S PRING 2 013

BEAUTY OR BLIGHT? Concordia experts analyze graffiti and street art

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AIMING TO STREET ART OR SUCCEED PUBLIC NUISANCE? Concordia graduate Graffiti can be urban students get a head start blight or vivid street art. on their after-school Concordia experts career paths thanks to enter the debate. GradProSkills. By Patricia Maunder By Lucas Wisenthal 16

MAKING THINGS CELTIC, CANADIAN 10 PERFECTLY QUEER AND CONCORDIAN The multi-volume Queer With a newly launched Film Classics series, major, Concordia’s School edited by Concordia’s of Canadian Irish Studies Thomas Waugh and offers students a sprawling Matthew Hays, examines range of courses on a diverse catalogue the Emerald Isle and its of gay- and lesbian- Canadian diaspora. themed movies. By Barbara Black 22 26 By David King

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: FINE ARTS DESIGNED TO BE DIFFERENT The faculty celebrates the many recent accolades From the classroom to of its studio arts faculty, online forums, Concordia’s students and alumni. Department of Education By Liz Crompton brings its own slant to 36 teaching teachers. By Jake Brennan 30

spring 2013 volume 37 number 1 magazine.concordia.ca

Cover: A graffiti-covered Montreal building — 3 EDITOR’S VOICE increasingly common and controversial Credit: Linda Rutenberg 4 LETTERS 5 CONCORDIA NEWS This publication is printed on 100% recycled paper, including 20% post-consumer waste. Each ton of recycled 38 ALUMNI NEWS paper that displaces a ton of virgin paper reduces total energy consumption by 27%, greenhouse gas emissions by 40 CLASS ACTS 47%, particulate emissions by 28%, wastewater by 33%, solid waste by 54% and wood use by 100%. 46 WORDS & MUSIC 48 ENOUGH SAID accent alumni-newsletter

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SETTING AN EXAMPLE: Producing champions

“I run a thriving Montreal business called Truck ’N Roll, which specializes in transportation for the performing arts. As someone who played high-level hockey, I recognize how my sports experience However, it’s not just about the money. I greatly enjoy getting — along with my Concordia education — contributed to my success. to know the students. These young people will go on to be tremendous ambassadors for Concordia. Many former Stingers I greatly appreciate the dedication it takes to be a student-athlete. have performed at the highest level of national and international That’s why I believe it’s important to give back and to support competition — and many more have achieved great success in varsity athletics. other fields. They proudly carry the Concordia legacy. Five years ago I attended a Concordia benefit where I met Stingers I think our role as alumni includes helping these student- football coach Gerry McGrath. We talked about student-athletes athletes shine in their sport as well as in the classroom and in and I asked what could be done to make our team the best. That’s life. That means attending games, volunteering our time and, when the idea of the Champions Club unfolded. importantly, providing financial support. The main goal of the club is to raise money for student-athlete The Champions Club started with the football team and scholarships and bursaries. In the last four years, through the now we’d like to create a similar program to encompass all annual Champions Club Dinner we’ve raised $250,000 — which Concordia’s varsity sports. I’m trying to bring passion to the is outstanding. university, and I’m proudly doing it through athletics.”

Ghislain Arsenault, BComm 85

Join Ghislain Arsenault in supporting Concordia student-athletes. Info: concordia.ca/alumni-giving | 54-848-2424, ext. 338 | -888-777-3330, ext. 338 | [email protected] Setting an Example ad.indd 1 07/09/2012 10:07:53 AM

2 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine EDITOR’S VOICE

Cross-multi-disciplinary

ince his arrival last summer, Concordia President Alan Shepard Shas often spoken of the distinct upper hand enjoyed by the university due to the frequent collaboration between its professors and researchers across all fields. As he said in the fall issue of this magazine: “This is the time for urban universities like ours. It’s a time for work that crosses disciplines. That’s a real strength at Concordia.” Universities are by definition — In all, quite a mix. are their primary information source as the root of their name implies — Most areas of academic study remain about the institutions. That means that universal, or multidisciplinary, that is, based in their own discipline, of course this magazine’s role is to communicate relating to or making use of several — math students still have to focus on and reflect Concordia’s assets: dynamic disciplines at once. However, areas math, chemistry students on chemistry, research, standout faculty and students, that bridge fields —cross-disciplinary — and so on. Yet increasingly, academ- high-achieving alumni and important are newer phenomena. ics who are able to work closely with community outreach, along with its It’s easy to spot these crossing colleagues from other departments, cross-disciplinarity. Finding such disciplines in any Concordia University or even their own, gain many benefits. examples will never be a problem. Magazine or Accent e-newsletter. The This issue profiles the Department of winter 2012-13 magazine issue featured Education (see “Designed to be differ- food experts from Concordia’s Centre ent” on page 30) and four of its faculty for Interdisciplinary Studies in Society members, whose research interests and Culture (see “Thought for food” on range from teaching early childhood Concordia University Magazine welcomes page 25), and highlighted professors of educators to investigating how metal readers’ comments. Letters should include the writer’s full name, address, school(s), design and computation arts, religion, music fans interact online. Their co­ degree(s) and year(s) of graduation for marketing, and engineering and com- operation expands their own knowledge alumni. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. No letter will be published without the puter science. base. They in turn pass that along to full name of the correspondent.

This issue profiles Concordia’s make better informed and rounded Concordia University Magazine is published GradProSkills program, which recog- students, or apply it to research that four times a year for alumni and friends of Concordia University. Opinions expressed nizes the need for all graduate students will have wider societal relevance. herein do not necessarily reflect the views of — from aerospace to theological Alumni magazines are suited to the alumni associations or of the university. studies and everything in between — taking advantage of universities’ Please address editorial correspondence to: The Editor, Howard Bokser to learn after-graduation skills such multi- and cross-disciplinary nature. Concordia University Magazine as management and leadership By covering Concordia’s many streams 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W. FB 520, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8 (see “Honing their skills” on page 10). rather than focusing on one topic, like Phone: 514-848-2424, ext. 3826 We also spotlight the School of Canadian a trade magazine, this publication can email: [email protected] Irish Studies (see “Celtic, Canadian and offer something for everyone — or try to. For advertising information, call Concordian” on page 22), the only pro- A recent alumni magazine readership 514-848-2424, ext. 3819. gram of its kind in Canada. The school, survey by the Council for Advancement Editorial contributor: Scott McCulloch Student intern: Shaimaa El-Ghazaly which now offers a major, presents and Support of Education confirmed courses in academic areas as varied that alumni magazines serve as gradu- Design: University Communications Services T13-12333 as literature, geography and theology. ates’ main link to their alma maters and

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 3 LETTERS NOTICES

SUMMER 2012

WINTER 2012/13 GENETICALLY CallMODIFIED for chapter DANGER SWEET HINDU Regardingvolunteers “Epicurean RETAILING RELIGION The commercialization of the holy days adventure or environmental TRADITIONS We’reoutrage” seeking (winter volunteers 2012/13, to help organizepage events29): It inis Californiaan outrage and Washington State.that weIt’s ina meaningfulNorth America way to ooking at the Hindu tradition, network and giveare unableback to toyour determine alma mater. particularly in India, For morewhether information, the grocery please contact items we commercialization of certain buyLina are Uberti, genetically alumni modified. officer, Lholidays is evident in the giving of UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE Geographic Chapters, In Europe, customers have elaborate gifts by those with the thisat [email protected]. right and may choose economic means. Other important APOCALYPSE WHEN > RETHINKING FOOD > STRIKING OUT FEAR to buy genetically modified holiday celebrations are restricted to food or not. religious ritual, or puja. ConcordiaNOTICE University Magazine The public may be unaware Diwali, or the festival of lights, marks welcomes your letters. We that genetically modified a change in season and celebrates the reserve the right to choose the organisms (GMOs) are prob- legend of Rama, who returns home after Concordia Sports Hall of Fame gan letters we print and to edit for lematic in more ways than R defeating the demon king Ravana to o M lengthCall and forstyle. Nominations Write to us at: one. 1) Although the industry find his kingdom filled with candles, ouise Concordia University Magazine has been saying that GMOs L The deadline for nominations to be considered for the 2013 signifying the triumph of good over evil. SHITAL SHARMA Editorinduction ceremony is are good for us, independent LEARNING TO FLY Modern-day celebrations are 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., FB 520 studies disagree. Of course, January 31, 2013 characterized by decorating the Montreal, QC H3G 1M8 these studies are immedi- Reach 90,000 Quebecers! home with candles, families coming Or: [email protected] should be accompaniedately by attacked as much by supporting powerful The idea that the sacred should be documentation as possible, because it is the documentation together, social gatherings and festivals. interests as being unreliable. Magazine — not the number of times a name is put forward or Advertise in “Traditionally people would exchange completely untouched by material culture 2) The unmistakable effect sweets, or desserts. You might get endorsed — that is considered at the time of selection. Concordia University IRANIANNominations do not expire if theyof are growing not selected GMO food is the yourself a new garment. Since it’s I think is very idealistic. DIFFERENCESin the year in which they are made.proliferation of huge weeds, The quarterly provides advertisers with such an auspicious time of year, this is The section titled “True to its necessitating the ever great- an excellent and cost-effective way also when people would do an annual into India. “Traditionally, gold would why can’t commodities be resignified and Visit athletics.concordia.ca/nomination.html for a to reach our affluent and highly Muslimnomination roots” formin the or article call 514-848-2424, er use ext.of pesticides. 3852, 3) The cleanup, paint their house — or even have been given as a gift showing status, brought within the religious sphere?” educated readers. “Deckfor themore malls” information. (winter harmful tyranny of corporate move into a new house,” explains Shital whereas now you might give a Louis Sharma asks. “The idea that the sacred 2012/13, page 16) refers to interests pertaining to this For information about advertising rates Sharma, a lecturer in Concordia’s Vuitton purse as a gift or a Porsche, BMW should be completely isolated and the pre-IslamicGO STINGERS! No Ruz, the issue is manifesting itself in and publication deadlines, contact: Department of Religion. or the latest flat-screen TV!” she says. untouched by material culture I think Iranian New Year. In fact, other ways as well. Should an Yanick Dahan Now, in addition to exchanging sweets, Religious celebrations have also been is a very idealistic way of talking about for Iranians, its celebration independent farmer’s fields celebrants also give more expensive gifts influenced by pop culture, she contends. religious celebration.” Coordinator, Alumni Services & actually represents the happen to be in the path of Marketing like jewellery. Usually the elder family “People watch soap operas and Bollywood She adds that religious holidays in all antithesis of being “true to wind, they may become in- members would give to the younger ones. films and see the clothes they’re wearing, cultures involve community building and CALL FOR CLASS REUNION Phone: 514-848-2424, ext. 3819 Muslim roots.” fected by foreign GMOs. Fax: 514-848-4510 The Indian festival of Raksha- the jewellery, the types of ritual objects social interaction with family members at CHAMPIONS FOR HOMECOMING 2013 Moreover, despite the For example, Saskatchewan Email: [email protected] bandhan, which means string of they’re using — and those are the types of churches or temples. “It’s marked now by article’s prominent refer- farmer Percy Schmeiser protection, celebrates the bond between things that will be sold in the market.” the exchange of commodities,” Sharma ence to Iranian culture, unsuccessfully sued neigh- brothers and sisters. The sister will tie Religious paraphernalia and ritual says. “I don’t think it dilutes the reli- no mentionGraduates is from made the that classes of 1963bouring and earlier, agricultural 1968, giant a protective string around her brother’s objects have become commodities gious significance. Historically, kings or Concordia1973, 1978, is home 1983, to 1988, a 1993, 1998Monsanto and 2003 after will he reunite discovered UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE wrist and, in return, the brother will give available in stores. Through wealthy merchants and landowners would Centreto celebrate for Iranian their Studies anniversary yearsgenetically at Homecoming modified 2013. plants her a gift. “Traditionally, a simple silk or industrialization and mass production, display status with lavish celebrations. I (iranianstudies.concordia.caIf you would like to volunteer), asblown a Class onto Champion his property. cotton thread would suffice, but now you today statues might be made outside of think it’s always been a marker of status, thefor only your one reunion in Canada. class, please contactApparently Erin Mullins, our judicial can buy string with 24-karat gold threads India rather than through a hereditary except now it’s open to everyone.” associate alumni officer, Homecomingsystem is and not Reunions,as independent or diamonds,” says Sharma. lineage of artists. “If I choose to put it in Richardat [email protected] Foltz oras 514-848-2424, it is believed to ext. be. 3881. > SELF-BRANDING ADVICE Since India’s trade liberalization my shrine or a temple, a mass-produced Professor and Director, policies opened markets in the early object becomes a sacred object. If ConcordiaHelp us Centre bring togetherfor your formerKazimiera classmates J. Cottam, to BA 64 1990s, Western goods began streaming religious objects can be commodified, Iraniancelebrate Studies this meaningful event.Nepean, Ont. > CONCORDIA’$ CONTRIBUTION

NON-TRAD LAWYERS

4 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine 18 | winter 2012/13 concordia university magazine concordia university magazine winter 2012/13 | 39 CONCORDIA NEWS niversity U ordia c on © C

LEFT TO RIGHT: JIM PFAUS, ANDRÉ PICARD AND NAOMI WOLF ONSTAGE FEBRUARY 7 AT CONCORDIA’S D.B. CLARKE THEATRE.

NAOMI WOLF AND JIM PFAUS TALK SEXUAL DESIRE

packed house of 350 enjoyed a lively, often humorous exchange between author Naomi Wolf and Concordia psychology professor Jim Pfaus at Concordia’s D.B. Clarke Theatre on February 7. The talk, called “Sexual desire and the effect of neurochemicals on behaviour,” was the first of the four-part Concordia University-Globe and Mail National A Conversation Series on Aging Well. The Globe and Mail’s André Picard moderated the frank conversation between Naomi Wolf, author of The Beauty Myth (2002) and Vagina: A New Biography (2012), and Pfaus, a member of Concordia’s Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology. The series continues on April 18 with a talk about mental health and the workplace; and wraps up on May 1 with a discussion on how embracing a healthy lifestyle through your later years can help you stay physically and mentally sharp. To watch videos of past talks and find out more about upcoming events, visitconcordia.ca/talks.

IMPROVING YOUR HEALTH BY COMING OUT

new study headed by a Concordia director of the Centre for Studies on A graduate dispels an old notion Human Stress at Montreal’s Louis H. about lesbians, gays and bisexuals Lafontaine Hospital. They examined 20 (LGBs) who come out. Rather than biological markers to assess mental and adding anxiety, as many believe, the physical health of the subjects. Juster ROBERT-PAUL JUSTER study found that LGBs who reveal their concentrated on the cortisol hormone, sexual identities are healthier mentally which is released in response to stress. lower levels of psychiatric symptoms and physically than those who hide In excess, however, it can result in than those who kept it a secret. their orientation. However, coming negative physiological changes. Juster’s findings conclude that social out might only be advantageous when Published in January in Psychosomatic policy plays a key role: “Societies must tolerant social policies are in place. Medicine, the study discovered that gay endeavour to facilitate self-acceptance The study’s main authors were and bisexual men experience fewer among LGBs by promoting tolerance, Robert-Paul Juster, BA (pysch.) 06, a depressive symptoms than heterosexual progressing policy and dispelling stig- doctoral candidate in neuroscience at men. LGBs who are open about their ma. This may no longer be a matter of McGill University, and Sonia Lupien, sexual orientation also demonstrated popular debate but of public health.”

