journal Spring 2009 | Volume 12 No. 3 | www.ulethbridge.ca UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Ripples in History By providing access to clean water, Kevin Rumsey (BSc ’00) brings hope and tides of change to war-torn Afghanistan.

Daniel Derksen (BN ‘06) is currently a RNBN at the Chinook Regional Hospital. His daughter Stacy (BN ‘08) is a RNBN at the Taber Hospital.

As a U of L alumnus and as a father, I believe in education.

At 40, I went back to school to fulfill my lifelong aspiration to become a nurse. I never anticipated the self-satisfaction and enjoyment going back to school would bring. THIS IS OUR U My professors were approachable and truly cared about my success. The nursing program’s problem- The U of L has a 42-year history of excellence in based learning style enabled me to develop my critical education. Share the tradition in your family. thinking abilities – skills that I use every day.

A few years into my program, my daughter Stacy Application deadline: June 30 joined the U of L. Together, we shared in the joys and To apply, visit: discover.ulethbridge.ca struggles of learning. Stacy graduated in 2008, two short years after me.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40011662 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses To University Advancement University of Lethbridge 4401 University Drive W Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 Campus Updates Spotlight on Research The Alumnac Alumni News Alma Matters “Being part of the first wave of graduate students at the new Alberta Water and Environmental Science Building has been amazing. I’m 2 5 11 22 24 especially thrilled to be so close to the Foothills and Rocky Mountains where my fieldwork takes place.”

How does graduate studies impact the globe?

Shilo Andrews, an MSc candidate working with Dr. Larry Flanagan, is conducting research that will help to determine the consequences of climate changes, such as warmer temperatures and shifts in the availability of water sources for the growth and functioning of mountain trees. By combining expertise and experience from a range of academic disciplines, she can make use of a variety of research tools to better understand the functioning of plants, ecosystems and the atmosphere as an integrated system. It’s a unique approach to research that is made possible because of the U of L’s new Alberta Water and Environmental Science Building, a state-of-the-art facility which unites scientists from biology, chemistry, geography and physics. Editor Spotlight on Research: Alesha Farfus-Shukaliak BA/BMgt ’01 Water and the Environment Associate Editors Jana McFarland, Project Manager Meet a few of the world-class researchers who are working School of Graduate Studies Jaime Morasch BMgt ‘01 to preserve and better manage our earth’s resources. [email protected] Design 5 Sarah Novak Design 403-329-5194 Feature Writers www.uleth.ca/sgs Jana McFarland Rob McMahon Natasha Evodkimoff BA ’95, BMgt ’97 Stacy Seguin BA ’07 Contributors Stephenie Chester Bob Cooney Caitlin Crawshaw GROUP HOME AND AUTO INSURANCE Trevor Kenney for alumni of the University of Lethbridge Lynette LaCroix Multimedia Cert ‘01, BMgt ‘01 Proofreader/Fact Checker Betsy Greenlees Photography Protecting the Planet PROTECTION MADE EASY... Bob Cooney Jones Foto From Banff to Afghanistan, U of L alumni are making GROUP RATES MADE EASIER! Glenda Moulton BFA ’03 big waves in water-related initiatives. Read on to see Bernie Wirzba BASc ’82 As an alumnus of the University of Lethbridge, you can Alumni Liaison how they’re living out individual commitments to Jaime Morasch BMgt ’01 SAVE on your home and auto insurance through preferred 11 ensure a greener tomorrow. Maureen Schwartz group rates, while enjoying high-quality insurance products Printing Print West and outstanding service.

Cover photos submitted by Kevin Rumsey. Request a quote and you could The U of L Journal is published by the Office of University Advancement at the University of Lethbridge. The opinions expressed or implied in the publication do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Lethbridge Board of Governors. Submissions in the form of letters, articles, story ideas or notices of events are welcomed. Insurance program endorsed by Correspondence should be addressed to: Pushing Boundaries U of L Journal University of Lethbridge Last summer, U of L student Fiona Geldreich travelled MelocheMonnex.com/uleth 4401 University Drive W to Africa to work with an organization implementing Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 eco-friendly solutions in Botswana. Find out how Tel: 403-317-2825 Fax: 403-329-5130 1 866 352 6187 E-mail: [email protected] her experiences at the U of L prepared her for the (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) www.ulethbridge.ca 20 challenges she faced. The Journal Online The TD Insurance Meloche Monnex home and auto insurance program is underwritten by SECURITY NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY and distributed by Meloche Monnex Insurance and Financial Services Inc. in Québec www.ulethbridge.ca/alumni/publications.html and by Meloche Monnex Financial Services Inc. in the rest of Canada. *No purchase required. Contest ends on January 16, 2010. Skill-testing question required. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Complete contest rules available at MelocheMonnex.com. Meloche Monnex® is a trade-mark of Meloche Monnex Inc. TD Insurance is a trade-mark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, used under license.

Projet : Annonce MMI 2009 Province : Alberta Épreuve # : 4 Client : Meloche Monnex Publication : Journal Date de tombée : 13/03/09 No de dossier : Format : 8.25x5.4 D-MM7748-09_MMI (8.5x5.4)•uleth_EN Couleur : 4 couleurs Graphiste : Marie-Josée Proulx

Hamelin Martineau • 505, boul. de Maisonneuve O. Bureau 300 • Montréal (Québec) H3A 3C2 • T : 514 842 4416 F : 514 844 9343 ATTENTION : Merci de vérifi er attentivement cette épreuve afi n d’éviter toute erreur. President’s Message

Dear U of L Alumni, Welcome to the spring 2009 issue of the Journal.

As you read through this issue, you’ll notice a reading about your fellow alumni: In the fall, we will debut a new University theme flowing through the pages: water. Kevin Rumsey (BSc ’00), Stephanie of Lethbridge magazine. You’ll continue to Water is our most precious resource. It’s Palechek (BSc ’01), Ben Gadd (BASc ’72), see your favourite features from the Journal the source of all life on Earth, and it’s an Chad Willms (MSc ’05), Denise Calderwood in the new magazine, along with many new important economic and strategic resource. (MEd ’93), Jeremy Emerson (BFA ’08), ones. Watch for it this fall. It’s also a research focus at the University of Shannon Flint (BMgt ’07) and J. Michael Lethbridge. Miltenberger (BASc ’75) and the Sincerely, In fall 2008, years of hard work by many outstanding work they are doing in people came to fruition when we opened the their respective areas. Alberta Water and Environmental Science Last summer, U of L co-op student Fiona Building (AWESB). This new facility houses Geldreich travelled to Africa to work with some of the world’s foremost scientists and an organization implementing eco-friendly enthusiastic graduate students who are solutions in Botswana. She shares her photos making significant strides in research and and experiences with us in the Travel Journal. Bill Cade, PhD discovery. In this issue of the Journal, we As always, this issue of the Journal President and Vice-Chancellor proudly provide a glimpse into the AWESB highlights all the exciting news and events Professor of Biological Sciences and some of the fascinating research our that have taken place on campus as well faculty members and students are engaged in. as within the University of Lethbridge U of L alumni are also making big waves Alumni Association. I encourage you to stay in environment-related fields locally, connected with the U of L and share your provincially and abroad. I hope you enjoy story with the Alumni Office.

U of L journal 1 Campus Updates

With never a dull moment, the University community has contributed to a steady buzz of exciting news and developments. Here are a few of the highlights from the year so far. President Cade to step aside in 2010 University on Twitter Twitter is quickly becoming a social, global information staple, and the University of Lethbridge has jumped on board. In an effort to alert as many people as possible to the news and events happening at the U of L, the University’s news website, UNews, has opened a Twitter account and daily offers Tweet updates. Follow @ULethbridgenews On March 19, 2009, U of L presided over an educational institution’s largest capital on twitter, or for alumni President and Vice-Chancellor transformation that has campaign. specific Tweets, follow @ Dr. Bill Cade announced he repositioned the University as a The search for a new president ULethbridgeAlum. would be stepping aside at the leading research and graduate is led by the University’s Board completion of his second term, studies institution. Added to of Governors and typically June 30, 2010. that, he has led the development takes approximately a year to of many major initiatives at Daycare sod turning Cade was appointed president complete. A presidential search the U of L, including two and vice-chancellor of the committee will be created, It was a big day for some of five-year strategic plans, University of Lethbridge in July and it is expected that a new the smallest members of the $200 million in capital projects 2000. During his presidency, president will be in place by the University of Lethbridge family. and improvements, and the he’s overseen a decade of summer of 2010. On April 15, 2009, University successful completion of the unprecedented growth and of Lethbridge officials and representatives from campus groups supporting the creation Athletic achievements of a new daycare facility officially launched the start of construction for the 50-space, $2 million project.

Award recipients

Dr. Ian McAdam of the English Department in the Faculty of Arts & Science has been selected to receive the Distinguished Teaching Award, and Dr. Brian Titley of the Faculty of Education has been selected to receive the Ingrid Speaker Medal for Distinguished (l-r) Jim Steacy and Ashley Patzer were named Male and Female Athletes of the Year, after Research, Scholarship or outstanding seasons representing the Pronghorns. Steacy won his fifth Male Athlete of the Performance. Both awards will Year honour after winning gold medals in both weight throw and shotput at the Canadian be presented at the spring 2009 Interuniversity Sport (CIS) track championships. Patzer led the women’s rugby team to a convocation ceremonies held on second straight CIS title and was the MVP of the championship tournament. May 28 and 29, 2009. 2 U of L journal Campus Updates

New programs for the fall Strategic Plan all about U The University of Lethbridge is charting a course for the next five years. The map – the 2009-2013 Strategic Plan. After months of consultation, the final plan is complete and was released to the University community at a campus event on Feb. 12, 2009.

