Faculty of Management • University of Lethbridge | 2008 MANAGEMENT matters contents | 2008
Editor & Project Manager Alesha Farfus-Shukaliak Departments
Design 2 Faculty News | 12 Spotlight on Research | 16 Program Report | 20 Student Successes | 23 Alumni Achievements Sarah Novak Design
Alumni and Faculty Liaison Marilyn Hawryluk
Photography Glenda Moulton Features Bernie Wirzba
Feature Writers Caitlin Crawshaw Tasha Diamant Natasha Evdokimoff Lynette LaCroix Erica Lind Jana McFarland Rob McMahon Chelsea Rule Stacy Seguin
Proofreader/Fact Checker Betsy Greenlees
Contributors Stephenie Chester Bob Cooney Marilyn Hawryluk Catherine Henderson Shelagh McMullan 2 Blueprints Become Reality 12 Vital Signs 25 Alumni Success Stories
With a recent funding announcement Dr. Bob Boudreau investigates This issue of Management matters Management matters is published and construction now underway, the phenomenon of physician proudly features Ken Boessenkool by the Faculty of Management at anticipation for Markin Hall is burnout. (BMgt ’92), Lindsey Boguski the University of Lethbridge. The steadily growing as the new (BMgt ’06), Skye Dack (BMgt ’06), opinions expressed or implied in facility begins to take shape. John Koliaska (BMgt ’95), the publication do not necessarily Read on to find out about the Matthew Chatters (BMgt ’94), reflect those of the University of Lethbridge Board of Governors. new developments. Shannon Pestun (BMgt ’01), Submissions in the form of Dr. Karen Hughes (BMgt ’83) letters, articles, story ideas or and Dr. Paul Hribar (BMgt ’92). notices of events are welcomed. Correspondence can be sent to: [email protected]
This issue of Management matters is printed on Cover photo: U of L management students Terri Jardine, Chris Broughton recycled paper. and Mark Lawrence take note of Markin Hall construction. DEAN’S MESSAGE DEAN’S MESSAGE
We have had a busy and exciting year! The we are in the process of scoping out the external with social networking. I was extremely proud Faculty of Management welcomed alumni to relations and communications areas to better to be associated with this event. The academics Homecoming 2007. It was a pleasure meeting so connect with students, business, alumni and were at a high level and a wonderful display of many of you. Shortly thereafter, we had a historic the community. sportsmanship, support and camaraderie among day when the Province of Alberta committed $50 The post-secondary landscape is changing rapid- all the teams was present with a spirit that can million toward the construction of Markin Hall. ly in Alberta. Grant MacEwan and Mount Royal only be described as infectious. Our students Markin Hall will be located on the south end of colleges have been approved to offer degree pro- placed fifth overall (two points separated the former sports field. I believe this investment grams, and other colleges are seeking to do the second from fifth place), winning first place in by the government will be seen in future years same. We are currently evaluating opportunities the human resource management and social as a transformational event – not only for the to both expand our program and extend our categories, second place in entrepreneurship and Faculty of Management and School of Health reach to other specialized learner niches. Key to third place in taxation, international and charity. Sciences, but also for this University – it signals this process has been engaging the feedback of JDC is also about giving back, and the ten teams that we have arrived! No matter where you different stakeholder groups including current raised nearly $150,000 for charity. look on campus you see signs of a great future: students, faculty, alumni and employers. If you Thanks again to Dan Laplante (BMgt ’88), the 1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport and have thoughts to share on how these campuses Kevin Nugent (BMgt ’88) and Dean Setoguchi Wellness, Turcotte Hall, the Alberta Water and should be positioned for the future, I encourage (BMgt ’89) for spearheading the fundraising Environmental Science Building, the expansion you to contact me ([email protected]) or the initiative “The Power of 25.” This initiative has of the Canadian Centre for Behavioural directors of the Calgary campus (alison.gray@ grown to 17 alumni! We extend our sincere thanks Neuroscience, the Regional Sports Stadium and uleth.ca) and the Edmonton campus (naomi. to the newest members of this initiative: Brent Field Complex and now Markin Hall. [email protected]). Your input is valuable. Button (BMgt ’95), Patrick Forrest (BMgt ’92), Our new vision, which was discussed in last Faculty members continue to do well on Karen Reid (BMgt ’86) and Kevin Sassa (BMgt year’s issue, serves as the basis for decision- the research front, having received in excess ’93), as well as three anonymous donors. making and prioritizing our efforts. The Master of $1 million in research funding in this We are on the move and exciting things are of Science in Management program has already year’s competitions. I am very proud of this happening! As always, I would love to hear been revamped and will come into effect in achievement; we are working hard to build a from you. fall 2008. Also, we have formed a committee to strong research foundation within the Faculty. outline our undergraduate program’s objectives in preparation for the upcoming curriculum Finally, our students did a superb job organizing review. Further, we are seriously considering and hosting the JDC 2008 Case Competition in accreditation by the Association to Advance January. Nearly 500 students from 10 universities Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Faculty arrived in Lethbridge to participate in a three- Dr. Murray Lindsay Council will deliberate on this in the fall. Lastly, day academic and athletic competition, mixed Dean, Faculty of Management
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Blueprints Become Reality Thanks to Government Funding, Construction Has Begun
On Oct. 25, 2007, cheers of appreciation were heard from U of L supporters when Advanced Education and Technology Minister Doug Horner announced a $50 million investment from the Government of Alberta in Markin Hall, the future home of the Faculty of Management and School of Health Sciences. “Government funding will not only create more spaces, it will also provide a dynamic new facility that allows for the most advanced instructional techniques and equipment. The entire province will benefit from this investment,” said Horner at the announcement. Markin Hall Funding Announcement on Oct. 25, 2007 Providing resources to build Markin Hall was a main priority BACK ROW (l-r): School of Health Sciences Dean Dr. Christopher Hosgood, Advanced Education in the University’s Legacy of Leadership campaign, which and Technology Minister Doug Horner, Treasury Board President and Minister of Service Alberta concluded in December 2007. The contribution from the Lloyd Snelgrove, Faculty of Management Dean Dr. Murray Lindsay and Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA Leonard Mitzel FRONT ROW (l-r): U of L Board of Governors Chair Robert Turner, government confirms the need and urgency for this facility 2007/08 Students’ Union President Kelly Kennedy, Lethbridge-West MLA Clint Dunford, at the U of L and makes up nearly 80 per cent of the funding U of L President Dr. Bill Cade and Little Bow MLA Barry McFarland required.
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A PART OF THE PLAN: Markin Hall Finance Trading Room
Included in the future Markin Hall will be a unique finance trading room, the only one of its kind in Western Canada. Equipped with tickertapes, financial news feeds and data information from Bloomberg and Reuters, the room will enable the U of L to offer finance students the opportunity to apply classroom theory in meaningful ways. “In the finance trading room, students will have opportunities to connect with reality in a way that is not available at most institutions. While immersed in the fast-paced, technologically-advanced atmosphere, students will gain exceptional learning experiences by accessing current information available for analysis and decision-making,” says finance professor Wilf Roesler (BMgt ’82). “With this exposure, the transition from university to the workplace will be more natural for our graduates, and it will greatly benefit future employers as well.” In addition, the trading room will help the Faculty of Management attract graduate students and professors to conduct research in accounting and finance, and it will establish the foundation for the U of L to provide a future Master in Financial Engineering associated with the study of commodities.