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 5 CONCORDIA NEWS

GROWING UP BILINGUAL

anguage mixing — using elements from L two languages in the same sentence — is frequent among bilingual parents and could pose a challenge for vocabulary acquisition by one- and two-year-old children, according to a new study by Concordia assistant professor of psychology Krista Byers-Heinlein. Those results are likely temporary, however, and are often counterbalanced by cognitive advantages afforded to children raised in a ard W

bilingual environment. avid Until recently, little has been known about D RESEARCH BY CONCORDIA ASSISTANT PROFESSOR how often parents switch between languages OF PSYCHOLOGY KRISTA BYERS-HEINLEIN INDICATES THAT GROWING UP IN A BILINGUAL HOUSEHOLD HAS when interacting with their toddlers, and LONG-TERM BENEFITS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN. how that influences vocabulary size. Byers-Heinlein, who is also director of the Concordia Infant Research Laboratory and a member of the Centre for Research in Human Development, and Janet Werker’s Infant Studies Centre in Vancouver, worked on the study. It found that 90 per cent of parents reported mixing languages in interactions with their children for such reasons as when The John Molson Executive there was no adequate translation or they were not sure of a word. Centre and Institute for It also revealed that exposure to parental language mixing predicted significantly fewer Governance (IGOPP) words understood in the younger children, and marginally fewer words spoken in the are pleased to present a older children. “High rates of language mixing make it harder for children to categorize Colloquium on Corporate words they hear,” Byers-Heinlein explains. “That could lead to slower word learning and Ownership and Control in smaller vocabularies.” However, she adds, “Studies comparing monolingual and bilingual Quebec and Canada: infants have shown that bilinguals are more adept at switching between strategies and are more able to learn two rules at the same time.” What are the roles of – Cléa Desjardins the private and public sectors in dealing with CONCORDIA MOURNS foreign acquisition of PASSING OF LEONARD ELLEN local businesses? eonard Ellen, LLD 03, one of Concordia FRIDAY MAY 31ST, 2013 L University’s most cherished supporters, died on March 13 in Florida at age 87. Ellen is survived REGISTER TODAY by his wife of nearly seven decades, Bina, as well as using the CODE: JMEC their three daughters and large extended family. “The loss of Leonard Ellen will be felt deeply throughout Participation Fee: Concordia and Montreal,” says Concordia President $140 regular $49 for students Alan Shepard. “He was a true gentleman who was Special rate: passionate about our university and his city.” $499 for a group of 5 Ellen made his mark as a businessperson, phi- lanthropist and volunteer. He joined Concordia’s Board of Governors in 1986. He For more information visit: soon became a member of its capital campaign committee and, in 1992, one of the johnmolson. Concordia University Foundation’s first directors. “Leonard championed Concordia concordia.ca/igoppevent in its formative years,” says Norman Hébert Jr., BComm 77, chair of the Board. Ellen contributed to a long list of Concordia campaigns, scholarships and bursaries, among other areas of support. Avid art collectors, the Ellens were inspired to make an instrumental donation to support Concordia’s art gallery when it relocated to the J.W. McConnell Building in 1992. In honour of their role, it was renamed the Leonard & Bina Ellen Art Gallery. – Howard Bokser

6 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine IMMIGRANTS: HIGHLY EDUCATED, UNDERPAID

he cab driver who was an engineer in his home EARN A CREDIT T country, the gas station attendant who used to teach CERTIFICATE IN physics, the cashier who trained as a pediatrician. New • MARKETING immigrants repeatedly find themselves in jobs for which their level of education outstrips the requirements, • HUMAN RESOURCES meaning a major loss for the Canadian economy. • BUSINESS PRACTICES In a paper recently published in the peer-reviewed • ENTREPRENEURSHIP open-access journal ISRN Economics, Mesbah Sharaf, an assistant professor in Concordia’s Department of Economics, found that two thirds of recent immigrants to Canada possess more education than their jobs require. Using data from the most recent Longitudinal Survey of Immigrants to Canada, Sharaf measured job- CONCORDIA ASSISTANT PROFESSOR education mismatch for new Canadians. He found that OF ECONOMICS MESBAH SHARAF. six months after their arrival, 76.3 per cent of men and 71.8 per cent of women have more education than their jobs require. Sharaf explains that “new immigrants face barriers like lack of work experience and having few contacts in the Canadian labour market. They often don’t possess the necessary language skills and lack the social networks that could help in finding better jobs.” Other reasons include lack of recognition for foreign experience and credentials, costly accreditation and licensing requirements by professional associations and poor source-country schooling quality. • I want the business career of Yet there is reason for hope. Sharaf’s research proves that the incidence and my dreams. intensity of over-education decrease with the length of an immigrant’s stay in Canada. • I want flexibility to take courses Because over-educated workers suffer from high job dissatisfaction, increased online or at night. absenteeism, low productivity, poor health, job instability and low wages, the problem • I want skills I can use immediately. costs the economy up to $5 billion a year, according to the Conference Board of • I want state-of-the-art business Canada. “It could really help the economy if the government directed resources skills so I can earn that promotion. toward closing the job-education gap for recent immigrants,” says Sharaf. — Cléa Desjardins • I want to start and manage my own business successfully.

ALUMNI TAKE HOME FILM AWARDS Concordia University’s School of Extended Learning makes university ebelle (War Witch), written and possible. Join people like you seeking directed by Kim Nguyen, BFA a more successful, fulfilling career and R 97 (right), and produced by upgrading those essential skills. These Pierre Even, GrDip (comm. studies) credit courses are taught by experienced 90, collected 10 Canadian Screen professors with relevant industry Awards, including best motion credentials, in class and online. picture, in Toronto on March 3. Nguyen earned best director and universityispossible.ca original screenplay awards, while Nicolas Bolduc, attendee 94, won for For more information: 54-848-8600 or achievement in cinematography. [email protected] The poignant drama, now available on DVD in Quebec, received a prestigious Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film in January. The film tells the story of 12 year-old Komona, played by exceptional newcomer Rachel Mwanza. Komona, who can see ghosts that warn her of approaching enemies, is kidnapped by African rebels and forced at gunpoint to kill her parents and fight as a child soldier. Rebelle is the fourth feature film for Nguyen, a graduate of the Mel Hoppenheim School of Cinema. We make university possible.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 7 CONCORDIA NEWS

CONCORDIA GRADUATE DISCOVERS WHY I HIRE UNPUBLISHED NOVEL

t wasn’t so much an “aha!” moment as guarded optimism when Concordia alumnus I Jean-Christophe Cloutier, BA 05, picked up a 1941 manuscript whose provenance was eventually traced to Harlem Renaissance writer Claude McKay. McKay is regarded by literary experts as one of the foremost left-leaning black intellectuals of his age. STUDENTS Cloutier made his discovery while working as an intern at Columbia University’s Rare Book and Manuscript Library. As a Columbia graduate student in English and comparative literature, he had been sorting through a collection of the papers of American publisher Samuel Roth. That was in 2009. Since then, Cloutier and Brent Edwards, his dissertation advisor “Co-op is a smart way to fill staff and Columbia University English professor, have established that the novel is authen- shortages and preview potential tic. The discovery even garnered the researchers a headline in the New York Times. employees. I know because I did my The manuscript, titled Amiable With Big Teeth: A Novel of the Love Affair Between the first co-op work term at Medisca Communists and the Poor Black Sheep of Harlem, offers a snapshot of Harlem in 1936, Pharmaceutique Inc. in 2001. Now I hire the year in which the satire is set. skilled, up-to-date science, business and The authentication process took Cloutier and Edwards to multiple libraries and five engineering co-op students to help during U.S. universities over a two-year period. “Between teaching and our other obligations, peak workloads and support special we scoured archives with McKay-related materials around the country,” Edwards said. projects. Co-op really works for Medisca. Independent experts who sought to verify the manuscript’s provenance have called Let co-op work for you.” the discovery major. Cloutier, a graduate of Concordia’s Liberal Arts College, described his odyssey and — Jennifer Pinsky, BComm 04, find as a “guide to history.” Edwards believes the discovery will deepen scholars’ un- Concordia University, Institute for derstanding of McKay’s later career and raise questions about other hidden gems. Co-operative Education “Part of the lesson of this find is the degree to which archives are the tip of the ice- Human Resources Manager, berg. There is a lot we don’t know,” he said. Medisca Pharmaceutique Inc. —Scott McCulloch

co-op.concordia.ca

INSTITUTE FOR CO-OPERATIVE EDUCATION Creating enriched educational experiences since 1980 514-848-2424, ext. 3950 [email protected]

BRENT EDWARDS AND CONCORDIA GRADUATE JEAN-CHRISTOPHE CLOUTIER, RIGHT. CLOUTIER UNEARTHED A 1941 MANUSCRIPT BY IMPORTANT HARLEM RENAISSANCE WRITER CLAUDE MCKAY.

8 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine YOU’RE A MEMBER ENJOY THE PRIVILEGES

The Concordia University Alumni Association lets you: n Connect with fellow alumni n Enjoy exciting programs and activities n Take advantage of special benefits and savings

Find out more: concordia.ca/alumni Concordia’s GradProSkills program helps graduate students hone their career skills By Lucas Wisenthal Photos by Joseph Dresdner

The university’s answer was GradProSkills, an expansive suite of workshops and seminars led by on-campus and external providers and designed to give students the tools to excel inside iven his experience as a history professor and, the academy and out. The initiative has so far more recently, Concordia’s vice-president of drawn more than 10,000 registrations by 2,900 G Research and Graduate Studies, Graham Carr is individual students for nearly 600 workshops on keenly aware that the transition from the classroom to the everything from time management to language workplace can prove difficult for many graduate students. training to career building. “As a graduate or doctoral student, you tend to Despite its breadth and size, the program was be very focused on your research,” Carr says. “And, conceived and launched in under a year. In January frankly, the people you’re working with — the faculty 2011, a student-driven working committee of members and the researchers — are encouraging you to graduate students — MAs, PhDs and a postdoctoral think in those terms as well.” fellow — representing each of the four faculties, met That could leave many with advanced degrees not fully to discuss an initiative to meet graduate-student ready for the world outside the classroom. “For several needs. “We were given literally a two-sentence years, people in the graduate studies community have mandate,” says Laurie Lamoureux-Scholes, been talking about the need, with rapid changes in the director of GradProSkills. “Build a suite of training workforce, technologies, the nature of work and the workshops. And can you have it ready by May 1?” globalization of work opportunities, for students in The steering committee at the root of graduate programs to gain additional skills that will help GradProSkills, formed in fall 2010, consisted of prepare them for the workplace and the adaptations that Carr, former associate vice-president of Strategy and are coming their way,” Carr says. Operations Carole Brabant, vice-provost of Teaching According to the Canadian Association of Graduate and Learning Ollivier Dyens, BFA 86, and associate Schools, proficiencies needed by graduate students vice-president of Student and Enrolment Services include “life skills, communication skills, interview Brad Tucker. At the time, Concordia already had a skills, project management skills and leadership plan aimed at fewer students. “The groundwork had skills,” Carr explains. “These are often referred to, been laid,” Lamoureux-Scholes says. “The idea was misleadingly, as soft skills. They’re not. They’re understood. There was enough interest in meeting essential skills. So the question is, what can we add that the need that it prompted the steering committee to will provide students with a broader, more rounded say, ‘Let’s try this, but let’s try to do it where it actu- capability to prepare themselves for the future?” ally reaches the full student body.’ ”

AT RIGHT: PAULA WOOD-ADAMS (LEFT), INTERIM DEAN OF GRADUATE STUDIES, AND LAURIE LAMOUREUX-SCHOLES, DIRECTOR OF GRADPROSKILLS, AT THE PROGRAM’S BISHOP ST. HEADQUARTERS. DEMAND FOR THE YEAR-OLD PROGRAM HAS PROVEN OVERWHELMING.

10 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 11 UNFOLDING GRADPROSKILLS prove to prospective employers that to help you use that knowledge,” Jess The program was designed to unfold their education is worth the salary it says. “It’s helped me with things like in phases. “Phase One, last year, was might command. For those in programs giving class presentations.” conceived to bring together partners like business and engineering, that from across the university and from means “being as good as you can GENERATING INTEREST outside to create GradProSkills’ core possibly be and as marketable as you can About half of Concordia’s graduate offering and test the appetite for it out possibly be,” Carr says. “For students in students come from outside Quebec, there,” Carr says. Partners include disciplines that are not professionally and Carr, Lamoureux-Scholes and Concordia’s French-language program oriented, GradProSkills can potentially Wood-Adams would like as many as Oui Can Help! (see the sidebar “Yes offer an array of skills that allow them to possible to stay in the province after oui can” on page 14), the Centre for think about employment opportunities they graduate. Jess, a native of Ireland, Teaching and Learning Services, they may not have considered.” recently attended a workshop about University Communication Services and Students who do aspire to careers as building a career in French. “I might Advancement and Alumni Relations, instructors and researchers can take also take a French-language workshop, and the Montreal Chapter of the advantage of workshops designed to which is a great opportunity to learn International Association of Business refine their research and teaching skills. French while living in the province, Communicators, among others. “If you don’t have any teaching training, because I might work in Montreal, where the language is a requirement,” he says. Life skills, communication skills, interview “One of the things we love to do is give our students the sense that Quebec skills, project management skills and is a place where they can think about a leadership skills are often referred to as soft future career,” Carr says. “We don’t want to be losing students after they complete skills. They’re not. They’re essential skills. their studies, and offering second- language French training is a huge step in the right direction.” Upon launching, though, the group besides being a teaching assistant, that’s The chief measure of GradProSkills’ behind GradProSkills discovered that not enough anymore,” Lamoureux- success thus far, though, is the the problem wasn’t demand for such Scholes says. overwhelming interest it has generated. workshops: it was supply. “We have The program also preps students As of January, more than 27,000 unique waiting lists for most of our workshops,” for the rigours of their own studies visitors had viewed the GradProSkills says Paula Wood-Adams, interim dean before they begin. Last August, it website 67,000 times; of them, 6,000 of Graduate Studies. Phase Two of launched Grad Base Camp, a collection visits were from out of province and the program in 2012-2014 will see an of workshops designed to prepare almost 7,000 from out of country. “So increase in offerings from collaborators. newly admitted grad students for their it’s definitely getting out there, as the The workshops themselves — led classroom experience to come. The word goes,” Lamoureux-Scholes says. by learning specialists and usually sessions covered all aspects of academic And soon, the annual reports that an hour and a half to three hours in life, from ethics to what Lamoureux- graduate students complete will include length — are geared as much toward a Scholes calls the thesis game plan, a self-assessment of the progress career in the Ivory Tower as they are to walking the candidates through the they’ve made in the areas GradProSkills work in outside sectors. “Leadership is seven steps to a successful paper. focuses on, taking into account the transferable,” Lamoureux-Scholes says. Raymond Jess, who is pursuing an number of workshops they’ve attended. “So are the skills developed through interdisciplinary master’s in English Students set to begin their studies will workshops in areas like strategic literature, history and geography, was also complete a questionnaire about communication, information and digital immediately sold on the workshops. those skills upon registration, while intelligence and career building.” Jess hopes to pursue a career as a alumni will eventually provide The dual emphasis was data-driven, professor. Thus far, he’s taken about similar feedback. she adds. “The statistics for PhD 10 seminars, including sessions on GradProSkills, meanwhile, continues students — and this holds for Canada, oral communication in the classroom to expand. “We would like to create the United States, the Western world — and tips for teaching and research workshops about entrepreneurship,” show about three in 10 will find jobs in assistants. “I think one of the main Wood-Adams says. Carr echoes her the academy.” things when you’re a graduate student sentiment. “It could really position Outside of academia, graduates of is you pick up a lot of knowledge in students well in an innovation economy” master’s and doctoral programs must class, but you don’t pick up a lot of tools in the decades to come. So, too, would