The University of Lethbridge continues to meet the needs of students by developing and delivering relevant programs. Beginning September 2009, the University will implement a new Bachelor of Music degree program in Digital Audio Arts, two new graduate degree programs in the creative arts through a Master of Fine Arts and a Master of Music, a new Bachelor of Nursing after-degree program in collaboration with Lethbridge College and a Land Agent Bachelor of Management degree program in conjunction with Olds College. For more information on any of these programs, visit: discover.ulethbridge.ca

The plan is an affirmation of what has taken place at the U of L during the last 42 years Prentice Institute welcomes new director and is a promise to stay true to what the University has done well in the past. At the same time, it’s a call to move into the comprehensive framework and expand graduate programming. To view the full plan, including feature videos, visit: www.uleth.ca/strategicplan

New coach for Horns Dave Adams (BEd ’82), one-time Pronghorns basketball player and now two-time coach, has accepted the position as the new head coach of the men’s basketball program. This will be his second tour of duty, after guiding the team in Dr. Susan McDaniel has been appointed director of the Prentice Institute for Global the 2001-02 season, and brings Adams back to Population and Economy, a unique research institute that was founded thanks to a a place that’s always been in his heart. multi-million dollar donation from the late Dr. John Prentice (LLD ’06) and his family to promote the research of big-picture issues relating to global population change and “It comes down to being a proud alumnus, a demographics. McDaniel, an internationally recognized sociology researcher and proud former player, a proud former coach,” demographics expert, will be heavily involved in research, graduate education and Adams says. “I understand the essence, the research leadership, as well as contributing to the undergraduate teaching program. spirit, the heart and courage of being a Horn.”

U of L journal 3 Campus Updates

Students surpass fundraising goals Researcher recognized

U of L’s 5 Days for the Homeless group

Participating in the 5 Days for the Homeless campaign in March, a group of U of L students set out to raise $10,000 for Wood’s Homes Foundation, a multi-service charity that supports troubled young people in the Lethbridge community. During the five-day campaign, the students remained outdoors, on campus, living just outside the Students’ Union building. After a long week of cold days and even colder nights, the group Dr. Olga Kovalchuk (Biological Sciences/ surpassed the target, raising a total of $12,064.80. Board of Governors Research Chair) is In other fundraising efforts, a group of management students hosted Curling for the among six individuals in Canada to receive Cross, a human curling demonstration to raise money for the local chapter of the Red a prestigious Research Chair in New Cross. As the final project for the 2009 Integrated Management Experience, the 28 Perspectives in Gender, Sex and Health from management students were tasked with taking an idea from concept to execution on the Canadian Institutes of Health Research behalf of a real client. Through their creative take on a bonspiel, the group exceeded their (CIHR) and its Institute of Gender and goal of $5,000, raising more than $6,500 for the Red Cross. Health (IGH). The Research Chair program is intended for health researchers who have developed a reputation for excellence in research, and to support outstanding University bids farewell to Fitzpatrick research programs that enhance the health of Canadians. In June 2009, Dr. Dennis Fitzpatrick will conclude his One of two Albertans named as a Chair, second five-year term as vice- Kovalchuk’s position comes with $750,000 in president (research). As a result funding over five years. Her work uses animal of his “think-big, shoot-high and models to examine how radiation induces don’t-be-afraid-to-ask” philosophy, secondary tumours in cancer patients; the research funding at the University different effects radiation has on women and of Lethbridge has soared a men; and what can be done to protect the phenomenal 610 per cent over the children of radiation-exposed parents from last 10 years, and the University has contracting cancer. celebrated many significant research achievements. Dr. Daniel Weeks will assume the position of vice-president (research). Weeks formerly served as a professor and Chair To stay up-to-date on what’s of Psychology at Simon Fraser happening at the University, visit the University and has 17 years of U of L’s official online news centre at: experience in post-secondary Dr. Dennis Fitzpatrick www.uleth.ca/unews teaching and research.

4 U of L journal Spotlight on Research: Water and the Environment

Lars Brinkmann (BSc ‘04, MSc ‘07), U of L PhD candidate

Our freshwater supply and environment are threatened.

What is being done? At the University of Lethbridge, researchers are asking the most pressing questions that face our planet. The answers they find will help protect our resources and ensure a healthy tomorrow. >>

U of L journal 5 Spotlight on Research: Water and the Environment

As the University continues to gain international recognition as a leader in water and environmental research, it is attracting a group of outstanding experts from around the world. Representing a range of knowledge, these researchers focus on five main areas: social policy, ecology, toxicology, environmental impacts and water-climate interactions. Read on to learn more about a few of the discoveries being made.

SOCIAL POLICY: What makes the relationship between farming and water so tricky?

It’s a staggering statistic: more have received significant than 70 per cent of southern funding, including $1.7 million Alberta’s water consumption is from the Alberta Water Research Institute. used for farming. Both projects aim to resolve But even as water issues are the important issues about how coming to the fore, farmers’ to manage Alberta’s limited water choices are largely resources and how to share water being made independently between competing users while as government involvement minimizing the socio-economic is limited. However, as water impact within the communities sources become more scarce, depending on irrigation for their that might change, so there’s livelihood. a strong need to understand how to balance the interests Along with his associates, of farmers with the protection including two professors from of the resource before tough the University of Alberta, choices need to be made. Bjornlund is collecting data via surveys and focus groups Dr. Henning Bjornlund, with farmers and residents in a professor in the U of L’s surrounding communities. Department of Economics and Understanding the viewpoints of a Canada Research Chair, has the entire community is key to done extensive work on water creating a comprehensive picture management both in Australia that will ultimately improve our and Alberta. knowledge base and help balance Collaborating with U of L the tricky relationship between economics professor Dr. Kurt farming and water use. Klein, Bjornlund is currently Dr. Henning Bjornlund working on two projects that

6 U of L journal Spotlight on Research: Water and the Environment

TOXICOLOGY: What’s in the water you drink? Fostering the future

The University isn’t just supporting established scientists. It’s also fostering the developing talents of students, like PhD candidate Lars Brinkmann (BSc ‘04, MSc ‘07) (right), who is working under the supervision of Dr. Joseph Rasmussen (left), a Canada Research Chair and University of Lethbridge researcher.

Last fall, Brinkmann received a $30,000 As Alberta’s economy and population – whose systems resemble in some aspects fellowship, the largest individual student grow, the demand for water is soaring those of humans – to determine the effects award endowed at the University, made of certain pollutants. and so is the need to know how well possible by Nexen Inc., an independent, we’re managing this invaluable resource. She explains that some chemicals are Canadian-based global energy company. safe at low doses (like selenium, which The fellowship is enabling Brinkmann to look Canada Research Chair and U of L our bodies need), but toxic at higher at mercury levels in fish to determine how researcher Dr. Alice Hontela is adding concentrations. Since pollutants, human activity affects local watersheds. to the well of knowledge by seeking to like pharmaceuticals, are difficult or He is one of the many graduate students understand just exactly what’s in our water. impossible to remove with filtration, the in water and environmental science who Hontela is part of MITHE (Metals in the health of both human and aquatic species is benefiting from new infrastructure, Human Environment) strategic network. requires keeping these chemicals at non- outstanding researchers and funding the toxic levels. She says climate change and increasing University is attracting. industrial activity (especially farming and The answers Hontela and her colleagues mining) are not only affecting the volume discover are crucial to finding new ways of available water, but the concentration of to deal with our water and pollutants, and pollutants in it. will aid in making sound management Through lab and fieldwork, she studies the decisions for the future. endocrine systems of different fish species

U of L journal 7 Spotlight on Research: Water and the Environment

ECOLOGY: How can we tap into new water sources?

When it comes to Alberta’s spring The project, which has secured systems – the points at which $200,000 in funding over four years groundwater comes to the surface from the Imperial Oil Foundation, has attracted researchers from – very little is known. across North America. However, as surface water resources Dr. Stewart Rood, who holds the become overextended in the University of Lethbridge Board province, it’s likely the region will of Governors Research Chair in look to aquifers, the underground Environmental Science and is layers of permeable rock, sand, a 2008 recipient of the Killam silt or clay that have absorbed Research Fellowship, is co-leading a groundwater. Alberta is in a group of researchers from Alberta, unique position of not yet having Saskatchewan and Arizona together significantly tapped its extensive with Dr. Abe Springer of Northern groundwater resources, so there Arizona University. is still time to plan for better management that will minimize The group is investigating springs or mitigate potential future throughout southern Alberta, impacts to aquifers or springs from studying their hydrology, water groundwater use. chemistry and aquatic and riparian ecology. They hope to find out, But the solutions don’t just spring among other things, how springs are from the ground. That’s why a team impacted by seasonal and climatic of researchers, through the Alberta changes; how the type of spring Springs Project, are studying affects the area’s biology; and how groundwater sources as a strategy groundwater relates to surface water to learn more about what lies below – information that will all contribute the surface. toward helping Alberta plan for a Dr. Stewart Rood sustainable future.

8 U of L journal Spotlight on Research: Water and the Environment

WATER-CLIMATE CHANGE INTERACTIONS: How can a pine beetle create big ripple effects?

It’s hard to conceive that needles and small branches fall to something as small as an insect the ground and the forest canopy could have such a big influence is reduced. In turn, during winter months more snow finds its on our water supply. But that’s way to the ground and a greater just what Dr. Sarah Boon’s snowpack is created in the spring. research is revealing. Boon and her colleagues are Like the streams of water she finding that this increased snow studies, Boon came from the accumulation can alter water mountains of British Columbia quality downstream. Depending to the dry flatlands of southern on climate conditions, it can Alberta. Her research focuses on also result in a larger and faster snow and glacial melt and how spring melt, leaving less water in they contribute to water run-off July and August – a time when from mountain areas. many farmers rely heavily on irrigation. In the worst case, the Because of climate change, the increased snowpack could result chance of forest infestations and in catastrophic flooding in wild fires has increased – a fact certain regions. that influences our water supplies downstream. To understand the In the future, Boon plans to effects, Boon has looked at forests expand her research to look at affected by pine beetle infestation better ways to manage our water in the Crowsnest Pass and supply, factoring in even the throughout British Columbia. She seemingly smallest details like the explains that after an infestation, critters found in our forests. a forest is altered, many trees die,

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: What’s good about wind erosion?

Thoughts of wind erosion positive role in sustaining the Through the innovative use of the growth of vegetation. bring to mind vivid imagery of biodiversity of prairie grassland satellite imaging, Hugenholtz has Reduced wind erosion levels the 1930s dust bowl – wind ecosystems. observed a dramatic decrease in are a direct result. the number of active sand dunes ripping away valuable topsoil He and his research team are across the southern prairies of As Hugenholtz explains, these as it blackens prairie skies and finding that wind erosion is Alberta and Saskatchewan, which disturbances are necessary to paints a picture of agricultural essential to preserving a balanced in turn has resulted in a reduction maintain biodiversity and keep devastation. ecosystem. Sand dunes serve as in the number of species in the ecosystem functioning. a habitat for a variety of sensitive particular areas. Dr. Christopher Hugenholtz, and endangered plant and animal His work aims to develop unique, a University of Lethbridge species that need bare, sandy Years of managing the dune areas adaptive strategies for conserving geography professor, is creating surfaces and a level of wind by reducing stresses such as fire, habitat through a better a new portrait of wind erosion erosion to survive. the roaming of bison and the understanding of wind erosion by examining its surprisingly grazing of cattle have encouraged controls and processes.