“The provincial government’s support for Markin Hall is an acknowledgement that the University’s strategy and tactics for doing business with the province are on the right path. I think this is a symbolic occasion for the entire University,” said Faculty of For more information about how you can contribute to Markin Hall, please contact: Management Dean Dr. Murray Lindsay.
With the start of construction on Feb. University Advancement 15, 2008, momentum for Markin Hall University of Lethbridge has only increased. Expected to open to meet the needs of our changing 4401 University Drive W in the summer of 2010, the future economy and province. Inside the Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 facility will provide space for 1,600 collaborative environment, innovative management students and will enable approaches to research, teaching and Phone: (403) 329-2582 the Faculty of Management to increase learning will continue to be developed Fax: (403) 329-5130 the number of graduates prepared for the leaders of tomorrow. E-mail: [email protected]
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(l-r) Dan Laplante, Kevin Nugent and Dean Setoguchi discuss plans to move forward. Greg Fulmes Photography
Alumni support helps make 5 Markin Hall a reality. 4 Management2 matters | 2008 DEAN’S MESSAGE FACULTY NEWS
The Power of 25: Multiplying Momentum
In recognition of their Faculty’s 25th Since then, an additional seven alumni have Although the initiative is not yet complete, anniversary, Dan Laplante (BMgt ’88), come on board to show support for their it has already resulted in a $1.6 million Kevin Nugent (BMgt ’88) and Dean Faculty including: Brent Button (BMgt ’95), impact for Markin Hall through matching Setoguchi (BMgt ’89) started a unique Patrick Forrest (BMgt ’92), Karen Reid funds and additional contributions from initiative to recruit 25 management alumni to (BMgt ’86), Kevin Sassa (BMgt ’93) and three the participants. give a minimum of $25,000 each to support anonymous donors. However, as Laplante points out, this is just Markin Hall. In the last issue of Management Enthusiasm continues to grow, and 17 U of L the beginning – the real effects resulting matters, 10 management alumni who had alumni have now committed to the project, from this campaign will be seen in the years made commitments to the Power of 25 which gained national attention in the Globe to come as U of L students benefit from the were introduced. and Mail on March 1, 2008. opportunities that Markin Hall will provide.
“It was an easy choice to support the “An opportunity to support the Faculty of “I’m very excited to support this initiative University of Lethbridge because of the great Management through the Power of 25 to provide educational opportunities for experience I had obtaining my degree. The initiative was without question an easy students, faculty and our community. As U of L helped to lay the groundwork for my decision to make. I remember faculty an alumna, I had a great experience at career, and I feel it created the opportunity members and former students like it was the U of L and it provided me with great for success. It is very gratifying to participate yesterday. Attending the U of L was an opportunities. I feel it is important to give in this endeavour that supports the growth of important chapter in my life.” back to ensure that others have access to the U of L and the Faculty of Management.” these opportunities as well.”
Kevin Sassa, BMgt ’93, CFP, CIM, FCSI Patrick Forrest, BMgt ’92, FCSI, CIM, FMA Karen Reid, BMgt ’86, CMA Investment Advisor Director, GMP Private Client Controller CIBC Wood Gundy Senior Investment Advisor The Charlton & Hill Group
5 Management matters | 2008 Management matters | 2008 5 FACULTY NEWS NEW APPOINTMENTS
Dr. Wenlong Yuan Dr. Oz Palasvirta International Management, Policy and Strategy Finance
Working as an import/export manager in China opened up a whole If you ask Dr. Oz Palasvirta, an associate professor at the University new world for Dr. Wenlong Yuan. “Because of my job, I became of Lethbridge, he will tell you that the wind in Lethbridge is not very interested in international business,” says Yuan. “I worked for so bad. Palasvirta and his wife recently moved to Lethbridge from three years and then did my master’s degree.” St. John’s, Nfld., and he says he remembers much more severe weather out East. “The winds are cold and damp and cut through your clothes. Yuan came to Canada on a scholarship from the University of You are cold to the bone,” says Palasvirta. “We moved to Lethbridge Calgary, where he completed his PhD in international business and because it really is a very nice town. It is much easier to be active strategy in 2006. Deciding between multiple job offers, he accepted outside here, and we wanted to get back to the mountains.” his first appointment as an assistant professor at the University of Lethbridge. “The reason I came here is that the University has a For Palasvirta, who received his PhD in finance from the University good balance between research and teaching, and that is what I of Utah in 1985, returning to the mountains is not his only wanted,” says Yuan. homecoming. He is also returning to his professorial roots after spending several years in administrative duties at Memorial His current research area is subsidiary learning and corporate University of Newfoundland and is excited to devote more time to social responsibility issues at the subsidiary level. Yuan studies the research and teaching. success and failure of subsidiary companies operating in countries with uncertain economies or environments. He has two objectives His current research focuses on international finance, including for his research. “One is to understand business activities in those exchange rates and political risks. He also focuses on property countries and why some companies are not able to respond to rights and their mutability. “A perfect example is what is happening uncertainties,” says Yuan. “The other goal is to contribute to to pollution control,” explains Palasvirta. “What used to be the managers’ understanding of those markets and what options are company’s right to pollute the atmosphere or water table no longer available to them.” exists. And the real costs of production are starting to include the cost of befouling the environment.” While Yuan hopes his research will eventually contribute to the success of subsidiaries operating in unstable markets, he also plans As an active researcher, Palasvirta offers his students current and to make important contributions to the University of Lethbridge innovative information in the finance courses he teaches, but he today. “First, I would like to produce thorough, good quality research would also like to see his students develop an analytical practice for in the area I am interested in. Second, I want to teach my students examining financial topics. “The facts and theories change all the not only knowledge, but critical thinking. Third, I would like to add time. Hopefully what you impart to students by the end of it all is a to the good environment of the Faculty through my service.” process by which they can do their own thinking.”
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Dr. Mahfooz Ansari International Management, and Human Resources Dr. Robbin Derry Management and Organizational Studies Policy and Strategy
“There is nothing so practical as a good theory”* is a phrase She was looking for a new adventure with her family; what she Dr. Mahfooz A. Ansari often tells his students. An associate found was a home. “Edmonton is the first place I’ve lived in a couple professor at the University of Lethbridge, Ansari believes theory of decades where I’ve wanted to put down roots,” says Dr. Robbin must have practical value. “Whatever theory I teach my students, Derry, an associate professor at the University of Lethbridge, they practise in class so they can see if it is working,” he says. “After Edmonton campus. She and her family, all avid skiers and theatre all, they are going to be the managers of tomorrow, and they need goers, are excited to take part in the many outdoor activities and to understand how to manage beautifully and scientifically.” cultural arts opportunities in Edmonton.
