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PM 41195534 May 21, 2015 / Vol. 51 No. 17

Student finds success in the kitchen and beyond with @CollegeCookin | story // page 12 ILLUSTRATION BY FRANK NEUFELD ILLUSTRATION Western community to drive into carpool program

BY ADELA TALBOT “The old program was limited, and accessible with a current pass and noted. need to then schedule an appoint- just didn’t work logistically for every- transponder; To register, first sign up as a car- ment with Parking & Visitor Services IMAGINE HAVING YOUR own one. Our new program is much more • A guaranteed ride home, offered pooler with the City of London via by either visiting the office in person reserved parking space in a lot of your robust. We took to looking into the to registered carpool members in uwo.regionalrideshare.ca. Western (Support Services Building 4150) or choice on campus. London community to see what other the event of an emergency, includ- doesn’t have its own carpool data- emailing [email protected]. It’s yours – that is, if you choose great programs were going on, and ing a limited refund for taxi fare; base, so this is the best way to find Once the carpool group is formed, to carpool with a campus colleague we catered this new program to meet and someone else heading to Western. only one transponder will be used or two, on your way to work. The the needs of the Western commu- • Four complimentary parking You are also able to pick a colleague for that group. So, if there are three reserved parking space is just one nity,” she said. vouchers, per term, offered to of your own, though you still need to people in the group, two will have to incentive offered through a new car- “We have a better understanding each registered carpool member register with the city, Ayeni added. return their transponders. But, that pool program at Western, aiming to of our staff, faculty and students and as a one-day parking pass. The program is open to staff, faculty means the cost of the transponder is support environmentally and eco- there are some great benefits avail- and students at Western. split three ways. nomically feasible means of trans- able now.” Here’s how it works: Carpool groups must include two portation. The three key incentives offered to As you prepare to renew your park- or more members. Interested groups CARPOOL // CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 While Western did previously offer members of the Western community ing permit for the following term, a carpool program for staff, faculty through the new carpool program are: consider forming a carpool. To get and students, it wasn’t widely used, the benefits of the new program, you JUMP IN THE ’POOL said Beverley Ayeni, Western’s sustain- • A reserved parking space, cho- must be carpooling with other mem- To learn more about or sign up for Western’s new carpool program, visit the Parking & Visitor ability manager. sen by a carpool group, in a lot bers of the Western community, Ayeni Services website, uwo.ca/parking.

Western’s newspaper of record since 1972 2 Western News | May 21, 2015 upload your photos

Coming Events MAY 21-JUNE 3

# tag with #westernu @westernuniversity flickr.com/groups/western/

22 // FRIDAY THE DEPARTMENT OF MODERN ning campus grounds given by horti- VISITING SPEAKER IN THE DEPARTMENT OF MODERN LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES cultural experts from Western’s Facili- CHEMISTRY LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES MCINTOSH GALLERY La Tertulia. Anyone wishing to speak ties Management team. Open to all Jesse Greener, Université Laval, Qué- La Tertulia. Anyone wishing to speak faculty, staff and students looking to Janice Gurney: All the Spaces. Curat- Spanish and meet people from differ- bec. Multimodal, In Situ Characteriza- Spanish and meet people from differ- learn more about what makes West- ed by Julian Haladyn. mcintoshgallery. ent Spanish-speaking countries is wel- tion of Flow-templated Biofilms: New ent Spanish-speaking countries is wel- ern Canada’s most beautiful campus. ca. Runs until June 27. come. Email [email protected]. Opportunities for Development of come. Email [email protected]. Contact [email protected]. Opening reception at 5 p.m. 4:30 p.m. StvH 3101. Natural Catalytic Materials. Visit uwo. 4:30 p.m. StvH 3101. 12:05-12:50 p.m. SSB lobby. ca/chem/about_us/seminars/index. DR. MAUD L. MENTEN BIOMEDICAL IMAGING htm. MEMORIAL SPRING SYMPOSIUM RESEARCH CENTRE AND 1:30 p.m. CB Room 9. ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE 3 // WEDNESDAY Stefan Knapp, University of Oxford, AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY Oxford, UK. Selective Targeting of SCHULICH DRUG THERAPY DAY SEMINAR Epigenetic Effector Domains of the For more info and to register visit: Brian Rutt, Stanford University School Bromodomain Family in Cancer. Con- uwoclinpharm.ca/. of Medicine, Stanford, Calif. Ultra tact [email protected] Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington High Field MRI at Stanford. Have an event? for details. Rd. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. DSB 1002. 5:30 p.m. LHSC-UH, Auditorium A. Let us know. TOASTMASTER’S CAMPUS 26 // TUESDAY 28 // THURSDAY COMMUNICATORS E-mail: [email protected] Build your confidence in public speak- CAMPUS GARDEN TOURS FACULTY OF EDUCATION’S ing. Visit 9119.toastmastersclubs.org/. Contact Donna Moore at dmoore@ A lunch-hour tour of our award-win- RESEARCH OFFICE uwo.ca or 85159. Fusion Sushi, ning campus grounds given by horti- Icy Lee, The Chinese University of 12-1 p.m. UCC 147B. cultural experts from Western’s Facili- Hong Kong. Feedback in L2 writing: and now ties Management team. Open to all Issues, challenges and future direc- THE DEPARTMENT OF MODERN faculty, staff and students looking to tions. RSVP to [email protected]. featuring LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES learn more about what makes West- 3 p.m. FEB 1139. fresh ern Canada’s most beautiful campus. La Tertulia. Anyone wishing to speak Contact [email protected]. Spanish and meet people from differ- Osysters & 12:05-12:50 p.m. SSB lobby. 2 // TUESDAY ent Spanish-speaking countries is wel- come. Email [email protected]. Izakaya Bar. ONCOLOGY GRAND ROUNDS CAMPUS GARDEN TOURS 4:30 p.m. StvH 3101. Visit our newly renovated Todd Stevens, London Regional Can- A lunch-hour tour of our award-win- second level that offers For information or a cer Program. The expanding role of Japanese night life in personal tour, call MRI in Radiotherapy. See our 1/2 price coupon in Downtown London. the Western Student Guide. 519- 660-8731 or email: 12-1 p.m. 790 Commissioners Rd. gibbonsparkmontessori E., Rooms A3-924A/B. T. JOHN BRANTON @hotmail.com CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER 27 // WEDNESDAY Gibbons Park Your investment portfolios are only Montessori School TOASTMASTER’S CAMPUS one component of your financial plan COMMUNICATORS John is a fourth generation Londoner, Western • Unique Parkland Location graduate, active alumni and has provided trusted • Toddler and Preschool Build your confidence in public speak- wealth management services to Western faculty • Elementary ing. Visit 9119.toastmastersclubs.org/. 607 Richmond Street Contact Donna Moore at dmoore@ and staff since 1984. (at Central) dine in & take out • Daily French Classes uwo.ca or 85159. • Extended hrs For a personal consultation to discuss the 519.642.2558 • SUMMER CAMP 12-1 p.m. UCC 147B. www.gibbonsparkmontessori.com benefits of independent financial advice, call 519-204-4647

Announcement from the In the recently approved 2015-16 University budget a fund of $4 million is established in support of Office of the Vice-Provost the Interdisciplinary Initiatives Program, to be (Academic Planning, expended over the 2015-16 through 2018-19 four-year budget planning period. Up to $1 million Policy and Faculty) will be allocated in 2015-16. The Interdisciplinary Initiatives Program provides up to three years of seed funding for INTERDISCIPLINARY projects that support graduate education, undergraduate education, and research, and INITIATIVES involve interdisciplinary collaborations that cross PROGRAM ROUND 5 Department, School or Faculty boundaries. Proposals for projects may be submitted by faculty members via the Deans of the Departments, Schools or Faculties that would CALL FOR host the project. Details of the program, PROPOSALS deadlines and forms for submission of proposals, and a summary of the adjudication criteria and procedure can be found at: uwo.ca/facultyrelations/idi/interdisciplinary_ development_initiatives.html Western News | May 21, 2015 3

On Campus Chakma to Senate: Listening tour to continue into fall

BY PAUL MAYNE its committees. “What this consultation process WESTERN PRESIDENT AMIT revealed is, we have not used our Sen- Chakma said his initial meetings with ate committees as effectively as we groups and individuals, part of his could have,” he said. “We clearly do listening tour to engage the cam- lots of good work, but perhaps there pus community, have been filled with are other opportunities for us to make “tone and substance” and he remains broader use of those committees. I “very optimistic” about the ability would like our Senate committees to to resolve the challenges facing the engage in a dialogue as to what more university. might be done.” “I feel energized because of the Chakma offered a few suggestions level of engagement – not necessar- to get the conversation started. ily because of the concrete ideas we “Take the budget issue. Hindsight have been able to come up with, but is always 20/20, as you reflect on what with the level of engagement, which it is we have done well and what it is very, very rewarding to me person- is we have not done well,” he said. ally,” Chakma told university Senate “Maybe what we do is keep SCUP members May 8. (Senate Committee on University “When I announced the 100-day Planning) in the loop, and bring the plan, the intent was to focus my atten- budget development process to its tion on the next several months. The attention, on a more frequent basis. feedback I got was that it (timetable) There are opportunities for engage- would not be sufficient. I accept that. ment with SCUP and I hope that will So, this consultation process will con- be a positive step we can take. tinue well into the fall and beyond. In “We can’t change budget models fact, some of it should be ongoing.” overnight, but it doesn’t mean we At the end of the initial 100-day can’t improve what we do along the PAUL MAYNE // WESTERN NEWS FILE PHOTO period, Chakma will report back to way.” Western President Amit Chakma plans to report back to university Senate in July with ideas related to how Senate in July with ideas related to Chakma added there are oppor- to move forward as a united institution, and offer concrete action items that need to be dealt with quickly. how to move forward, and, hopefully, tunities to engage the university offer concrete action items that need research board more broadly in vari- leagues and to the faculty at large.” to be dealt with quickly. The president ous activities and, on the academic Chakma said while some on cam- also said a review of senior salaries will side, work on the challenges in sup- pus want immediate results, he cau- be undertaken as soon as the Goudge porting more interdisciplinary initia- tions any substantive changes will take Review is complete. tives. a collective effort and won’t be instant. On April 1, Western’s Board of Gov- “We are impressed with the vari- “One thing I’ve learned, in spite of ernors announced an “independent ous initiatives underway at Western. your good intentions and good will, and impartial review of the university’s The list is very impressive, but there is it is dangerous for you to come too presidential compensation practices,” a desire to do more. One can always quickly to a conclusion on anything,” led by Stephen T. Goudge, former do better,” he said. “These are areas he said. “The key message is it is a Justice of the Court of Appeal of where collective reflection and deci- work in progress.” Ontario. Chakma said the review is sion-making are required to remove anticipated to take at least 90 days. some of these barriers that exist at fac- “Once we launch that, I will advise ulty levels or at administrative levels.” (Senate) and the results will be made Other topics discussed included “Trust takes time to public,” he said. Senate make-up, in particular the Alison Hearn, University of Western over-representation of administration. rebuild. I think an Ontario Faculty Association (UWOFA) “I believe in Senate, possibly more president, said a review of senior sala- than I believe in the union,” Hearn independent review ries is a positive step, but one which said. “The Senate is the governing would be more likely may be better served externally. body of the academic mission of “Trust takes time to rebuild. I think this university and its needs to be to garner the support an independent review would be enlivened and lively, and have lively more likely to garner the support of debates, and one of the major con- of the majority of, the majority of, at least, UWOFA’s cerns I’ve heard from members is it members, rather than an internal tends to, in its makeup, over represent at least, UWOFA’s review,” she told Senate. “Not to say administration, associate deans and that an internal review can’t happen.” deans. It’s felt too many of those are members, rather than During his Listening Tour, Chakma placed in a conflict between their an internal review.” also heard requests for a stronger administrative obligations and, pos- presence from Senate members and sibly, their obligations to their col- - Alison Hearn