12 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine We love to give our students the sense that Quebec is a place where they can think about a future career. Offering second-language French training is a huge step in the right direction. an emphasis on what Carr calls global skills — the ability to succeed in a global economy and work comfortably in any international centre of industry. Locally, though, the program is also giving graduate and PhD students an opportunity that often goes overlooked: the chance to socialize. “Being a grad student can be very isolating as you work on your thesis,” Jess says. “One of the good things about GradProSkills is that it gets you in touch with other people who are doing similar stuff.” Mohammed Alsubaie, a master’s student at the Institute for Information Systems Engineering, attended a networking night held in conjunction with the Young Chamber of Commerce MASTER’S DEGREE CANDIDATE MOHAMMED of Montreal. “It was a really excellent ALSUBAIE IS AMONG THE MANY GRADUATE STUDENTS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF experience, networking with young GRADPROSKILLS’ SERVICES. professionals and with my friends,” he says. “I met the president of the chamber and we exchanged business cards. I also met people from a software company related to my field, and we completely different disciplines, and shared some ideas. You never know — now their paths have crossed. These these contacts might lead to a job.” relationships could potentially lead Last fall, another outing saw a to research collaborations, to lifelong group of students, many of them friends, and it started through a new to Montreal, attend a Stingers GradProSkills experience. Just like our men’s hockey game against the tag-line says, you really can connect to McGill Redmen. Lamoureux- your future with GradProSkills.” Scholes challenged the students to maintain conversation with each For more information, visit other throughout the match. “They’re graduatestudies.concordia.ca/gradproskills building a community,” she says. “These are people who wouldn’t have — Lucas Wisenthal, BA (journ.) 08, met otherwise, because they’re in is a Montreal freelance writer

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 13 Make a OLLIVIER CHANEL DYENS BOURDON difference in the lives that follow Yes OUI can

llivier Dyens, Concordia’s opportunity to learn French,” Dyens I contacted Concordia through vice-provost of Teaching and says. They then graduate without the Planned Giving, to establish a OLearning, has long believed that tools to find work in the province. “If the university’s students could benefit they want to stay in Quebec, our society bursary to help women like my from greater fluency in French. So would love to keep them.” mother who choose to return to when Quebec’s Secrétariat à la politique With that objective in mind, Oui school in later years to better linguistique approached him and Brad Can Help! also hosts practical events themselves and give new Tucker, associate vice-president of that promote French, like seminars Student and Enrolment Services, about on building a career in Quebec. The opportunities to their families. promoting the language on and around program also has a social aim. “It’s the Sir George Williams Campus, Dyens really to show students that there’s — Tania Shamy was on board. With that objective a French culture, and it’s something BFA 69, GrDip 72, MA 84 in mind, Oui Can Help!, a parallel worth learning about, participating in initiative to GradProSkills and sustained and having fun with.” by some of the same funding, was Chanel Bourdon, BA 03, is launched in October 2011. coordinator for Oui Can Help! and The government, Dyens explains, of Counselling and Development’s initially asked Concordia to create more Francisation program. She organizes French courses for students. Yet he various activities and connects believed that there were already ample students to French-language resources options to choose from, both at the uni- within Concordia and throughout versity and elsewhere. “We said that what the city, as well as secures long-term was probably needed is a body to make partnerships with relevant ministries sense of all of these courses,” he says. to increase funding for students. With the funding it received, Oui Can “Since its 2011 launch, Oui Can Help! Help! began offering undergraduate has experienced exponential growth. students from outside of the province Our success means that students bursaries to put toward French courses. can take on a fulfilling career in the “We got such an amazing response province and consequently remain that we decided, this year, to invest here and make a positive contribution even more money in it,” Dyens says. to Quebec society.” Concordia contributed an additional Dyens is pleased with the project’s $75,000, giving 150 more students the progress and believes it will continue same bursaries, and Oui Can Help! also to flourish. “Concordia has always been recently received funding from the very intimately intertwined with the Office québécois de la langue française. Montreal community, and I think this “A very big issue the university deals is another step in that direction.” View Tania’s story at with — and it’s no one’s fault — is that, concordia.ca/plannedgiving. often, when students come to Concordia For more information, visit from non-Francophone areas, they concordia.ca/services/counselling- 54-848-2424, ext. 8945 or focus on their studies and don’t take the and-development/oui-can-help -888-777-3330, ext. 8945 14 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine UNHEALTHY UNLOCKED UNWAVERING

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Concordia experts discuss the growing, and controversial, graffiti scene

BY PATRICIA MAUNDER PHOTOS BY LINDA RUTENBERG

16 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine STREET ART OR PUBLIC NUISANCE?

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 17 Street art is accessible in every sense of the word and thus attractive to people interested in pushing, breaking or questioning a myriad of socio-political constructs.

infuses contemporary graffiti with some credibility, some canonized link to the past, some ongoing visual narrative. It drives me absolutely bonkers!” Waclawek, author of Graffiti and Street Art (Thames & Hudson, 2011), disputes the links to these antecedents. “They ANNA WACLAWEK, AN AFFILIATE PROFESSOR AND COORDINATOR FOR CONCORDIA’S DEPARTMENT OF ART HISTORY, SAYS MODERN GRAFFITI have very little, if nothing, to do with EMERGED IN AMERICAN EAST-COAST CITIES IN THE 1970S. the graffiti movement that germinat- ed in Philadelphia and blew up in New York City in the 1970s,” she explains. artists; street art can encompass every- “The culture of signature graffiti writing thing from — writing one’s nickname, or ‘tag’ in a murals and stencils to stickers, tiles, highly stylized, mostly illegible manner pasted paper and knitted yarn. — is much more connected to modern The difference between graffiti traditions of advertising and popular and street art is arguably their intent. culture than cave painting.” “Graffiti writers are not looking for From the United States east coast, validation within a system of prestige graffiti eventually spread to internation- outside of their own,” Waclawek says. al urban centres, including Montreal, “Street artists, whether ex-writers, art- particularly through hip hop culture and school graduates or self-taught creators, skateboard culture, especially in films engage the general public in the expe- and publications. As its practitioners rience of art. Whatever one’s ideals, created tags in ever more stylized, co- intention and motivation, the bottom lourful ways, and figurative elements line is that street art is accessible in were incorporated into their work, every sense of the word and thus attrac- people began asking: “Is it art?” For tive to people interested in pushing, the galleries who courted New Yorker breaking or questioning a myriad of Jean-Michel Basquiat in the 1980s, for socio-political constructs.” example, the answer was a resounding yes. Soon the terms street art and, less- CRIME TO SOME common, post-graffiti were coined for Whatever it’s called, is it art or crime? this new form of artistic expression. “To answer that it is both only ignites Although some misunderstanding further questions,” says Waclawek. of their definitions remains, graffiti “How is it that graffiti is recognized continues to be widely understood as as punishable vandalism in certain primarily letter-based — indeed, ac- instances, especially when it makes cording to Waclawek, those within what an appearance as a tag or throwie, and they call the “graff” scene usually con- yet it’s celebrated through advertising sider themselves writers rather than campaigns, numerous commercial

18 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine products and the general public alike Anthropology, is among the majority of when it manifests itself as a large people who feels excluded from signature piece?” (See “A glossary of graffiti graffiti’s conversation. “I always look terms,” below.) at it to try to figure out what it is, what Other contrasts exist within the sub- they’re trying to say, if their name can be culture itself, she says: “It functions seen in it,” she reveals. “I must say at once as a rebellious form of expres- I find it quite difficult.” sion and an organized, hierarchical Like many observers, she is also un- scene; it’s free and accessible to every- able to resolve graffiti’s art/crime one through our daily navigation of the conundrum. An expert in the study of city, and yet the visual communication deviance and juvenile crime and delin- through illegible letter-forms ensures quency, Ford-Rosenthal says it’s hard that non-writers are not invited into the to define graffiti as deviant behaviour. conversation. Writing one’s nickname is “It depends, as usual in the study of de- an act of authorship, but the writer re- viancy, on who’s doing the defining.” mains anonymous to the outside world.” Most jurisdictions consider graffiti il- Angela Ford-Rosenthal, a lecturer in legal, and therefore deviant. Practitioners, Concordia’s Department of Sociology and however, consider graffiti legitimate

WORD ON THE STREET: A GLOSSARY OF GRAFFITI TERMS

Tag: small, monochromatic renderings of graffiti writers’ nicknames in a high- ly stylized form, executed in seconds.

Throw-up, or throwie: larger but still rapidly executed renderings of nicknames, created using two or three colours and including more elaborate designs and techniques such as shad- ow and glow effects.

Piece: short for masterpiece, large- scale works displaying significant technique and creativity, and usually incorporating figurative elements.

Paste-up: paper posters or cut-out designs pasted onto surfaces, usually with flour- or rice-based paste.

Reverse graffiti: designs created by cleaning dirty surfaces, usually with a stencil and high-pressure hose.

ANGELA FORD-ROSENTHAL IS A LECTURER IN CONCORDIA’S Yarn bombing: knitted or crocheted DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY. SHE QUESTIONS THE WISDOM OF SOME MONTREAL BOROUGHS yarn attached to objects including THAT FORCE BUILDING OWNERS TO PAY TO REMOVE GRAFFITI. poles and trees, usually incorporating bold colours and designs.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 19 STERLING DOWNEY, A VETERAN OF MONTREAL’S GRAFFITI SCENE AND REGULAR GUEST LECTURER AT ANNA WACLAWEK’S ART HISTORY CLASSES, PICTURED IN FRONT OF ONE OF HIS OWN IMAGES. DOWNEY CO-FOUNDED MONTREAL’S UNDER PRESSURE FESTIVAL IN 1996.

How is it that graffiti is recognized as punishable vandalism in certain instances and yet celebrated through advertising campaigns when it manifests itself as a large “piece”?

— perhaps especially when undertaken ille- can be part of the middle class or up- at Concordia’s John Molson School of gally. However, as more visually appealing per class, so therefore they reject it, and Business, also raises this derelict motel as and inclusive forms appear, communities that’s an expression of their rejection,” an example of graffiti’s ugly face. However, have come to consider at least some of it she says. “There aren’t really enough he says the spray painters should take only appropriate, even to the point of officially studies on graffiti here in Canada, but some of the responsibility. “I also blame tolerating it. if I had to put it in a category, I’d put it the owner of the building, who should have “Once it’s condoned by the system, it’s in terms of youth culture and creativity had it torn down. If you tear something no longer deviant,” says Ford-Rosenthal, rather than deviance.” like that down there is no surface for them pointing to recent government- She’s outraged that some Montreal to be spray-painting.” sponsored graffiti projects in Montreal’s boroughs force buildings owners to Notre-Dame-de-Grâce neighbourhood; pay to have graffiti removed. “The kids COMMERCIAL CONCERNS Montrealers can view five-storey-high can come back the next day and just do AND POSSIBILITIES pieces by A Shop Collective on the cor- it again,” Ford-Rosenthal says. “Why Pearce is nevertheless excited about ners of Madison Ave. and Sherbrooke St. penalize the victims?” She cites an ex- graffiti’s upside. “We could take those and Decarie Blvd. and Sherbrooke. “You ample familiar to those travelling west people and put them to really productive can organize projects to encourage street out of Montreal: the former Motel work in terms of making bland surfaces youth to express their creativity,” she Raphael on St. Jacques St. near Highway look a lot more attractive,” he says of the says. “Only then does it step over into 20, which has long been covered in graf- graffiti artists. “I look at a city like Genoa, another area — almost non-graffiti.” fiti while redevelopment plans take their Italy, on the Mediterranean Sea, and Ford-Rosenthal reports that British course. “The city would be imposing every building, every house, is painted. studies of graffiti reveal a strong thread fines on the owners for the graffiti but It’s one of the most magnificent things of youth revolting against the system. it’s not the owners’ fault.” you’d ever want to see. In a sense, that’s “These are kids who don’t feel they Brent Pearce, a marketing lecturer graffiti, but it’s art.”

MONTREAL’S CRUMBLING FORMER MOTEL RAPHAEL, RIGHT, IS A TARGET FOR GRAFFITI — AND A VERY PUBLIC EYESORE.

20 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine He recognizes the serious business locally, at least, that’s gone untapped. which calls itself the Mural Kings. Most concerns. “If your building or storefront “The City of Montreal is so far behind the are in Europe, “where it’s really an art is laden with graffiti — the negative, times because in a number of the bor- form,” Pearce says. These include Street non-artistic form — that would be a very oughs there are bylaws that absolutely Advertising Services, Graffiti4hire and strong deterrent for people to go in be- prohibit any kind of graffiti, and that in- GreenGraffiti. Established in Holland in cause we really do judge a book by its cludes wall art. Go to Toronto — they do 2007, GreenGraffiti has expanded inter- cover.” However, he adds, “For busi- it. Go to New York — they do it.” Guerrilla nationally, including into Canada, using ness owners who use wall art or street marketing is underdeveloped in the rest eco-friendly techniques and material such art in a positive sense, that becomes of Canada. “We lack ingenuity and inno- as milk paint, snow stamping and reverse another reason for people to visit that vation when it comes to that,” he says. graffiti, which involves creating words or establishment. It could be one of the big Some advertisers, he points out, have images by scraping away dirty surfaces. shopping centres, it could be just a little come to recognize that it’s “easier to gen- Turning clients’ urban grime into mes- storefront, it doesn’t really matter — erate a visceral reaction using these forms sages? Love it or hate it, graffiti has come because shopping today more and more of media than it is to try to sell a product a long way, although even the experts has to be an experience.” or service,” he says. That has led to the agree we are still far from defining it. Pearce feels graffiti as marketing has creation of commercial enterprises that enormous potential. “Businesses in channel graffiti writers’ skills — usually — Patricia Maunder is a Montreal general and the advertising and commu- into legal billboard-style murals. A hand- freelance writer. nications industry overall are working ful of these businesses have sprung up in to develop the potential,” he says. Yet the U.S., such as New York-based Tats Cru,

SPRAY-PAINTING MONTREAL For two decades, Sterling Downey has been at the centre of “Graffiti is the biggest art movement that’s ever existed,” claims Montreal’s graffiti community, in which he is also known by his tag, Downey, who dipped his toe in the water as a 12-year-old when he — SEAZ. This articulate 40-year-old marketing professional is nothing rather foolishly, he later realized — sprayed his real name on a few like the juvenile delinquent cliché commonly associated with graffiti. walls. He became active during the early 1990s, when, according to Downey, a regular guest lecturer at Anna Waclawek’s art history Downey, there were only about 25 graffiti writers in Montreal. Half classes, contends the reverse is true. “Graffiti writers who have the were from France, and all around age 20: “There were no teenagers most impact and are extremely prolific are much older than people doing graffiti back in my day,” he says. perceive,” he says. “They’re anywhere between 25 and 40.” Around the year 2000, art students began taking their creativity As well as leaving his mark on the city’s walls, Downey has also to Montreal’s streets. “They were still trying to do it in a signature developed Montreal’s graffiti scene by co-founding the Under graffiti format,” Downey recalls. “By 2004 it was more common Pressure festival in 1996, a magazine of the same name three years to use different media than spray paint because there was a lot later and, more recently, the Fresh Paint pop-up gallery. Under of documentation from around the world,” such as Banksy doing Pressure is the world’s oldest graffiti festival, and its 18th instalment stencils and Miss Van using paint brushes. “Now it’s commercialized,” will be held August 10 to 11. he says. “Everyone and their kids are doing it.”