U of L journal 9 Spotlight on Research: Water and the Environment

Members from the U of L Facilities staff take gardening to new heights, using climbing equipment to maintain and tend to the 12-metre high bio wall.

Building green The Alberta Water and Environmental In building the AWESB, every effort was made to construct the Science Building: A high-tech toolbox facility in a energy efficient, environmentally sustainable and socially responsible manner. for scholars Working toward silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, the building contains As part of its leadership role in “In many ways, it’s more than just many features that minimize the impact on the environment. water research, the University of a building. It’s a repository of people Lethbridge unveiled its Alberta Water and tools that are going to produce • When it rains, water is drained into a man-made pond and Environmental Science Building profound research,” he says. outside of the facility. The naturally collected water is then (AWESB) in November 2008. To support that research, the used as a source of irrigation. As a result, the building puts Situated among mountains, streams, AWESB contains many state-of-the- no additional strain on the city storm sewer system. rivers, rural plains and urban cities, the art technologies, offering researchers • The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art building new facility couples with the natural the chance to expand the breadth and monitoring that includes more than 1,000 sensors. Those environment to create what has been depth of their work. sensors detect motion and activity and in response control described as a living lab. Significant acquisitions include the heating, cooling and ventilation of the building. The $27-million centre is a earth-imaging tools (for geomatics • Whenever possible, building materials were purchased partnership between the U of L and research) and instruments for locally, in turn reducing emissions caused by long-distance seven provincial and federal research stable isotope analysis, as well as shipping. partners, including Agriculture and environmental monitoring. Agri-Food Canada, Health Canada The basement will be home to a • Only low-emitting paints, carpets, laminates and adhesives and Alberta Environment. $3-million Aquatic Research Facility, were used during construction. With two seminar rooms, 13 housing specialized tanks for fish • In the summer months, a night flushing system automatically research labs and four fish labs, and and aquatic organisms, in which opens the windows as the temperature drops during the 5,400-square-metres, the AWESB environmental conditions can be evening hours. The building then pressurizes, forcing warm will initially house 20 researchers manipulated. Researchers who study air out and drawing cool air in. and has the capacity for up to 150 water toxicology use the facility to supporting technicians, graduate study responses to environmental • All of the washrooms use double-flush toilets and students and doctoral candidates stressors like chemical pollutants or waterless urinals. from the departments of biological rising temperatures. • An abundance of natural light and windows reduce the sciences, geography and physics and “Through the Aquatic Research need for artificial lighting during daytime hours. astronomy. Facility, researchers at the University • Whenever possible, green products are used to clean and The space offers a toolbox to help are going to have opportunities to maintain the facility. researchers continue to excel in the conduct experiments that we never field of water research, says Vice- would have even thought possible,” • A bio wall, or better known as a living wall, stands three President (Research) Dr. Dennis Fitzpatrick says. stories high and four metres wide in the stairwell of the Fitzpatrick. AWESB. The wall consists of common household plants that serve as a natural air filtering system, breaking down indoor 10 U of L journal air pollutants and increasing humidity. The Alumnac

Kevin Rumsey stands beside a recently completed hand-pump well.

Photos Submitted Installation doesn’t take long, but the work is risky. Ripples in History By providing access to clean water, Kevin Rumsey brings hope and tides of change to war-torn Afghanistan.

Kevin Rumsey (BSc ’00) vividly town. It was the reaction of those in remembers one of the first times he the gathering that stands out most in met with a group of elders and other Rumsey’s memory. survivors in an Afghan community “It was an overwhelming wave of ravaged by decades of war and extreme gratitude,” Rumsey recalls. “The smiles poverty. He was sitting on a dusty and sheer joy on all of the people’s floor in a mud hut, sipping tea with faces, hands over their hearts, genuine the group and attempting to explain handshakes and sincere thanks – what what he was there to do: provide clean a privilege to do this kind of work and water, sanitation facilities and hygiene receive that sort of reaction for it. It solutions for their weary, war-torn was a humbling experience.” >> U of L journal 11 The Alumnac Photos Submitted

Rumsey, who recently to work for ACF arose, Rumsey

Photos Submitted concluded his service in essentially leapt at it. Afghanistan, began his time “I would have gone there in November 2008 under anywhere. It just happened to the auspices of ACF (Action be Afghanistan,” he says. “ACF Against Hunger/Action Contre gave me the offer and 24 hours to la Faim) International – a accept or reject it. After a couple humanitarian organization of hours of soul-searching, and founded in France in 1979. discussions with family and Active in more than 35 countries friends, I accepted.” worldwide, ACF provides While in Afghanistan, Rumsey emergency aid and long-term traversed the country, venturing solutions to populations suffering into remote, desolate and often from malnutrition and food volatile areas to make strides in security, as well as lack of clean providing legions of people with water, sanitation and access some very basic, yet essential to public health. Rumsey first services. While the posting heard about ACF while working wasn’t Rumsey’s first experience toward a master’s degree in with humanitarian efforts (he Peacebuilding at Royal Roads previously volunteered on water University, but had an inclination projects in both east India and toward this line of work much Kenya with Rotary International, earlier. When the opportunity and worked in post-tsunami 12 U of L journal The Alumnac

“The impact for me is knowing that I am living in the moment and making a difference to people in need.”

Indonesia as an environmental headed up a pipeline project, specialist with a private rehabilitating a reservoir and consultation company), it was the installing a kiosk network to first time he had worked in the provide clean water to 7,000 throws and fallout of a country at families. In Samangan province, war. The dangers didn’t deter him. Rumsey laid the groundwork to In fact, the risks are part of what combat cholera, an outbreak that attracted him to the job. affected 2,500 people last year. “I was drawn to the humanity It was exhaustive and dangerous of instability for some reason,” work with the Taliban shoring up Rumsey says. “The impact for ranks and the risk of kidnapping me was knowing that I was living very high. Suicide bombings in the moment and making a were common, and men armed difference to people in need.” with AK-47s walked the streets As the coordinator for water, as casually as businessmen carry sanitation and hygiene for ACF briefcases in any Canadian city. in Afghanistan, Rumsey was in Still, Rumsey felt lucky to be there. charge of six projects that will “I met some beautiful people ultimately impact the lives of and made many friends,” he says. approximately 170,000 Afghan “I admit I was nervous to go, but I people. Heading up a 40-member felt prepared and excited too.” Young girls are often in charge of water collection for their national staff, Rumsey also Rumsey left Afghanistan at the families, typically making the laborious trip twice a day. oversaw the development of end of April with mixed emotions. funding proposals for new water “I leave behind many friends projects and represented ACF at and colleagues who have been strategic coordination meetings very supportive. I leave behind my with various governments and national staff who has worked so international organizations, hard. I will miss them very much. including UNICEF. I have been so fortunate to have Rumsey’s objective may had this experience.” have been broad – to provide While he acknowledges the safe water, sanitation facilities challenges for Afghanistan are and hygiene promotion to enormous, Rumsey remains vulnerable people – but the hopeful for the country’s future, tasks toward achieving it were believing wholeheartedly that specific and labour intensive. a safe, sustainable water supply In Kabul, Rumsey and his team is the foundation for peace and With the unplanned influx of people coming to Kabul, people are put in 100 hand-pump water development. taking over the steep hills in the city. There are no water, sewer wells, 300 pour-flush latrines or sanitation systems. Water must be hauled up the hills in heavy and provided hygiene kits and jerry cans and buckets, and waste, pulled by the force of gravity, education to 4,500 families. In runs down the hills through the living quarters along the easiest Parwan province, the entourage route available. U of L journal 13 The Alumnac

The trickle down effect Stephanie Palechek explains the everyday changes that can help protect our water supply.

“Everybody uses water, but not everyone thinks about where it comes from or how significant it really is.”

Who among us hasn’t washed life’s mission to change. of sustainable water-use practices. in recent years, as have the effects a car in the driveway, sending As executive director of the Palechek joined the OWC after of climate change and a growing soapy water into the gutter and Oldman Watershed Council working on the Partners in population. While the challenges smiling with satisfaction at the (OWC), Palechek works to raise Habitat Development program are serious, Palechek sees positive resulting shine? The activity awareness about the importance with the St. Mary River Irrigation changes in the way people think seems harmless, even joyful of healthy water systems and District. about water. – a small celebration of warm makes strides toward positive The list of issues Palechek and “Water issues are on the public’s weather and pride of ownership. change. her dedicated team of colleagues radar now,” Palechek says. “We’re What most of us don’t realize is “Everybody uses water, but not and volunteers attempt to tackle seeing more people come to our that the chemical residue in that everyone thinks about where it is extensive, ranging from water events and ask questions, looking sudsy rinse spills straight into comes from or how significant it scarcity and habitat protection, for information and ways to help.” the storm drain and trickles, really is,” Palechek says. “Literally to irrigation and best gardening In September 2009, the untreated, back into the river everything we do every day relies practices. As diverse as these OWC will release a State of from where it came. It’s true. on having a good, clean and issues seem, they boil down to the Watershed report to the Anything that goes into a storm abundant supply of water.” one primary objective: increasing general public – a document that drain – be it soap, oil, lawn Formed in 2003, the OWC is a awareness of the importance of compiles studies that assess the fertilizer or any other potentially non-profit organization that works clean water and how to best use it. overall health and cleanliness of harmful substance – takes a in partnership with communities “We’re not going to run the Oldman watershed. After the direct path into the water we and individuals to maintain out of water in Canada any release, the OWC will look to ultimately drink, cook with and and improve the condition of time soon, but we do need to community leaders, researchers bathe in. Surprised? You’re the Oldman River watershed. properly manage our supply to and volunteers to help develop not alone. Members of the OWC provide make sure that never happens,” and implement an Integrated Most of us are blissfully leadership and guidance in Palechek says. Watershed Management Plan unaware of the many ways we watershed planning, management Increased recreation and to help ensure the ongoing negatively impact our water and quality monitoring. In development in the headwater maintenance and improvement supply – a fact that Stephanie addition, they promote the areas of the Oldman River has of the watershed in southern Palechek (BSc ’01) has made her implementation and integration put a strain on the water supply Alberta.