Ansari, whose main area of research involves leadership styles and Derry’s delight with the community of Edmonton also extends how to influence others effectively in the workplace, has much to the U of L’s Faculty of Management. “It is a good fit for me experience with effective leadership. Throughout his career, he has in terms of a Faculty that really values and integrates courses on supervised some 25 doctoral dissertations (PhD/DBA) and 50 master’s social responsibility,” says Derry, who has a PhD in organizational (MBA) theses for students from diverse cultural backgrounds, and behaviour. “I love teaching classes related to my research.” One he is continuing to supervise master’s students at the U of L. He of her courses deals specifically with corporate social responsibility completed his own PhD in industrial and organizational psychology and business ethics, an area of particular interest to Derry. in 1981 and has since won numerous academic awards, become a member of many professional organizations and editorial boards Prior to coming to the Edmonton campus, Derry spent four years and produced and contributed to many research publications – at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill., where she studied the including two books (both published by SAGE). tobacco industry and the ethical and unethical decisions they made at different times. “I became interested in the relationships between He is currently collaborating with colleagues to write a third book social activists and the organizations they target,” she explains. “I’m on management issues in South Asia. Ansari spent many years living fascinated by how each group maneuvers to gain social legitimacy and working in southern Asia, most recently in Malaysia, and has with consumers and the public.” already developed a coursepack for the class he is teaching on management issues in South Asia. This fascination drives her current research at the U of L, which focuses, in part, on former Premier Ralph Klein’s proposal to In addition to his teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, privatize health care and the role that various activist groups played Ansari is currently researching Leader-Member Exchange (LMX), which in the defeat of Klein’s proposal. “My goal is to contribute to a involves the exchange relationship between immediate supervisors broader understanding of how social movements gain support and and subordinates and how this relationship affects organizational credibility,” says Derry. She will be presenting her research, titled effectiveness differently from culture to culture. “I would like to add Singing Against Medicare Injustice, at a colloquium in Amsterdam a new dimension to LMX theory. I know it will take some time to in July 2008. achieve all my goals, but one has to try the best one can.”
*Kurt Lewin, 1944, p. 169 Management matters | 2008 7 FACULTY NEWS
Q&a With Dr. Linda Van Esch
In August 2007, the Faculty of Management How does the Faculty prepare welcomed Dr. Linda Van Esch as the associate students to become leaders who dean, undergraduate programs. think globally, act insightfully and make a difference? With two semesters at the U of L now under her belt, Van Esch sat down with Management matters and told us a little bit about what the The short answer is by graduating well-informed, journey has been like so far. confident, capable people who have a clear sense of their own personal vision. We accomplish this by ensuring breadth in education so that students are What is your role in this position, and exposed to issues from many different perspectives what are your key short-term goals? and come to appreciate complexity and inter- connectedness. By connecting students to the real world of business as much as possible. By expecting I oversee the operations of the undergrad office – a wonderful team students to take responsibility and by encouraging that has been doing a great job for a long time. Since they clearly need them to be involved citizens, both on campus and in little “overseeing,” one of my short-term goals is to introduce a support the broader community. By requiring a course in the program for “at-risk” students – those who, for a variety of reasons, find social responsibilities of business, to counter the naïve the transition to university difficult. I’m also looking forward to working view of the purpose of business. By infusing ethical with the Faculty as it renews the management curriculum. concerns into all of our courses, to sensitize students to the issues and to reinforce their own sense of integrity. By integrating international perspectives What are your into all of our courses and offering a range of study- research interests? abroad options. By ensuring that our programs use a variety of learning techniques to enhance critical I’m primarily interested in the people side of marketing. More recently, my thinking, curiosity and creativity. By ensuring that interests have centred on management education, ethics and corporate social our programs are rigorous and challenging, so that responsibility, and international development. Although administrative work our graduates have a solid, well-grounded sense occupies the bulk of my time, I’m hoping to extend some work on Canadian of confidence. And, perhaps most importantly, by mining companies and their operations in developing countries in partnership helping each student find his or her passion. with colleagues in Canada and several countries in Latin America.
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CONGRATULATIONS Dr. Angela Downey (BMgt ’89) was recently awarded the Chartered Accountants Education Foundation Teaching Award.
Faculty of Management Dean Dr. Murray Lindsay was named a Fellow of the Society of Management Accountants (FCMA) on Nov. 17, 2007. An FCMA is the highest honour awarded by CMA Canada. Individuals who receive this designation must show strategic leadership, community achievement, professional accomplishments and an overall commitment to enriching the management accounting profession.
Craig Milner was awarded the 2007 Prairie Baseball Academy (PBA) Professor of the Year Award. A committee considers PBA student nominations in order to determine award recipients. Winners are chosen on the basis of their knowledge of subject matter, fairness and communication skills.
Premier Ed Stelmach appointed Dr. Ken Nicol as Chair of the newly created Alberta Institute for Agriculture, Forestry and the Environment. The The Edmonton Campus institute will identify development activities that will encourage the provincial Capitalizes on New Space government to become more environmentally friendly in these industries. The Edmonton campus recently doubled its presence in the Dr. Claudia Notzke was invited to speak at an international symposium that capital city by taking over a third floor in the University of is studying how socially vulnerable people can become self-reliant through Lethbridge Tower. The renovations were marked with a grand tourism. She will be one of four speakers from Canada, Ecuador, Vietnam and opening celebration that brought together students, faculty, staff Malaysia. The symposium will take place in Kyoto, Japan, at Ritsumeikan and alumni in October 2007, but Campus Director Naomi Beke University. (BA ’92) says the additional space began enhancing the sense of community long before that party started. “Students are quite thrilled with the changes we’ve made. They’re now coming to campus throughout the day to meet and study instead of arriving just before class,” says Beke. The approximately 500 students, staff and faculty on the Edmonton campus are enjoying new facilities such as four individual study rooms, two classrooms, additional office space for administration and a video-conferencing suite.
MSc (Mgt) Faculty and Alumna Paper Accepted for Publication U of L alumna Alexandra Costello (MSc Mgt ’06) and Drs. Ebenezer Asem and Eldon Gardner will have a joint paper published in Energy Economics. The paper is titled Comparison of Historically Simulated VaR: Evidence from Oil Prices. MSS Instructor of the Year Bruce Thurston (BA ’78) was named Management Students’ Society (MSS) Instructor of the Year. Norman Leach’s Book Published Incoming MSS President Chris Broughton (right) presented Thurston (left) Norman Leach’s new book, Broken Arrow: America’s First Lost with the award at the 21st Annual Scholarship Fundraising Dinner. Nuclear Weapon, has been published. The book discusses North Each year MSS students recognize a professor who goes above and beyond in America’s Cold War and the impacts it had on people and his or her duties as a professor. This year, many professors were nominated places. Leach is a management professor at the Calgary campus. from all three campuses.
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Photo by Dr. Van Christou
ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP st FUNDRAISING DINNER Dr.21 Van Christou and the late Helen Christou were honoured at this year’s Scholarship Fundraising Dinner.
“Each of us has a responsibility Family and friends joined the Faculty of Management at the 21st Annual Scholarship Fundraising Dinner on March 14, 2008, to honour and pay to leave this world better than tribute to Dr. Van Christou (LLD ’84) and his late wife, Helen. Thanks to the support of the community, the Faculty of Management has we found it. The University’s established the Van and Helen Christou Scholarship Fund to be awarded to a management student. multidisciplinary program stresses the fundamental importance of a Love of family, community service, commitment to education and dedication to the fine liberal education for all students arts epitomize the lives of Dr. Van Christou and his late wife, Helen. Born into a strong Greek heritage, Christou is a firm believer in hard work, modera- and makes this possible. From what tion, education and the appreciation of beauty. Acting on these values, Christou I see, things are in good hands.” was instrumental in the establishment of the University of Lethbridge, serving on the founding Board of Governors and as its third chancellor. In 1984, the University Dr. Van Christou awarded him an honorary degree. During her lifetime, Helen was known for her beauty, graciousness and soft-spoken manner. Working with the YMCA, she became Canada’s representative at the World Alliance of YMCAs in Switzerland.