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 21 Celtic, Canadian and Concordian Concordia’s School of Canadian Irish Studies, the only one of its kind, has been an unlikely triumph

By Barbara Black

ichael Kenneally, principal certificate in Canadian Irish Studies, a from the Irish community right across of Concordia’s School of complete package.” Canada. It’s an amazing achievement M Canadian Irish Studies, Behind the school’s steady growth for what was originally an abstract was on tenterhooks. After a long, are three elements: enthusiastic plan.” Donors to the school’s labyrinthine process, he was awaiting Loyola College alumni support, canny scholarship fund give for the pleasure the Quebec government’s final approval programming and brilliant fundraising. of helping a student and honouring for a 42-credit major in Canadian The school is the product of a dynamic the thousands of nameless, 19th- Irish Studies. The program had made partnership between Kenneally, who century Irish immigrants who built its way past all the right committees to conceived the program and steered the Victoria Bridge or scrabbled a the minister’s desk. Finally, in early it through the academic shoals, and hard living in the streets of the Point January 2013, word came through: Loyola alumnus Brian O’Neill Gallery, in Montreal. thumbs up. As a result, the university BA 57, who helped build a $7-million While a handful of other Canadian will be able to offer a Bachelor of Arts endowment to finance it. Yes, seven and American universities offer in Canadian Irish Studies, another million dollars — during a global Irish studies, Concordia’s is the milestone in a Concordia success recession and the taming of the Celtic only program that closely links the story. “It’s wonderful news for us and Tiger abroad. examination of contemporary Ireland validates what we do,” Kenneally says. “It shows the power of alumni,” with its historical importance to “We now can offer a major, minor and Kenneally says. “Our support comes Montreal, Quebec and Canada.

22 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ALUMNUS DAVID SCOTT, FORMER FOUNDATION CHAIR BRIAN GALLERY, PRINCIPAL MICHAEL KENNEALLY AND RAY BASSETT, raser F AMBASSADOR OF IRELAND TO CANADA. shley A

The great waves of Irish immigration preservation and literary expression.” students for the complexity of our to Canada took place in the mid- These issues resonate in Quebec and globalized world.” 1800s and the Irish who once filled around the world. He adds that students also benefit Griffintown and Verdun — now from studying in a small school, with Montreal neighbourhoods — and small RESOURCEFULNESS a hands-on mentoring environment, towns have long since blended into The breadth of the school’s program is within a large, urban university. the multicultural stew of Quebec. Yet a testament to Kenneally’s ingenuity. Amanda Leigh Cox, MA (trans.) 09, Irish roots emerge in unlikely places. Students enjoy courses in literature, who is pursuing an interdisciplinary Kenneally recalls with wonder an history, political science, economics, PhD in humanities, commends the wide incident that occurred when the former geography, arts and popular culture, range of experts and scholars. “They Irish president Mary Robinson spoke women’s studies and the Irish language. make it a fully rounded experience for in the late 1990s at the Canadian Centre The remaining 15 credits are drawn students and provide a global view of for Architecture in Montreal. A French- from a broad selection of Irish-themed Irish culture, historically and in the speaking security guard was moved electives including courses on James present. It’s a very progressive and by her speech. When asked why, the Joyce, Irish film, theatre, the Irish in vibrant environment, and we’re allowed security guard said, “Why not? She’s my Montreal, the Great Irish Famine, the to stretch our wings and follow what president, too.” Troubles in Northern Ireland, Highlights interests us.” Maclean’s magazine once expressed of Irish Literature and Celtic Christianity. As the program grew, Kenneally drew surprise that Montreal would have a “A degree in Canadian Irish Studies on professors from across the university, thriving school of Irish studies because will allow students to explore the history often, but not always, with Irish ancestry. “only a tenth of Canada’s 4.4 million and rich culture of Ireland and its Now, thanks to successful fundraising, Canadians of Irish ancestry call Quebec diaspora and learn about complicated the school has six full-time professors. home.” Yet it’s a country with strangely subjects related to colonialism, Gearóid Ó hAllmhuráin (pronounced subversive appeal. As Kenneally points nationalism, war, religion and more,” Garode O-allveronn) is an Irish out, “Irish history involves cultural Kenneally says. “Ireland presents a anthropologist and ethnomusicologist nationalism, colonialism, post-imperial classic case study of these contentious and the first holder of the Johnson identities, rebellion and independence, issues. And its multidisciplinary and Research Chair in Quebec and partition and decolonization, language interdisciplinary approach prepares Canadian Irish Studies. Gavin

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 23 Foster is an expert on oral history, JAMES JOYCE Drukker says. “The school has an particularly of the final phase of intimate, supportive atmosphere that the Irish Civil War (1922-23). Jane makes me feel glad to be a part of it.” McGaughey studies the Irish diaspora in Canada, the United States and LITERARY ORIGINS Britain, especially the Orange Lodge. The roots of the school go back to Susan Cahill is interested in Irish 1991, when Kenneally was teaching in children’s writing and the Irish girl as Concordia’s Department of English. The a literary and cultural figure. Rhona cluster of courses he developed grew into Richman Kenneally, who is based the Centre of Canadian Irish Studies. in the Department of Design and In 1996, Brian Gallery, a former Computation Arts, is a fellow of the publisher and mayor of Westmount school. She teaches a course on Irish with friends across Canada, became Domestic Space and is editor of the involved in the newly created Canadian Canadian Journal of Irish Studies. Irish Studies Foundation, headed up by Kenneally himself focuses on modern Peter O’Brien until 2002, when Gallery and contemporary Irish literature. As took over. Irish-Canadians, especially the principal Canadian investigator of Loyola graduates, responded with an international team studying memory, enthusiasm and raised $2 million in identity and representations of the past the foundation’s first capital campaign. in Ireland and Quebec, he is looking Kenneally credits much of the success closely at depictions of the Quebec assistant and then as an instructor. I was to Gallery. “The man’s charm is almost Rebellion of 1837. able to design and teach two new courses irresistible,” Kenneally contends. “He on Irish and Northern Irish film, both of just loves fundraising.” BEAUTIFUL BUT which were quite popular.” The philanthropist and the professor DIFFICULT LANGUAGE One of the benefits of being associated set out across Canada to beat the Studying the Irish in Canada offers with the school is the opportunity to meet drum. At first Kenneally was inclined rich rewards for the ambitious scholar. people from Ireland. A steady stream to rhapsodize about Irish writers he Few formal studies have been done of distinguished writers, filmmakers admired, yet he soon realized that the on their influence, and records are scattered or missing. To give just one It shows the power of alumni. Our support example, Concordia emeritus professor of geography Patricia Thornton and a comes from the Irish community right across colleague from McGill University pored over Montreal records and statistics, Canada. It’s an amazing achievement for what and what they found contradicts the was originally an abstract plan. stereotype of the disreputable Irish immigrant. On the contrary, they found a and scholars, even a celebrity chef, have names he was dropping were met with close-knit, upwardly mobile community visited Concordia to inform the general blank stares. After a talk in Calgary, whose members helped one another. public, teach students and share their a man in the audience asked bluntly, This year’s Ireland-Canada University research. “I really appreciated the guests “What’s this got to do with me?” Lesson Foundation Visiting Scholar is Seaghan that Irish Studies brings to Concordia,” learned. At his next stop, in British Mac an tSionnaigh, a young expert Macdougall says. “It helps expose Columbia, Kenneally armed himself on Irish language. This beautiful but students to other perspectives.” with a list of towns named after Irish difficult tongue is a requirement in The traffic also goes the other railroad men, and quizzed his audience some Irish Studies programs, although way. Kelly Norah Drukker, BA 99, to see how many they knew. That did not at Concordia. Nevertheless, is a young poet and non-fiction the trick: they were entertained Kenneally says that about 20 students writer who won a St. Patrick’s Society and intrigued. love it and are specializing in it. Scholarship. She’s writing about the In 2009, when the centre became an The school also supports graduate time she spent on the island of Inis independent academic unit, the new students. Heather Macdougall, who Mór, off the coast of County Galway. school was launched at a gala event. just finished her interdisciplinary “When I decided to return to school to Gallery was on stage, in his element. PhD in humanities, says, “It offers pursue an MA in English and creative Toasts were drunk, dancers kicked scholarships, encourages participation writing, it was essential that I be able up their heels and all the guests, in conferences and provided me to continue my engagement with including then-Quebec-premier Jean opportunities to work as a teaching Irish culture as a part of my studies,” Charest and former Canadian prime

24 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine minister Paul Martin, raised the rafters foundations and, appropriately, the The good news is that the pool of with“Danny Boy.” St. Patrick’s Society of Montreal and potential students is substantial. Clearly Gallery’s heart was behind the Montreal St. Patrick’s Foundation. As luck would have it, several major school. “A man came up to me recently After 16 years, Gallery recently Irish dancing competitions have been and said, ‘I was going to give to the retired, replaced as chair by scheduled for Montreal. The school had scholarship fund, but now that I’ve heard ophthalmologist John M. Little, BA 57. a booth in the Queen Elizabeth Hotel you speak, I’m going to give double,’ ” “I already miss it, but there’s not much last fall at the Eastern Canada Regional he says. “That was wonderful to hear.” more I can do,” Gallery admits. Finals, which had more than 800 participants. Now Kenneally has his eye A French-speaking security guard was moved on the 3,500 to 4,000 dancers who will come to the North American Nationals by Mary Robinson’s speech. When asked why, in July 2014 and the 5,000 at the World Championships in 2015. the security guard said, “Why not? Given a chance to see what the She’s my president, too.” school has to offer and exposure to the enthusiasm and charm of its Wonderful, too, was the support he Recruiting goes on. Part of the challenge promoters, many of those young raised from the Irish, Canadian and is explaining to prospective students what Riverdance aficionados might become Quebec governments — including $2 types of careers a degree in Canadian Irish Concordia students. million from the province to establish the Studies can lead to. “It equips students Johnson Chair, named after three former for a wide range of jobs that require sharp — Barbara Black is the former editor of the premiers: Daniel Senior, Daniel Junior critical and analytical skills, clarity in Concordia Journal newspaper. and Pierre-Marc Johnson. Other sources oral expression, effectiveness in written included proceeds from fundraising communication, and an awareness of the evenings, substantial donations broad issues shaping contemporary life,” from several Canadian corporations, Kenneally explains. resdner D oseph J

LEFT TO RIGHT: MICHAEL KENNEALLY, PRINCIPAL OF THE SCHOOL OF CANADIAN IRISH STUDIES, ANGELA OLAGUERA, CAMILLE HARRIGAN AND SUSAN CAHILL, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF IRISH LITERATURE. IN JANUARY, THE SCHOOL PRESENTED COPIES OF THE ATLAS OF THE GREAT IRISH FAMINE TO OLAGUERA AND HARRIGAN, THE FIRST STUDENTS TO ENROL FOR CONCORDIA’S MAJOR IN CANADIAN IRISH STUDIES.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 25 CONCORDIA’S THOMAS WAUGH AND MATTHEW HAYS REDEFINE CONVENTION WITH THEIR QUEER FILM CLASSICS SERIES

BY DAVID KING PHOTO BY PIERRE CHARBONNEAU

THE CONCORDIA MEL HOPPENHEIM SCHOOL OF CINEMA’S THOMAS WAUGH AND MATTHEW HAYS, PICTURED AT THE SCHOOL, ARE CO-EDITORS OF THE QUEER FILM CLASSICS BOOK SERIES.

26 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine MAKING THING S PERFECTLY

n his seminal 1981 book The Celluloid theory remains paramount. It’s one Closet, late activist Vito Russo of the reasons why Concordia’s Mel I perceptively summarized 80 years Hoppenheim School of Cinema professor of the portrayal of homosexuality in Thomas Waugh and part-time film film with a “necrology,” a list of how studies instructor Matthew Hays, BFA 91, lesbian and gay film characters met their MA 99, launched the Queer Film Classics demise. This included some of the most series in 2009. Nearly two dozen volumes violent murders, suicides, castrations are planned under Arsenal Pulp Press, and executions ever portrayed onscreen written by leading scholars and critics and was a clear reminder of the LGBTQ and co-edited by Waugh and Hays. (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, “Each book allows its author to get queer) community’s skewed under the skin of a film, and to talk representation by Hollywood. about it in a very eclectic way based on Three decades later, times have the reaction of its time, the response of certainly changed — mostly for the critics both straight and queer, and the better — with local cineplexes and TV impact of the film,” describes Hays. networks regularly featuring gay and The 10 volumes published so far offer lesbian characters and storylines, and a blend of critical theory and biography university cinema departments offering that are key selling points in reaching courses on LGBTQ film. Yet the need both academic and non-academic read- for socio-historical context and critical ers. Apart from celebrating queer film