710 Adelaide Street N., just south of Oxford St. 4 Western News | May 21, 2015

Letters to the Editor

// Proposing a solution to resignation, have made their posi- suffering from ‘other’ tions well-known. Professors have expressed their opinions; alumni have I would like to add my congratula- weighed in. However, one of Chak- tions to Western News for the stance ma’s main constituents has remained adopted in reporting the recent relatively silent – students, on the Western News (ISSNO316- controversy – it was well balanced whole, have been relatively mute. 8654), a publication of West- ern University’s Department (“Reporting has lived up to ‘delicate Some grad students have of Communications and challenge,’” Western News, May 7). expressed their opinions on the pay Public Affairs, is published Since the tradition of publishing inequity issue since many grad stu- every Thursday throughout letters somewhat critical of adminis- dents are left to live on minimal TA the school year and operates trative practices at Western seems to money, whereas the president made under a reduced schedule during December, May, June, be in good health, I would like to raise nearly a million dollars in 2014. But July and August. an issue concerning our interpretation what about undergrads? of Ontario’s Privacy Act. As this whole episode unfolded, the An award-winning weekly As a course coordinator, I receive timing could not have been worse for newspaper and electronic web-based requests to acknowledge student engagement. Most students news service, Western News students’ academic accommoda- had more important things to deal with serves as the university’s newspaper of record. The tions for class attendance, exams, etc. such as final essays, studying for impor- publication traces its roots These have already been granted by tant final exams and completing proj- to The University of Western academic counselors and my task is ects, than coming to conclusions about Ontario Newsletter, a one- merely to indicate I understand this. an issue that, frankly, isn’t proximate to page leaflet-style publication The categories which I am permitted the ‘here and now’ for most students. which debuted on Sept. 23, to know are the student has been My general sense of the student 1965. The first issue of the Western News, under found- granted accommodation for “reli- stance on this issue was one of shoul- ing editor Alan Johnston, was gious, medical or other” reasons. der shrugging. Yeah, it’s a university published on Nov. 16, 1972 When so informed, my task is to issue, but, really, what can students replacing the UWO Times click a button indicating that “OK, I do to change this situation anyways? and Western Times. Today, understand” or “I have concerns.” See, President Chakma is not a reg- Western News continues to One is then left with the Kafkaesque ular presence on campus. He’s admit- provide timely news, informa- tion and a forum for discus- decision to “understand” that a stu- faculties (our eyes, for one), and orga- and not his own. Aristotle believed ted as much. My only encounter with sion of postsecondary issues dent is suffering from “other.” nize perception data via human con- children could not ‘flourish’ because the president was when he provided in the campus and broader Recently, I received this exact sciousness. While many philosophers they could not be willingly virtuous nor introductory remarks to my Convoca- community. communication and decided to not wrestle with Kant’s dictum of whether moral actors, both requirements of an tion ceremony. Other than that, for the “understand” and I pursued a tele- we can know anything ‘in itself,’ the Aristotelian wellbeing. Aristotle was ordinary student, the president is out phone enquiry expressing my concern more pertinent question is whether not speaking of the biological issue of sight and out of mind. since the logic is entirely opaque. I this matters, whether this ‘human per- of being healthy or feeling well, he So, while some might think a lack of WESTERN NEWS was handed up the telephone hierar- ception’ of the world limits us in any was speaking ethically, more gener- student engagement with an issue of WesternNews.ca chy until someone, finally, agreed to way. Since we know about the bias, ally, in terms of a person’s satisfaction such magnitude may be sad, I would Westminster Hall, Suite 360 inform me the matter was one of com- can we not account for this bias? Suc- with their being. Medicine already turn that sentiment around. It’s sad Western University London, ON N6A 3K7 passion and I was, of course, immedi- cess or failure in this can be deter- provides what the author is seeking the president has such a meager pres- Telephone 519 661-2045 ately satisfied with the rationale for the mined by how predictive we can be in in terms of a child’s health or psycho- ence on campus that issues regarding Fax 519 661-3921 accommodation. our actions in reality – can we consis- logical contentment implicit in being his pay seem inaccessible to the ordi- PUBLISHER How much better then if the three tently build successful bridges, or will “satisfied with one’s life,” but how nary student. Helen Connell choices might be “religious, medical we reach a limit and become victims would such an introspective question I know I had opinions about the [email protected], or compassionate” and leave “other” of an unknowable, malevolent force? be answerable by a child? What one president’s pay, but when you feel like 519 661-2111 Ext. 85469 by the wayside where it belongs. Some of the articles (“Placing needs is mindful awareness of experi- the issue is from another world, the In the spirit of complete privacy, a proper value on parenting” and ences in action and the agency and question of how to engage with the EDITOR and having suffered from “other” for “Engaging in debate over future food knowledge of alternative reactions to issue becomes a daunting one. Jason Winders [email protected], many years, I ask that this be pub- systems,” Western News, May 7) fail to answer it? It has disheartened me that stu- 519 661-2111 Ext. 85465 lished over my nom-de-plume. account for their political roots. For the article on mental illness dents seemed disinterested, disen- For instance, Parenting does not (“Knowing yourself – and your mental gaged and, generally, ambivalent to REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER MICHAEL COOK ask whether procreation or children state – in new ways, Western News, the president’s double dip. Yet, stu- Paul Mayne PROFESSOR EMERITUS should be political footballs, but May 7), I only wish to echo its main dents are the life-blood of this univer- [email protected], PHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY assumes this political stance as ‘com- thesis: Our conceptual frameworks sity. Always has been. Always will be. 519 661-2111 Ext. 85463 mon ground.’ The more essential matter, always and forever true. To As students, all we ask are trans- REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER // Some more big question is the nature of our rights: If determine mental illness requires an parency and responsible decisions Adela Talbot they are granted by the government, organization of proper and improper from the leaders at Western. In this [email protected], ideas on Big Ideas then we all are subjects to the state. behavior, but even more importantly, situation, smart people green-lit this 519 661-2111 Ext. 85464 The alternative is a natural rights view, how this is determined. For instance, contract and a very irresponsible deci- I wish to broaden the philosophical where individuals are sovereign at a subjectivist conceptual framework sion. This type of a contractual option PRODUCTION DESIGNER landscape sketched by the authors in birth, and when forming together, would make ‘society’ an arbiter of was not going to be well-received. At Frank Neufeld [email protected], the Big Ideas special issue (Western grant a government certain duties. behaviour, attributing deviations from the least, the president could have 519 661-2111 Ext. 89334 News, May 7). In the latter political framework, a ‘code of living’ as mental illness (or pre-empted the university population Probably the most important thing the question addressed in Food sys- sin as has been historically ubiqui- about this option in his contract, and ADVERTISING COORDINATOR, to understand about philosophy is tems is not an issue, because human tous). An objectivist framework would stated the reasons why he was going ON-CAMPUS ADVERTISING Denise Jones its remarkably unique character as a beings are not assumed to be political ground mental illness in the individ- to exercise this option. [email protected], discipline because of its absence of pawns. The issues in food are simi- ual’s success in perceiving and thus So, with four more years on his con- [email protected] ‘common ground’ – which actually larly sourced, not in a metaphysical surviving in what is commonly expe- tract, will the next few years resemble 519 661-2111 Ext. 82045 defines the fields of science and the sense of just ‘how food is,’ but rather rienced in reality, physical and social. an awkward spousal relationship in humanities. Since philosophy deals are contingent on already present Is mental health merely a medical which neither spouse really likes each OFF CAMPUS ADVERTISING in foundations, the very roots of all political regulations governing food. phenomenon, or does it also include other anymore but are ‘staying in it Chris Amyot, Campus Ad [email protected], human ideas, philosophy must be per- Therefore, we cannot hope to under- proportioned agency and thus moral- for the kids’? Or, will things change 519 434-9990 spective; there is nothing that all phi- stand political issues unless we delve ity (choice)? and the president will engage more losophers need to commonly accept closer to the roots of the operating in internal issues. POSTAL RECOVERY to ‘do philosophy,’ even the idea of political framework. Indeed, it may ANDREW D. COLGAN In the aftermath of this whole epi- $50 Canada, $65 United truth itself. even lead us to ask whether social PHD CANDIDATE, EDUCATION sode, the president has organized States, $85 Other For instance, the opening article issues are not simply the product of MED, BED, BSC town halls – what else will the presi- - dent do to ensure that he engages POST OFFICE (“Better we understand science, bet the very political system we assume; Please do not forward. ter we understand ourselves,” West- philosophy must delve deeper and student’s at the institution that Return to Western News, ern News, May 7) makes a ‘common reveal these assumptions and refrain // Presidential presence employs him? How will the ordinary Western University, London, ground’ claim when the author says from the stasis on thought imposed student’s experience be changed by Ontario N6A 3K7 with new the world is “not a human creation.” by our ‘common grounding.’ could answer many the president taking a more active role address when possible. Many subjectivists disagree, especially Another article (“Tiny, happy peo- in the internal affairs? those who borrow from Immanuel ple faring well, Western News, May 7) questions President Chakma, the ball is in “Our objective is to report events Kant’s epistemology. asks whether a concept of happiness your court. as objectively as possible, without For example, most people believe (or faring well) can be attributed to It’s been a few weeks since the bias or editorial comment. that human beings hold bias in how children in response to Aristotle who ‘double-payment’ controversy. JOHN PETRELLA We hope you will read it and they perceive the world, including took the contrary view. However, the Those standing by President JD CANDIDATE, WESTERN LAW contribute to it.” that we see the world through human position given to Aristotle is unfair Chakma, and those clamoring for his BA’13, MA’14 – L.T. Moore, University Relations and Information director, Nov. 16, 1972 Opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of or receive endorsement from Western News or Western University. Western News | May 21, 2015 5

Commentary Taking learning outside the classroom

Editor’s note: This story first appeared in spring 2015 edition of Reflections, The Teaching Support Centre news- letter. It is reprinted here with permis- sion of the author.