The Christous were tireless supporters of the fine arts. They secured the first major art donation to the University’s world-renowned art collection. In 2002, the University opened the Helen Christou Gallery to honour this remarkable couple and their family.
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Long-time friends and colleagues shared memories and sent words of congratulations:
“The early days of the University were frantic, “Van was a founding father of the U of L who had a hectic, always exciting and exhilarating – with Van commitment and conviction that this would be a in the middle. Helen was a fast friend, and where good thing, not just for Lethbridge, but for the Helen was, there was love. This scholarship will province and beyond. Helen was a special lady; share the richness of your lives, and the gifts you she was such a good friend to us.”
have given this community.” President Emeritus Dr. Sam Smith (LLD ‘90) and Carol Smith Dr. Gordon Campbell and Sylvia Campbell
“A personal thanks to you and your effort for the U of L “Dad has a passion and energy that is and the amazing hospitality of you and Helen.” contagious, and everyone around him Arthur Erickson (LLD ‘81) enjoys this about him.”
Sandra (Christou) England
Dr. Ingrid Speaker, Colin Beazer and Dr. Ray Speaker
Dr. Van Christou with original Shimazaki painting
St. Patrick’s Fine Arts Elementary School Senior Choir
To commemorate the evening, an original Shimazaki painting entitled Nature’s Embrace was presented to Christou, and a limited number of prints were made available for purchase. A few copies are still available and can be purchased for $300 (unframed) by contacting the Faculty of Management at (403) 329-2168. Donations to the Van and Helen Christou Scholarship Fund can be made at anytime by contacting University Advancement at (403) 329-2582.
11 Management matters | 2008 Management matters | 2008 11 SPOTLIGHT ON RESEARCH
Dr. Bob Boudreau investigates the phenomenon of physician burnout. VITAL
PhysiciansSIGNS are healers. Far and wide their “The strategy is to find the cracks in each occupation we study profession is revered, their status impeccable. It seems contradictory, even wrong, that today’s and develop the tools and strategies people need to cope with doctors may be the one group of professionals most in need of urgent care. Yet that’s exactly the their own professional situations.” startling finding that University of Lethbridge professor Dr. Bob Boudreau uncovered “Our early research surveys on Japanese from the Alberta Medical Association overheard through his research on the subject of burnout. workers led to further research opportunities their conversation, and quickly thereafter it was As it happens, doctors are more at risk for on occupational health and burnout levels of decided that the study was something that would professional burnout than any of the dozens workers in Canada, the United States, Belarus, be conducted provincewide. of other occupations that Boudreau and his New Zealand and Australia. The study of global Boudreau developed a survey aimed at research team have examined. burnout has continued to attract attention and examining the prevalence and severity of Boudreau has been studying occupational grow in interest and importance over the years,” burnout in Alberta physicians using a series of stress for more than two decades. His 1985 Boudreau says. demographic questions and four measure- dissertation was a theoretical paper on the critical In the last several years, Boudreau has focused ments of burnout. More than 1,100 doctors development and directions within the field of his studies on stress levels and burnout in specific participated in the provincial study, and less stress and burnout. He furthered his investigation occupations. In 2002, he connected with Taber than a year later, Boudreau was asked by the on the subject while on exchange at Hokkai- physician Dr. Rob Wedel to kick-start research on Canadian Medical Association to conduct a Gakuen University in Sapporo in 1988. doctors. As fate would have it, Robin Robertson similar survey nationally.
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What Boudreau was surprised to discover was plus the day-to-day pressures of running a busy psychology, Boudreau aims to further his that out of all the occupations he’d examined, practice and you have the perfect prescription work on professional burnout in an effort to doctors were by far at the highest risk for for professional exhaustion. better the working environments of not only professional burnout. In fact, almost half of the “We need to continue to develop a better physicians, but professionals across the board. physicians who participated in the study were in diagnostic set of measures so we can gain a greater “The strategy is to find the cracks in each what Boudreau categorizes as advanced stages of understanding into this complex problem,” says occupation we study and develop the tools and the condition. Boudreau. “Once we figure out what it is, we will strategies people need to cope with their own “It doesn’t seem to matter whether they are be in the best position to try to manage burnout professional situations,” he says. specialists or GPs. Doctors as a group are worse and many of its related workplace cousins such Future endeavours for Boudreau include a off than other professionals when it comes to as increased job conflict, poor performance, meta-analysis on published physician burnout burnout. There are a lot of cracks in the health- helplessness, higher absenteeism, lateness and surveys, and a study of the effects of burnout care system and physicians are suffering in a poor health.” in relation to the assessment and management whole host of different ways.” New avenues for Boudreau’s research include of fatigue in chronic illness, conducted with Boudreau believes the incidence of physician the development of a bibliography of burnout, an interdisciplinary team of researchers from burnout in Canada can be attributed to many which will be a compilation of approximately across Alberta. factors, not the least of which is the pressure that 13,000 previously researched references on the comes with being responsible for the well-being subject put together in a user-friendly format of hundreds of patients. Tie that in with an over- that other researchers and students around the taxed health-care system rife with shortages, globe can use. With a background in industrial
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THE EVOLUTION OF MARKETING A few decades ago, marketing strategies were focused purely on profit. Corporations today have evolved more toward an attitude of social responsibility, and current marketing reflects this evolution.
University of Lethbridge management professor Bello also emphasizes the role of the consumer Roberto Bello (MSc Mgt ’02) conducts research in the marketing process. “The Internet and other into the concept of social responsibility as communication tools provide consumers with the well as the impact that corporate activities knowledge and power to pressure corporations to have on consumer behaviour. According to be socially responsible,” says Bello. “Corporations Bello, practising social responsibility means are increasingly realizing the importance of that corporations should acknowledge and act consumers’ opinions and are engaging in more upon their accountability to consumers, the open communication with them.” government and the community. He explains that Unfortunately, true social responsibility has not such actions involve advising consumers as to the yet permeated all industry sectors. Bello explains proper use and disposal of products, replacing that some corporations use a strategy called green resources taken from communities and hiring washing. “These corporations claim to be socially local people with fair salaries and benefits. responsible, but they use social responsibility as “It is, to a certain degree, easy for marketers a catch phrase and competitive advantage, rather to influence public opinion. I think that power than a corporate value,” he says. should be used not only to increase profit, but As consumer power grows, Bello predicts that also to benefit society,” says Bello, who strives to marketing will evolve away from green washing instill this philosophy of social responsibility in and more toward true social responsibility – his students. an evolution that will capture the attention of researchers like Bello as it unfolds.
TRADITIONS AND TOURISM Like many Aboriginal people elsewhere in the world, Aboriginal Canadians are faced with the ongoing challenge of upholding traditions while achieving economic independence.