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 27 and addressing LGBTQ character rep- ENDURING PARIS REDEFINING CLASSIC resentation, one of the series’ goals is The QFC series will eventually publish Hays and Waugh’s interpretation to educate youth on the significance of an edition on Waters’ filmFemale of “classic” veers from traditional. LGBTQ films from the past. Trouble (1974), along with Canadian and Hitchcock’s Strangers on a Train — the Waugh first had the idea for a se- international films likeC.R.A.Z.Y. (2005), most recent volume in the series — may ries after following work by his United I’ve Heard the Mermaids Singing (1987) not immediately come to mind when Kingdom peers. “The British Film and Arabian Nights (1974). This year will we think of gay cinema, until we read Institute’s series of monographs on build on transgender cinema, as Arsenal author Jonathan Goldberg’s insight classic and contemporary films had Pulp projects a November release of into Hitchcock’s approach towards been extremely successful since the Lucas Hilderbrand’s astute book about homosexuality and the homoeroticism 1980s,” Waugh says. “But I felt they were Jennie Livingston’s 1990 documentary of the film’s main characters. giving short shrift to queer cinema, es- Paris Is Burning, which chronicles the As Hays explains, the co-editors’ call pecially in the light of the effulgence of drag “ball” scene of New York City in the for submissions helped enrich that di- new queer cinema in the 1990s.” late 1980s. The film captures a cross- versity of content and critical viewpoint. A specialist in film and queer studies, cultural and transgender experience that The pair sifted through a multitude of Waugh wears many hats at Concordia, was practically invisible at the time. author proposals before narrowing down selections, keeping in mind Waters created his own language and his films that films likeBrokeback were such an all-out assault on everyone’s notion Mountain (2005) had al- ready earned their fair of good taste. He created a singular universe in film. share of discourse. They also had to think of including professor of Film Studies and “Paris Is Burning is one of the endur- commercial appeal. “We’re still trying to Interdisciplinary Studies in Sexuality, ing hits of New Queer Cinema in the early figure out how to market books on single research chair in Documentary and 1990s,” Waugh says. “It still has astound- films to crossover audiences, including in Sexual Representation, coordina- ing resonance for students and general the academic ones,” Waugh says tor of the Interdisciplinary Studies audiences because it’s one of those cine- The QFC series is already part of Program in Sexuality and director of the matic moments when white middle-class Concordia’s film studies curriculum and Concordia HIV/AIDS Project. He’s also American lesbian and gay culture con- well on its way into other educational author of several publications, includ- fronts difference and ‘the other.’ ” institutions around the globe thanks ing Out/Lines: Underground Gay Graphics “It’s a tremendously layered film that to strong public support. Celebrated From Before Stonewall (Arsenal Pulp not only deals with trans issues, but race author Andrew Holleran has praised Press, 2002). Waugh has helped expand and class and gender across America,” Hays several of its volumes in the Washington Quebec’s own Lesbian and Gay Archives adds. “Its reception was controversial be- Post. Hays was interviewed about the over the years, pioneering queer curric- cause some people felt that white bourgeois series for the New York Times while Film ulum since the early 1980s. audiences were titillated by poor black drag Quarterly and Cineaste have reviewed the Hays, who teaches a course on LGBTQ queens, and how progressive is that?” monographs as both groundbreaking cinema at Concordia, is also well suited to Having just completed an anthology on and innovative in scope. co-edit the series. His writings have ap- filmmaker John Greyson, Waugh co-au- As he was once inspired by Russo’s The peared extensively in gay and mainstream thored Montreal Main for the series with Celluloid Closet, Hays is now excited to see media including The Advocate, Globe and Jason Garrison. The 1974 fictional film a Canadian canon of queer cinema in the Mail and New York Times. His Lambda set in and around St. Laurent Boulevard making as balance is restored to LGBTQ Award-winning book The View From is a reflection of Canada in the wake of character representation onscreen. “Vito Here: Conversations with Gay and Lesbian the decriminalization of homosexuality. Russo was trying to make an appeal for Filmmakers (Arsenal Pulp Press, 2007) is Waugh describes his reasons for jump- positive imagery,” says Hays. “Today a compilation of interviews with nearly ing to co-write Montreal Main: “Its kind we’re able to see misrepresentation, but 50 top filmmakers. Among them are art- of 1970s indie iconoclasm looks better that’s because we weren’t as able to see ists in the Queer Film Classics (QFC) every year. It falls within the tradition of it before. Now I feel like we can accept a series, Canadian icons Robert Lepage, Canadian and Quebec youth movies and negative or nasty portrait of a gay couple Patricia Rozema and Bruce LaBruce, and is unique in the way it respects the space on television, for example, as long as it’s one of Hays’s favourites, director John and autonomy of its 12-year-old pro- part of the fabric of the show.” Waters. “Waters created his own language tagonist. Now that the red light district and his films were such an all-out assault of the lower Main has been demolished, — David King, BFA 97, is a Montreal on everyone’s notion of good taste,” Hays Montreal Main becomes even more of freelance writer. states. “As David Lynch once said, no one an archival document with its vivid and had done what Waters did before — he tender documentation of such establish- created a singular universe in film.” ments as Frites Dorées.”

28 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine QUEER FILM CLASSICS: THE BOOKS

The Queer Film Classics series, published by Arsenal Pulp Press, thus far includes 10 books of a planned 21-volume series. For more information, visit arsenalpulp.com or the QFC Facebook fan page at facebook.com/theQFCs.

Law of Desire (2009, $15.95) historical context, co-authors Jason Word Is Out (2011, $14.95) José Quiroga examines acclaimed Spanish Garrison and Thomas Waugh stress the The 1977 documentary Word Is Out director Pedro Almodóvar, whose mastery film’s significance as a pioneering depiction validated queer culture by simply over themes of gender, sexuality and iden- of a Montreal — and Canada — still adjusting providing a glimpse into the ordinary tity was first cultivated by his celebrated to the decriminalization of homosexuality. lives of 26 gays and lesbians. Greg 1987 film,Law of Desire. Youmans provides a fantastic backstory Farewell My Concubine (2010, $14.95) on the making and aesthetic of the Trash (2009, $15.95) The gender roles and homosexuality in film amid a culture of anti-homosexual The era of Andy Warhol is arguably most Chen Kaige’s acclaimed 1992 film was a sentiment exemplified by Anita Bryant’s represented in his 1970 film collaboration first in Chinese cinema. Helen Hok-Sze Save Our Children campaign. with Paul Morrissey, Trash. In this edition, Leung examines the film’s controversies, Jon Davies examines some of the Warhol mid-20th-century backdrop and influences Zero Patience (2011, $14.95) Factory’s most notorious misfits, under on the success of Chinese cinema today. John Greyson’s 1993 film-musical melded the allegorical lens of the film’s creators. camp with documentary aesthetic to refute Fire (2010, $14.95) the legend of the flight attendant accused Gods and Monsters (2009, $15.95) Director Deepa Mehta sent shockwaves of bringing the AIDS pandemic to North 1998’s Oscar-winning filmGods and through the Hindu world with 1996’s Fire, America. Examining both genre and HIV/ Monsters stars Ian McKellen as openly the first Indian commercial film about AIDS discourse, co-authors Susan Knabe gay director James Whale, best known lesbian love. Shohini Ghosh examines the and Wendy Gay Pearson demonstrate why for his Frankenstein films in the 1930s. film’s role in post-independent India’s initial Greyson is “one of the most important Noah Tsika tackles Whale’s cinematic public debate on homosexuality. figures in New Queer Cinema.” era and Gods and Monsters’ mesmerizing mix of fantasy and biography. Death in Venice (2011, $14.95) Strangers on a Train (2012, $14.95) Will Aitken examines the cultural impact Examining Hitchcock and the Montreal Main (2010, $14.95) of 1971’s Death in Venice as novel-turned- homoeroticism of his filmStrangers Frank Vitale’s 1974 Montreal Main remained film, along with the socio-political climate on a Train, Jonathan Goldberg provides unreleased on DVD until 2009. Combining that influenced its provocative director, a fascinating sociological study of sexual critical analysis with a delicate social/ Luchino Visconti. representation on celluloid.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 29 DESIGNED TO BE different

Concordia’s Department of Education emphasizes research, educational technology and teaching early childhood educators

BY JAKE BRENNAN

30 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine hile most faculties of Bernard contends that another of reading development,” says Sandra education are teacher- source of strength is that Concordia’s is Martin-Chang, an associate professor Wcentred — training future a department, rather than a faculty, of of education. “And if you talk to Helen teachers is their raison d’être — education. Therefore its professors vie Osana, she feels exactly the same about Concordia’s Department of Education for grants within the bigger Faculty of mathematics,” Martin-Chang says of is a bit different. “There is a general Arts and Science pool, which creates a her education colleague. “There are orientation here toward research that more competitive atmosphere and has many passionate researchers in our you don’t find in many other places,” pushed researchers to raise their game. department. It’s wonderful — I’m so says Professor Bob Bernard, an expert The department’s research gets a happy here!” in educational technology and distance huge boost by acting as a home for So are the students. Concordia’s Early education who arrived at Concordia in Concordia’s Centre for the Study of Childhood and Elementary Education 1979. “I have been research focused Learning and Performance (CSLP). program covers kindergarten through since my first day.” Established in 1988, the CSLP is a re- Grade 6 (K to 6). Martin-Chang and Part of the distinction is rooted in the search centre comprising more than Nina Howe, a distinguished early child- history of the department, which started 100 members and collaborators, more hood education researcher who has in 1968 as an outgrowth of the Audio- than 200 graduate students and some 20 taught at Concordia since 1986, say Visual Services department at Sir George support staff. Researchers come from Concordia’s four-year teacher-qualifi- Williams University, one of Concordia’s Concordia’s education and psychology cation degree provides better grounding two founding institutions. It needed to departments, 11 other Canadian univer- than one-year teacher programs. u ho Z i m i M avoid duplicating McGill University’s sities and one in the United States, and “The nuts and bolts of the English lan- program to ensure that Quebec’s three CEGEPs. The CSLP investigates guage are more complicated than you Ministère de l’éducation would con- how to enhance the learning and per- think,” Martin-Chang says. Concordia’s tinue to fund both, Bernard explains. formance of complex perceptive skills rigorous curriculum also serves children Sir George Williams — and eventually in learners of all ages. It has led a variety — and, ultimately, society — very well. Concordia — soon developed a strong of innovative research and development In a recent study presented at the emphasis in educational technology projects involving hundreds of students annual conference of the International unique in Canada. Hiring education from elementary, secondary and post- Dyslexia Association, Concordia’s philosophers and psychologists, the secondary institutions. Its presence pre-service teachers — student teachers — department gradually developed into dramatically increases interdisciplin- were rated against those from programs distinct streams of educational tech- ary research at Concordia, says Bernard, in the United Kingdom and U.S. “The nology, educational studies and child and strengthens the department’s mag- Concordia students really outperformed,” studies, and later absorbed applied netic pull for top education scholars. reports Martin-Chang, beaming. linguistics. Today it offers graduate These research strengths serve to “We make outstanding teachers.” diploma, master’s and PhD programs enhance teacher training. “I’m very We introduce you to four Department of in those four streams. enthusiastic about the scientific study Education professors and their research.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 31 eaching education is an indirect to learn how to fix something when art: to reach one’s target — it’s broken.” T children — one must teach their Knowing this type of advanced me- teachers. For Sandra Martin-Chang, chanical understanding allows teachers an associate professor of education, to positively reinforce students’ efforts training pre-service teachers is a and create programing that is devel- passion. And given that her research opmentally appropriate. For example, explores the pivotal topic of early a more knowledgeable teacher might childhood reading, her teachers- let young students become more com- in-training are happy to listen. fortable with capitals, which have more SANDRA MARTIN-CHANG Concordia’s four-year profession- left-right symmetry, before tackling al program in Early Childhood and lower-case letters, or he or she might be Elementary Education gives students more understanding when children do a BA that qualifies them to teach K-to- reverse letters. “The damage starts when 6–level students. The department’s the teacher says, ‘That’s just wrong,’ ” renowned research specialization makes she explains. entry highly competitive. In-person in- Martin-Chang hopes to research terviews with candidates are mandatory her strong suspicion that in teaching, — with good reason. “One unsuccessful knowledge and compassion go hand candidate said, ‘I did pretty well in hand. Both parts are required, she in Grade 1. I think I’ll be fine,’ ” points out: uninformed compassion is Martin-Chang recalls. not enough. She adds that many teachers The pervasive unawareness of what incorrectly think, “I am going to love the goes into being a good teacher becomes children, and they will learn the com- obvious when analyzing processes plex task of reading by magic.” u many of us only dimly recall learning — A similar assumption is at work on c ia D reading and writing. Martin-Chang’s in home-schooling without struc- u ad students are asked to read aloud English ture, called unschooling. She likens R passages written in the International this unscientific choice Phonetic Alphabet. “They are frustrated to well-meaning parents’ and challenged by it. The symbols don’t decision not to vaccinate EDUCATING THE make sense. And we tell them, ‘If this is their children. “Structured how you feel now, imagine being a five- and explicit instruction by year-old.’ ” knowledgeable people is es- Their empathy engaged, students are sentially inoculation against educators ripe to learn more about emergent lit- many lifelong learning dif- eracy, one of Martin-Chang’s research ficulties,” she says. “That’s focuses. For example, young children why I love being part of this depart- more often print letters like “j” and “d” ment: I can influence the instruction backwards compared to letters like “k” of thousands of children by raising the or “b.” Tellingly, more lower-case let- knowledge of Concordia’s pre-service ters have their distinguishing features teachers.” on the right than the left. Seeking the praise that correct answers bring, chil- dren learn to gamble early. “You see The students are frustrated and challenged them making mistakes in speech like, by it. The symbols don’t make sense. ‘I goed to the store,’ where they have picked up the pattern to add ‘ed’ as the And we tell them, “If this is how you feel past tense. By reversing the letter ‘d’ now, imagine being a five-year-old.” more than the letter ‘b,’ children are also showing us that they have implic- itly learned how most English letters are oriented,” explains Martin-Chang. “To drive my car, I don’t need to know how it works. However, our teachers are here

32 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine MORE THAN

For instance, many professors post lec- technical tures online, discouraging note-taking — a valuable step in comprehension. To encourage active learning, Bernard al- rofessor of Education Bob back to the Second World War, when lows his statistics students to bring a Bernard has spent just over soldiers were shown films to learn what single page into exams. “It’s not the use Phalf his life in Canada. The combat would be like. Today, ed tech is of the cheat sheet that’s important. It’s Nashville, Tenn., native came to work used in educational institutions as well making the cheat sheet. It’s choosing at Concordia at 33 but, like many as for corporate training. Graduates can what to put on it.” anglophones who arrive after childhood, either teach courses themselves or de- Bernard’s mental lumber-room focus he never fully mastered French. That sign them for others. clearly looms large in his teaching — and his wife is Franco-Ontarian and does Despite this expertise, educational in his life. “I wanted to concentrate on his translating means he won’t have technology sometimes struggles with its research,” he says. “I came to the right to — convenient, Bernard says, given reputation. “Educational technologists place: Concordia.” Sherlock Holmes’s view of our mental design. He cites Holmes’s explanation to Educational technologists are still often thought Watson of “the lumber room of his brain: ‘Every extra fact of as the AV guys. That’s been diminishing as I put in there clutters it and technology has become integral to higher education. crowds another fact out.’ ” Acting on this prem- ise has clearly worked for Bernard. are still often thought of as enhanced With more than 60 peer-reviewed ar- cart pushers — the AV guys,” Bernard ticles to his name, his research earned says. “That’s been diminishing as tech- him, among many other recognitions, nology has become integral to teaching, the Review of Educational Research’s particularly in higher education.” Outstanding Reviewer Award twice One field whose evolution has mir- and the Association for Educational rored revolutions in technology is Communications and Technology’s distance education, where Bernard has Outstanding Distance Education Paper been a research pioneer. In a landmark Award for 2010-2012. 2004 meta-analysis paper published in Bernard has won these accolades by the Review of Educational Research that filling his own astute lumber room with has been cited more than 600 times, he all matters technological — education- and his co-authors demonstrated that u on c al technology, that is. Much broader distance education students perform ia D

u

than its name might suggest in the 21st either as well as or better than their ad century, the field comprises anything classroom peers. One reason is that R that helps learners learn or teachers technology can tailor the material to a BOB BERNARD teach beyond the original pedagogical student’s preferred learning methods, method, oral explanation. That in- contrary to popular belief. What’s more, cludes everything from pens, chalk and online discussions can be more demo- books to computers, which go into what cratic and include students too shy to Bernard calls the discipline’s soft side: speak up in class. course planning, instructional design The verdict is still out on online and creating learning environments. learning (see “Metallic learning” on Modern educational technology dates page 35). Technology has its pitfalls, too.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 33 POSITIVE