BY ANNE-MARIE E. FISCHER

WHEN YOU THINK about the most important learning experiences of your life, where did they take place? Were they in a traditional classroom setting? Did they happen when you were sitting in a library pouring over a journal article? My guess is your most pivotal learning occurred outside the walls of the classroom, and even outside the academy, while you were interacting with your peers, your professors and the community in which you lived. I invite you to imagine a classroom without walls. Imagine a curriculum that allows you to respond to the emerging needs and trends of our society. Imagine inviting experts out- side the Western Gates to bridge academic theory with practice. Imag- ine designing a course where students are able to simultaneously obtain knowledge, build transferable skills and develop a keen sense of civic engagement. This is community engaged learn- ing (CEL), and The Student Success Centre at Western is ready to assist faculty members, as well as faculties, departments and units, in integrating this innovative approach into their cur- rent teaching activities. Through community engaged learning experiences at Western, stu-

dents in a Psychology course have SPECIAL TO WESTERN NEWS helped addictions recovery organiza- tions manage a strategy for wait lists. and experience in the exact area I wish the campus. Community engaged munity engaged learning courses. We can transform learning, contribute Students in a Health Studies course to work in the future.” learning is one way we are able to have worked with almost 200 commu- to our community, and provide stu- created a community-based program These are the experiential learning help move this strategic mission for- nity organizations who share our pas- dents with meaningful opportunities that allowed those living with Alzheim- opportunities our students will remem- ward, while enhancing the student sion for helping to educate our future to ground their learning in real-world er’s (and related dementias) to access ber and build upon as they pursue and faculty experience. Faculty mem- leaders and value the meaningful con- experience. music as a direct link to memory. Stu- further studies or future career paths. bers from all disciplines, who value tributions students make towards the dents in a Political Science course The concept of experiential learn- community engagement and experi- mission of their organization. More Anne-Marie E. Fischer is the com- created a seed library to allow Lon- ing hinges on the idea that learning ential learning, are able to strengthen than 2,500 students have benefitted munity engaged learning coordinator doners free access to seeds to begin is not an outcome, but rather a pro- ties between the community and the from this innovative form of teaching for The Student Success Centre. their own home gardens. Students in cess. David Kolb, one of the originat- university, while mobilizing the vast and learning. a Biology course worked on a restora- ing theorists of experiential learn- amount of knowledge that exists in Our support includes helping fac- tion plan for lands that had ecological ing, suggests ideas are not fixed, and each. ulty to design course syllabi with CEL complications due to human interven- are formed and re-formed through Faculty members who teach with in mind, identifying community part- tions. Students in a French Studies a cycle of experience, reflection and community engaged learning report a nerships and projects, facilitating in- course worked in community centres integration. When we look at learn- high degree of engagement with their class reflections and assisting in the in Rwanda teaching sexual health to ing through an experiential lens, we students, and say they often learn as assessment of student learning and adolescents. recognize that experience has the much from the students’ experiences community outcomes. Regardless of “The concept of What do these activities have to do power to make us call into question, as the students do from the course discipline, we are able to provide cus- with higher education? They may very reconsider or even dispose of ideas content they deliver. Once they have tomized support for the development experiential learning well be the key to student engage- or sets of knowledge that we learned had an opportunity to use community of a new course, or the enhancement ment. in more traditional ways. Concepts are engaged learning, they often look for of existing courses. hinges on the idea How do students respond to com- derived from, and continuously modi- more ways to use this pedagogy in You are invited to meet with the that learning is not an munity engaged learning? fied by, experience. other courses. They recognize com- Experiential Learning Team in The One student said it allowed her to In this sense, experiential learning munity engaged learning is not an Student Success Centre to explore outcome, but rather a “apply and understand course con- involves seeing the world as a “testing easy endeavour, but with administra- community engaged learning in your cepts in a practical way that I would ground” for academic theories that tive support, delivery of these kinds of own teaching practice. Together, we process." have only been able to see in one will allow students to assess first-hand learning experiences is possible and dimension in a classroom setting.” whether a particular idea holds up in quite effective. Another student described the com- society. Since 2009, The Student Success munity engaged learning course as Contained in Western’s Strategic Centre has partnered with more than MAKE A CONNECTION “new and refreshing.” Another valued Plan is a strong emphasis on experi- 30 faculty members from a variety of Contact the Experiential Learning Team in The Student Success Centre at [email protected] for the opportunity to “gain knowledge ential learning and reaching beyond disciplines to design effective com- more information on incorporating community engaged learning into your work.

COMMENTARY POLICY • Western News applies a commentary label to any article penned by other members of the Western community. alumni. Writers may only submit once a semester. and may actively pursue a counterpoint to arguments written in an author’s voice expressing an opinion. • Western News accepts opinion pieces on current events • As an academic institution, Western News encourages the editor feels would benefit from a dissenting opinion • Western News accepts opinion pieces on research, that showcase research or academic expertise of the lively debate, but reserves the right to edit, ask for published simultaneously. conference topics, student life and/or international author. rewrite or reject any submission, and will outright reject • All submissions become property of Western News for experiences from faculty and staff. Limit is 600 words. • Western News accepts letters to the editor. Limit is 250 those based on personal attacks or covering subjects print and online use in perpetuity. • Western News accepts ‘In memoriam’ pieces about words maximum, and accepted only from members of too removed from the university community. recently deceased members of the Western community the Western community – faculty, staff, students and • Western News will offer rebuttal space on any topic, 6 Western News | May 21, 2015

Research #gradlifewesternu Sleep apnea

Graduate & Postdoc cutting lives short, Studies Students Connect with each other & Western researcher argues by tagging #gradlifewesternu on Twitter & Instagram BY PAUL MAYNE to occur. We thought there might be a slight change at birth, and that PHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMA- things would work themselves out. COLOGY professor John Ciriello’s But that was not the case, because research shows pregnant women suf- we followed them into adulthood and fering from sleep apnea may actually they’re in bad shape.” be putting their unborn children at risk Individuals with severe sleep apnea for metabolic diseases as adults. can experience numerous bouts of Sleep apnea is a disorder in which oxygen deprivation throughout the breathing repeatedly stops during night, each one a duration of up to rest, thus depriving the body of oxy- 30-40 seconds without breathing. gen. “Just think of holding your breath “Normal oxygen levels are around for about 30 to 40 seconds, say 100 98 per cent. But that drops down to times,” he said, noting in cases such 90, or even 88, during a period of as this a person would require a CPAP time for those with sleep apnea,” Ciri- (continuous positive airway pressure) ello said. “That’s what people don’t device. “The problem with that is the seem to understand – those who have compliance, where we’ll see in three sleep apnea, on record, lose about 10 to six months, the person stops using years of their lives because it leads it. Because you are forcing air in them, to metabolic disorders, such as high people feel they are getting bloated, blood pressure. That’s what kills you or their partner doesn’t like the noise.” in the end.” In mild cases, people can attempt Clinicians must ‘wake up’ and sleep on their sides or use a mouth understand that sleep apnea should guard to bring out the jaw line in an be considered one of the components attempt to maintain the airway. in the metabolic syndrome, Ciriello Ciriello will look further into the argued. These clusters of conditions effects of sleep apnea, but hopes his (including increased blood pressure, initial findings spark awareness of the a high blood sugar level, excess body consequences it can have on children fat around the waist and abnormal as they grow. cholesterol levels) increase the risk of “Whenever I talk to physicians, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. or those who deliver babies, I say For his study, Ciriello observed ‘Do you ever ask the female if she’s female rats and their offspring. The ever suffered from sleep apnea?’ The team exposed female rats to intermit- answer is ‘no.’ It never appears on tent bouts of no oxygen as soon as a form,” he said. “There are a lot they became pregnant. The research- of things we are exposed to in the ers observed the offspring of those media and we simply tend to blame rats had higher levels of proteins that the most obvious things. Maybe we encourage the liver to release, and should be looking at ourselves more not store, glucose. This suggested closely. We’ve blamed McDonalds all reoccurring oxygen deprivation – as our lives for all the problems we have. the type that occurs in sleep apnea Maybe it’s not; maybe it’s as simple as – during pregnancy can cause long- mom not breathing properly during term changes in the offspring’s liver pregnancy.” function. “One of the things we’ve been looking at is, what happens over these longer periods of time,” Ciriello said. “What we have shown is they (offspring) become leptin resistant. That is a fat hormone that signals the brain and says ‘I have had enough and don’t eat anymore.’ Over time, the signal doesn’t work anymore, so the leptin doesn’t trigger the brain to say ‘stop.’” The research team has followed “That’s what people the effects into adulthood, noting at 12 weeks old the offspring of moth- don’t seem to ers exposed to chronic intermittent hypoxia were hyperglycemic (exces- understand – those sive amount of glucose) and hyper- insulinemic (excess levels of insulin). who have sleep apnea, “These adult offspring have a decreased sensitivity to insulin, but on record, lose about have not developed a complete resis- 10 years of their lives tance to its signalling effects at this age,” Ciriello said. “This further sup- because it leads to ports our suggestion that adult off- spring of mothers exposed to chronic metabolic disorders, intermittent hypoxia during gestation are at a higher risk for developing such as high blood some aspects of the metabolic syn- drome, including Type 2 diabetes.” pressure. That’s what He added, “That was totally unex- kills you in the end.” pected. It was a eureka moment. We did not expect these changes - John Ciriello Western News | May 21, 2015 7

Research

PAUL MAYNE // WESTERN NEWS Physiology and Pharmacology professor John Ciriello’s research shows pregnant women suffering from sleep apnea may actually be putting their unborn children at risk for metabolic diseases as adults.

NOTICE TO JOIN THE ACADEMIC PROCESSION Are you retired or retiring soon? 305th CONVOCATION - SPRING 2015 Find out all your options.

Spring Convocation takes place Tuesday, June 9 to Friday, June 12 and Contact Robert (Rob) Michaud, PFP, Monday, June 15 to Wednesday, June 17 with ceremonies at 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Financial Planner today. Members of Faculty, Senate, the Board of Governors and Emeritus/a Professors/ 519-494-5017 [email protected] Archivists/Librarians are invited to take part in the Academic Procession. Full Fully mobile and flexible hours information on joining the academic procession (including order of ceremony, to meet your needs. honorary degree recipients, assembly and regalia) may be found on the Senate Website: ‘Serving London & area with sound financial planning.’ uwo.ca/univsec/senate/convocation/index.html Royal Mutual Fund Inc.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy invites the campus community to the 2015 Elizabeth Laird Memorial Lecture Dr. Olga Popova Institute for Dynamics of Geospheres Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow “The Chelyabinsk Meteoroid Entry and Airburst Damage” Public Lecture / All are Welcome 4:30 p.m., Wed., 27th May 2015 Physics and Astronomy Bldg, Room 106 Reception to follow in PAB atrium 8 Western News | May 21, 2015

Research Kidney transplant survival could benefit from unexpected source

BY PAUL MAYNE when given to the kidney donor or when added directly to the kidney A COLOURLESS, ODOURLESS storage solution.” and toxic gas to humans may hold a CORM acts as an anti-inflammatory. rather counter-intuitive key to extend- It dilates the blood vessels and pre- ing the lives of kidney transplant recip- vents the death of cells. Luke believes ients, Western researchers say. this could also lead to the reduction Kidney disease strikes 2.6 million of toxic immunosuppressive drug use Canadians, with an average of 16 required for transplant patients. people per day experiencing kidney “The point of all these studies is failure of some sort. Despite improve- to set up the immune system so that ments in immunosuppressive therapy, when we do the transplants, we are the long-term survival of kidney trans- going to condition these kidneys in a plant patients has not increased dra- way that the immune system doesn’t matically over the past decade. attack it (kidney) and take years off it at “More than 95 per cent of kidney the outset,” Luke said. He noted more transplants are successful through the than 4,500 Canadians are waiting for first year. But overall survival over time an organ transplant. As less than 50 hasn’t changed too much,” said Pat- per cent of those people will receive rick Luke, a Surgery professor in the an organ, three die each day while Schulich School of Medicine & Den- waiting for an organ. tistry. “I tell people, for a deceased For Bhattacharjee – who called donor kidney, it would be between working with Luke “wonderful ground 11-15 years as an average. We’d like to grow my plant” – he sees no issues to see this become 20 or 25 years.” to keep this idea from the bedside in Luke, along with research associate the near future. Western is currently Rabindra Bhattacharjee and others approving its human ethics protocol. at the Matthew Mailing Centre for “The good thing with CORM and Translational Transplant Studies, are kidney preservation is we are not pioneering a unique treatment using directly treating the patient, but the carbon monoxide-releasing mole- kidneys after donation,” he said. “If cules (CORM) in an attempt to meet CORM works positively in kidney pres- that aggressive target. ervation, it would work equally for The researchers are part of a $10 other organs, too.” million Canadian National Transplant At the one-year mark of transplan- Research Program project, the first tation, if a biopsy was done, you could in the world to unite the solid organ expect to see 40 to 60 per cent show- transplant, bone marrow transplant ing interstitial fibrosis and tubular atro- and donation/critical care research phy, or abnormalities in the kidney’s communities together. More than 100 function, Luke added. researchers and 86 collaborators at “With this early treatment, we are 13 centres and universities in nine trying to set up for success 10, 15, provinces are coming together over 20 years down the road, so we don’t six nationwide research projects to have to re-transplant. If we are able to improve clinical outcomes for trans- condition them with something like plant recipients. carbon monoxide, and prevent the Luke and Bhattacharjee also have immune system from being revved up, a Physicians’ Services Incorporated and reduce inflammation, I think that Foundation grant ($169,000) to assist is exciting.” their research. Working on this for almost a Normally, when you breathe carbon decade, Luke has looked at this at the monoxide, the gas enters the lungs cellular level, in small animals, large and binds to the hemoglobin in the animals and now has grant propos- red blood cells. As the level of carbon als written to bring his research to monoxide increases, the amount of humans. oxygen the blood carries to the body’s “I don’t want to cure any mice,” cells decreases, leading to oxygen Luke said, noting success in humans starvation. could come as soon as five years. However, in a lab setting, treating “The ultimate goal is to create the kidneys with a synthesized form of car- best situation for patients. If I could do bon monoxide, CORM, has improved one thing in my lifetime that changes kidney transplant function and survival the practice of medicine, if I can say when added directly to the kidney we’ve done this, that every one get- storage solution prior to transplanta- ting a kidney transplant will use this tion. At the time of the transplant, method, that’s so exciting.” CORM is no longer present – thanks to its short half life – which means no danger to the patient. PAUL MAYNE // WESTERN NEWS Kidney transplant patient survival is Department of Surgery research associate Rabindra mostly dependent upon the damage Bhattacharjee, front, and professor Patrick Luke are part that occurs during kidney removal of team working toward extending the life of kidney from the donor and prolonged pres- transplants through the use of carbon monoxide-releasing ervation in a cold solution, Bhattacha- rjee said. molecules. “Lack of blood supply during the entire transplantation processes SPECIAL TO WESTERN NEWS deprives the kidney from getting oxy- After 14 hours, in cold solution, the kidney on the right gen, which provokes inflammation produced 1.5 litres of urine over six hours, compared to the in this organ,” he said. “In small ani- untreated kidney on the left, which produced just 400 ml. mal models, we have shown CORM improves kidney function and survival Western News | May 21, 2015 9