14 U of L journal The Alumnac

Chaucer as environmentalist? When writing about conservation, Ben Gadd turned to the English writer for inspiration.

“People think they should conserve water by not letting the tap run. That’s fine, but conservation is about more than that.”

Geoffrey Chaucer, who wrote friends took their first overnight the Canterbury Tales, probably hike in the Rockies, hacking doesn’t come to mind as a down tree branches to build a conservation expert. lean-to – a common practice in But when tracing the evolution those days. of the idea, Ben Gadd (BASc ’72) Gadd went on to become a discovered the English writer was mountaineer and rock climber, the first person to write it down, overcoming his fear of heights in 1384. and learning to go more lightly Gadd argues that back then, on the land. At the University ‘conservation’ meant – among of Lethbridge, he focused on other things – the preservation geology, and during his studies and protection of wildlife and completed two self-directed Photos Submitted its habitat. He feels it’s a big mini-thesis projects. After difference from some of the graduation, he was back in writes and gives lectures. As an of their careers and lifestyles. modern natural resource industry the mountains, working as a environmental activist, Gadd “As a kid, I knew some practices that interpret the term naturalist and park interpreter in speaks out against practices such Quakers who didn’t have much as a form of damage control. Jasper, where he wrote the first of as selling trees cut within the money, but they did have a good “People think they should his nine books, Handbook of the national parks and promotes life,” Gadd says. “They taught me conserve water by not letting the Canadian Rockies. research that shows how regions that the more you make, the more tap run,” Gadd says. “That’s fine, A dedicated conservationist can generate more long-term you take. If you have a small but conservation is about more who often speaks about the income through non-destructive income, you’re actually doing than that. At the root, it’s about importance of maintaining tourism than through resource less damage to the environment. protecting the wilderness.” wilderness areas and wildlife extraction. That’s one way to look at Gadd grew up in Colorado habitat, he now spends summers He also urges individuals conservation.” Springs, Colo. In 1959, when he leading guided walks and natural interested in preserving the was 13 years old, he and some history tours. In the winter, he wilderness to consider the impact

U of L journal 15 The Alumnac

Regional watchdog Chad Willms keeps a watchful eye on the waterways of Rocky View.

Filmmakers bring watersheds to the surface

Though water has become a of Lethbridge alumna Denise hot topic in academic circles, Calderwood (MEd ’93). the broader community isn’t Water – specifically the necessarily aware of the human watershed of Alberta’s east impact on water systems. slopes – was a natural choice for “Water is one of those quiet, her sixth documentary, Water silent things that literally flows Resources: The East Slopes through your life unless it’s not of Alberta. The film, which there. Then everything stops,” features researchers, ranchers says filmmaker and University and environmentalists, examines

16 U of L journal The Alumnac

“The most basic, everyday decisions we make affect the quality and quantity of our water.”

The Municipal District of Rocky experiencing reduced flows – a development for Rocky View’s of water. A healthy watershed will View virtually engulfs Calgary, problem that’s been compounded riparian areas and wetlands. actually improve the quality of covering approximately one by increased population and Although he believes that water- water and run-off entering water million acres of land that stretch the corresponding demands of related issues are more widely bodies by filtering out pollutants west toward Kananaskis country, development. The challenge is understood now than ever and sediments, maintaining the north to the town of Crossfield to find a balance between water before, Willms maintains that water balance and supporting the and east onto the open prairie. consumption and conservation many people don’t know what a organisms – including humans – Wetlands and water bodies in the in order to maintain a healthy, watershed is or why it’s necessary that depend on it. Conversely, a district are many, which makes sustainable supply.” to monitor and protect it. polluted or damaged watershed Chad Willms (MSc ’05) one very Willms works with several “What most people don’t will not function properly and busy guy. watershed planning and realize is that every one of us water quality deteriorates. As the municipal ecologist advisory councils and watershed lives in a watershed area,” Willms “Awareness is key,” Willms for Rocky View, Willms is stewardship groups, all of which says. “The most basic, everyday says. “Once people have the responsible for devising operate under Alberta’s Water for decisions we make affect the vocabulary and the facts about management recommendations Life strategy – a plan developed quality and quantity of our protecting their water supply, that protect the water supply in 2003 to proactively safeguard water.” they get motivated to do it.” within the expansive region. the province’s water sources. By definition, a watershed is “The main issue we’re facing is Willms is also involved in best an area of land that drains into a scarcity,” Willms says. “Rivers are management practice policy river, river system or other body

“Water is one of those quiet, silent things that literally flows through your life unless it’s not there. Then everything stops.” how the watershed works and is Emerson (BFA ’08), then a a Yellowknife film society, says today,” he says. “We could be affected by human activity. fourth-year student, through this project provided hands-on doing horribly bad things and we A whole range of development the Faculty of Fine Arts New production experience, like wouldn’t know it for a while – and activities in the east slopes are Media internship program. camera operation and video by then, it could be too late.” gradually diminishing the capacity The program is one of the many editing, and opened his eyes to Water Resources: The East to deliver the water we depend on, ways the U of L partners with the complexity of water issues Slopes of Alberta was screened Calderwood says. the community, in this case to and the importance of research in at the University of Lethbridge Every film is a team effort, promote education about the this area. in November 2008 and is now and this time Calderwood was environment. “We don’t see the effects of being used as a resource by the fortunate to recruit Jeremy Emerson, who now works for what we’re doing to our watershed provincial government.

U of L journal 17 The Alumnac

Drilling for solutions Working in Alberta’s oil industry, Shannon Flint works to protect the province’s other liquid gold: water.

“We are managing our water differently than we have in the past.”

Politics of preservation

The Honourable J. Michael other industrial developments. Miltenberger (BASc ’75,) MLA These activities place great Thebacha, Deputy Premier demands on water resources, and Minister of Environment land and wildlife – a concern and Natural Resources for the for both Miltenberger and his Northwest Territories (NWT), is constituents. acutely aware of the increasing To ensure sound management pressure for development activity of water resources in the in the NWT related to oil and NWT, the government of gas, oil sands, mining, hydro and the Northwest Territories, in

18 U of L journal The Alumnac

To some, the concept of While Flint acknowledges and upstream of the development, environmentally sustainable that development certainly has and we monitor groundwater economic development of the an environmental impact, she is as well,” she says. “There is a Alberta oil sands is a paradox, but adamant that good environmental lot of water tied up in tailings to Shannon Flint (BMgt ’07), practices take place up north. ponds that is re-used back in the executive director of the Strategic As director, she creates policies operation, but we are looking Policy and Innovation Branch and management frameworks at technology that will reduce with the Oil Sands Environmental that support environmentally tailings and let us start reclaiming Management Division of Alberta sustainable development of the oil these ponds.” Environment, it is a responsibility. sands to mitigate the ecological Flint is particularly proud Located in three major impacts of this development. of the Athabasca River Water deposits in northern Alberta, “In July 2007, we implemented Management Framework. the oil sands generate nearly 50 Specified Gas Emitters Regulation The framework places strict per cent of Canadian oil. They which require oil sands plants to limitations on company water also generate controversy. Those reduce their greenhouse gas emis- usage and is based on the highest who oppose the recent increase sions. We do a lot of air, water and level of protection for the aquatic in development voice concern land monitoring and have a very ecosystem afforded to any major about greenhouse gas emissions, active reclamation program,” Flint river in Canada. pollution of fresh water supplies, explains. “We are managing our water deforestation and danger to Although water usage plays an differently than we have in the wildlife. integral part in the development past,” says Flint. “We need to “Some of the biggest opposition of oil sands, protecting Alberta’s make sure oil sands development and criticism we face is from water supply is of paramount is sustainable and generate international agencies like the importance. policies that look at what we have Sierra Legal Defence Fund and “We have rigorous standards today and what we will have in the Natural Resources Defense in place for water quantity and the future.” Council. We are accused of a free- quality. We take thousands of

Photo: Michael Holly Photo: for-all,” Flint says. water samples per year, both down

“Encourage your community to continue improving knowledge and understanding of water and the environment through education and research” partnership with Indian and integrity. The strategy will understand water-related issues government on the need for a Northern Affairs Canada, is combine traditional Aboriginal and lead by example. national water strategy to ensure developing the Northern Voices, knowledge of the environment “Encourage your community the protection, preservation and Northern Waters, an NWT with scientific knowledge to to continue improving knowledge good management of our aquatic Water Resources Management ensure future development is and understanding of water ecosystems from coast to coast.” Strategy. Three key areas of sustainable and compatible with and the environment through focus are: transboundary water protecting aquatic ecosystems. education and research,” management; the protection of As water is essential to Miltenberger says. “Push your community public water supply all Canadians, Miltenberger elected representatives to sources; and aquatic ecosystem challenges citizens to better make the case with the federal

U of L journal 19 Travel Journal

Life Lessons

“I was exposed to a new culture and a dynamic work environment.”

A U of L education doesn’t just take place within the walls of classrooms. This past summer U of L management student Fiona Geldreich learned that first hand during a co-op placement in Botswana, Africa.

Geldreich was one of the more products from recycled materials, situations while serving as a PR than 20 students selected in turn providing economic and fundraising volunteer for ST. to receive funding from empowerment for women. During the four-month term, she ConocoPhillips Canada Inc. During her time in Africa, developed inventory databases to head out on world-wide Geldreich was forced outside her for the Green Shop, implemented placements. comfort zone and faced multiple new marketing strategies and While in Botswana, she worked cultural challenges including made presentations to local with Somarelang Tikologo - issues such as appropriate dress, schools. Environmental Watch Botswana the widespread AIDS/HIV “It was the best experience of (ST), an organization involved situation and language barriers. my life. My time in Botswana in many environmental projects “I was exposed to a new will always remain close to my including the operation of the culture and a dynamic work heart and has inspired me to only recycling centre in the environment. As a result, I continue taking risks whether country, a community organic became a more confident they be personal or professional,” gardening program, a playground individual,” Geldreich reflects. Geldreich says. “I would do made from recycled materials Taking what she had learned the whole thing over again in a and an income generating Green at the U of L, Geldreich applied second!” Shop that sells locally-made textbook theory to real-life 20 U of L journal Travel Journal

Geldreich gives a presentation on the environment to approximately 200 local students. Geldreich with fellow ST staff members.

