable appointments to teach the following course Melissa Evans, Biology, Natural and Sexual during the Summer period May 10 to June 18. Academy of Management in Melbourne where FULL-TIME ACADEMIC appointment at the rank of Associate Professor Selection in Chinook Salmon, Jan. 11, DSB 2016, she presented a paper entitled “Role Ambigu- APPOINTMENTS or Professor, effective July 1, for a five-year 9 a.m. ity and Nonprofit Volunteer Board Member term (negotiable, renewable). For information ON CAMPUS Faculty of Arts and Humanities – Depart- Performance.” about the department, please visit uwo.ca/ Music 3950 (001) - Special Topics: Voice Studies Faculty & Staff ment of Film Studies - The Department of Film visarts/. The committee will commence review Music 3950 (002) - Special Topics: Voice Stud- Studies (uwo.ca/film/) invites applications for Alison Doherty, School of Kinesiology, recently Please send submissions to newseditor@uwo. of nominations and applications after Feb. 15 ies one position, to begin July 1 at the rank of The closing date for applications is Feb. 6. attended the 15th Conference of the Sport ca. and continue until the position is filled. Management Association of Australia and New Don Wright Faculty of Music - Music Per- formance Studies - The Department of Music Research and Composition expects to have Student Services Bulletin Limited-Duties (Part-time) appointments to You don’t have to be the teach the following courses during the Summer only one concerned about period May 1 to Aug. 31: Deadline to add course Tax receipt information your retirement plans… January 12 is the last day to add a second-term Tax receipt information T2202As (tuition tax DISTANCE STUDIES half course, or a second-term full course. receipts) for the 2009 tax year will be avail- Music 1122A: Fundamentals of Music Theory able online at the end of February. Watch this For over a decade, I have been working (Online) Academic Calendar column and the Registrar’s website registrar. with many of your colleagues from Music 1170A: Music in Global Contexts I (Online) uwo.ca for updates. The closing date for applications is Feb. 6. The new 2010-2011 Academic Calendar will be e University of Western Ontario, posted online on Jan. 13 at westerncalendar. T4As (income tax slips for scholarships, bur- specializing in Life Income Funds (LIFs) uwo.ca. upon retirement. All positions are subject to budgetary approval. saries and monetary awards) for the 2009 tax Applicants should have fluent written and oral My clients are enjoying retirement with Aboriginal bursaries year will be mailed at the end of February to communication skills in English. All qualified eligible students. the comfort of knowing that they have candidates are encouraged to apply; however, The Aboriginal Postsecondary Education and a trusted partner in managing and Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents Training Bursaries are now available. If you Student Central organizing their wealth management will be given priority. The University of Western are an undergraduate Aboriginal student in Student Central (formerly room 190) is now concerns. Ontario is committed to employment equity and financial need, you may be eligible. welcomes applications from all qualified women located in room 1120 of the new Western Student Brian R. McGorman and men, including visible minorities, aboriginal To apply, please complete the Financial Assis- Services building attached to the UCC. January people and persons with disabilities. tance Application by Jan. 31. To find the appli- hours are as follows: First Vice-President cation, log on to https://studentservices.uwo. January 4-14, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Investment Advisor ca/. In “My Present” find “Financial Assistance: 9am-5pm, Wednesday 10-5pm January 15, back to regular hours: Monday, 519-640-7745 or 1 800 265-5982 Apartment for rent? click here to apply.” In the application, be sure to select that you are an Aboriginal, Inuit or Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am-4pm; Wednesday Metis student. For more information contact 10am–5pm. Advertise it in Indigenous Services. Western News! Visit us at studentservices.uwo.ca.

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