Student Life Student-engineered ‘smart implant’ may save money, relieve pain

BY ADELA TALBOT smart implant can wirelessly transfer more along the lines of embedded data to a medical centre, requiring technology. We were talking with IT’S PAINFUL, INCONVENIENT a visit to a local doctor and only a orthopedic researchers and we real- and costly. But if detected early, minimally invasive procedure to fix ized nobody had been able to prop- implant loosening – the slight move- the problem. erly create a mechanism of detecting ment of a newly replaced hip – can Van Gaalen worked on the project micro loosening,” Sawan added. be dealt with, without the need for a with Hilary Luo, Mofeed Sawan and “We thought there was a huge major follow-up surgery, according to Peter Nielsen, while Robarts Research amount of potential. People said it a group of Western students. Institute researcher David Holdsworth was impossible – everyone told us Roughly half a million patients supervised. we were wasting our time, and we undergo a hip replacement surgery Their implant design took top prize were, until we came up with a solution each year in North America. Of those in the Western Engineering Competi- nobody had thought of before.” patients, about 5 per cent – or 25,000 tion earlier this year and the group Sawan and Nielsen noted their idea – will experience implant loosening placed third in a provincial confer- is pending a patent and, therefore, and require a follow-up hip surgery ence. cannot discuss the particulars of how because of resultant bone weakening. “This method can detect early on the smart hip implant works, although “The implant becomes loose, and when there is loosening, so patients they did say it involves vibration sen- sometimes, there’s not always symp- SPECIAL TO WESTERN NEWS can do a minor revisional surgery. The sors. toms associated with this. It’s called Engineering students, from left, Hilary Luo, Mofeed Sawan, Peter patient doesn’t need to have to leave “The real challenge with it is the ‘aseptic loosening,’ which happens their home because the data can be loosening of an implant is on a scale Nielsen and Jolien Van Gaalen invented a sensor that can detect implant without an infection so you don’t know transferred to a cloud and the doctor of micrometers – less than a 20th of a (it’s moved) until it’s too late, until it loosening following hip replacement surgery. Their implant design took can look at that,” Van Gaalen said. millimeter. We’ve currently tested at starts wearing down the bone,” said the top prize in the Western Engineering Competition earlier this year “We wanted to do something with 10 times that scale. We’re still working Jolien Van Gaalen, an Engineering and the group placed third in a provincial conference. sensorized implants because that’s on refining that system, but right now, student studying mechatronic sys- something that’s big, and coming up what we’ve shown is that our system tems. damage to the bone,” she continued. unavailable – it’s also incredibly costly. in the future. We had a lot of 3D-print- has the potential to work with those “The patient goes in, and maybe Currently, there are only four places But Van Gaalen, along with three ing technology we could use to our small loosenings,” Nielsen explained. is experiencing pain at this point. The in Canada equipped to do the type of other Engineering students, has advantage at Robarts,” Nielsen said. “It’s not something we can put into patient would have to get a scan that scan that could detect implant loosen- helped design a potential solution, “We were thinking maybe we could a person tomorrow, but it has shown is not widely available and at that ing – a shift that occurs on a scale of engineering a smart implant that try and make (detecting the implant promising potential to succeed.” point you can already have permanent micrometers. The scan isn’t just widely could detect loosening early on. The loosening) cheaper with something

Look for the Spring issue on news stands today! 10 Western News | May 21, 2015

All hands on deck for ‘explosive’ exercise

PAUL MAYNE // WESTERN NEWS Campus emergency responders gathered for Harmony 10, Western’s annual emergency exercise, in response to a simulated explosion at Western’s North Substation last Thursday morning. Campus responders involved in the exercise included Campus Community Police Service; Student Emergency Response Team (SERT); Fire Safety and Emergency Management; HazMat Team; Emergency Response Team (ERT); and Emergency Operations Control Group (EOCG). In addition to testing on-site readiness, the exercise included tests of the university’s communication tools, including mass email, homepage, as well as emergency-related messaging on social media and the main telephone switchboard.

CARPOOL // CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Between parking passes and gas expenses, it’s much less expensive for group members to park on campus, Ayeni explained. What’s more, given the success of the program, there could be more parking spaces available across cam- pus. Carpooling could easily reduce traffic congestion, she continued. “This is a great way to take part in the climate change challenge,” Ayeni said. “But you also save money, conserve energy and reduce traffic congestion, as well. Ideally, we would like to see people signing up for this, and seeing it as a value and a great way to help our environment.” While carpool groups are required to sign up for a minimum duration of one term at a time, the parking office will consider dissolving a group due to extenuating circumstances, should they come up, Ayeni added. Western News | May 21, 2015 11

On Campus ‘Tis the season

BY JASON WINDERS

NOW THAT WE (mostly) have the kids out of the house for a few weeks, let’s get a little work done around here. Construction season is already in full swing on campus, with a number of capital and infrastructure improvements on the slate for summer. A trio of large capital projects is already underway, including the new Music build- ing, scheduled for mid-summer completion with move-in prior to new academic term; Delaware Hall, scheduled to be completed by the new academic term; and the Faculty of Information and Media Studies (FIMS)/Nurs- ing building, scheduled to open in early 2017. Beyond those high-profile projects, Sum- mer 2015 will feature a variety of infrastructure enhancements across the campus, including:

Westminster Parking Lot Duration: Three weeks in mid-to-late sum- mer. Features: A new lot is being added to the south of Westminster Hall. The roughly 90 new spaces will be designed for grey permit holders.

South Valley Parking Lot Duration: Three weeks in second half of summer. Features: New spaces are being added, extending the South Valley Lot along Huron Drive. South Valley is quickly becoming one of the more popular lots on campus, growing last year and again adding another 150 new grey permit spaces this year.

Westminster Pedestrian Bridge Duration: 12 weeks in second half of summer. Features: The modernization of the pedes- trian bridge will feature an accessible ramp, meeting Western’s commitment to create a barrier-free institution. A temporary bridge will be installed adjacent to the current struc- ture, mitigating interruption to pedestrian passage.

Elgin Drive Resurfacing Duration: Three weeks in June and July. Service Interruption: Rotating lane closures are expected throughout the project. Features: The busy bus and University Com- munity centre (UCC) delivery route faces heavy, unforgiving loads. The worn roadway will get a fresh coat of asphalt.

Sanitary Sewer / Pump Station Installation Duration: May 1-Aug. 31 Service Interruptions: Complete closure of Huron Drive at Philip Aziz Avenue (through June30). Parking lots will be accessible via detours. Features: Greater demands are being put on infrastructure in the South Valley precinct of campus, including the new FIMS/Nursing building, requiring sanitary sewer upgrades. The project will prepare the site for future development.

Perth Drive Pedestrian Crossing Duration: 12 weeks beginning in August. Features: The crossing will include traffic lights, similar to the crossing farther South on Perth Drive. The new infrastructure will create a more visible and accessible crossing from Chemistry Parking Lot to main campus.

Updates for all projects will be available at uwo.ca/fm throughout the summer. 12 Western News | May 21, 2015

Student Life Taste of success Student finds success in the kitchen and beyond with @CollegeCookin

ADELA TALBOT // WESTERN NEWS Sociology student Danielle Hausberg started an Instagram account to share photos of healthy meals she had made. Today, @CollegeCookin has more than half a million followers and Hausberg has published an e-book cookbook featuring her recipes.

BY ADELA TALBOT well cook.” The e-book is available on her website, at More and more, Hausberg is finding herself Peruse through her account and you’ll see college-cookin.com, or from Amazon’s Kindle working with various brands and food compa- AT FIRST, DANIELLE Hausberg was just tak- bright, colourful and artfully arranged photos of store for $5. nies. Last year, she teamed up with Disney to ing photos of her meals to show family members salads, soups, seafood dishes, breakfast foods All her efforts are to promote healthy eating, promote the Helen Mirren culinary movie, The she was cooking on her own and making healthy and much more. Below each post Hausberg Hausberg noted, to show students like herself Hundred Foot Journey, in which a restaurant choices. shares the ingredients used in the meal. Each it is possible to eat healthy while studying away owner hires chefs based on their ability to make A friend’s suggestion to post her meals on is an example of a realistic, affordable, easy- from home. It’s not as hard as one might think, an omlette. Hausberg got to make her own Instagram followed, and before she knew it, the to-make and relatively quick meal and snack she said, to cook for oneself and eat healthy on omlette and even attended a private screening Sociology student had thousands of followers options any student could replicate. a tight budget. of the movie at Universal Studios. on her account, @CollegeCookin. Today, that “A lot of my ideas come from my mom and “I think I spend on track with your average @CollegeCookin has also expanded its social number exceeds half a million. things she’s made – she’s a big cook,” Haus- student. I go grocery shopping just as much media platforms to Facebook, Twitter and Pin- “I’ve always been a naturally healthy eater. I berg said, adding she visits food websites and as all my friends. When you’re buying healthy terest. And while this side project may be time wanted to be able to eat what I liked at school, watches The Food Network regularly for inspira- ingredients it can cost more money, but to me, consuming for someone who is still a full-time and that’s why I decided to cook,” said Haus- tion. it’s worth it because I could be going out for all student, Hausberg intends on letting it run its berg, who is in her last year of a Sociology In just two short months – after starting @ these meals and spending way more,” Hausberg own course. degree. CollegeCookin in November 2013 – Hausberg went on. “I’m not giving this up any time soon. It’s a “I like food, and I like eating good food. had garnered more than 10,000 followers. From “I don’t over spend. I buy what I need, always. part-time, sometimes full-time, job for me. We’ll So, eating out wasn’t the best option for me, there, her audience grew quickly, she said. When You have to prioritize what’s important – a girl see where it goes. I could never imagine I would because it’s harder to find healthy options at the number of followers reached 100,000, Haus- might spend money on getting her nails done, be here right now. It’s growing in its own direc- restaurants – restaurants didn’t appeal to me as berg decided to give back by publishing an but I would do that less so I could go grocery tion,” she said. much as my own food. So, I thought, I might as e-cookbook featuring all of her recipes. shopping more. It’s all about budgeting.” Western News | May 21, 2015 13