hildren need balance. Few know that to be true as well

parenting ard C as Professor of Education W Nina Howe. After spending four avid D years teaching young children, she homework when selecting child care?” sought some balance of her own and she asks. in 1982 returned to pursue her PhD Howe recommends that parents look- NINA HOWE in developmental psychology at the ing for a daycare ask a few key questions: University of Waterloo, focusing on What kinds of activities are offered? that he engaged in ‘benign neglect’ — sibling relationships. She’s never What is the balance between activity and he was not in our face all the time. Kids looked back. quiet time? Do they get enough time for need more freedom to do what they feel Today, Howe is a scholar at the top free play, with a choice of what to play like doing.” of her field. Since joining Concordia’s and with whom? That doesn’t mean children should al- Early Childhood and Elementary This last question is crucial, says Howe, ways get their way. “A permissive parent Education Program in 1986, she has whose current research interests centre is as difficult for children as a very au- published more than 50 journal articles on children’s early social relationships as thoritarian parent,” she says. “There is and won countless research grants. they develop through play. “Many parents a need to set limits. They need guidance Her own children, now 21 and 20, think their children will learn nothing to understand reasonable and develop- chose the university they now attend. unless there is structure or teacher di- mentally appropriate expectations.” Clearly, parents should be more in- rection.” Letting them play freely — and Howe urges us to trust our children volved in selecting their children’s actively — actually solves a number of is- more. “Yes, they will make mistakes, preschool, yet they should make that sues plaguing today’s children. but they will learn from them,” she says, decision more carefully than most do, Child obesity, for instance, is a grow- whereas overprotecting children ill- Howe contends. Much research dem- ing problem to some extent because prepares them for coping with failure. onstrates that better educated teachers many adults fail to realize how active While computers provide stimulation provide children with better opportuni- kids need to be. Exercise also alleviates and are increasingly necessary, children ties for learning. Nonetheless, parents children’s stress, which is on the rise learn physical, social and decision- often prioritize a daycare’s proximity in part due to parents’ overinvestment making skills during free play — away over quality. In a recent study, Howe in their children’s lives, says Howe. from electronic devices. “They need to and her co-authors found that only 40 Tethered parenting — the use of mobile engage with the physical world and other per cent of the parents surveyed knew devices to remain in constant contact children,” she says. the educational level of their children’s with children — is a clear sign of that Howe’s observations on chil- teachers, and many overestimated it. anxiety. Howe says today’s children are dren point to a timeless conclusion: “No one buys a car without doing some over-programmed, over-scheduled and in parenting, as in life, everything in homework, so why don’t parents do over-monitored. “My father used to say moderation.

No one buys a car without doing some homework, so why don’t parents do homework when selecting child care?

34 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine ivek Venkatesh, MA 03, PhD interested in the latest teaching gizmos. 08, claims he’s a winter person. Only 58 per cent perceived information V That’s surprising since the and communications technologies in assistant professor of education lived class as positively affecting the quality in some hot locales — his native New of the course. Delhi as well as Venezuela and Singapore Moreover, students seem uninspired — before moving to Canada in 2000. by online learning. Venkatesh says this Yet he’s clearly comfortable on an icy demonstrates that “we need to better winter day in his frigid J. W. McConnell understand the benefits and pitfalls of Building office — kept cold to preserve these technologies before jumping on both his mental acuity and metal record a particular bandwagon,” such as the collection. It’s dimly lit and cluttered massive open online courses which have wall to wall with paraphernalia picked been gaining attention as the up at extreme metal concerts — “not next wave in education. heavy metal,” he distinguishes. Venkatesh and Fusaro’s METALLIC These surroundings contrast analysis showed a divide Venkatesh’s warm, animated between teachers and disposition. Asking him about metal students’ concepts of music fans, part of his current research, a positive classroom learning is like putting a coin in a meter — his learning experience. natural, articulate exuberance spills Teachers feel that if they forth. “I have the happy problem of run more discussions and interactive being able to research what I actually activities, they’ve done a better job like to do,” he says. — understandable, as they can gauge Venkatesh, a cognitive scientist engagement. For students, the best and also associate dean of academic predictors of class enjoyment were programs and development in stimulating lectures, irrespective of Concordia’s School of Graduate whether technologies were used. Studies, examines online forums for “Just because youth are using social fellow metal lovers to see how they in- media doesn’t mean we have to appro- teract and how that might be applied in priate that particular technology for the designing courses. With more than 50 purposes of learning,” says Venkatesh. per cent of Canadians and a billion-plus Students recognize that the classroom people worldwide now on Facebook, is their opportunity to hear from the Venkatesh is investigating how best expert at the front of the class — and a u on

to leverage students’ online interest. respite from the less informed online c ia D VIVEK VENKATESH

“There is a lot of resistance to this, opining that occupies much of their u ad but I contend that how people learn time outside it. R online is very different from how they learn face to face,” he Just because youth are using social media doesn’t says. “What I’m seeing in on- line forums is that there is very mean we have to appropriate that particular little democracy in the way that people interact.” Instead, it’s a technology for the purposes of learning. technocracy: self-styled experts dominate the discussions. What’s more, Venkatesh hopes the survey will the anonymity of online aliases permits have broad implications for curriculum almost gang-like bullying — not factors design, one of several irons he keeps conducive to learning. in the fire in his frigid office. Still, he A recent study Venkatesh co-authored admits, “Right now, I’m most passionate with Magda Fusaro of Université de about going to metal shows.” Québec à Montréal revealed surprising findings: many students weren’t all that — Jake Brennan is a Montreal freelance writer.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 35 FACULTY SPOTLIGHT FINE ARTS Studio arts: a hotbed of talent

BY LIZ CROMPTON, BA 87

omething special is clearly going on at Concordia’s Faculty of Fine SArts. Its visual artists, past and present, have been reeling in awards in competitions in Quebec and across the country in recent years. riend From Governor General awards and f ood

Pulitzer prizes to the Order of Canada, the G ika

Department of Studio Arts’ students, pro- M MIKA GOODFRIEND, BFA 12, TOOK TOP SPOT AT THE BMO 1ST ART! INVITATIONAL STUDENT ART COMPETITION IN fessors and alumni are obviously doing AUGUST. PICTURED IS BENOIT ET SUZANNE, REYNALD ET MARYLDA, FROM GOODFRIEND’S SNOWBIRDS SERIES, A VISUAL something right. (See “Awarding work.”) EXPLORATION OF QUÉBÉCOIS IDENTITY AND CULTURE IN A POMPANO BEACH, FLA., RETIREMENT COMMUNITY. “The energy coming from peers, the support provided by faculty and the AWARDING WORK presence of so many engaged artists Concordia studio arts students, faculty and alumni’s recent accolades: coming together are creating a kind of synergy,” says Janet Werner, chair of the Governor General’s Award in BMO 1st Art! Invitational Student department. One of Werner’s own works, Visual and Media Arts Art Competition Earthling, was acquired in January by 2012: Jana Sterbak, BFA 77 2012 winner: Mika Goodfriend, BFA 12 Montreal’s Musée d’art contemporain, 2011: Geneviève Cadieux, faculty a major accomplishment. 2010: Gabor Szilasi, retired faculty Victor Martyn Lynch-Staunton Award, The first factor she attributes to a Canada Council for the Arts good showing from Concordia-affiliated Order of Canada 2012: Manon De Pauw, BFA 97, faculty artists is size. Studio arts is the largest 2010: Raymonde April, faculty 2011: Diane Morin, MFA 03, and Osvaldo department in the Faculty of Fine Arts, Ramirez Castillo, MFA 08 with just over 1,300 undergraduate RBC National Painting Competition and graduate students and about 100 2012 honourable mention: Betino Assa, Sobey Art Award full- and part-time faculty members MFA student 2012 winner: Raphaëlle de Groot, spread across a dozen disciplines, from 2012 honourable mention: Katie Lyle, BFA 05 visiting artist painting to cyberarts. “There’s a critical 2012 finalist: Corri-Lynn Tetz, MFA student 2011 finalist: Manon De Pauw, BFA 97 mass — it’s big, but not too big,” Werner 2011 finalist: Charles Stankievech, MFA 07 notes. “Size matters.” Hnatyshyn Foundation Award for 2010 winner: Daniel Barrow, visiting artist And the calibre is top-notch, es- Curatorial Excellence in Contemporary pecially at the graduate level. “The Art and Curator of the Year, Pulitzer Prize for Photography competition to get in — to teach as well Contemporary Art Galleries Association 2011 and 2006: Barbara Davidson, BFA 90 as study — makes for strong faculty and 2012: Nicole Gingras, BFA 86, faculty students,” she notes. In a typical year, for example, Concordia’s Master of Fine Arts in Success attracts success, as well. Chock full of art galleries, museums Studio Arts program welcomes just Keen to help nurture promising tal- and exhibitions, Montreal enjoys a one in six applicants. The program, ent, donors such as Sean B. Murphy, vibrant and participatory arts scene that one of Canada’s first, has maintained Nick and Dale Tedeschi, Stephen and offers myriad possibilities for students an international reputation for 30 years. Claudine Bronfman and Dick and to exhibit their artwork. Its history of MFA student Betino Assa earned an Gretchen Evans provide outstanding artist-run galleries is attractive, too. honourable mention — worth $15,000 support that, in turn, helps emerging “People stay here after graduation be- — in the 2012 RBC National Painting artists at Concordia focus and flourish cause there’s a lot of opportunity to show Competition, while in January student in their practice. their work in a meaningful way at all levels,” Paul Butler was named curator of con- The city itself can take some credit says Emily Jan, a third-year MFA student. temporary art at the Winnipeg Ar Gallery. for the success of Concordians, too. “Montreal is an amazing arts city.”

36 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine photo ARH

JANIS TIMM-BOTTOS, FAR LEFT, AT LA RUCHE D’ART COMMUNITY STUDIO AND SCIENCE SHOP IN MONTREAL’S ST-HENRI DISTRICT.

ART HIVES BUZZ WITH ACTIVITY each other and, in the process, share Timm-Bottos is now focused on ake one modest storefront on a street ideas about local social and cultural helping plant the seeds of a nation - Tin a working-class neighbourhood; issues. These studios “provide oppor- al network of neighbourhood art fill it with donations of paints, fabrics tunities to share abilities and develop hives. The J.W. McConnell Family and other recyclables; throw open the leadership skills while giving back to the Foundation has given a $300,000 doors to the community to come make community,” Timm-Bottos says. grant to help her spread the word art. What do you get? A community art They provide other opportunities, too. across Canada; trips are sched- hive. Or, in French, a ruche d’art. Timm-Bottos teaches one of her univer- uled from Corner Brook, N.L., to Art hives are the research focus of sity courses at La Ruche d’Art Community Vancouver Island. Janis Timm-Bottos, an art therapy pro- Studio and Science Shop in Montreal’s “For these partners — the university, fessor with Concordia’s Department of St-Henri district. Several Concordia the private funders and the community Creative Arts Therapies. While open to graduate students are involved as re- — to come together to create free spaces everyone, this social-inclusion initia- search assistants, volunteers and art for people to inquire about themselves, tive especially welcomes those living on therapy interns. “The storefront studio about their neighbourhoods, about society’s margins. There are no instruc- provides an outlet and access to learning each other, is wonderful,” Timm- tors; participants learn from and teach directly in the community,” she says. Bottos says.

SPRING SHOWS 2013 SILENCE OF THOUGHT, MUSIC OF SIGHT, rom March to June 2013, local BY PAVITRA WICKRAMASINGHE, MFA 10, RECIPIENT OF THE 2011 CLAUDINE AND F arts aficionados can discover what STEPHEN BRONFMAN FELLOWSHIP IN CONTEMPORARY ART. WICKRAMASINGHE’S talented fine arts students have to WORK WILL BE ON VIEW AT CONCORDIA’S FOFA GALLERY FROM APRIL 15 TO MAY 24. offer in the visual, performing, design, cinematic and digital arts. All nine of Concordia’s fine arts de- partments — art education, art history, contemporary dance, creative arts ther- apies, design and computation arts, music, studio arts, theatre and the Mel Hoppenheim School of Cinema — will be represented at more than 40 shows in 20 different locations throughout Montreal.

For details, visit finearts.concordia.ca/ springshows.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 37 ALUMNI NEWSNEWS

For news on the full slate of recent and future Concordia Advancement and Alumni Relations events in Montreal, across Canada and the world over, visit concordia.ca/alumni-giving.

activity and pushes in such areas as in 2010. Despite the paper’s long- genomics and illness-prevention have standing financial struggles — common enabled Concordia to rethink higher edu- for many print publications today — cation as a way to meet societal demands. Meurice decided to remain. “I stayed Pictured at the event are chapter because the Post newsroom was the best president Christopher Wilcox, BA 04, place I had ever worked, where creativity and Marie Claire Morin, vice-president was encouraged and rewarded.” of AAR. 1 The event was hosted by the Toronto Chapter of the Concordia University Making news in Toronto Alumni Association. tephen Meurice, BA 90, editor-in- Schief of the National Post newspaper, Kinship away from home provided a brief and candid overview nternational students who couldn’t of his career and the challenges facing Ireturn home for the holidays got a 1 Ottawa the newspaper business at the Alumni tasty meal and enjoyed lively dancing Networking Night at Toronto’s Hilton under the sounds of DJ James Karls on Capital effort in Ottawa Garden Inn on November 15. December 20. oncordia President Alan Shepard Meurice, who earned a BA in political For the 13th consecutive year, Clauded the university’s vigorous science and studied in the university’s Concordia’s AAR hosted its International growth and burnished international graduate diploma in journalism pro- Students Holiday Party to celebrate the profile over dinner with members of gram, credited his success in part to his contribution of out-of-town Concordians Parliament and senior figures in the time at Concordia. He’s been with the to university life. Some 350 students and university’s Ottawa alumni chapter on National Post since it was launched in guests gathered at Espace Réunion in December 10. The gathering, held at 1998 and was named the editor-in-chief Outremont, Que. 2 the Rideau Club, marked Shepard’s first meeting with alumni chapter executives. Advancement and Alumni Relations (AAR) operates 24 geographic chapters: 14 in Canada and the United States and 10 internationally. The Ottawa area is home to 5,400 Concordia alumni. The Ottawa chapter — one of AAR’s strongest — has built up a $17,400 endowment to support two annual entrance bursaries for Concordia undergraduate students from the Ottawa region. It has a fund- raising goal of $20,000. Shepard said Concordia has under- gone a renaissance and praised alumni for augmenting the university’s repu- tation outside of Quebec. He also drew attention to a raft of initiatives that have transformed the university. “You should be proud of what is happening

at Concordia,” he said. “We continue to raphy g have faculty and students win prizes and hoto P

national competitions and our facilities L B P / are first-rate.” u la

Shepard said $600 million worth of B

yan 2 International Students Holiday Party investment projects, bolstered research R

38 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine HOMECOMING 203 The Concordia University Alumni Association’s 22nd ANNUAL ALUMNI RECOGNITION AWARDS SAVE THE DATE! October 3 to 6 BANQUET Don’t miss an enjoyable weekend of inspiring Tuesday, May 2, 203 Le Westin Montreal reunions, fun activities, stimulating lectures and 270 St. Antoine St. W. much more for alumni. For more information: Advancement and Alumni Relations Email: [email protected] Phone: 514-848-2424, ext. 4379 Toll-free: 1-888-777-3330 203 AWARD RECIPIENTS Alumnus of the Year Look for your invitation or further news in the Walter S. Tomenson, BA 68 Accent e-newsletter or at concordia.ca/alumni. Humberto Santos Award of Merit Brian Edwards, BComm 7 Benoit Pelland Distinguished Service Award concordia.ca/homecoming The late Robert Barnes, BA 68 Honorary Life Membership Peter Hall Alumni Award for Excellence in Teaching Martin Pugh Outstanding Faculty/Staff Award Nancy Curran MBA Alumnus of the Year Julien BriseBois, EMBA 07 Outstanding Student Award Eric Moses Gashirabake

Watch for your invitation soon. Information: [email protected] or 54-848-2424, ext. 8946

Loyola Medal call for nominations The Loyola Medal is among the highest honours bestowed by Concordia. Submit your nominations by August 3, 203, to [email protected] or visit concordia.ca/alumni-giving/alumni/news/awards-honours.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 39 CLASS ACTSACTS

Carol Katz, (psych. & by Shira Katz, BA (comm. of the World Anti-Doping 62 soc.), earned an MEd in studies & theatre) 94, MA Agency and former vice- teaching of reading in 1979 and (ed. tech.) 04, and Sandra president of the International an MLIS in 1989 from McGill Levy, BA 63. carolkatz.ca Olympic Committee. Alumni with more than one degree University. Carol recently from Concordia, Sir George Williams published her first children’s Concordia chancellor and/or Loyola are listed under book, Zaidie and Ferdele: 50TH REUNION 67 L. Jacques Ménard, their earliest graduation year. Memories of My Childhood (Deux BComm, LLD 06, received a Voiliers Publishing). The title Richard Pound, BA, Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Gerry (Sam) McGee, is Yiddish for “grandfather 63 LLD 10, received a Jubilee Medal in November. 51 BSc, received a Queen and his female horse,” and Queen Elizabeth II Diamond The next month, he was Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee the book features short stories Jubilee Medal in November. named a Companion of the medal in February. Gerry was about growing up in Jewish Dick is partner at Montreal Order of Canada. Jacques is honoured for his lead role in Montreal in the 1940s and law firm Stikeman Elliott chairman of BMO Nesbitt the Canadian Engineering ’50s. The original, coloured, and one-time chancellor of Burns and president of BMO Accreditation Board. hand-drawn illustrations are McGill University, founder Financial Group in Montreal.