During her time in Botswana, Geldreich had the opportunity to participate in a traditional dance festival, as well as a two-day wilderness safari. Photos Submitted

Geldreich models a hat made in Botswana’s colours, made from recycled plastic bags and sold in the Green Shop. U of L journal 21 Alumni News

Greetings to members and friends of the 2008/2009 U of L ALUMNI University of Lethbridge ASSOCIATION COUNCIL

President Alumni Association (ULAA): Sheila McHugh DipEd ’84, MEd ’97

Vice-President Holly Debnam BA ’97

Past President Doug McArthur MgtCert ’90

Treasurer Grant Adamson BSc ’03

Secretary Cheryl Pollmuller MgtCert ’97

Directors Sarah Amies BA ’88 While the academic school year is will be held on June 17 and is open you to Luke Elford (BMgt ’04), Don Chandler BASc ’73 Ted Likuski BEd ’74 winding down, May and June are to all alumni. This meeting will see Karen Filbert (BMgt ’90), Winky Jeff Milner BFA ’06 busy months for the University of a change in executive and room Lai (BMgt ’05) and Kelly Ngo Rebecca Remington BSc ’90 (BMgt ’04) for their continued Shaun Serafini BMgt ’02 Lethbridge Alumni Association for new members to fill director Faisal Shaffi BMgt ’03 as we prepare for the annual golf positions. I invite you to support service. Council looks forward Rachel Yamada BMgt ’07 tournament and for our Annual the ULAA through your presence to working with you to ensure a Board of Governors Reps General Meeting. and perhaps consider becoming strong representation of the U of L Sheila McHugh DipEd ’84, MEd ’97 The John Gill Memorial Golf involved as a member of council or and its alumni in Calgary and the Kevin Nugent BMgt ’88 Tournament will be held on by helping with alumni events. surrounding community. Senate Reps June 12. It is one of council’s top The end of May brings us to one Finally, as I finish my term as Robert Christiansen BMgt ’07 Kathy Lewis BN ’83, MEd ’99 priorities as its purpose is to raise of the ULAA’s highlights of the president, I want to thank the funds for bursaries while having year – the induction of our 2009 members of council, the chapters Students’ Union Rep Alumni Honour Society Members. and all our volunteers for their Jeremy Girard fun. Our late ULAA President, John Gill (BA ’94), who initiated the Congratulations to: Chris Burton dedication and commitment to Calgary Chapter President golf tournament, saw the need for (BEd ’74, DipEd ’78), Doug Colwell the ULAA and the U of L over Karen Filbert BMgt ’90 these bursaries to help students in (BSc ’74), Delia Cross Child the past two years. Thanks also First Nations, Métis and financial need. (BA ’96, BEd ’02), Dean Gallimore to Maureen Schwartz and Jaime Inuit Chapter Chair Leroy Little Bear BASc ’72, DASc ’04 I urge you as alumni to join (BMgt ’84), Cecily Kenwood Morasch (BMgt ’01) for all us either as a team, alone or with (BA ’78) and Guy McNab (BA ’82). they do to support the Alumni Contact us: The University of Lethbridge a friend, and participate in this Read more about these outstanding Association and its chapters. I will Alumni Association worthwhile event. If you cannot, alumni on the following page. continue to enjoy working with 4401 University Drive W Welcome to the new members them as well as the present and new Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 please consider supporting the Phone: 403-317-2825 present and future students of of the Calgary Chapter – Kristin members during my term as past Toll-Free: 1-866-552-2582 the University of Lethbridge by Krause (BMgt ’05), Georgina president of ULAA. E-mail: [email protected] contributing to ULAA events and Lieverse (BMgt ’07), Lindsay bursaries in other ways. O’Neill (BMgt ’06) and Brock Sheila McHugh DipEd ’84, MEd ’97 22 U of L journal President, Alumni Association Our Annual General Meeting Melnyk (BMgt ’06) – and thank University of Lethbridge Alumni News The Alumni Honour Society | 2009 INDUCTEES

In celebration of the University’s 35th Anniversary in 2002, the University of Lethbridge Alumni Association established the Alumni Honour Society to recognize the achievements of successful alumni within the global community. The individuals inducted into this prestigious group serve as role models through success in their vocation, outstanding community service or superior accomplishment in their avocation.

Christine Burton Lawrence Dean Gallimore BEd (1974), DipEd (1978), BA BMgt (1984), CA, CBV, FCA Christine Burton is a champion of youth Lawrence Dean Gallimore is the office who has dedicated her life to teaching, managing partner for KPMG LLP in coaching and participating in Girl Guides Lethbridge. Dedicated to his profession of Canada. Active in guiding for the past and respected by his peers, he has received 50 years, she will take on the role of Chief the Institute of Chartered Accountants Commissioner of Canada in 2009. Burton’s of Alberta Distinguished Service Award commitment and enthusiasm to youth and (2001) and was honoured as a Fellow of the the community is demonstrated through Institute of Chartered Accountants of Alberta awards such as Lethbridge Woman of (2008). Gallimore has generously served the Distinction (1989), Queen Elizabeth II community, chairing such committees as the Golden Jubilee Medal (2002), Alberta Chartered Accountants Education Foundation Sports Hall of Fame (2006) and LCI of Alberta, the University of Lethbridge Teacher of the Year (2008). Planned Giving Advisory Committee and the Faculty of Management Advisory Committee. Douglas Duncan Colwell BASc (BSc) (1974), MSc, PhD, FRES Cecily Anne Kenwood Douglas Duncan Colwell is a research BASc (BA) (1978), LLB scientist at the Lethbridge Research Cecily Anne Kenwood is a local lawyer who Centre and is a valued adjunct professor has devoted much time to the Lethbridge in the Department of Biological Sciences community. She was a long-time member of at the University of Lethbridge. He the Lethbridge Regional Legal Aid committee is internationally recognized for his and received an award of recognition from studies on the interactions between Legal Aid Alberta in 2008. At the University insect parasites and their animal hosts, of Lethbridge, Kenwood has served as and he is active on numerous top-tier vice-president of the Alumni Association editorial boards, professional associations and as a member of the Senate. In addition, and graduate student committees. For she has been a board member with diverse his expertise, integrity and substantial organizations including the Lethbridge John contribution to the field, Colwell was Howard Society, St. Michael’s Health Centre, honoured as a Fellow of the Royal Waterton Beargrass Festival and Nikka Yuko Entomological Society in 2006. Japanese Gardens.

Delia Threasa Cross Child Alan Guy McNab BA (1996), BEd (2002) BASc (BA) (1982), LLB Delia Threasa Cross Child is a Blackfoot Alan Guy McNab is a partner at MacLachlan artist and educator whose creativity McNab Hembroff, Barristers and Solicitors, and compassion have brought pride to in Lethbridge. He has served as counsel for her community and awareness to First the federal government of Canada on various Nations issues. As a contemporary artist, provincial inquiries, volunteered his time she is known for integrating tradition providing public legal education workshops and history with a modern sensibility. since 1990 and is an active member of the Her work has been exhibited at the Lethbridge Legal Guidance Society. During his Glenbow Museum, Walter Phillips time on the University of Lethbridge Board of Gallery and Southern Alberta Art Gallery. Governors, McNab was respected as a leading As a teacher, she has woven traditional member who made significant investments of visual literacy into her curriculum to time and effort on behalf of the institution. successfully inspire and motivate learning

in students. U of L journal 23 Alma Matters

Alumni Events

May 27, Lethbridge June 3, Medicine Hat June 26, Calgary June 12, Lethbridge Alumni Celebration Medicine Hat Annual Calgary Please join us in celebrating Reception Chapter Golf the 2009 Alumni Honour Join U of L President Dr. Bill Tournament Society inductees: Chris Cade and your fellow alumni Burton (BEd ’74, DipEd ’78), Alumni and friends, register at the Esplanade Museum. Doug Colwell (BSc ’74), Delia now for this popular golf Cross Child (BA ’96, BEd ’02), Location: Esplanade tournament in Calgary. Dean Gallimore (BMgt ’84), Arts & Heritage Centre Location: Silverwing Golf (401 First Street SE) Course (3434 48 Avenue NE) Cecily Kenwood (BA ’78) and Support U of L students while Guy McNab (BA ’82). Time: 5 p.m. Time: Shotgun start at 2 p.m. enjoying a round of golf with Wine and cheese reception. RSVP by May 29. Registration: $125 alumni and friends. A portion (registration due by June 10) Location: U of L Students’ of all entry fees will go toward Union Ballroom To register, contact: bursaries to assist students in Time: 7 p.m. June 17, Lethbridge [email protected] financial need. RSVP by May 25. ULAA Annual General Meeting Location: September 17, Lethbridge Get involved and find out Picture Butte Golf Club May 28, Calgary what is planned for your Health Sciences Pints, Platters Alumni Association in Alumni Dinner and Time: 2009/2010. Shotgun start at 1 p.m. and Patios Lecture Wine and cheese reception. Come out and meet fellow Health Sciences alumni are Registration: $150 U of L alumni in Calgary at Location: U of L Coulee invited to reconnect with the Junction Café U of L and fellow classmates. this casual mix n‘ mingle Deadline to register The alumni dinner will be event. There is no cost to Time: 7 p.m. is May 29. attend and appetizers will be followed by a public lecture provided. featuring veteran Canadian Diplomat Stephen Lewis. Location: The Barley Mill (201 Barclay Place SW) Dinner: 5:30 p.m. Time: 5 p.m. Lecture: 7 p.m. To RSVP, e-mail Georgina To RSVP, contact the Faculty Lieverse at: of Health Sciences at [email protected] 403-329-2699.

To RSVP, for more information or to volunteer for any of these events, e-mail [email protected] or call 403-317-2825. Watch for more details on these and other upcoming events by visiting: www.ulethbridge.ca/alumni

24 U of L journal Alma Matters

Contact us by e-mail, phone or mail. We look forward to hearing from you!

WHAT’s NEW? Alumni Relations Submissions chosen for publication may be edited for length University of Lethbridge and clarity. The requested information is collected under the Share Your News WITH US authority of the Alberta Freedom of Information and Protection 4401 University Drive W, Lethbridge, AB, T1K 3M4 of Privacy Act, for the purpose of managing the alumni records Let your classmates know what you are up to Phone Toll-Free: 1-866-552-2582 for use in University of Lethbridge publications. Questions by sharing a note about your life. E-mail: [email protected] concerning the collection, use and disposal of this information can be directed to University Advancement.