@CBRUCK @ALEXANDRAGORSKA

Snapshots in time Western celebrates two years on Instagram

EARLYBIRD OR MAY- In celebrating the FAIR? Lo-Fi or Inkwell? No account’s anniversary, West- single Instagram filter can ern’s Instagram will branch cover Western’s glamour. out by starting to follow On May 16, Western cel- interesting alumni Instagram ebrated the second anniver- accounts, including: sary of its Instagram account, • Cameron Bailey, BA’07, @westernuniversity, the sec- artistic director for the @WESTERNMUSTANGS ond largest Canadian uni- Toronto International @JACQUELYNLAU versity account that currently Film Festival, @ boasts more than 12,000 fol- cameronpbailey; lowers and 800 ’grams. • Paul Wells, BA’89, author “We work hard to bring and Maclean’s magazine our entire community into journalist, @inklesspw; what we share,” said Melissa • Sarah Richardson, BA’93, Cheater, digital content man- designer and HGTV host, ager for the university. “West- @sarahrichardsondesign; ern’s Instagram account has • Stephan Moccio, always been a favourite plat- BMus’94, songwriter, form of ours and it brings us @stephanmoccio; and closer to our community than • Vava Angwenyi, BSc’03, other social networks. Our founder Vava Coffee Ltd., Instagram followers are more @vavacoffeekenya. active than our followers on With the new additions, other networks – it really feels alumni and campus commu- like a community.” nity photographers will fuse Western’s Instagram the many hues and shades of account has been a commu- Western, said Cheater. nity favourite with an active Presented here today are follower base constantly Western’s Top 10 Most Liked sharing and contributing images, as of the anniversary. @MADELEINE.PHILIP images. - Gordon So @TRUEASIANBALLER

MARK MILLER @LENNONTHEHEDGEHOG @KBUMELIS 14 Western News | May 21, 2015

Research Education professor keeping lessons of Fukushima alive

JASON WINDERS // WESTERN NEWS Education professor Kathryn Hibbert recently travelled to Japan to work in collaboration with hospitals, governments and physician educators to ensure lessons learned at Fukushima find a way into future classrooms.

BY CORY HABERMEHL rative stories, which are far more memorable and a terrific tool from which to learn.” ON MARCH 11, 2011, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake Hibbert’s stories focus on the emergency responders’ struck off the northeast coast of Japan. The quake first-person accounts, and pay particular attention to spe- unleashed a tsunami that slammed into the country, dis- cific things the individuals highlighted as missing in their abling infrastructure and destroying everything in its path. previous education and training. In conjunction with the Just days later, Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power stories, she created a series of resources and activities as plant experienced the worst nuclear meltdown since part of a fulsome curriculum, and in December, travelled Chernobyl. to Japan to work with officials and medical professionals to First-responders rushed directly into the heart of the help them integrate her work into their existing materials. Fukushima disaster. And while each had specialized train- One of the first things realized during disaster was ing, they later identified changes in their education that a huge communication problem existed among first- could have enabled them to be even more effective during responders, who had never been required to explain their the disaster response. specialized knowledge to the general public. To ensure the next generation of emergency responders “Physicians were trained to talk to patients, but this was is better equipped to handle future catastrophes, Educa- different,” Hibbert said. “They found themselves talking tion professor Kathryn Hibbert recently travelled to Japan about radiation safety levels to frightened mothers, the to work in collaboration with hospitals, governments and elderly, kindergarten teachers who wanted to know if their physician educators to make certain lessons learned at kids could play at recess – it was something totally foreign Fukushima find a way into future classrooms. to them.” Specializing in curriculum development, Hibbert is cross- Amid growing anxiety, the public began turning on appointed between Education and Western’s Department front-line experts. of Medical Imaging, where she is a researcher at the Schul- “All this public anger and fear was directed at the ich School of Medicine & Dentistry’s Centre for Education, responders – at these extremely courageous people who Research and Innovation. were doing their absolute best,” Hibbert said. “It was She – literally – wrote the book on radiology education. extremely taxing on them.” Because of this expertise, and her unique appointments, She realized mental health was as big an issue as the she has been working with the International Atomic Energy radiation response itself. As such, she not only developed Agency (IAEA), the body that oversees all nuclear activities a curriculum that focuses on improved communications, worldwide, for the past eight years. but also has a significant mental health component as well. When Japanese nuclear officials and their colleagues at With her work well underway, but far from complete, the IAEA were keen to document what they learned during Hibbert will return to Japan in late June, where she plans the management of the Fukushima crisis, and incorporate to follow up on the curriculum implementation and how it it into a revised curriculum for first-responders, they called might be further expanded, including into the digital realm. Hibbert. Hibbert is looking forward to connecting in person once “There was a lot of concern about not losing the lessons again with the Japanese educators and medical profes- they’d learned. But these were scientists with no real expe- sionals with whom she has been working. Their resolve to rience documenting those type of learnings in a meaning- carry on and learn from what took place at Fukushima has ful way, or integrating them into educational curriculum,” been truly inspiring, she said. Hibbert said. “That became my task.” “You would never find more committed people any- Officials sent Hibbert data from interviews they had con- where – they recognize they have learned some important ducted with first-responders so she could use the informa- lessons, which is why they are so adamant that what they tion in her curriculum. learned not be lost,” she said. “I am incredibly humbled to “My goal was to keep the stories alive,” Hibbert said. “I have been asked to help with this endeavor and never in conducted a narrative analysis of the interviews done by my life have I felt so honoured.” the nuclear radiation specialists, and rewrote them into nar- Western News | May 21, 2015 15

On Campus Staffer carries the weight of the Worlds

ADELA TALBOT // WESTERN NEWS During her time at Western, powerlifter Robyn Ripley became immersed in the local lifting and fitness culture. That led to her recently finishing second in her weight class at the Canadian Powerlifting Union National Championships. Today, she is preparing to take on the world at the International Powerlifting Federation World Championships.

BY GORDON SO athletes bench, deadlift and squat “The ‘big dream’ is, I can change she was not strong enough to com- $4,000 in donations to offset the costs the weight. It is more of a raw strength the way other women think about pete in powerlifting. Ripley then for the Team Canada jersey, hotel, POWERLIFTER ROBYN RIPLEY sport. sport. I want women to do sports told her, “It’s not about being strong training and food. dreams about more than simply win- While an empty bar, which weighs that challenge the social norm,” she enough. It’s about making that step. Ripley has been told how she has ning something to gather dust on a about 20 kg (44 pounds), may pose a said. “Every time I grab the groceries, Competing is about having a good changed the way other athletes see shelf. challenge to some, Ripley benches people ask, ‘Can I help you with that?’ time and doing your best. Maybe you powerlifting and how she has inspired “When people ask me about this 80 kg (176 pounds), deadlifts 165 kg And it is great to be able to say, ‘I can will exceed your expectations.” them to lift heavier things. She is ‘big dream,’ they expect me to talk (364 pounds) and squats 124 kg (275 do it myself.’ Since powerlifting is not glad her story is able to con- about the hardware I am bringing pounds). However, those are only “It shouldn’t matter whether you’re yet an official Olympic nect everyone in the weight- home – that is really a side dream,” modest numbers. male or female. It shouldn’t matter if sport, Ripley receives lifting community. said Ripley, recent interim Campus During her time at Western, Ripley you’re big or small. Anyone could do no funding for going “The fitness scene in Recreation Services fitness and well- became immersed in the local lifting it,” Ripley said. to the championships. London is awesome,” she ness coordinator, and currently a and fitness culture. That led to her When not competing, Ripley Because of that, she said. “Everyone cares coach at the Western Student Recre- recently finishing second in her weight coaches. Last sum- started a fundraiser in about even ‘little’ peo- ation Center (WSRC). class at the Canadian Powerlifting mer, she met a London to finance ple like me.” Instead, she dreams of changing Union (CPU) National Championships Western stu- her trip to Fin- the perceptions of strong women in in St. Catharines. The 28-year-old dent who land. The goal sport and, in turn, society. hoisted more than 340 kg over the thought is to reach Ripley stands 5-foot-3-inches and three events. weighs 52 kg (114 pounds). But don’t Ranking sixth overall among 100 let small stature belie her explosive women at the competition, she quali- power as a powerlifter. fied for the International Powerlift- First, let’s distinguish powerlifting ing Federation’s Classics Powerlifting and weightlifting. In weightlifting, also World Championships, where the known as Olympic weightlifting, ath- world’s finest powerlifters will con- letes throw weight over their heads, verge on Salo, Finland, to com- via clean and jerk or clean and press. pete in June. The powerful movements demand Ripley will be the first London speed and flexibility. In powerlifting, woman to walk on that world stage.

HELP WITH THE HEAVY LIFTING For more information about Robyn Ripley and how to sponsor her journey to the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Championships, contact her at [email protected]. 16 Western News | May 21, 2015

Honours A few minutes to change the world

BY JASON WINDERS AND ADELA TALBOT

Western postdoctoral scholars put their research at Western (PAW), the competition was part of the on the clock during a 3 Minute Research 2015 Postdoctoral Research Forum, where more (3MR) Competition, hosted as part of the 2015 than 80 postdoctoral scholars took part in a day- Postdoctoral Research Forum May 7 in the Great long agenda, covering a wide range of topics. Hall, Somerville House. The forum concluded with the granting of a The competition is a research communication number of awards, including Daniel Ansari, exercise where postdoctoral scholars had three Psychology professor and Brain and Mind Institute, minutes or less to present their work and its impact named Supervisor of the Year; Helen Kerr, to a diverse group of audience members. Cash Occupational Therapy’s administrative assistant, prizes were given to assist winners in attending with Administrative Excellence; and Aydin Behnad, conferences to promote their research and further Electrical and Computer Engineering, named their career network. Postdoctoral Scholar of the Year.