According to University of Lethbridge manage- Maintaining Aboriginal culture is central to ment professor Dr. Claudia Notzke, tourism is keeping Canada’s multicultural nature alive. a key tool used by Aboriginal people today when When used in a selective manner, tourism can facing this challenge. “They look at tourism as a be highly useful in achieving this; however, way to capitalize on their culture and land,” ex- the current relationship between Aboriginal plains Notzke, “and at the same time, derive eco- Canadians and tourism is “a fairly tentative one,” nomic and social benefits.” says Notzke. Notzke is the author of such books as The “It is beneficial for Aboriginal people to learn Stranger, the Native and the Land; and Aboriginal as much as they can about the industry and then Peoples and Natural Resources in Canada. With a make informed decisions on how to best use it background in geography and anthropology, she for their own purposes,” she explains. has studied underdevelopment, environmental One of the most important issues is striking management and sustainable tourism in Canada, a balance between marketing Aboriginal culture the United States, South Africa and Australia. and keeping it genuine. As Notzke explains, Her indigenous tourism fieldwork has involved “That’s not easily done – here or anywhere else.” speaking directly with both Aboriginal people and tourists, giving her a first-hand look at the complex issues involved in Aboriginal tourism.
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U of L alumna Rhonda Crow is a role model and mentor.
New Certificate Program Creates Fresh Opportunities
While many wish to pursue a university degree, Students in the certificate program take Amelinckx, director of the FNG program. Crow not everyone is able to dedicate four or five years courses in management, Native American Studies is responsible for program marketing, student to post-secondary education. In order to fulfill (NAS), writing and First Nations governance. recruitment, retention and support. the diverse needs of its students, the University Those who successfully complete the certificate “As an alumna, I relate well to the students. of Lethbridge is offering a brand new 10-course program have the option of transferring their I work with those who are having difficulty in Management Certificate in First Nations courses to a bachelor of management in FNG. their courses, offering tutoring or directing Governance (FNG). Crow says there is a growing demand for them to others who can provide appropriate First Nations managers and is confident that the assistance,” explains Crow. “I try to help students “I try to help students succeed FNG program will help prepare up-and-coming succeed in any way I can.” community leaders. “In addition to the skills a Karen McCarthy will convocate this spring in any way I can.” management degree offers, FNG graduates have and will be the program’s first graduate. “The the added component of First Nations content program is very good, focusing on current issues “The certificate program is ideal for anyone that will help those working with First Nations in First Nations communities, particularly self- with an interest in First Nations governance people and communities,” says Crow. The degree government and self-reliance,” says McCarthy. “It and management training but who has limited prepares graduates for careers in leadership, opened the doors for me to further my education time,” says U of L alumna Rhonda Crow (Mgt government, business, band administration and even more.” Cert ’97, BMgt ’99), coordinator of the FNG self-government. Since its launch in 2003 through a partner- program. “We also hope to attract students who Crow accepted the position as coordinator of ship of the Faculty of Management and the De- may have years of on-the-job training, but need the FNG program last year. “We are very pleased partment of Native American Studies, the FNG formal academic training to enhance their skills, Rhonda is here. She is a wonderful role model program continues to grow, with more gradu- open up new job opportunities or advance their and support for students in the program and is ates anticipated by the end of this year. careers to a managerial level.” a significant addition to the office,” says Andrea
Management matters | 2008 15 PROGRAM REPORT
Work Study Abroad Program Expands To
U of L students and alumni India apply theory and practice in Mumbai, India – a region of growing importance to the global economy.
In 2007, the University of Lethbridge expanded its Work Study Abroad Program to Mumbai, India, where participants experienced the world of business within a drastically different environment and culture. For U of L alumna Yukiko Okutomi (BMgt ’04), the program paved the way to an opportunity of a lifetime. Interested in expanding her breadth of knowledge beyond Western business practices, Okutomi was one of two U of L alumni to join Photos submitted by International Program nine students and take part in the program Coordinator Candace Jesson (Mgt ’03), Yukiko last year. Over the course of the six-week Okutomi as well as other program participants Yukiko Okutomi program, they were immersed in Indian culture,
16 Management matters | 2008 DEAN’S MESSAGE PROGRAM REPORT
business and community, and had a first-hand trip to her home country of Japan in July 2007, Okutomi. “The experience that I gained from opportunity to apply their university educations Okutomi decided to take up permanent residence being involved in the Work Study Abroad in an international marketplace. in India. program proves impressive to many of the “The Work Study Abroad program allowed Okutomi was hired as a business consultant professionals who I now interact with.” me to witness a different culture, way of business for Dua Consulting and Dua Associates and Although her involvement in the program and livelihood beyond what I could have began working in New Delhi in December ended a year ago, Okutomi continues to see the imagined,” recalls Okutomi. “My experiences 2007. While offering consultation assistance influence it has had on her life. in India offered a renewed understanding of to incoming Japanese and foreign investors, “Living in India has allowed me to develop cultural diversity.” Okutomi has been able to use skills she obtained a different view toward my own life,” says Although culture shock initially posed a in the program to her advantage. Okutomi. “I have gained a new appreciation for challenge to everyday life for Okutomi, the overall “It is important to understand India’s diversity Western and Indian culture, and have learned personal experience was positively life changing. and cultural differences in order to work with not to take anything for granted.” Following the completion of the program and a local businesses and outside investors,” explains
17 Management matters | 2008 Management matters | 2008 17 PROGRAM REPORT
Gail McKenzie (front), Cathy Aspen and Chad Newton stimulate their intellectual curiosities.
MSc (Mgt) Program Changes
Gail McKenzie, a student in the U of L’s Master suggestions from applicants, students and faculty tional knowledge in fields like human resources, of Science in Management program, wishes members, and build on other suggestions like finance or marketing. Building on this knowledge she’d started a year or two later. That’s because remote delivery of classes. base, they become experts in their sub-specialty she’s heard about upcoming changes to the “We heard that students are interested in taking and conduct qualitative or quantitative research. program. Previously, students had a year to the program in Calgary and Edmonton,” says “An MBA trains managers, but we train complete their research projects, but soon they Kelley. “It can be costly to relocate to Lethbridge, researchers,” explains Kelley. “In today’s economy, will have up to 16 months to complete the new especially if someone has a family, so we will a number of sources indicate a shortage of thesis requirement. pilot test delivering the program remotely to our individuals with academic credentials. Industry, “I think the extended thesis option is great,” campuses in Calgary and Edmonton.” government and NGOs are all looking for says McKenzie, who is researching partnerships Starting with the 2008/09 cohort, students individuals with specialized knowledge and between non-profit organizations and businesses. can attend lectures delivered from instructors in expertise, and our grads can fill that demand.” “The changes give you more credits – right now, Lethbridge, Edmonton or Calgary using real-time For example, MSc (Mgt) student Cathy you’re credited for a research project, not a thesis, audio-visual technologies. This approach helps Aspen is examining social marketing techniques but it’s just as much work!” students build relationships with each other, with – applying marketing practices to social change Program director Dr. Helen Kelley (BMgt ’93, professors and with staff. – and hopes to work toward a PhD in the field. MSc ’94) explains that the other program changes Incoming students also benefit from merit- Chad Newton, another student, decided on the include revising course content to fit student based, non-repayable fellowships. Every Can- MSc program because of the career options. needs, offering fellowships to incoming students adian student accepted into the program is “I think a research-based program provides and an option to take the program remotely from entitled to a merit-based non-refundable $9,600 more opportunities,” he says. “It opens more Calgary or Edmonton. fellowship, and fellowships are also available for doors – whether you want to go into a PhD The MSc (Mgt) program started in the 2000/01 international students. All students benefit from program or into industry.” academic year. Two years ago, a committee looked support like networked computers and assistance at the curriculum to see if it satisfied the needs of with conference costs. For more information on the MSc (Mgt) program, students and faculty. The new changes respond to All students enter the program with founda- please e-mail: [email protected].