News and notes from your classmates

’70s Gary Duell BASc ’76 Grant Ford BEd ’71 “After being involved in the ownership “Following graduation from the U of L, and management of New Way Irrigation I taught high school English and drama Ltd. in Taber, Lethbridge and Brooks for in Rimbey, Alta. I then chose a new career 30 years, I now own and operate a photo path in medicine and attended Lethbridge studio, Prairie Sky Photography, with my College. I graduated from the nursing wife Beverly.” program in 1974 and practised as a medical surgical RN for a number of years Marilyn Kimmitt BEd ’76, DipEd ’85 at the Lethbridge Municipal Hospital. In “I have been living in Banff since 1982. 1988, I transferred to the Royal Island After 34 years of teaching, I retired in June Hospital in Kamloops, B.C. I am presently 2008.” retired.” Jim Hillyer BEd ’77, MEd ’91 John Nagy BASc ’71 “Marianne and I started when the U of L For 14 years, Nagy researched grizzly bear was located at Lethbridge College. Her populations for the Northwest Territories, student number ended with 106 and mine Alberta and British Columbia. He also ended with 114. We were just eight people taught ecology and wildlife management apart on registration day and didn’t know at Lethbridge College for three years. it. I lived in the ATCO residence buildings Dale Pytcia BASc ’85 Currently, Nagy is a senior biologist for and met Marianne when we both entered Pytcia is the senior manager of licensing and merchandising for Hockey the Department of Environment and residence when the university opened Canada (formerly known as the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association). Natural Resources for the Government of in its present location. Marianne was In charge of creating revenue streams for HC, Ptycia sets up licensing contracts Northwest Territories, in Yellowknife. He is in C321, and I was C333. We met often that allow companies access to intellectual property and trademark designs. a PhD candidate (biological sciences) at in the walkover on level D to watch TV Royalties generated from merchandise support grassroots hockey programs the University of Alberta. and to do laundry, etc. We had many across the country. great and lasting friendships among our Donald Johnson BASc ’72 fellow students and faculty. Eleven of our Johnson is president of the Alberta children are grown and have left the roost. Joanne Overn BEd ’78 Kim Lynch-Staunton BASc ’81 Association of Municipal Districts and We are still raising the last three.” “I began my degree when the University Lynch-Staunton is the communications Counties. was still housed at Lethbridge Community coordinator for the Greater St. Albert Irene Pfeffel BASc ’77 College in 1963. I taught full time and Catholic Schools and a director for the Norman Sheen BEd ’72 “I am a client services coordinator with as a substitute teacher in Lethbridge and Friends of the Royal Alberta Museum “Since retiring from teaching, I have Persons with Developmental Disabilities, a area for many years, taking time off to Society. enjoyed being a substitute teacher. I also division of Alberta Seniors and Community raise two daughters with my husband, spend my time on our acreage tending Supports.” Rick. I ended up working in libraries; Alan Riley BASc ’81 our few animals, working in our garden, obtaining a full-time position in the Riley is coordinator of the golf and keeping our lawns and flower gardens Alice Sheen BEd ’77, DipEd ’79, U of L Library in 1990 and am still here management program at Grant MacEwan beautiful. We are kept busy attending the MEd ’87 today. I love being a part of the University College. numerous activities of our grandchildren “Since retiring from teaching and being a community, particularly my involvement in sports and cultural events.” counsellor at Cardston High School, I went with the students. I’m looking forward to Barbara Warren BEd ’81 to the University of Calgary and obtained retirement years when I will get to spend “Having retired from teaching, my Edward Hofman BASc ’73 a degree in social work. I have worked more time with my four grandchildren!” husband and I spend the winter months “I now have more than 33 years as at LDS Family Services in Lethbridge as in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. While there, I a wildlife biologist with Alberta Fish a caseworker/counsellor for the past 15 Carmen Mikhail BASc ’79 spend my time working with pastels and and Wildlife, Sustainable Resource years.” Mikhail is an assistant professor in the John spends his time teaching English to Development. I started in Lethbridge Department of Pediatrics, Psychiatry and the local children.” in 1974, then transferred to Brooks Larry Nickel BEd ’78 Behavioral Science at the Baylor College (1978), Red Deer (1988), Hanna (1994), Nickel has been a high school performing of Medicine in Houston, Texas. She is also Denise Bekkering BEd ’82 Strathmore (2000) and finally Drumheller arts teacher for 25 years, teaching concert director of the Eating Disorders Clinic at “Harry and I have moved to Calgary in 2004. My wife and I plan to retire in the band, jazz ensembles, choir and drama. the Texas Children’s Hospital. after living in Saskatoon for five years. Hanna area soon.” During this time, he has directed more I am teaching at Lester B. Pearson High than 50 stage productions, including School.” several Gilbert and Sullivan operettas. He ’80s Geary Yamashita BASc ’74 Jocelyn Taylor BEd ’80 is an active music festival adjudicator and Mary-Jean Newman BEd ’83 “I survived hurricane Charley in 2004, “I am teaching with the Saskatoon Public clinician. In 2001 and 2002, his senior “I am a full-time senior kindergarten which destroyed my office. I have rebuilt School Board as a resource teacher for choir was selected as Best of High School teacher at St. Gregory Catholic Elementary a clinic in Port Charlotte, Fla.” middle-year students. I have been married Choirs by Varsity Vocals’. In 2003, Nickel School. I have been here for seven years, 40 years and have a daughter who is now took a leave from teaching to pursue after returning from teaching and working attending university.” a doctorate in composition, which he in Thailand for four years.” completed in 2007.

U of L journal 25 Alma Matters

Trevor Mowbrey BMgt ’91 P.E.I. I am also an adjunct professor in Mowbrey is president of St. City Roasters the Faculty of Education at the University Ltd. and Spirit Bear Coffee Company Ltd., of Prince Edward Island. I am married to which specializes in organic and naturally Barbara and have one son, Jakob.” certified coffees. Nick Nilsson BASc ’96 Memorese Walter BEd ’91, MEd ’04 Nilsson has been a personal trainer for “I’m back up in the Peace Country, teaching the past nine years and is vice-president again after a two-year personal leave, of BetterU Inc., which provides online during which time I did contract work personal training programs and tips. for an educational software company in Edmonton. It’s nice to be ‘home.’” Rose-Marie Nyberg BA ’96 “I am happily employed as a litigation Ken Boessenkool BMgt ’92 assistant at Peterson & Purvis LLP. I In January, Boessenkool moved from Hill graduated with a bachelor of arts with a & Knowlton to Grey Communications history major in the spring of 1996 and Inc. Canada (GCI) to launch a public attended graduate studies at Carleton (l-r) Russ MacKay BMgt ’90 and Anil Tahiliani BMgt ’90 affairs practice. GCI is a Toronto-based University from 1997 to 1999. After Former U of L classmates MacKay and Tahiliani are now senior partners at McLean communications company. working in Ottawa from 1999 to 2002 in & Partners, one of Canada’s most respected, high net worth private-client wealth various contract positions, I moved back to management firms. Judi Dormaar BA ’93, MEd ’03 Lethbridge in the fall of 2002 and remain Dormaar has owned Classique Dancewear happy to have made Lethbridge my in Lethbridge for 14 years and recently permanent home.” Ruth Hempsey BEd ’84, BASc ’87 Alberto J. Rodriguez BEd ’88 opened up a contemporary home “After we moved to Edmonton in 1987, I Rodriguez is a professor of cross-cultural fashion store called Nicholai. As well, Mark Nikota BMgt ’97 worked in the reference department of the science education at San Diego State she has taught at Lethbridge College in “I am manager of the Chinook Credit Edmonton Public Libraries’ main branch for University. the fashion design and merchandising Union in Hanna and have lived here for several years, but left when I was overtaken program for the past nine years. just about 11 years. I am married with a by ill health. I am now retired. My husband Bradley Kotowich BASc ’89 four-year-old boy. I would recommend the retired a few years ago from a long “I am the owner/principal of Focused Chris Ryder BMgt ’93 U of L management program to just about career with the provincial government’s Leadership Group, which facilitates “I got my chartered accountant anyone that asks because of the friendly transportation department and is now individual and organizational growth designation in 1996 and later joined Dia atmosphere, small classes and well working part-time as a professional through leadership training, strategic Met Minerals Ltd. as controller. Dia Met rounded program that the U of L offers.” engineer for a private company.” planning, conflict resolution and team was sold to BHP Billiton in 2001, and I building. I am married to Jamie and have am now the marketing director for BHP Lionel Peyachew BFA ’98 Denise Dirk-Feininger BEd ’86 two teenage daughters.” Billiton Diamonds, responsible for global Peyachew has been selected to construct “I am currently working as the curriculum handling, marketing strategy and sales one of the largest bronze sculptures in and instruction coordinator for the Lucille Labrecque BMgt ’89 of diamonds. I am based in Antwerp, Saskatchewan for the Painted Hand Casino. Medicine Hat Catholic School Division.” “I work with the Alberta Provincial Belgium – the world centre for the rough The sculpture will depict a scene of two Government, Northwest Alberta Child and diamond trade – and also serve on the Mark Mauthner BASc ’86 Family Services Authority as a regional global BHP Billiton marketing executive Mauthner is assistant curator and museum contract specialist. I am currently working committee as well as the diamonds and data specialist for the Gemological on my early childhood development specialty products executive committee. Institute of American in Carlsbad, Calif. certificate through distance education at Each is responsible for governance Grande Prairie Regional College. Learning and global strategy in their respective Maureen Newton BFA ’86 is a life-long process.” categories. My wife Janet and I enjoy Newton has recently opened an art studio travelling and attending concerts and and gallery called Inspire Studio and Leighanne MacKenzie BN ’89 music festivals. We will likely return to Gallery in Medicine Hat. It is her painting MacKenzie is the director of Emergency Kelowna, B.C., once the time comes.” studio and where she teaches drawing Services, Trauma Care and Neurosciences and painting classes to students of all for the Vancouver Health Authority. Dwayne Latty BSc ’95 ages. Inspire has a gallery that features Latty is a fisheries biologist for Alberta not only the artwork of Newton but also ’90s Sustainable Resource Development. that of other local artists. In 2008, Inspire Veronica Lok BA ’90 Studio and Gallery won the Chinook “I am presently working as a registered Cindy DaRosa BA/BEd ’96 Entrepreneur Challenge. marriage and family therapist in my “After teaching for four years, having private office, Veronica Lok Counselling kids and subbing for seven years Karen Reid BMgt ’86 Services.” (which I loved), I’m now the children’s Reid was recently honoured as a Fellow of ministry director at Hillcrest Evangelical the Society of Management Accountants Missionary Church in Medicine Hat. Heather Johnson BMus ’91 Kevin Gaudet BA ’91 of Canada. Reid resides in Lethbridge and I give direction to all the programs Johnson is founder and artistic director In 2007, Gaudet began working as is the chief financial officer for Charlton for kids ages 0-12, which involves of Cantilon Choirs, a community-based the Ontario director of the Canadian & Hill Group. She sits on Charlton & Hill approximately 180 kids and a lot of choral program in Edmonton. The program Taxpayers Federation (CTF) and became Group’s Executive Leadership Team and volunteers. My education background involves more than two hundred singers the federal director in January 2009. As oversees the accounting operations for is essential to what I do here, and it’s in five levels of choirs for all ages. Johnson director, he is responsible for looking at three companies. a unique opportunity for a teacher. I also maintains an active voice and piano all policy matters relating to the federal actually get to teach others how to studio. government. The CTF advocates for lower Wesley King-Hunter BSc/BEd ’88 teach in the church setting. The Faculty “I moved to Medicine Hat in 1988 and taxes, less waste and a more accountable Brian McGurk BMgt ’91 of Education Legacy publication is currently am in my 21st year as a teacher and government. Gaudet does whatever McGurk is vice-president, people services stunning. I feel proud to be a U of L administrator at Medicine Hat High School. is necessary to get that message at SMART Technologies. He joined SMART alumnus.” I have spent numerous summers working out, whether it is planning a rally or in 2007 with more than 15 years of senior- with the Alberta provincial volleyball team presenting his flat tax message on the level people management experience Kevin MacLeod MEd ’96 and the Team Canada national volleyball television show Dragons’ Den. ranging from airlines to wireless “I am a career education consultant for team at different age levels.” the Eastern School District in Stratford, communications. 26 U of L journal Alma Matters