Hosted by the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (SGPS) and the Postdoctoral Association

LAUREN SOLOMON, FIRST PLACE Microbiology and Immunology Shooting the Messenger: Targeting Transcription in Cancer

Solomon’s research focuses on leukemia and lym- phoma, both blood cancers caused by genetic mutations that alter the program of gene expression in developing blood cells through many different types of mechanisms. Spi-B is a protein located in the nucleus of developing blood cells that can turn genes ‘on’ or ‘off.’ Spi-B levels are often reduced in a type of blood cancer called B cell ADELA TALBOT // WESTERN NEWS acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In contrast, Spi-B levels are often increased in a type of blood cancer called B cell lymphoma. Solomon’s research has two major goals. First, she aims to understand how Spi-B levels are affected by the type of mutations that occurs in leukemia and lymphoma. Second, she wants to understand how altered levels of Spi-B con- tribute to causing leukemia and lymphoma. The long-term goal of this work is to identify molecular-targeted therapies for B cell leukemia and lymphoma. Western News | May 21, 2015 17

NINA WEISHAUPT, SECOND PLACE Anatomy and Cell Biology The Quest to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease: A Molecular Imaging Approach

If you have a stroke, you are more than twice as likely to develop dementia later on. Weishaupt’s research aims to find out why cardiovascular conditions, such as stroke, make the brain more vulnerable to dementia. To study this, her lab induces stroke in transgenic rats that will develop signs of Alzheimer’s disease months after the stroke. This provides a window to study what cellular changes occur during the progression from stroke to an Alzheimer’s-like brain state. The research focuses on the cell membrane, which contains different lipids (fats). Among those lipids, the gangliosides are most interesting, because changes in ganglioside expression go hand in hand with changes in cellular vulnerability to stressors. The only downside is, gangliosides are hard to measure with traditional histologi- cal methods. This is why Weishaupt’s lab is using a new molecular imaging approach, shining a laser beam on a tiny spot of a rat brain section, which makes molecules detach from the section and fly down a vacuum tube in a mass spec- trometer. The instrument then creates a mass spectrum, in which different gangliosides are represented as individual peaks, with peak height showing how much of that gan- glioside was in that tissue spot. If software treats laser spot as a pixel, researchers can observe changes in ganglioside expression within anatomical context in an entire brain section. The hope is this approach will bring us one step further towards preventing, or at least slowing down the progression from stroke to dementia. ADELA TALBOT // WESTERN NEWS ADELA TALBOT

TOBIAS MORAT, THIRD PLACE Kinesiology To Fall or Not To Fall: Finding the Right Training Program for Older Adults

With increasing age, individuals experience a number of physiological, biochemical, psychological and sociological changes, and, as a consequence, problems in movements of everyday life occur (such as climbing stairs, rising from a chair, walking, and activities of daily living like hygienic activities and managing housework). This can lead to decreased mobility. Morat’s research focuses on the mobility of older adults and creating both a new test to assess mobility and a com- prehensive systematic training program with three relevant components (resistance and balance exercises combined with movements and surfaces of everyday life) within each training session, to positively influence the mobility and muscular strength of older adults. ADELA TALBOT // WESTERN NEWS ADELA TALBOT 18 Western News | May 21, 2015

Academics Determined learners never done studying

BY DONNA MOORE areas. Khalsa never thought she would be able powwow trails as a jingle dress dancer, and in Western. Her research will focus on the ways to accomplish her academic goals until she came academia as a dedicated student. physicians deal with patient death. FIFTEEN LEARNERS FROM a variety of edu- to Western. Pucan successfully completed an undergradu- She has already received much interest in her cational institutions and agencies received Adult She has been an active part of the commu- ate degree in Psychology and First Nations Stud- work from the medical community. Dombroski Learner Awards from the London Council for nity since arriving in London and has been a ies in 2013, and, more recently, completed the has received a student undergrad award from Adult Education earlier this month. Two Western dedicated volunteer at Regional Mental Health new Masters’ in Public Health (MPH) program. the Bereavement of Ontario Network, and now students were among these award recipients. London for the last three years. It has been an She will not stop here, though. sits as a member at large on its board. Also, she A third Western student received the SAGE especially meaningful experience as a result of Today, you will find her engrossed in literature recently attended the Conference of the Asso- (Students Aged Gracefully through Experience) her personal history with mental illness. She is and anthropological ciation for Death Education and Counselling Student of the Year Award. also a facilitator for the Leadership Education archives in the West- in San Antonio, Texas, where she received the Program and received the Leadership Educator ern Libraries stacks, Undergraduate Student Paper Award. • • • of the Year award last year for her passion and researching, as part In addition to being a positive role model to commitment toward the program. of her upcoming PhD other mature students through her academic Priya Khalsa was unable to finish high school Khalsa worked with Youth Opportunities thesis, restoration and work, Dombroski initiated several SAGE events due to mental health issues. She was living with Unlimited through Alternative Spring Break, repatriation of cultural this year. severe anxiety, depression, addiction issues, London, in 2013, and taught English with Out- artefacts belonging to “When I took my first university class at Bres- a personality disorder, an eating disorder and reach 360 through ASB Dominican Republic in her home community. cia (University College) spent several years in and out of long-term care 2014. She served as an English conversation PUCAN In addition to her as a part-time student facilities. circle leader through the International and studies and familial in 2007, I saw Ghandi’s But during her pregnancy at the age of 21, she Exchange Student Centre. responsibilities, Pucan has been an Indigenous words posted in their decided to finish high school and work toward She completed an Independent Study Services staff member as the Food and Medi- library: ‘Be the change recovery, simultaneously. She applied to Western through her faculty (Health Sciences) and elected cine Garden coordinator. In this role, she has you wish to see in the the following year. to focus her thesis on the feasibility of creating demonstrated strong leadership, innovative world,’” Dombroski Returning to school has changed Khalsa’s life. an online mental health support and treatment thinking and a deep commitment to integrating said. “I stared at this In 2010, she and her 13-month-old son moved program for postsecondary students in Canada. Indigenous Knowledge into student services and mantra and wondered to London, which became their first perma- Upon completion, Khalsa was offered a job as programs. In a short time, Pucan coordinated DOMBROSKI how I could ever con- nent home. They had a research assistant helping to implement an a series of Indigenous planting and harvesting tribute on this scale.” never been to London online course for new incoming students. workshops, a tincture making workshop and a In 2011, at age 40, after being accepted as a before and didn’t have tobacco seed exchange. full-time student, her change began. any friends or family in Bimadoshka (Annya) Pucan, an Anishnaabe Pucan also went above and beyond her coor- “Each professor, administrator, care-taker, the city. woman from Saugeen First Nation, Turtle Clan, dinating duties to complete a project planning coffee maker, parking attendant, friends and, As a single parent in became an active and contributing member of framework including a logic model with short especially, my family, helped piece together a full-time degree pro- the local Indigenous community both on and and long term recommendations to improve my foundation,” Dombroski continued. “I can gram, it was challeng- off campus. She is a key player in advocacy future garden initiatives. best describe my university education as a brick ing balancing academic for Indigenous student and women’s voices as house. These individuals each contributed one KHALSA commitments with part of both the Idle No More and Missing and Jill Dombroski received the SAGE Student of brick of support – either emotionally or finan- child-care responsibili- Murdered Aboriginal Women in Canada move- the Year Award at the annual Excellence in Lead- cially – to help build my education. I realized it ties. Khalsa worked hard to achieve a 90 per cent ments. ership Awards, presented by the The Student did not have to be about changes for the entire average in her second and third years. During her years at Western, she has devel- Success Centre last month. SAGE, a society for world – it was about the changes in myself that This June, she graduates with an honors spe- oped herself both academically and personally. mature students, embodies both the wisdom of make the world better for my children and my cialization degree in Health Sciences and a minor Pucan returned to school later on in life, and experience that mature students bring to West- family. I can be the change I wish to see.” in Psychology. has worked hard to earn high academic stand- ern and the flavour their contribution adds to the Dombroski is making a difference for her two Khalsa has been accepted to her first choice, ings, while simultaneously raising a family. As a academic experience of all. sons, Pompeyo and Pablo, who attended the the University of Toronto’s Law School for Sep- single mother of three boys (ages 15, 9 and 7), Dombroski will graduate in June with a double awards ceremony with their mom. tember. She applied to both medical and law she dedicated herself whole-heartily to being a honours in Thanatology and Women’s Stud- schools as she has an equal interest in both positive role model to her children both on the ies. This fall, she starts her MA in Education at

SUMMER SCHEDULE June 4 and 18

PLACE AN AD TODAY Call 519.661.2045 or email [email protected] Western News | May 21, 2015 19 Read A ALL OVER . Historian redeems Civil War medical science s b o w o e k N s n up er pl st ement to We BY ADELA TALBOT From the Wounded: The Civil War Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered the comes to defining that nation. reforming medicine, suggesting some and the Rise of American Medical Army of Northern Virginia to Union “The standards for doctors and of the emerging practices become HISTORY HAS NOT been kind to Science, argues Union Army physi- commander Ulysses S. Grant at Appo- medicine at the time were very low. standard. The organization also asked the physicians of the U.S. Civil War. cians, despite challenges and lack of mattox on April 9, 1865. Today, many There were no licensing laws. But the for more training and dissection of With a toll of more than 750,000 preparedness, tackled the war head scholars consider the conflict the cen- top medical physicians at the time in bodies as ways to improve treatment. deaths between 1861-65, the Civil on, learning new methods of practice tral event in American history when it America served in the Civil War. Just “What I noticed in the historiog- War’s casualties far outnumber those and experimentation which prior to the war, the elite phy- raphy was, all the same physicians of any would leave an impact on sicians went to Paris to study who went to Paris and then went to other war modern medicine. medicine because there were Germany were being written about. the United “My book is a new inter- very few hospitals (in Amer- They all served in the war. This was States has pretation of Civil War medi- ica),” Devine explained. a national emergency and many talk taken part cine. It asks, ‘In what ways did “Not a lot of them went about the opportunity to do work on in. And with the actual practice and study – just under 1,000 – but domestic soil they were previously roughly two of medicine develop through they came home and wrote only able to do abroad,” Devine said. thirds of the the war, and in what ways do about reforming American “Nobody had asked the question, war’s deaths we see this in the medical medicine along more scien- to what extent did the conditions DEVINE being a marketplace after the war?’ tific guidelines – they talked of war lead to more scientific stan- result of dis- Nobody has asked that ques- about the need for cadaver dards or the rise of modern medi- ease, it’s no surprise historians have tion before, or looked at the bodies, licensing, hospitals, cine? It’s easy to look at the bad – a traditionally regarded the Civil War as war in that way,” Devine con- equipment. At this time, a lot of soldiers died. But if you look at a medical disaster. tinued. hospital could have con- other things – what happened, did But Shauna Devine is among the Learning from the sisted of an attic with a bed. new hospitals develop, did physicians first to look at medicine during the Wounded was named a There were too few of them change some things as a result of what Civil War period through a more con- Choice Outstanding Aca- to make any kind of differ- they were seeing, did they see new textual – and, as such, forgiving – lens. demic Title for 2015 and a ence on a national basis. But diseases, did they start using more “I thought it might be counter-intu- recipient of the Tom Watson I was interested in this. There technical equipment to manage dis- itive to suggest the war was, in fact, Brown book award, one of were pushes for reform,” she ease environment – it’s not so bad,” a stimulus to more superior scientific the highest honours in the continued. she added. standards in medicine. When I read field of Civil War history. Germ theory emerged “It might not have resulted in cures the books, all of the existing literature To understand how the soon after the war. As it was for disease, but you see much better in the field said doctors inadvertently conditions of war led to more disseminated, American phy- approaches to the study of medicine spread disease, and patients died, scientific standards and to sicians headed to Germany develop. I think the story previously and it was a medical disaster,” said the rise of modern medicine, to study with leaders in the had been too focused on the number Devine, a visiting research fellow at Devine noted historiographi- field, she added. Around the of soldiers that died, but not enough the Schulich School of Medicine & cal context is key. same time, the American on the process of change that began Dentistry, who also teaches in the America’s worst conflict Medical Association had a to occur. I think my book is the first Department of History at Western. ended 150 years ago last meeting in Philadelphia put- one to make that statement.” Her most recent book, Learning month, when Confederate ting forward specific ideas for