18 Management matters | 2008 DEAN’S MESSAGE PROGRAM REPORT
Vicky Wu provides the public with tools for healthy living.
Co-op Student Makes a Difference “We are all working toward one goal – eradicating cancer.” changes on the health front – new products, studies and findings – so no issue is ever Canadians are increasingly opting for healthier Wu’s co-op placement led to a permanent wrapped up.” alternatives where they live, work and play. A position in this role with the Canadian Cancer As Wu has discovered, these challenges can be societal shift is now occurring, for example, as Society – a position that has enabled Wu to advantageous; due to the nature of the workload, we strive for work-life balance, to “go green” and align her interests in social marketing and employees need to be involved in many areas of to be aware of potentially harmful substances in healthy living. the organization. Wu has a diverse portfolio, the environment. Vicky Wu is working to help “Cancer is the leading cause of premature ranging from environmental carcinogens prevent cancer by providing information and death in Canada. Cancer does not discriminate, (cancer-causing agents) to provincial cancer encouraging a healthy lifestyle. and it can affect anyone,” says Wu. “Ultimately, I screening programs. She was also involved in “The issue of potentially harmful pesticides am interested in learning about prevention and educating staff about the recently released (and used to enhance the appearance of green spaces, sharing that information with others. It’s about controversial) human papillomavirus (HPV) for instance, is now on the forefront across making a positive impact on people’s lives.” vaccine that aids in the prevention of cervical Canada,” says Wu. “I am working behind the Although Wu is full of positive energy when cancer. scenes to launch a public education campaign it comes to her job, she has learned that there “One of the greatest aspects of working for an about the issue and working toward pesticide- are many challenges in socially responsible organization like the Canadian Cancer Society is free legislation in Alberta.” marketing, including information overload, that everyone is passionate about what they do,” As a management student, Wu completed an unending projects and limited resources. she says. “We are all working toward one goal – eight-month co-op position as a public issues “Everyone has an opinion when it comes to eradicating cancer.” specialist with the Canadian Cancer Society, cancer and staying healthy. It can be challenging Alberta/NWT Division. She researched the lat- wading through all the information and Editor’s Note: At press time, Wu is an applicant for est health trends and helped provide informa- presenting both sides of the story in a balanced the Spring 2008 Convocation (the Convocation tion for front-line staff to make available to view,” says Wu, who has also found that a project grad list will not be finalized until after this issue of the public. is never really completed. “There are always Management matters is printed).
Management matters | 2008 19 STUDENT SUCCESSES Photo by Jeremy Emerson
U of L Hosts JDC West 2008 For the past three years, U of L management students from universities in Western Canada schools tend to focus more on numbers. In students have had the opportunity to gain to compete each year in nine academic addition to the numbers, there are so many hands-on business experience – and bring challenges, a parliamentary debate, a social other variables that you have to think of when home some trophies while they’re at it. challenge and a dodge-ball tournament. This you’re in an organization, and I think the U of L competition promotes leadership, camaraderie really provides that knowledge base and gives Lethbridge was this year’s host of JDC West, and hands-on business experience. us a transferable skill set.” which took place from Jan. 18 to Jan. 20, 2008. U of L students earned first place in both “Sometimes the cases that students receive Dr. Murray Lindsay, dean of the Faculty human resource management and the social are real-world situations that companies are of Management, is very pleased with the competition, second place in entrepreneurship, actually facing today,” explains U of L student performance of U of L students in this and third place in both the taxation case and Scott Gloge, this year’s U of L team captain. “It’s competition. “I have never been more proud the international case. They also placed third really a chance for students to come out of the to be associated with a student-run event in in charity, raising just under $20,000 for the classroom, look at a case, see what a company my 20-year career,” he says. “Not only were the United Way of Canada. is doing and give some input as to how to solve academics at a high level, there was a wonderful their problem.” display of sportsmanship, support and JDC West is the largest student-run business camaraderie among all the teams. The spirit competition in Western Canada. Starting in According to Gloge, U of L’s competitive can only be described as infectious.” Quebec as Jeux du Commerce (Commerce advantage lies in the way our management Games), it now brings more than 500 business classes are taught. “I think some of the other
IME Community Projects Raise Money for Charity Global Incentive The 2007/08 Integrated Management Experience on April 2 in the SU Ballrooms. The concert Michelle (Ha) Pham, a fourth-year (IME) classes undertook two community headliner was Michael Bernard Fitzgerald, a well- management student, received a projects this year. The morning class organized known local artist. More than 280 tickets were special recognition reward from a street-hockey tournament named the ABC sold for the event. The concert raised $4,000. In her employer, the Westin Hotels Cup. The tournament took place on April 5 total, this year’s IME classes raised $10,000 for and Resorts, and won a place on the with 24 teams competing. In conjunction with St. John Ambulance Canada. Since its inception company’s Global Incentive Trip to the tournament, the students also held a silent in 2000, IME students have raised more than Thailand, April 14 to 19. auction and raised $6,000. The IME afternoon $125,000 with all proceeds going to local non- class organized a music concert that took place profit groups in southern Alberta.
20 Management matters | 2008 DEAN’S MESSAGE STUDENT SUCCESSES
Students Succeed at KPMG Case Competition Students Organize Volunteer Fair Jody Roetman, a fourth-year management student who is pursuing a combined degree majoring in history and marketing, is organizing a student volunteer fair to bring students into contact with local not-for-profit organizations. Roetman is working on this project with classmates Andrea Rowbottom, a second-year management student majoring in human resources and industrial relations; Mirjana Matic, a fourth-year management student majoring in international management; and Jen Tanaka, a fourth-year management student majoring in finance. It is a forum for charity and not-for-profit organizations to tell students who they are, what they do and how students can get involved. “The volunteer fair recognizes that charity (l-r) Dan Kazakoff, director of Theory into Practice Programs; Alesha Farfus-Shukaliak (BA/BMgt ’01), competition advisor; students Larissa Featherstone, Allison Mostowich and Andrew Brown; Stephen and not-for-profit groups are fundamental to Graham, competition advisor; Mark DeBlois (BMgt ’86), partner KPMG society, and they take care of what the main- stream has forgotten,” says Roetman. “Each of The annual KPMG Case Competition held its finals on March 1, 2008. U of L’s third-year IME these groups has a very worthwhile cause that students Allison Mostowich, Andrew Brown and Larissa Featherstone made up the winning team. makes a difference in our community and is improving the lives of many every day.” This is only the second time in the competition’s history where third-year students have won. The team was acknowledged at the U of L’s Annual Scholarship Fundraising Dinner on The event will be held on Sept. 17 in the March 14, 2008. Atrium at the University of Lethbridge.