1 2 3

8 9 10

1) Claudine Ascher, BFA 83, MA 05, participated in an time painter. waynemillett.blogspot.ca 3) Blue & Gold 6) Linda-Marlena Bucholtz Ross, BFA (photog.) exhibition called “The Collector’s Fair” held at the Galerie 08, held an exhibition of her art called “An Unintended de la Ville in the Dollard Centre for the Arts in Dollard- 4) Aydin Matlabi, BFA (photog.) 08, MFA (photog.) 10, Aesthetic: the Impromptu Stage” at Galerie McClure in the des-Ormeaux, Que. from November 22 to December 22. held a solo exhibition of his photographs called “Landscape, Visual Arts Centre in Westmount, Que., from January 4 to claudineascher.com 1) Medieval Revolution, People” at the Graphic Arts Centre of the 26. In 2011, Linda won the concrete contemporary prize Montreal Museum of Fine Arts from December 19 to March for photography given by the Robert McLaughlin Gallery in 2) Susan Pepler, BFA 84, will hold a solo exhibition 17. Aydin was a featured artist in the 2011 Scotia Bank Photo Oshawa, Ont. 6) Chateau with Blue Fence at Le Meridien Versailles hotel in Montreal from April 1 to Festival. 4) Revolutionary Face June 30. The show will feature Susan’s vintage car paintings. 7) Roxanne Dyer, BFA (studio art) 98, held a solo susanpepler.com 2) Gems on the Boulevard 5) Susan Shulman, BFA (studio art) 96, exhibited her exhibition called “Evolo” at the Gallery at Victoria Hall holiday art show called “Miniscapes” at Boutik arts dans in Westmount, Que., from January 10 to February 2. The 3) Wayne Millett, BA (graphic design) 85, exhibited le coin in Montreal from December 14 to 16. Shulman also project consisted of three series called Legend of the about 50 of his oil paintings in Jacob’s Treasures gallery in launched her new Miniscapes book featuring honey jar labels Creation, Narrative of Changes and Vision of Arrivals. Hawkesbury, Ont., Wayne has had a varied career in design, and holiday cards. susanshulman.com 5) Music on the roxannedyer-atelier.com 7) On répète illustration and animation for television and now is a full- Mountain

40 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine 35TH REUNION Sara Dickson. Our home is on Steven has been a trustee of times of my life. I now have two a golf course in Columbia, Mo. the County of Carleton Law wonderful daughters (12 and 16), Darcy Rezac, MBA, Professionally, I continue to Association since 2009 and is both of whom are big skiers — 78 was recently named serve as the press secretary to now its treasurer. “I enjoyed like their dad!” adrottawa.com vice-president of Corporate Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler some of the best years of Affairs at Pacific Western of Missouri. Life is good.” my life at Concordia, which Josée Nadeau, Brewing Co. in Burnaby, B.C. prepared me for my life ahead. 85 BFA, performed a live Darcy is CEO of Ana Pacific Steven Gaon, BA (hist.), I remember well those crisp fall painting on stage at the Miami Consulting and a corporate 84 earned a law degree from days, watching the Stingers play Fontainebleau Hotel on director, author, speaker and the University of Ottawa in 1987 football at the Loyola field and, December 15 in celebration adjunct professor of business and has practised law in Ottawa of course, enjoying the social of the 50th anniversary of at the University of Victoria. since 1989. He received his life on campus afterwards! I was Dionne Warwick’s singing Alternative Dispute Resolution also on the Concordia Ski Team career. All proceeds of Steven Walsh, BA (history credentials in 2001 and is from 1981 to 1983, and those Nadeau’s artwork went to the 81 & poli. sci.), writes, “In now a mediator, arbitrator experiences proved to be some United Way’s Hurricane Sandy May, I married my sweetheart, and workplace investigator. of the most rewarding and fun Fund. joseenadeau.com

4 5 6 7

11 12

8) Shelley Miller, MFA (studio art) 01, created a public 10) Benjamin Rodger, BFA 04, held an exhibition 12) Raymonde Jodoin, BFA 83, is holding a solo sculpture that was officially inaugurated at the École des of his artwork entitled “Libre circulation” at Galerie exhibition of 50 drawings called “NIELLURES et Suite II” at métiers du tourisme on October 24. Shelley, who has made Montcalm in Gatineau, Que., from January 17 to March the Centre communautaire et culturel de l’Arrondissement many public installations, created the 2.7 m by 33 cm 3. Benjamin has shown his work in Canada, Europe and de Jacques-Cartier in Sherbrooke, Que., from February 1 concrete sculpture by using hundreds of books as a negative the Middle East. In 2009, he represented Canada by to March 31. raymondejodoin.com 12) Niellure 65 mould. shelleymillerstudio.com 8) Circulation painting at the sixth Francophonie Games held in Lebanon. benjaminrodger.com 10) (Silence) 9) G. Scott MacLeod, BFA 03, held an exhibition of his art and documentaries called “Dans l’Griff” at La maison 11) Mathieu Laca, BFA 05, held an exhibition titled de la culture de Notre-Dame-de-Grâce in Montreal from “Mort ou vif (portraits et autres captures)” of 40 of his January 10 to February 24. Scott currently consults, lectures portraits and other paintings at Modulum gallery in Montreal and gives workshops on his work to promote and develop from October 19 to November 18. mathieulaca.com better business and creative art practices. macleod9.com 11) Self-Portrait on Green Ground 9) Thomas O’Connell Plumbing & Heating

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 41 KUDOS Mirko Sablich, BComm theories, natural and urban Concordia chair of the 97 (econ.), and BFA (music phenomena, among others.” Board of Governors Norman comp.) 09, born in Lima, mirkosablich.wordpress. Hébert Jr., BComm 77, was Peru, earned a Masters in com, emsis.ca/publishing Music Composition degree honoured by the Canadian

. from Université de Montreal Juozas Cernius, r

Automobile Dealers Association J in 2011. “After working in the 01 BFA (studio arts), is a (CADA) in January. Norman sthal

g business sector and studying documentary and fine art

received the 2012 CADA Laureate öni

K music for several years, I finally photographer in London,

dealer recognition award in the as m decided to pursue an artistic Ont. Juozas is co-founder of ho category of Ambassadorship. T career in music composition. Forward Factory, a web-based Norman was one of three recipients selected from more than I am a freelance experimental enterprise. He is currently 3,200 dealers across Canada. He is the long-time president and composer based in Montreal. working on a photographic CEO of Montreal-area car dealership Groupe Park Avenue Inc. I also currently research documentary called The the ethics and aesthetics of HUMANitarians: The Faces, music composition, which The Places, The Challenges, which Lionel Perez, BA (poli. sci.) includes studies in creativity, focuses on the human side of 92, was elected by acclamation imagination, intuition and voluntary aid work. cernius.com as borough mayor of Côte- musical acoustics and tuning des-Neiges–Notre-Dame- systems. My music derives from Joel Alexander Hampson, de-Grâce on November 22, creative applications of diverse BEng (bldg. eng.), and Dany after previous borough mayor fields such as mathematics, Tremblay, BEng (bldg. eng.) Michael Applebaum became visual arts, literature and 91, started a professional mayor of Montreal. Lionel poetry, philosophy, music structural-engineering services was first elected in 2009 as municipal city councillor. He is currently vice-president of the Commission of Examination of Contracts, which reviews contracts to ensure compliance with relevant legal tender rules and legislation. He also sits on the Transportation and Public Works Permanent Commission and the CMM Commission on Economic Development.

KEEP IN TOUCH

New job? Just moved? Just married? Or just want to let your former classmates know what you’ve been up to? Visit alumni.concordia.ca/keepintouch

Or mail or email us any information about yourself — don’t be shy — you’d like to appear in Class Acts.

Please include: your name (including name at graduation); year(s) of graduation and degree(s) from Concordia, Loyola or Sir George, and other universities; street address, phone number(s) and email address; and any other relevant personal or business info.

By email: [email protected] Subject: Class Acts

By mail: Class Acts, Advancement and Alumni Relations, Judith Baylin-Stern, BFA 71, presented her painting, Rwanda, as Concordia University, 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., FB 520, a gift to Senator and Lt. Gen. Roméo Dallaire (ret.) after his lecture Montreal, QC H3G 1M8 at Concordia’s J.A. DeSève Cinema on November 2. Dallaire was invited by Concordia’s Department of History and the Montreal Join the the Concordia University Alumni Association LinkedIn group Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies to speak about at alumni.concordia.ca/benefits/olc. Canada’s role in protecting human rights around the world. Judith is a clinical psychologist in Montreal. baylinstern.com

42 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine Allan Ailo, BA (comm. studies) 76, right, was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his contribution to heraldry (the art and science of coats of arms) in Canada. Kevin S. MacLeod, left, Usher of the Black Rod of the Senate of Canada Cyd E. Courchesne, BSc (biophys. ed.) 81, was invested as an and Canadian Secretary to the Queen, made the presentation at the Officer in the Order of Military Merit by Governor General of 2012 national conference of the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada Canada David Johnston, Commander-in-Chief of Canada, in Nanaimo, B.C., in May. Allan is a graphic artist and lives in New during an investiture ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa on Westminster, B.C. He is a popular lecturer and writer on various December 12. The Order of Military Merit recognizes distinctive aspects of heraldry and was the first to teach classes in heraldry for merit and exceptional service displayed by the men and Vancouver School Board Continuing Education. He serves as vice- women of the Canadian Forces, both Regular and Reserve. president of the B.C./Yukon branch of the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada and is also active at the national level. He is currently working on a project for the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

company, Génie Structure and Quebec City’s Cinéma d’Ayiti (GSA), in Pétion-Ville, Le Clap in February. The Haiti, in September. “GSA now documentary, produced by MC2 has a range of projects: new Communication Média and the school construction for non- National Film Board of Canada, governmental organizations, tackles the legal battle that earthquake-damaged building resulted from Alain Deneault’s repairs, seismic retrofits, controversial 2008 book, Noir new high-end residential Canada. The book examined construction and a very international observers’ interesting historic building. assertions of alleged abuses Dany hired two local engineers by dozens of Canadian mining and we are expanding to meet companies. julienfrechette.com the needs for our services. Furthermore, we keep the Vladimir Cara, BFA office open on weekends for 10 (theatre), was the make- local engineers who want to up/effects designer — an develop their abilities, and I am integral part of the show — for Laurier Chabot, BComm 05, left, was awarded the Queen mentoring about 20 Haitians the world-premiere production Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal from Lt. Governor of in structural design, which of Infinithéâtre’s Kafka’s Ape. Quebec Pierre Duschesne in Montreal in November. Laurier I learned at Concordia.” The play, adapted by director Guy Sprung from Franz Kafka’s was honoured for his work during his tour of duty in Afghanistan Julien Fréchette, A Report to an Academy, ran from November 2010 to June 2011. He was the only NATO 07 BFA (film prod.), is a from January 28 to February soldier that was semi-fluent in several dialects of Pashto, Montreal-based filmmaker, 17 at Bain St. Michel in using this to connect with local elders and village informants. writer, director and Montreal. The disturbing satire Laurier is currently studying psychology at Concordia. cameraman. His documentary, starred Howard Rosenstein Le prix des mots, premiered at as keynote speaker, the Montreal’s Cinéma Excentris primate Mr. Redpeter.

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 43 IN MEMORIAM Margaret “Magee” Anna-Maria Carlevaris, MA 92, PhD 04, Dec. (Wallace) Bremner, BA 83, 23, Saint-Hyacinthe, Que. She was 58. Anna was a Nov. 17. She was 51. curatorial assistant at Concordia’s Leonard and Bina Ellen Art Gallery and lecturer in the Faculty of Fine Mary Margosian, BA 84, Arts. In 2008, Anna-Maria was recognized for 20 years Jan. 12, Montreal. She was 86. of employment at Concordia. She also contributed to various art publications and art exhibition catalogues Sonia Swain, BA 84, Nov. 10, and curated art exhibitions. Pointe-Claire, Que. She was 79.