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Chancellor

The Chancellor is the honorary and symbolic head of the University. The incumbent will reflect the leadership and global aspirations of Western and, in addition to official convocation and degree-granting functions, will serve as a principal ambassador of the University, playing a significant role in supporting and promoting Western’s distinctive global role as a leader in education and research. The University’s Board of Governors and Senate have established an Electoral Board to select Western’s next Chancellor who will carry on our tradition of strong leadership. We seek a highly regarded individual with a strong commitment to education and students, and dedicated to advancing Western’s profile and interests in the wider community, especially among our alumni. The term of office is four years (non-renewable). The official duties of the Chancellor include presiding at convocation ceremonies during two weeks in mid-June and two days in mid-October each year to admit candidates to degrees, diplomas, and certificates. The Chancellor is an ex officio, voting member of the Board of Governors and the Senate, and of certain committees of both bodies. All members of the University community and friends of the University are invited to submit nominations for Chancellor by writing to the Electoral Board for Chancellor, c/o University Secretariat, Rm. 4101, Stevenson Hall, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B8 (or fax to 519-661-3588 or e-mail [email protected]). To be eligible, a nominee must be a Canadian citizen, but may not be a member of the governing body, faculty, staff or student body of any degree-granting institution. Nominations should be submitted by June 19, 2015 and accompanied by biographical information about the nominee. Nominators are advised that the nominating process is confidential and candidates should not be informed that they are being nominated. Information about the role of Chancellor and about the Electoral Board can be found at uwo.ca/univsec/ or by contacting the University Secretary, Irene Birrell ([email protected]; 519-661-2111 x82056). 20 Western News | May 21, 2015

Research Study: Mother’s education, family stability at heart of child’s success

BY ADELA TALBOT of the environment and household was similar.” be single, but stable, rather than a single mom ried, 12 per cent of the children raised in stable, “Much of what we claim to know about single- who has many partners over the course of a kid’s two-parent families had separated or divorced, RESEARCH FROM TWO Western professors parent families and the impact on children is childhood. That’s an apples-to-oranges compari- but the kids from stable, single-mom families, is challenging the longstanding myth that a actually driven by studies that focus on families son. If they all get lumped together in the same only 3 per cent had separated or divorced. Again child’s success in life depends on his or her family where moms are both income disadvantaged group, it might sometimes appear kids from there’s the stability factor,” Seabrook continued. structure. Instead, Western Sociology professor and educationally deficient,” he continued. single parent families don’t do well.” Avison noted study findings can apply to William Avison and Brescia University College The study used three measures of success and Seabrook continued, “If these single-stable children in middle-sized cities in Canada, and we professor Jamie Seabrook are pointing toward a found the following to be true: moms had equivalent levels of education, or must keep in mind today some women who have mother’s education as the key indicator. higher levels of education, to the moms of two children choose not to marry. Their paper, Family Structure and Children’s • In terms of a child’s education, family struc- parent families, the kids from single-parent “What we found with this cohort of families Socioeconomic Attainment: A Canadian Sam- ture had no effect. Provided equal educa- families actually did a lot better. There’s actually might not hold for all families. But the take home ple, published in the Canadian Review of Sociol- tion of their mothers, children were on something about the stable, single mom family message is we ought not assume growing up in ogy, stems from a London, Ont.-based study equal educational footing and just as likely – and we could argue resiliency, the relationship a single-parent family is always going to result spanning nearly two decades. The researchers to graduate from college or university; between the mom and the child – that really had in occupational and educational challenges for followed more than 1,000 families in both single- • In terms of occupation, children from stable an effect on how these kids did over time.” kids,” he added. and two-parent households. single-mom households had better jobs In other words, a family’s stability is far more “What we’ve learned is that not all children who than children from stable two-parent fami- important than its structure. grow up in single-parent families are necessarily lies; and A lot of data looking at children’s success as “Much of what we claim to going to be affected adversely,” Avison said. • In terms of income, family structure had no it relates to familial structure comes from the In following the large cohort of local fami- impact whatsoever. United States, Seabrook added. Different factors know about single-parent lies, the study found children of single mothers apply to families in Canada. American families families and the impact on were just as likely to achieve educational and There’s a key finding worth noting among are more likely to contend with school quality, economic success as children from two-parent those points, said Seabrook, who conducts neighbourhood disadvantages, race and ethnic- children is actually driven families – provided the mom was educated. research within Brescia’s Division of Food and ity, alongside familial structure. “Single-parent families are always challenged Nutritional Sciences. The stability of the child’s “This kind of thing hadn’t been done in Can- by studies that focus on in terms of income, simply because there’s only household is an important factor in determining ada before – following these kids this long one bread winner – usually the mom. The key a child’s future success. over time,” he said, and because of this study, families where moms are both issue is, these moms were not different from mar- “Usually, single parents all get lumped another finding emerged. ried mothers in terms of their educational attain- together in research. You’re either a two-parent “Literature shows, from the United States, income disadvantaged and ment. That makes a difference in how their chil- family or a one-parent family,” Seabrook said. kids from single-parent families are more likely educationally deficient.” dren develop,” Avison said. “The kids might be “The problem is, there’s so much heterogene- to separate or divorce – that’s a fair argument. income deprived to some extent, but the nature ity in single-parent families. The parent could What we found was for those kids who had mar- - William Avison Western News | May 21, 2015 21

In The Community ‘Tinkering club’ lets inquisitive spirits fly

SPECIAL TO WESTERN NEWS

BY PAUL MAYNE “And, because it’s their own project, Forest hope to open up the world they want to learn those skills.” of creativity to adults and more sea- PLANETARY SCIENCE PHD can- The idea for STEAMLabs – that soned makers, entrepreneurs and didate Marianne Mader has studied stands for science, technology, engi- artists looking to work with serious some of the oldest rocks on Earth in neering, art and math (STEAM) – grew tools such as 3D printers, laser cutting, Greenland, explored impact craters out of a garage, where the pair began woodworking, electronics, sewing, across the globe and, most recently, a ‘Tinkering Club’ for their own kids crafts and more. collected meteorites in Antarctica. and their friends, giving them oppor- “The unique thing with STEAM- Now, she looks to empower simi- tunities to learn about high tech. Labs is while there are already others lar inquisitive spirits to explore their They made boats and sunk them spaces for adults, very rarely are there interests. full of kids in Lake Ontario. ones for all ages,” said Mader, whose Founded by Mader and her hus- They hacked Nerf guns to make job title is STEAMLabs idea wrangler. band, Andy Forest, STEAMLabs are them motion-activated. “We’re casting the net pretty wide – opening a non-profit ‘makerspace’ Soon, the kids started teaching after school, camps, just for adults, dedicated to kids and adults who want themselves. Through online resources beginners. We want to be a commu- a place where imagination comes and experimentation, they were learn- nity makerspace, and be more acces- out to play. ing to make all kinds of things on their sible to the general public, as well as The goal is own. the seasoned professional.” to provide a “It’s amazing,” Mader said. “When Mader added additional programs place to give we run events, for example a robot bal- are being planned for September, kids access loon popping battle, the day started including bringing high-tech educa- to the tech- off simple, but by the end, the cre- tion to schools throughout Ontario. nologies, ations were just amazing and they were They’ve created the Internet of Things materials building off each other’s project ideas.” Teaching Kit, an open source teaching and skills that Now, thanks to a partnership with kit that makes it possible for teachers MADER they couldn’t Toronto’s Centre for Social Innova- with no knowledge of code to teach get on their tions, STEAMLabs will be located in their students basic programming. own, and teach them they are capable a new location at 192 Spadina Ave. They are currently in talks with the of anything. Renovations are currently underway, Toronto District School Board to roll “It’s interest driven. So, kids will in time for summer camps to begin these workshops out to classrooms come with an idea for a project, and in late June. across the Greater Toronto Area. they may not know how to complete A Kickstarter campaign raised “It’s always a bit hectic for us, but it. But the key is, in order to make it more than $22,000 to fund equipment Andy and I love to make things hap- happen, they need to figure out the for the new space. pen,” Mader said. “We wouldn’t be skills that are required,” Mader said. With the new space, Mader and doing it if we weren’t having fun.” 22 Western News | May 21, 2015

seven days of this date. Second-term Schulich School of Medicine & All positions are subject to budgetary // ACADEME // CLASSIFIED half courses in Intersession begin. Dentistry - Department of Psychiatry approval. Applicants should have fluent June 2: Last day to add a second-term Inviting applications for two full-time written and oral communication skills PhD Lectures For Rent half course in Intersession. clinical academic faculty positions as in English. All qualified candidates are June 4: Last day to drop a second-term psychiatrists within the Treatment and encouraged to apply; however, Canadi- Mahboubeh Hadadpour, Chem- 2 bedroom/1 bath condo for rent half course in Intersession without aca- Rehabilitation Program at Parkwood an citizens and permanent residents will istry, Exploring the Chemistry of at 695 Richmond St. Ninth-floor views. demic penalty. Institute Mental Health Care, part of be given priority. Western is committed η5-Cyclopentadienyl-Cobalt-η4- Amenities include: one parking space, June 5: Master of Business Administra- St. Joseph’s Health Care London. Aca- to employment equity and welcomes Cyclobutadiene Containing Polymers; in-suite laundry, indoor salt water pool, tion Convocation. demic rank and contract status will be applications from all qualified women Synthesis, Properties, and Self-Assem- 24-hour security and concierge. New June 9-12, 15-17: Spring Convocation. determined by experience and quali- and men, including visible minorities, bly, 9 a.m. May 21, ChB 115. paint and carpet throughout. Available fications at the time of appointment. Aboriginal people and persons with May 1. $1,250/month. Please call or text // CAREERS Applications will be accepted until posi- disabilities. Aimee Lee Houde, Biology, Restora- Gavin at 226-268-6661. tion is filled. Review of applications will tion of Native Biodiversity in Altered begin on June 15. Environments: Reintroduction of Atlantic Bright and cosy, furnished sabbatical A central website displays advertise- salmon into Lake Ontario, 10 a.m. May home for faculty or staff, North West ments for all vacant academic posi- Faculty of Health Sciences - Arthur 25, B&GS 0153. London, 2 bedrooms + office, 10-min- tions. The following positions are among Labatt Family School of Nursing ute drive to Western University, close those advertised at uwo.ca/facultyrela- Seeks two academics to join a leading Michael Rogelstad, Mathematics, to schools, bus route, available end of tions/faculty/academic_positions.html edge School of Nursing with a 95-year Combinatorial Techniques in the Galois August, $1300 + utilities, 519-204-2044. Please review, or contact the faculty, history of academic and research excel- Theory of p-Extensions, 1:30 p.m. May school or department directly. lence. The School of Nursing is one of Write a Letter 25, MC 107. six schools in a progressive Faculty of // STUDENT BULLETIN Full-Time Academic Appointments Health Sciences (uwo.ca/fhs/) and offers Western News accepts letters to the Jenna Butler, Computer Science, academic programs in Nursing at under- editor. Accepted only from members of Using Cellular Automata and Lattice Student Central In-Person Hours Schulich School of Medicine graduate, masters and doctoral levels. A the Western community – faculty, staff, Boltzmann Methods to Model Cancer & Dentistry – Department of new state-of-the art building is currently students and alumni. Writers may only Growth: Analysis of Combination Treat- 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Paediatrics under construction and scheduled for submit once a semester. As an academic ment Outcomes, 9:30 a.m. May 25, MC and Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday. Inviting applications for a full-time, clini- completion in January 2017. institution, Western News encourages 320. cal academic position as paediatric neu- The deadline for receipt of applica- lively debate, but reserves the right to Spring Convocation rologist with a strong interest and formal tions is June 19 for a two-Year full-time, edit, ask for rewrite or reject any sub- Malaya Nanda, Chemical and Biochem- (June 9-12, 15-17) training in paediatric epilepsy. Applica- limited-term position (lecturer or assis- mission, and will outright reject those ical Engineering, Catalytic conversion of tions will be accepted until June 5. tant professor) and a one-year full-time, based on personal attacks or covering Graduates and guests, please check con- glycerol to value added chemical prod- limited-term position (lecturer or assis- subjects too removed from the univer- vocation.uwo.ca for Convocation details. ucts, 1 p.m. May 25, TEB 434. tant professor). sity community. Tickets for the June Convocation will be Ryan Guterman, Chemistry, Exploring available online at the end of May. the chemistry of phosphorus for pho- topolymer applications, 9 a.m. May 25, Summer Tuition Fees ChB 115. If you have registered for summer cours- es, you can view your Online Statement Shahram Amirnia, Chemical and Bio- of Account via student.uwo.ca. chemical Engineering, Biosorption Pro- cesses for Removal of Toxic Metals from Student Development Centre (SDC) Wastewaters, 1 p.m. May 26, SEB 3102. The SDC is open 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon- Lisa Pelot, Philosophy, Empiricism day to Friday over the summer. Call 519- in Early Modern Philosophy of Mind: 661-3031 or drop-in to the 4th floor of Hobbes, Locke, & Hume, 3 p.m. May the Western Student Services Building 26, StvH 3101. to make an appointment.