Catherine Henderson Reflects on Her Time at the U of L highlights. She does an excellent job of making supervisors for contacting employers on his class interesting and informative by sharing behalf and striving to find a good fit that her own travel experiences. The class format benefited both Brett and his employers. encourages discussion and ensures that Brett, who currently works full time as an students stay on top of their readings. institutional analyst at the U of L, credits the Her course inspired me to consider tourism co-op office staff and their valuable workshops as a career, and she was more than willing to for his success. inform me about such career paths. When “If it wasn’t for the co-op programs and the asked for information, Dr. Notzke went beyond supportive staff, I don’t know where I’d be Catherine Henderson and Brett Holmes my expectations by marking pages in textbooks, today,” he says. finding handouts and drawing from her own Preparing for my graduation this spring has experiences to give me ideas. All of these These experiences show the lasting impact encouraged me to reflect on my experience here resources have proved to be very helpful in my U of L staff and faculty members have on at the University of Lethbridge. job search. students. Not only do they provide support while we are students, but their influence will Looking back, I have realized the positive When I asked Brett Holmes, a prospective continue to reflect in our lives and careers impact U of L staff and faculty have had on my economics and management graduate, about following graduation. university career. The care and passion staff and his U of L memories, he talked about his co-op faculty bring to their everyday work impact our terms. All of the staff members in the U of L learning and our time on campus. Management and Arts & Science Co-op offices Editor’s Note: Catherine Henderson plans to graduate with a bachelor of management degree in marketing Dr. Claudia Notzke’s Introduction to Tourism played a key role in his co-op experience, but this spring. course stands out for me as one of my academic he is particularly grateful to his placement
Management matters | 2008 21 Dear Alumni: As I reflect on my 30-year career with the Faculty of Management at the University of Lethbridge, I want each of you to know how proud I am of what the Faculty has accomplished with your help.
It’s been a remarkable journey. I’d like to take instructors, advisors, mentors and friends. As throughout the year. I hope you enjoy reading this opportunity to thank you for sharing your you begin this next chapter in life, be humble, about your fellow alumni as much as I have time, experience and expertise with the Faculty believe in yourself, give of yourself, do your best, enjoyed connecting with them. and encourage you to stay connected. treasure the lifelong friends you have made and, There are many ways to be involved, whether most of all, realize your dreams! Marilyn you are interested in serving as an Advisory As I complete my last issue of Management Marilyn Hawryluk Board member, participating in our activities matters, it is with gratitude, sincerity and Coordinator, Alumni/External Relations or events, employing a co-op student, humility that I say thank you. I have been mentoring a current student or in some other privileged to be associated with you. Thank capacity – we will find a fit for you. you for being such amazing people and Hawryluk will officially retire from the U of L in To the class of 2008 – congratulations! You join making amazing contributions. Most of September 2008. A retirement party will be held more than 7,800 U of L management alumni all, thank you for the experience you have on July 4. If you would like to attend, please e-mail provided me. I wish you all continued success around the world – a distinguished community [email protected] or call (403) 329-5182. in life and career as you continue to make that shares key values: pride, dedication, Please continue to share your stories with a difference. hard work, perseverance, compassion and a the Faculty of Management by e-mailing: commitment to making a difference. It has The following pages contain a sampling of [email protected] been a pleasure to be a part of your journey – as the alumni success stories that I’ve collected
22 Management matters | 2008
DEAN’S MESSAGE
Alumni SUCCESS Stories
This issue of Management matters proudly features U of L alumni: Ken Boessenkool (BMgt ’92), Lindsey Boguski (BMgt ’06), Skye Dack (BMgt ’06), John Koliaska (BMgt ’95), Matthew Chatters (BMgt ’94), Shannon Pestun (BMgt ’01), Dr. Karen Hughes (BMgt ’83) and Dr. Paul Hribar (BMgt ’92). Read on and learn about the differences they are making.
23 Management matters | 2008 Management matters | 2008 23 ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
All the RIGHT MOVES “I always had an interest in politics, so when Ingrid offered and lobbying on their behalf, as well as providing direction for the overall public affairs practice in me a way to get started, I jumped in with both feet.” Canada. Last year he was named one of Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40 business and community leaders, Ken Boessenkool (BMgt ’92) is a frequent flyer office in the area of economic and fiscal policy. He making CalgaryInc magazine’s annual list. when it comes to airplane travel. As senior vice- then worked in Toronto for the CD Howe Institute “I like the freedom and variety of being a president and national service director, public before taking a position in Edmonton with former consultant,” Boessenkool says. “I need to have affairs, at Hill & Knowlton Canada – a national Alberta finance ministers Stockwell Day and Steve a hundred things coming at me at a hundred public affairs and public relations firm – and West. Boessenkool also served as chief regulatory miles an hour to keep life interesting.” a recently appointed research fellow with the economist at TransAlta in Calgary before starting Boessenkool’s life is moving at warp speed Canada West Foundation, Boessenkool finds his own consulting practice in 2002, providing these days with his recent appointment to the himself jetting off to one city or another once or strategic, regulatory, tax and economic policy Canada West Foundation (CWF). A leading twice a week. Over the last 10 years, Boessenkool advice to government, non-profit and private- source of strategic insights, CWF conducts non- has made more cross-country trips than most sector clients across Canada. partisan economic and public-policy research people will make in a lifetime, and that’s just In 2002, Boessenkool accepted the position as for the western provinces and territories. As a professionally. Personally, Boessenkool has moved senior policy advisor and strategist to Stephen research fellow, Boessenkool is a public-policy residences a staggering 28 times in his 38 years. Harper, and a move back to Ottawa ensued. advocate, writing papers and articles on political “I was a banker’s kid, so I lived all over While his contribution to both the 2004 and hot-topics that have widespread influence. He’s Alberta when I was young,” Boessenkool says. 2006 Conservative election campaigns earned written extensively on the Canadian tax system “I’ve always had a special affinity for Lethbridge Boessenkool notoriety on Parliament Hill, he and its effects on families, work that has directly though. Many of the most significant milestones stuck to some unusual advice he got from Ray contributed to the implementation of the $100 in my life happened there.” Speaker during his first days in the capital. per month child-care premiums now in effect, Developing a working relationship with “Ray said to me, ‘Young man, if you’re not out as well as the $2,000 tax deduction for families Dr. Ray Speaker (LLD ’03) and Dr. Ingrid of this business in two years, I’m going to fire with young children. And Boessenkool knows Speaker (LLD ’01) ranks right up there in terms you.’ When I asked him why, he told me that too families – he and his wife, Tammy, have four of importance in Boessenkool’s life. (At the time, much time in politics would prevent me from daughters between the ages of five and 15. Ray was an Alberta cabinet minister, and Ingrid ever getting a real job.” Boessenkool’s numerous opinion papers have was the U of L chancellor.) Boessenkool has stuck with a two-year rule appeared in Time Magazine, the Globe and Mail, “Ingrid is one of the superstars in my life,” says ever since, switching jobs regularly to keep National Post, Calgary Herald, Ottawa Citizen Boessenkool. “I was student rep when she was on top of his professional game. That is, until and many other publications across Canada. chancellor. One day she said, ‘My husband quit he went to work for Hill & Knowlton as vice- The next and perhaps most obvious the Getty cabinet, and he’s wondering if you’d be president, business development in 2005. He professional step for Boessenkool would be a interested in looking after the youth and student was promoted to general manager after one move to public office – something he’s keen to side of his campaign.’ I always had an interest in year, overseeing the growth of the office from six try, at least at the provincial level. politics, so when Ingrid offered me a way to get employees to more than 20 today. “I’m more interested in provincial politics started, I jumped in with both feet.” Hill & Knowlton is one of the top public affairs than federal politics because the provincial Boessenkool, who is an economist by firms in Canada with offices in major cities government touches people’s lives in much more training, began his career with the Royal Bank across the country. Now as senior vice-president direct ways. At some point I will jump into the before moving to Ottawa to work as senior and national practice director for public affairs, fray – it’s just a question of when.” executive assistant to Ray Speaker, and later with Boessenkool spends his days helping clients Preston Manning in the Opposition leader’s navigate the labyrinth of the federal government
24 Management matters | 2008 DEAN’S MESSAGE ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
Ken Boessenkool has built an outstanding career, one cross-country move at a time.