Richard K. Harvor, BFA 85, Guy Desjardins, BA 44, Dec. Susan V. (Bulmer) Walker, Antonio Iafigliola, BA 76, BEd 88, Jan. 6, Montreal. He 3, Outremont, Que. He was 89. BComm 68, Feb. 6, Montreal. Jan. 8, Montreal. He was 60. was 49. She was 68. David Jacob Freedman, BA Claude Gagnon, BComm 76, Monique “Mo” Macmillan- 56, BSc 70, Aug. 16, Montreal. Nicholas G. Jan. 29, Montreal. He was 58. Brown, BA 85, MBA 88, Nov. He was 84. Astrakianakis, BA 69, Nov. 26, Ottawa. She was 50. 14, Episkopi, Crete, Greece. Guy Gordon, BEng 76, Dec. David McAsey, BA 57, BA 66, 30, Montreal. David Rubin, BA86, MA 93, Feb. 6, Calgary. He was 77. Ryszard (Richard) J. Nov. 18, Montreal. He was 95. Osicki, BA 69, Oct. 29, Leonard Miedzianowski Marietta (Glezos) Winnipeg. He was 66. “Nemo Turner,” BA 77, Feb. Olga (Klem) Lavallee, BFA Hamelin, BA 58, Nov. 24, 8, Montreal. He was 62. 89, Jan. 15, Montreal. She was Montreal. She was 86. Bram Aron, BA 70, Nov. 21, 92. Montreal. He was 65. Bertha (Pencer) Richler, BA Paul Daniel Berman, BA 77, Nov. 21, Calgary. She was 86. Catherine (Parsons) 60, Feb. 5, Montreal. He was 92. Ian Drysder, BA 70, Feb. 14, Bradley, BA 91, GrDip 95, Montreal. He was 88. Georgette Duchaine, MA 79, Nov. 24, Beaconsfield, Que. She Herbert Richard Apr. 17, Montreal. She was 67. was 85. Heczko, BSc 61, BA 66, Dec. Sonja (Bobinski) Sztuder, 25, Montreal. He was 86. BA 70, Dec. 20, Montreal. She Hy Rolnicki, BA 79, Nov. Diane Elizabeth Gillies, was 63. 18, Chicago. He was 58. BComm 91, Jan. 27, Montreal. John L.H. O’Brien, BA 61, She was 46. Nov. 20, Montreal. He was 74. David Gillman, BA 71, Jan. Dorothy (Hoerner) 25, Toronto. He was 68. Gorman, Cert 80, BA 90, Feb. Jennifer Gail (Lamplough) Keith Craydon Withnall, 2, Montreal. She was 91. Marchand, GrDip 92, Feb. 16, BSc 61, Nov. 30, Dollard-des- Thomas “Tom” Dyce, BA 71, Montreal. She was 70. Ormeaux, Que. He was 93. Dec. 29, Montreal. He was 67. Lucia Panzera, BA 80, Feb. 7, Port St. Lucie, Fla. She was 55. Linda Maureen Bossy John J. Skene, BA 63, Jan. David Gillman, BA 71, Jan. Burke, BA 93, of Las Vegas, 10, Montreal. He was 74. 25, Toronto. He was 58. Susan (Adler) Vadnay, BA Nev., Feb. 1, Palm Desert, Calif. 79, Nov. 23, Montreal. She was 83. She was 50. Jean Elizabeth “Betty” Kevan Crawford, BComm Martin, BSc 64, Dec. 18, 72, Nov. 29, Toronto. He was 61. Elizabeth Swierczek, BA Donald Scrimshaw, BA 94, Cornwall, Ont. She was 77. 80, GrDip 99, Nov., Montreal. Nov. 16, Montreal. He was 89. Yvette Girard-Olsen, BFA She was 66. Monica (Dowers) 73, BA 73, BA 78, BFA 81, MA Franklyn, BSc 65, Nov. 13, 90, Feb. 15, Pierrefonds, Que. Mark R. Rogers, BA 81, Nov. Windsor, Ont. She was 77. She was 99. 21, Montreal. He was 55. CORRECTION: Joseph Raynold Paul Peter Savard, BA 74, Jan. Marguerite Lee Brennan, The winter 2012-13 In Memoriam Winstall, BComm 66, Aug. 24, 30, Wildwood, N.J. He was 62. BComm 82, MA 94, Jan. 25, incorrectly included Eva De Lévis, Que. He was 78. Montreal. She was 63. Gosztonyi, BComm 70. It was Barbara L. (Harrison) Eva’s mother, who had the same Jack Presho, BSc 67, July Emmerson, BA 75, Sept. 6, Gary Edward Hawkins, BA name, who passed away. 25, Burlington, Ont. He was 80. Victoria. She was 61. 82, Nov. 23, Montreal. He was 60.

44 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine NOTICE SAVE THE DATE

is hereby given that the Loyola Alumni Association Inc. will hold its 107th Annual General Meeting Wednesday, June 5, 2013, 4:30 p.m.

The meeting is held to share reports and elect the 2013-14 board of directors and officers. Alumni of Loyola College, Concordia University and Sir George Williams University are invited to attend.

Loyola Jesuit Hall and Conference Centre 7141 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal

RSVP by May 30, 2012 Online: alumni.concordia.ca/register Phone: 514-848-2424, ext. 4397; Toll free: 1-888-777-3330 Graduate Diploma in Information: [email protected] Journalism 25th Anniversary Reunion Cocktail NOTICE By invitation only; all journalism alumni are invited* May 31, 2013, 4:30 p.m. is hereby given that the Association of Alumni Location to be confirmed of Sir George Williams University will hold its FOLLOWED BY 76th Annual General Meeting The Reader’s Digest Wednesday, May 22, 2013, 6 p.m. Annual Lecture Series Alumni and the general public are welcome to attend the information-sharing meeting, where the 2013-14 board of with Peter Mansbridge directors and executive will be elected. Chief correspondent, CBC News, and anchor, The National Hall Building, H-767, 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., Montreal The lecture is open to all RSVP by May 15, 2013 Online: alumni.concordia.ca/register May 31, 2013, 7 p.m. Phone: 514-848-2424, ext. 4397; Toll free: 1-888-777-3330 D.B. Clarke Theatre Henry F. Hall Building, Concordia University Information: [email protected] 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., Montreal

*Update your contact information at NOTICE concordia.ca/alumni-giving If you’d like to share any photos from your time Garnet Key Society Annual Alumni Banquet in journalism at Concordia, please send them to Saturday, May 4, 2013, 6 p.m., Montreal [email protected]

Reconnect with former members of the Garnet Key Society and induct the 56th Key. By invitation only. Information: Erin Mullins, Alumni Officer, Homecoming and Reunions, 514-848-2424, ext. 3881, or Information: [email protected] or [email protected] 514-848-2424, ext. 5647

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 45 WORDS & MUSIC

Gypsies, grief and gophers

istorian and genealogist big heart, a hideous witch Bear Press, $18.95), aimed at mountains near the hospital HRichard R. Pyves, and dangerous pirates. In La teaching children French as and the cemetery where her BSc 72, tells the story of Vengeance de Nostromous, a second language. With il- husband is buried. A contrast his father, Ron Pyves, in Lily discovers that Ophelia lustrations by Renné Benoit, between past and future, she Night Madness (Red Deer and Zingaro are still alive. Arsenault reveals stimulating embarks on a journey of love Press, $22.95). Through Ophelia tells Lily about her facts about Quebec’s history. and self-discovery. interviews, research and childhood and how she was The book takes readers young the correspondence of a taken away from her fam- and old on a journey around A few years after graduation, long-distance love affair, ily. In Le secret de Lumina, Quebec, from the music at the Sylvie Filiatreault, BFA 98, the reader is immersed in Arsenault takes us back to Montreal International Jazz travelled to Ireland, England the life of a teenager who how Ophelia, with the help of Festival to the sandy beaches and Scotland, where she be-

fought in Europe in the last Zingaro, flees from her ab- of Les Îles de la Madeleine. came inspired by the local months of the Second World ductor and seeks refuge in a Arsenault, a former president legends and folklore. Back War. After 30 distressing circus. They meet Madame of the Concordia University in Canada, she began piec- missions flying into the heart Lumina, who has an inter- Alumni Association, resides ing together the story that of Europe, Ron survived the est in Ophelia with unknown in Montreal. would become Four: Four war physically but had to face motives. In Le courage de sisters. Four witches. Four the emotional battle of post- Tanaga, we discover how Montreal-region poet and executions. Four different traumatic stress disorder. the witch Nostromous kept writer Anne Cimon, BA (Eng. deaths. (FL Press, $19.95). Richard Pyves is an historian Ophelia captive in a mansion lit.) 93, has just released After 27 rewrites in 10 years, and genealogist and lives after causing her to become A Room on the Mountain she completed the book yet outside Toronto. blind. The story unfolds as (Gemma Books, $12). The became frustrated by pub- the reader finds out how book tells the story of Caroline lishers’ refusals. Undaunted, Elaine Arsenault, BA 83, Zingaro, Toc and Carrabelle Sauvé, a Montreal journalist she started her own pub- has just published the succeeded at freeing her and haunted by the memories of lishing company and issued fourth, fifth and sixth vol- what role Tanaga played. her husband’s death during Four herself. The book takes umes in her saga L’or des her stay at the Mountainside the perspective of four sis- gitans (Dominique et com- Arsenault has also published Hospital awaiting a life- ters/witches in Medieval pagnie, $14.95 each), about a bilingual book, F Comme saving operation. Grief makes England. Their village’s new the intertwining destinies of Français: un abécédaire du Caroline vulnerable as she priest breaks their old agree- a beautiful gypsy, an aban- Québec/ F is for French: A falls for her heart surgeon, ment with local clergymen doned girl, a horse with a Quebec Alphabet (Sleeping Dr. Pine, and moves to the and declares a witch hunt.

46 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine The sisters are captured and Christmas adventure. In the Achilleion: Aeon Tide (Lulu the Achilleion palace. As the sentenced to death. The plot, book’s world, gophers pre- Publishing, $21.71), by Costas legacy of Achilles unfolds, a however, takes some unex- pare lists of presents they Komborozos, BA (Eng lit.) new warrior is born, a fusion pected turns. Four is the first hope Santa Gopher will bring 06, part of Komborozos’s of Achilles and Alexander. part of a planned trilogy. them for Christmas. The Achilleion trilogy, tells He becomes the guardian of reader embarks on a journey the story of Alexander the the palace and faces a deadly A Gopher’s Christmas filled with twists and turns as Great and his quest for glo- opponent, taking him one Adventure (Flower Press, the gophers try to find Santa ry after finding the tomb step closer to immortality. $29.99), by Damiano Gopher. Damiano is a build- of Achilles. Alexander uses Komborozos is a freelance Ferraro, BSc 01, and Pierre ing consultant and lives in Achilles’ golden shield in writer and editor. Fiset, is an underground Laval, Que. battle and finds his way to — Shaimaa El-Ghazaly

How are you today?

Anxiety, depression and mood disorders are among society’s common mental health problems. Indeed, one in five Let’s talk. Canadians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime†. Bell’s Let’s Talk mental health initiative has made treatment more accessible. Bell has generously given $500,000 to fund therapy at Concordia’s Applied Psychology Centre and Centre for Clinical Research in Health. Concordia thanks Bell for making our community better. Mental health — now that’s something to talk about.

†Canadian Mental Health Association

Bell.ca/LetsTalk

concordia university magazine spring 2013 | 47 ENOUGH SAID

Rest assured. News time in Montreal

CATHERINE SHERRIFFS, BA (JOURN.) 07

he lights are bright, shining from every corner of the T ceiling. All is quiet in the CTV CATHERINE SHERRIFFS IS NEWS ANCHOR FOR CTV MONTREAL. Montreal studio except for the sound of the director’s voice in my ear. I am The opportunity to be taught by pro- I learned that it is important to focus on alerted to every minute that passes until, fessional journalists on a wide range the positive and remember why you start- finally, the 10-second countdown. It’s of subjects is invaluable. The support ed on this adventure in the first place. 11:30 p.m., and after hours of preparing and encouragement students receive is I came to realize that with time I would the night’s news stories, it’s finally phenomenal. And the opportunities for become more comfortable and get bet- showtime. newsroom internships and actual ex- ter in my role, and I became more driven Becoming a reporter and a news an- perience in the field are numerous. In than ever to gain experience in the field. chor didn’t happen by accident for me. my three years there I learned so much; I went on to read the news on the mor- It was the only thing I wanted to do from I networked and I made wonderful ning show at Montreal’s Virgin Radio ALUMNI INSURANCE PLANS the time I was 13 years old. That year friends, many of whom are still in my 96 and did some reporting for Global was when Montreal’s infamous 1998 ice life today. I graduated in 2007 feeling Montreal before I made the jump to CTV. storm hit. My family’s home was without very excited and prepared for my career That is where I have been for more than power for a week. School was cancelled, in broadcast journalism. three years now, and I am enjoying what I Knowing you’re protected, especially when you have people who depend on and my best friend That’s not to do immensely. Writing and delivering the you, can be very reassuring. Whatever the future brings, you and your family and I decided to have say that I didn’t news is what I have long dreamed of. To some fun “cover- My heart was pounding at times doubt be doing it at a station with such a stellar can count on these Alumni Insurance Plans: ing” the storm. We myself and my reputation is an honour. put a mini-news- and I read the word capabilities. I There is also a degree of excitement Term Life Insurance • Health & Dental Insurance • Major Accident Protection cast together on her “congratulations” was fortunate that comes with working in a Montreal Income Protection Disability Insurance • Critical Illness Insurance family’s video cam- to be offered newsroom. There is always something era and, just like twice before I began a job right out happening in this city — from pol- that, I caught the bug. jumping up and down. of school at itics and language to our amazing arts I worked hard Montreal radio scene and our beloved Habs — and I Visit manulife.com/concordiamag to learn more or throughout high station CJAD often think we must be the envy of many call toll free 1-888-913-6333 school and CEGEP in pursuit of get- 800. Although my career had started to newsrooms across the country. ting into Concordia’s prestigious fall into place, the hours — the weekend I am looking forward to a long and Department of Journalism. I can still overnight shift for two years — were, to successful career in broadcast journal- clearly remember the day I got my ac- say the least, not the best for someone in ism. I am excited for the changes that ceptance letter to the university. My her early 20s. will most certainly come because the heart was pounding and I read the word There was also the element of having to news business is evolving at a very fast “congratulations” twice before I began develop a thicker skin to cope with some rate. There are more tools and resources jumping up and down. of the criticism that comes with being at our fingertips than ever before. Most Underwritten by My experience at Concordia was a broadcaster. It is never easy to hear of all, I look forward to the 10-second The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company (Manulife Financial). Manulife, Manulife Financial, the Manulife Financial For Your Future logo and the Block Design are trademarks of everything I had hoped it would be. negative comments about yourself, yet countdown in my ear every night. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under license. Exclusions and limitations apply.

48 | spring 2013 concordia university magazine Rest assured.

ALUMNI INSURANCE PLANS

Knowing you’re protected, especially when you have people who depend on you, can be very reassuring. Whatever the future brings, you and your family can count on these Alumni Insurance Plans: Term Life Insurance • Health & Dental Insurance • Major Accident Protection Income Protection Disability Insurance • Critical Illness Insurance

Visit manulife.com/concordiamag to learn more or call toll free 1-888-913-6333

Underwritten by The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company (Manulife Financial). Manulife, Manulife Financial, the Manulife Financial For Your Future logo and the Block Design are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under license. Exclusions and limitations apply. Embark on an adventure of a lifetime! 203 Concordia University Alumni Travel Program

Enjoy an unforgettable trip to one of our spectacular destinations. Carefully selected and designed for inquisitive travellers. Reasonably paced. Supreme comfort.

Istanbul, Turkey Canada’s Northwest Passage April 7 to 5, 203 August 27 to September 0, 203 Sorrento: The Divine Amalfi Coast Symphony on the Blue Danube: May  to 9, 203 A Classical Music Cruise September 8 to 30, 203 Jewels of Antiquity: Cannes to Venice May 28 to June 2, 203 Voyage of Ancient Empires: Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Sicily and Malta Explore Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands) October 4 to 2, 203 June 6 to 4, 203 Changing Tides of History: Cruising the Baltic Sea June 2 to July 2, 203

For more information or to be added to the travel program mailing list: alumni.concordia.ca/travel or contact us at: [email protected] 54-848-2424, ext. 389