Bahman Daee, Civil and Environmental Undergraduate Sessional Dates Engineering, Application of Polyure- thane Products in Acceleration Con- May 21: Last day to drop a full course, struction of Innovative Noise Barrier, 10 or a six-week half course, a first-term, a.m. May 27, SEB 2094. first quarter (‘Q’) course, or a full-year half course in Intersession without aca- Shahab Meshkibaf, Microbiology and demic penalty. Immunology, Granulocyte colony-stim- May 29: Last day to drop a full course or ulating factor: Its role in gut-homing full-year half course in Summer evening macrophage generation and colitis, and and Spring/Summer Distance Studies production by probiotics, 2 p.m. May 28, course without academic penalty. IGAB 1N75. May 31: Hong Kong Convocation. For more information, please visit us on Appointments the web at studentservices.uwo.ca and follow us on Twitter @Western_WSS. Donald G. Welsh appointed as the June 1: Last day to receive admis- Cecil and Linda Rorabeck Chair in sion applications from new students Molecular Neuroscience and Vascular for Fall/Winter Term 2015-16 for full- Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & time studies, provided that the program 51 Dentistry, five-year term effective April 1. 44 requested is open. All supporting docu- 65 17 mentation must be submitted within

07-Fred Negus_Ad_PENSION_v9.indd 1 2015-01-27 3:33 PM

Welcome to your London Home The 2016 Rhodes Scholarships the convenience of Apartment Living! Blossom Gate offers you varied fl oorplans in either our existing lowrise and highrise Every June, the Rhodes Trust announces the launch of its global competition for the Rhodes Scholarships, buildings OR one of our newer highrise buildings - rent varies accordingly. eleven of which are designated for Canadian students. The Scholarship supports postgraduate study at Oxford University in England, and covers both university fees and a stipend for living expenses. Successful lounge, indoor bicycle storage, keyless entry • Coin-less laundry facilities • Direct bus to downtown & Western Campus • 2 appliances • Free outdoor parking • On-site variety store candidates in the upcoming competition will undertake their programs of choice at Oxford in the fall of 2016. • Individual heating & cooling system • On-site management offi ce • 1/2 block to shopping centre Selection of candidates is made on the basis of extraordinary intellect, outstanding character, the capacity and instincts for high leadership, demonstrated rigor and commitment to service and extracurricular activity, with a focus on effecting positive change in the world.

The School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies invites interested candidates to contact Paula Menzies ([email protected]) for information on how to apply. The School offers strategic support and mentorship to applicants preparing their Rhodes scholarship portfolios well in advance of theSeptember 15th university application deadline. Candidates seeking the endorsement of the President must submit a competitive application by the deadline and then complete a successful interview by members of Western’s Rhodes Scholarships Selection Committee. The Canadian Rhodes Scholarships program information is available at www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/canada.

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Campus Digest Incubator ‘propels’ entrepreneurs forward

BY GORDON SO

IAN HAASE UNDERSTANDS the burden of student entrepreneurs. “I know what students go through trying to start a business while balancing school and social life at the same time,” said Haase, West- ern’s Entrepreneur director. “There wasn’t a lot of support around for me when I was doing it.” But times have changed. Thanks to Propel, Western’s campus business incubator, student entrepreneurs no longer have to struggle alone. Last Thursday, Propel – previously BizInc – launched the Propel Summer Incubator (PSI) program via a tradeshow format in which seven student-run ventures showcased their products and branding. Propel is the new entrepreneurship center at Western which provides resources to aspiring student entrepreneurs. It does not matter if students go in with an idea or with a full-blown company, they receive one-on-one mentoring and access to the greater entrepreneur scene across Ontario through the Campus-Linked Accelerator program. Propel is able to establish global connec- tions so student entrepreneurs can leverage international opportunities, as well as a much wider business horizon. Its partnerships with institutions like Ivey Business School, Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs and LEAP Junction at Fanshawe also grant access to local skills and resources. The PSI program takes it to the next level, Haase said. “The PSI program allows a practical entrepre- ADELA TALBOT // WESTERN NEWS neurial experience to happen in a very concen- Western students Oriena Teiba Mensah and Michelle Osei-Bonsu, co-founders of NoR Apparel, speak to a customer interested in their trated, real-world environment over the sum- products at the launch of the Propel Summer Incubator (PSI) program, last week. NoR Apparel, among seven student startups that are mer months, which is invaluable as these new part of the summer program, works to support African communities while bringing African trends and culture to Canada by importing entrepreneurs develop their businesses here in handmade products. London,” he said. The PSI program is a competitive incubator program that supports student ventures with To be eligible, a nominee must be a Cana- A reception for Health Sciences Dean Jim toral Fellowship in Musculoskeletal Health seed funding, mentorship and working space. dian citizen, and may not be a member of Weese has been set for 4-6 p.m. Wednes- Research and Innovation. Arriving from the The 100 teams that applied online had to first the governing body, faculty, staff or student day, June 24 in The Great Hall, Somerville Institute of Medical Science at The Univer- go through a third-party panel that consisted body of any degree-granting institution. House. Weese has served as dean since sity of Toronto, Ali’s research focuses on of entrepreneurs from the community and Ivey 2004. improving pain management for those with professors. The panel then selected 10 teams to All members of the university community osteoarthritis. perform a 10-minute formal pitch. are invited to submit nominations, in writing, Attendees are asked to RSVP to either 519- In the end, only seven teams will call Propel by email to [email protected]; fax to 519-661- 661-3747 or [email protected] by June 19. Former Western Mustangs Glynn Leyshon 3588; or mail to Electoral Board for Chan- and Jude St. John have been named among home for the summer – ShiftVR, Tutor Hero, A search for the next Health Sciences dean cellor, c/o University Secretariat, Rm. 4101, the London Sports Hall of Fame Class of Everest, Zonedin, NoR Apparel, Jacked Scholar is currently underway. and Ezzy Lynn. They receive $7,500 of seed fund- Stevenson Hall, Western University, London, 2015, the London Sports Council announced ing, access to WSS 2130, the designated Propel ON N6A 5B8. All nominations must be Western joined British Columbia, Calgary, today. Six individuals and one team will co-working space, and mentorship from experi- accompanied by biographical information Victoria and Windsor as the only five Cana- be honoured at induction ceremonies in enced entrepreneurs throughout the summer. about the nominee. dian universities profiled in The Princeton November. Review’s Guide to Green Colleges: 2015 “I think the most unique thing about our Deadline is June 19. TORONTO – Western Mustangs players Edition. incubator is that they’re not all tech-based. All Daryl Waud, Rory Connop and Preston Hug- The nominating process is confidential and seven companies are from completely different In this sixth edition of the guide, The Princ- gins are three of the newest members of the candidates should not be informed they are industries: Fashion, sport, virtual reality, social eton Review profiled 353 schools in the Canadian Football League after they were being nominated. media, social enterprise and education,” said United States and Canada, that demon- all selected in the 2015 CFL Canadian Draft Samantha Laliberte, Western Entrepreneur coor- The next chancellor will succeed Joseph strate notable commitments to sustainability last week. The three Mustangs become dinator. “That will add to a lot of cool synergies. Rotman, who served the university in the in their academic offerings, campus infra- the 31st, 32nd and 33rd Western players to The seven companies can help each other out position since 2012. Rotman died on Jan. 27. structure, activities and career preparation. be selected in the CFL Draft in the past 15 in the co-working space even when they’re so John Thompson, Western’s 20th chancellor, Visit sustainability.uwo.ca for more details on years. different.” and Amit Chakma, Western president and Western’s sustainability efforts. The University Students’ Council recently vice-chancellor, will fill the chancellor role for hosted the 7th annual Choose Your Own NEWS AND NOTES June Convocation ceremonies. Western further buoyed its leadership in musculoskeletal health research with the Adventure Grade 8 Early Outreach Confer- A pair of Western deans, whose terms come Western is seeking nominations from the formation of The Bone and Joint Institute, ence two weeks ago at both Western and to an end this summer, will be honoured at university community as the search begins university research officials announced this Fanshawe College. separate events over the next few weeks. for the institution’s 22nd chancellor in its 137- week. The conference aims to encourage and sup- year history, the University Secretariat’s office A reception for Social Sciences Dean Brian The institute now builds on a $5-million port low-income, at-risk youth in London to announced last week. Western’s Board of Timney has been set for 4:30-6:30 p.m. investment the university made into the pursue postsecondary education by way of Governors and Senate have established an Friday, June 5 in The Great Hall, Somerville Western Cluster of Research Excellence lectures from professors, speakers from the Electoral Board to select the next chancellor. House. Timney has served as dean since in Musculoskeletal Heath in November London community, budget management 2002. The chancellor serves as the honorary and 2014. That program will fund more than 70 presentations to students and parents, a symbolic head of the university. The term of Attendees are asked to RSVP to either 519- researchers from several faculties, including volunteer fair and a coaching session to help office is four years (non-renewable). Official 661-3747 or [email protected] by June 1. Schulich, Health Sciences, Engineering, Sci- students create individual paths to success. duties include presiding at Convocation ence and Social Science to study conditions Robert (Bob) Andersen, BA’91 (Political Sci- This year, the conference hosted more than ceremonies during two weeks in mid-June such as arthritis, osteoporosis, trauma and ence), Dpl’92 (Sociology), MA’94 (Sociology), 100 students from nine schools in London and two days in mid-October each year to work-, sport- and exercise-related injuries. has been appointed to a five-year term as with more than 50 Leadership Developers admit candidates to degrees, diplomas and from Western. certificates. The chancellor is an ex officio, dean of Social Science, beginning July 1. He In addition to the institute announcement, voting member of the Board and Senate, as will join Western June 1 and serve in a tem- Dr. Shabana Amanda Ali has been named well as certain committees of both bodies. porary role as special advisor to the provost. the first recipient of the Kirkley Postdoc- 24 Western News | May 21, 2015

Future scientific minds converge at Western

PAUL MAYNE // WESTERN NEWS What do you use to build a wind- powered elevator? Tape. Cardboard. Straws. And a string. Those were the only materials a Grade 6 student needed to make an elevator strong enough to lift a pair of earplugs up 10 centimeters. At Western, more than 240 Grade 6-8 young scientists recently competed in the Let’s Talk Science Challenge. Through a science quiz show and hands-on design challenge, the students’ knowledge in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) was put to the test. James Czerkawski, a St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School Grade 6 student was cheered on by teammates Cam Sartor and Ian Jordan, both in Grade 8, as he used wind power to lift a weighted string. Let’s Talk Science is a national charitable youth development organization that aims to enrich students with science. The challenge is part of a national outreach program that ignites students’ passion in STEM. “The programs we do keep the students engaged and interested in science as they move on through their studies,” said Maggie MacLellan, Let’s Talk Science communications officer. “So, they don’t close doors and decide to disengage with science and math early on when there might be jobs they like in the future that they don’t even know about yet.”

- Gordon So