bronze horses with riders going full gallop. Jason Masuda BSc ’00, MSc ’02 head at Ecole Sir John Franklin High School The enlargement and wax/clay will be done “Since January 2008, I have been an in Yellowknife. by Peyachew, with the casting and bronzing assistant professor at Saint Mary’s A L U M N I completed by the Shidoni Foundry in University. I specialize in inorganic Aaron Bilawchuk BFA ’04 AUTHORS Santa Fe, N.M. The sculpture is planned to chemistry.” Bilawchuk is working for White Iron Digital be unveiled by the end of September 2009. in Calgary. He assisted on the visual effects Peyachew has been an assistant professor Teri Lindquist BEd ’01 team for the Shaw high-speed internet at the University of Regina and the First Lindquist is an MEd student in teacher “Snailskis” campaign, which won Best Nations University of Canada for the past libarianship at the University of British in Show at W3, an international web four years. Columbia. competition.

Ellice Schneider BSc/BMgt ’98 Christina MacMillan BMgt ’02, Brandie Dunn BSc ’04 “We welcomed our second child, Jacob, in MgtCert ’08 Dunn is a foundation and research April 2008. Jacob is regularly adorned with “I am an HR advisor for the Edmonton coordinator for St. Michael’s Health Centre kisses and punches from his big brother, division of Thomas and Betts. I am also still in Lethbridge. Joshua, who was born in November 2006.” trying to go through all my miscellaneous boxes from moving so much.” Amy Timlick BHS ’04 Connie Blomgren MEd ’99 “I will complete my thesis for a master “I am employed with Livingstone Range Betty Poulsen BEd ’02 of psychology degree at the University of School Divison and also a visiting graduate After graduation from the U of L, Poulsen Calgary in April 2009.” Transdiscipline: In the professor with Athabasca University. I started a dance program at Lethbridge obtained a PhD from the University of Collegiate Institute. Currently this is the Jessie van Rijn BFA ’04 Search for New Forms of Calgary in 2007.” only full high school dance program south Van Rijn is currently living in Vancouver, Theatrical Expression of Calgary. The program produces two B.C., and is the general manager of Bryan Korithoski BSc ’99 shows each year and offers travel study Carousel Theatre for Young People, where Lily Marquez MA ’06 “I’m currently a postdoctoral research trips every two years. Students engage she has worked for the past three years. Marquez, the U of L Faculty of Fine associate in the Department of Oral in field trips, work with professionals, She sits on the Board of Directors for the Art’s first international graduate Biology, College of Dentistry at the participate in residencies with Jessie Richardson Theatre Award Society. University of Florida.” professionals and take in summer school “I love being a part of such a vibrant student (Mexico), has published opportunities. company. Although my studies at the her master’s thesis. This document J. Todd Lybbert BA/BEd ’99 U of L were performance-based, I have describes and analyzes the process Lybbert is a teacher (math, physical Tracy Quinton BA ’02 found my niche in the Canadian theatre of research and production for education) at Willow Creek Composite Quinton is an agricultural management community as an arts administrator – I High School in Claresholm, as well as instructor at Lakeland College in Vermillion. have never looked back.” the experimental play Via Marina: athletic director and head football coach. A Woman’s Journey. Based on Karan Sonpar MSc ’02 Melissa Larkin BMus ’05 the author’s personal experience ’00s “I’ve finished my PhD (I can’t believe “I am an administrative assistant for between the Mexican and the it) and am now working as an assistant Wishart, Norris, Henninger and Pittman Michael Chikinda BMus ’00 Canadian lifestyles, Via Marina professor of strategy at the Instituto de LLP. I am also the associate music director Chikinda completed his PhD in music Empresa in Spain, which is consistently for Front Street United Methodist Church presents a vision toward the theory at The State University of New York ranked among the top 10 business in Burlington, N.C., and a private voice benefits of transdisciplinarity for (Buffalo) in 2008. He is presently teaching schools of the world. Lethbridge was so teacher.” at Queen’s University. the stage. foundational and essential to my success!” Jenessa Vande Griend BA/BEd ’05 Szabolcs Hajdu BMgt ’00 “I am a full-time elementary art specialist Following graduation, Hajdu worked at Jessica Williamson BMgt ’02 Williamson won the Saskatchewan at Edmonton Christian West School.” GMAC in Edmonton. Upon the completion Chamber of Commerce ABEX Young of his MBA, he was promoted to the Entrepreneur of the Year award for her Morgan Bell BMgt ’06 position of borrowings analyst in the successful active-wear store in Moose “I was accepted into the master of arts treasury department at GMAC’s Canadian Jaw, Sask. (international business and economics) head office in Toronto. After four years program at a partner school of the in Toronto, Hajdu recently relocated U of L in Schmalkalden, Germany in 2006. to Calgary and is currently a treasury Landon Kowalzik BA ’03, BEd ’06 Kowalzik is the social studies department Through this, I was able to obtain a specialist with WestJet Airlines. Display Your Degree With Pride! You’ve worked hard, invested years and now you’ve earned your degree. Showcase your achievement by having your parchment professionally framed. Fishing for Bacon

Michael Davie BMgt ’94 Davie’s first novel, Fishing for Bacon, follows Bacon Sobelowski, an 18-year-old boy with an absentee father, a neglectful Diplomat Briarwood Antique Wood Gold mother and the worst timing one can possibly have. And all he To order, please contact the Alumni Association or visit www.ulethbridge.ca/alumni to download an order form. wants is to find his “someone.” Phone: 403-317-2825 E-mail: [email protected] Money raised by the Alumni Association through frame sales helps to support ongoing activities and services for alumni and to build scholarships.

U of L journal 27 Alma Matters

Rob Izsak BMgt ’08 “I am employed by Rogers Sugar in Taber as an HR generalist. This position has IN MEMORIAM helped me stay in southern Alberta and close to my four-year-old son Trysten.” The University of Lethbridge wishes Deryk Nilsson BA/BMgt ’08 to extend its sincerest condolences “I am working as a financial analyst to the families and friends of the for Nexen Inc., a Canadian-based following: international oil and gas company. It’s Agnes M. Monroe BEd ’75 an excellent position that I was offered passed away on July 24, 2008. seven months before graduation. I give a great deal of credit to the U of L’s co-op Irma E. Paul BEd ’74 program for getting me where I am today. passed away on July 29, 2008. It’s a truly excellent program that puts you ahead of the crowd.” Helen M. MacKenzie BEd ’79 passed away on Oct. 16, 2008. Angela Grier BA ’03 Andrea Nwobosi BMgt ’08 Judith C. Lopez-Damian MEd ’08 Grier is pursuing her master’s of counselling at the U of L while working as “I got married on July 23, 2008, in the an academic assistant in the Addictions Counselling program in the Faculty of Mayan Riviera, Mexico. Since graduating, passed away on Nov. 10, 2008. Health Sciences. Grier has been a presenter at the Aboriginal Sovereignty Series I took the summer off and was recently Myrna L. Churchill BN ’82 at the Banff Centre since 2002, and this past fall she taught a course on First hired as a store manager with Reitmans. passed away on Nov. 11, 2008. Nations family and community development in the U of L’s Department of Native I’m excited to put my management American Studies. degree to work!” Marjorie Haugen BEd ’72 passed away on Dec. 12, 2008. Emma Parkinson BMus ’08 full-ride scholarship to complete my MBA moving to Calgary in 2007. He has also Mezzo-soprano Parkinson has been cast Erik O. Goble BEd ’84 in San Antonio, Texas. In February, I will been a part of Alberta Theatre Projects’ to sing in The Tragedy of Carmen at the passed away on Jan. 25, 2009. take a position teaching business classes playRites Festival, One Yellow Rabbit’s Banff Centre this summer. Parkinson Eileen Moltzahn BEd ’78 at a university in China.” High Performance Rodeo, and Sage was the winner of the 2007 Lethbridge passed away on April 6, 2009. Theatre’s Ignite! Festival, as well as a Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Laurie Johnston MEd ’06 number of Fringe Festival productions Competition. She travelled to Cuba with Cody Maves BMgt ‘08 “After serving for two years as vice- across Alberta and Saskatchewan. Cseke the U of L Singers in 2007. principal at R. D. Parker Collegiate in is also a stand-up comedian and an passed away on April 10, 2009. Thompson, Man., I have returned to ensemble member of Tickle Trunk Theatre, Kurtis Pratt BA ’08 Alberta. I am now a vice-principal at a theatre for young audiences company “I was accepted into the Alberta • • • • Foothills Composite High School/Alberta that promotes literacy through the arts.” Governments Municipal Internship High School of Fine Arts in Okotoks.” program and will be working for the Town Mitchell Eastley BSc ’07 of Raymond until at least May 2009.” Carl Granzow Patrick Sulatisky BMgt ’06 “I’m working for the City of Steinbach as passed away on April 11, 2009. Sulatisky is the owner and operator of a a GIS developer/technician maintaining Sandra Sommerville BFA/BEd ’08 As a founding member of the Calgary-based sport and tourism business the City’s GIS database for all city “Surprisingly, I actually only started University of Lethbridge Faculty called Glory Kiteboarding. He is also a infrastructures and ensuring that our staff substitute teaching a few weeks ago. certified instructor with the International has the most up-to-date GIS information For the past year, I have been working of Fine Arts (Art Department), Carl Kiteboarding Organization. and resources at their request.” as a professional fire performer and Granzow was an internationally– motivational speaker in schools. I learned known sculptor, long-serving Tamara Wasiak BSc ’06 Ashley M. Fox BSc ’08 about fire spinning while at the U of L U of L faculty member, lecturer, Wasiak recently graduated from the Fox was awarded the Northlands and fell in love with it. After graduation, I creative influence and friend to University of British Columbia with a Leader of Tomorrow award which decided to pursue my passion and so far many on campus and off. master of science degree and is working recognizes volunteers under the age of I’ve performed in Hawaii and Las Vegas. for the Richmond School District as a 25. She was nominated by the Farmfair Getting my teaching degree gave me both Recently, Granzow had worked speech language pathologist. International Beef Show committee for the confidence to get in front of a crowd with the U of L Grounds staff to her contribution to programming that and the organizational skills needed to run create the 100-Tree Grove, a Morteza Ahmadi MSc ’07 ensures sustainability of agriculture a business. It’s been a great experience all project that consists of a large “I am currently a PhD student at the and youth opportunities in the beef around.” department of system design engineering industry. Specifically, she chaired the planting of trees and a rock spiral sculpture on a hill at the University of Waterloo, working in Junior Beef Showcase program. She is Andrea Sproxton BA/BEd ’08 overlooking the lake on the the advanced nano and micro device lab.” working toward a professional agrologist Sproxton has been nominated for the designation through the Alberta Institute Alberta School Boards Association Edwin U of L campus. Colby Cseke BFA ’07 of Agrologists. Fox is currently employed Parr Award, which is awarded to first-year Cseke is an actor and playwright who has with Cargill AgHorizons as an assistant teachers who demonstrate instructional worked with the Downstage Performance farm marketing representative. excellence. Society in a number of productions since

Conference & Event Services Your ‘One-Stop Shop’ for Conference and Accommodation Needs The University of Lethbridge offers on-site accommodations May through August that can accommodate anything from a single traveller to a large group in our townhome or apartment-style lodging. Whether you are planning a tournament, camp, conference, getaway or anything in between, the University of Lethbridge can offer expert advice and planning assistance to make your event run smoothly. For more information, call 403-329-2244 or visit www.uleth.ca/anc-con 28 U of L journal President’s Message

Dear U of L Alumni, Welcome to the spring 2009 issue of the Journal.

As you read through this issue, you’ll notice a reading about your fellow alumni: In the fall, we will debut a new University theme flowing through the pages: water. Kevin Rumsey (BSc ’00), Stephanie of Lethbridge magazine. You’ll continue to Water is our most precious resource. It’s Palechek (BSc ’01), Ben Gadd (BASc ’72), see your favourite features from the Journal the source of all life on Earth, and it’s an Chad Willms (MSc ’05), Denise Calderwood in the new magazine, along with many new important economic and strategic resource. (MEd ’93), Jeremy Emerson (BFA ’08), ones. Watch for it this fall. It’s also a research focus at the University of Shannon Flint (BMgt ’07) and J. Michael Lethbridge. Miltenberger (BASc ’75) and the Sincerely, In fall 2008, years of hard work by many outstanding work they are doing in people came to fruition when we opened the their respective areas. Alberta Water and Environmental Science Last summer, U of L co-op student Fiona Building (AWESB). This new facility houses Geldreich travelled to Africa to work with some of the world’s foremost scientists and an organization implementing eco-friendly enthusiastic graduate students who are solutions in Botswana. She shares her photos making significant strides in research and and experiences with us in the Travel Journal. Bill Cade, PhD discovery. In this issue of the Journal, we As always, this issue of the Journal President and Vice-Chancellor proudly provide a glimpse into the AWESB highlights all the exciting news and events Professor of Biological Sciences and some of the fascinating research our that have taken place on campus as well faculty members and students are engaged in. as within the University of Lethbridge U of L alumni are also making big waves Alumni Association. I encourage you to stay in environment-related fields locally, connected with the U of L and share your provincially and abroad. I hope you enjoy story with the Alumni Office.

U of L journal 1 Campus Updates Spotlight on Research The Alumnac Alumni News Alma Matters “Being part of the first wave of graduate students at the new Alberta Water and Environmental Science Building has been amazing. I’m 2 5 11 22 24 especially thrilled to be so close to the Foothills and Rocky Mountains where my fieldwork takes place.”

How does graduate studies impact the globe?

Shilo Andrews, an MSc candidate working with Dr. Larry Flanagan, is conducting research that will help to determine the consequences of climate changes, such as warmer temperatures and shifts in the availability of water sources for the growth and functioning of mountain trees. By combining expertise and experience from a range of academic disciplines, she can make use of a variety of research tools to better understand the functioning of plants, ecosystems and the atmosphere as an integrated system. It’s a unique approach to research that is made possible because of the U of L’s new Alberta Water and Environmental Science Building, a state-of-the-art facility which unites scientists from biology, chemistry, geography and physics. Editor Spotlight on Research: Alesha Farfus-Shukaliak BA/BMgt ’01 Water and the Environment Associate Editors Jana McFarland, Project Manager Meet a few of the world-class researchers who are working School of Graduate Studies Jaime Morasch BMgt ‘01 to preserve and better manage our earth’s resources. [email protected] Design 5 Sarah Novak Design 403-329-5194 Feature Writers www.uleth.ca/sgs Jana McFarland Rob McMahon Natasha Evodkimoff BA ’95, BMgt ’97 Stacy Seguin BA ’07 Contributors Stephenie Chester Bob Cooney Caitlin Crawshaw GROUP HOME AND AUTO INSURANCE Trevor Kenney for alumni of the University of Lethbridge Lynette LaCroix Multimedia Cert ‘01, BMgt ‘01 Proofreader/Fact Checker Betsy Greenlees Photography Protecting the Planet PROTECTION MADE EASY... Bob Cooney Jones Foto From Banff to Afghanistan, U of L alumni are making GROUP RATES MADE EASIER! Glenda Moulton BFA ’03 big waves in water-related initiatives. Read on to see Bernie Wirzba BASc ’82 As an alumnus of the University of Lethbridge, you can Alumni Liaison how they’re living out individual commitments to Jaime Morasch BMgt ’01 SAVE on your home and auto insurance through preferred 11 ensure a greener tomorrow. Maureen Schwartz group rates, while enjoying high-quality insurance products Printing Print West and outstanding service.

Cover photos submitted by Kevin Rumsey. Request a quote and you could The U of L Journal is published by the Office of University Advancement at the University of Lethbridge. The opinions expressed or implied in the publication do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Lethbridge Board of Governors. Submissions in the form of letters, articles, story ideas or notices of events are welcomed. Insurance program endorsed by Correspondence should be addressed to: Pushing Boundaries U of L Journal University of Lethbridge Last summer, U of L student Fiona Geldreich travelled MelocheMonnex.com/uleth 4401 University Drive W to Africa to work with an organization implementing Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 eco-friendly solutions in Botswana. Find out how Tel: 403-317-2825 Fax: 403-329-5130 1 866 352 6187 E-mail: [email protected] her experiences at the U of L prepared her for the (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) www.ulethbridge.ca 20 challenges she faced. The Journal Online The TD Insurance Meloche Monnex home and auto insurance program is underwritten by SECURITY NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY and distributed by Meloche Monnex Insurance and Financial Services Inc. in Québec www.ulethbridge.ca/alumni/publications.html and by Meloche Monnex Financial Services Inc. in the rest of Canada. *No purchase required. Contest ends on January 16, 2010. Skill-testing question required. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Complete contest rules available at MelocheMonnex.com. Meloche Monnex® is a trade-mark of Meloche Monnex Inc. TD Insurance is a trade-mark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, used under license.

Projet : Annonce MMI 2009 Province : Alberta Épreuve # : 4 Client : Meloche Monnex Publication : Journal Date de tombée : 13/03/09 No de dossier : Format : 8.25x5.4 D-MM7748-09_MMI (8.5x5.4)•uleth_EN Couleur : 4 couleurs Graphiste : Marie-Josée Proulx

Hamelin Martineau • 505, boul. de Maisonneuve O. Bureau 300 • Montréal (Québec) H3A 3C2 • T : 514 842 4416 F : 514 844 9343 ATTENTION : Merci de vérifi er attentivement cette épreuve afi n d’éviter toute erreur. journal Spring 2009 | Volume 12 No. 3 | www.ulethbridge.ca UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Ripples in History By providing access to clean water, Kevin Rumsey (BSc ’00) brings hope and tides of change to war-torn Afghanistan.

Daniel Derksen (BN ‘06) is currently a RNBN at the Chinook Regional Hospital. His daughter Stacy (BN ‘08) is a RNBN at the Taber Hospital.

As a U of L alumnus and as a father, I believe in education.

At 40, I went back to school to fulfill my lifelong aspiration to become a nurse. I never anticipated the self-satisfaction and enjoyment going back to school would bring. THIS IS OUR U My professors were approachable and truly cared about my success. The nursing program’s problem- The U of L has a 42-year history of excellence in based learning style enabled me to develop my critical education. Share the tradition in your family. thinking abilities – skills that I use every day.

A few years into my program, my daughter Stacy Application deadline: June 30 joined the U of L. Together, we shared in the joys and To apply, visit: discover.ulethbridge.ca struggles of learning. Stacy graduated in 2008, two short years after me.

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