25 Management matters | 2008 Management matters | 2008 25 ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
(l-r) Lindsey Boguski and Skye Dack Masquerading For More
“I was able to help create another step in the road to a cure.” the Hotel Arts in Calgary. Guests attended the ball in masquerade to symbolize the confusion Lindsey Boguski that those with Alzheimer’s live with. “We hope that having everyone gathered Alzheimer’s disease is a mask that distorts those connection to the disease. She soon recognized together socially while being masked will lend who suffer from it. In 2007, Skye Dack (BMgt the opportunity at hand. some understanding to the effects of the disease, ’06) and Lindsey Boguski (BMgt ’06) sought to “I approached ARC and proposed the idea of all while creating awareness for a great cause,” unmask Alzheimer’s and change the expression holding a ball in support of Alzheimer’s disease,” says Boguski. on the face of possibility. says Dack. “I made it known that their support The Second Annual Forget Me Not Ball is set Dack’s grandmother suffered from Alzheimer’s would make my plan a reality.” for Oct. 18, 2008, and Dack and Boguski couldn’t ARC jumped on board, as did many of the for 13 years. Dack saw her grandmother go be more anxious to see what they can do with company’s employees. Boguski, a fellow U of L through a great deal and always wanted to help, this year’s event. With a $1 million initiative in alumna and a marketing analyst at ARC, had a but like most, believed it impossible that just mind – and a $25 thousand advantage gained personal connection to Alzheimer’s as well and one person could make a difference. That all through proceeds from the 2007 ball – both was eager to help. changed when her grandmother passed away alumni are not afraid to aim high. “When my grandmother passed away from from the disease in March 2006. “No matter how long it takes, we will reach Alzheimer’s, I was very unfamiliar with the “I decided I would no longer be stopped by our goal,” says Dack. “We are so pleased that we disease,” says Boguski. “Assisting with the ball my fears,” recalls Dack. “I thought, ‘If I fail, I fail. can be a vehicle for this cause and are blown enabled me to learn more about Alzheimer’s, But if my plan is successful, look at all of the away with what is possible.” good I can do.’” and I was able to help create another step in the Dack was hired by ARC Resources Ltd. in road to a cure.” For more information, please contact Calgary as a treasury analyst in September With a collective effort from co-workers, Dack at (403) 606-8772 or visit 2006. She expressed her desire to create an event sponsors, family and friends, the Forget Me www.ForgetMeNotBall.com. in support of Alzheimer’s to some of her co- Not Ball was launched. On Oct. 20, 2007, Dack, workers and realized how many had a personal Boguski and company hosted 150 attendants at
26 Management matters | 2008 DEAN’S MESSAGE ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
John Koliaska has come a long way without straying far from his roots.
Fuelling Success
John Koliaska (BMgt ’95) lives outside of fuel prices. Fortunately, just next door to JK JK Trucking has received many accolades Lethbridge in the home he grew up in, just on Trucking and Koliaska’s home is Kyoto Fuels – over the years, including the 2005 Business the other side of the fence from his business a biodiesel plant. Koliaska is vice-president of Development Bank of Canada Small Business headquarters. And while he doesn’t farm with business development for Kyoto Fuels Corp., Award of Distinction, and was ranked by Alberta his father anymore, like he did when he was which will provide his trucking fleet with Venture magazine as one of the fastest growing younger, Koliaska’s JK Trucking is heavily up to 20 per cent of its fuel by the summer companies in Alberta in 2003 and 2004. involved in agricultural transport. Koliaska of 2008. Despite his success, Koliaska maintains his credits his farming background and his father’s people-first philosophy. “Valuing people and attitude for his restless work ethic and respect building relationships is probably the main skill for people. “We’ll be the first fleet in I’ve used to grow the business,” says Koliaska. “Too many people use the phrase, ‘It’s just Canada to use biodiesel in “This is a high-turnover business, but we have business,’ to excuse questionable business one of the lowest rates of driver turnover in practices,” says Koliaska. “But my dad never had all of our trucks.” the industry.” a different line of ethics in business from his Koliaska is a strong supporter of community personal life, and that has meant a lot to me.” organizations, including the Canadian Cancer True to his upbringing, Koliaska is not afraid Koliaska explains that the technology is Society, various lacrosse, hockey and moto- of hard work. Admitting to sleeping only three very cost-effective and resilient. The company cross organizations, and numerous children’s to four hours each night, Koliaska’s energy has is able to make fuel from both animal tallow causes – just to name a few. He adds, “Though paid off. JK Trucking has grown from three and oil seed and will produce 33 million litres a much of our business deals with head offices to 43 trucks (and 55 employees) in less than year by this summer. In that same time frame, in Winnipeg and Regina, our drivers are from eight years. Koliaska will have another boast: “We’ll be the southern Alberta. It’s important for them to see One of the main challenges facing the first fleet in Canada to use biodiesel in allof our involvement in the community right here.” transport industry, Koliaska points out, is rising our trucks.”
Management matters | 2008 27 ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
Honest Work Pays Off
For today’s grads, Alberta’s red-hot economy means an abundance of career opportunities – Chatters’ strategy is simple: treat workers with respect, but for those who graduated in the mid-1990s, involve them in the company and never hire someone life wasn’t so easy. When Matthew Chatters (BMgt ’94) com- you wouldn’t invite to dinner. pleted his bachelor of management degree at the University of Lethbridge in 1994, he as- distinct advantage because I wasn’t defeated by company developed a reputation, and Alberta’s sumed he’d find a job easily. Unfortunately, the having to do that.” construction boom kicked in, the phone began economic downturn meant that good jobs were In fact, quite the contrary: Chatters learned to ring off the hook. scarce and quickly snatched up by those with everything he could about the work and the These days, Lakeside Roofing employs a team great connections. industry, and his hands-on experience meant he of about 10 full-time employees and eight to 10 “Coming out of university, it was a bit of a understood all facets of the business, allowing part-time employees, despite Alberta’s labour shock,” admits Chatters, who quickly realized he him to converse with engineers, building owners retention challenges. But Chatters’ strategy is couldn’t be picky. and architects. simple: treat workers with respect, involve them So, he accepted a job as a sales representative Success in sales came and ultimately led to in the company and never hire someone you for a local roofing company, where he was paid the promotion to operations manager (Western wouldn’t invite to dinner. entirely by commission. Until he learned to make Canada). “If they feel their opinions are respected, and his sales targets, he subsidized his day job with Nine years later, instead of opting for a they’re given a lot of responsibility, I think the a part-time labour job for the company, doing big-city corporate job, Chatters decided to go guys we want to retain get a lot of motivation waterproofing of concrete construction for $8 into business with a friend, buying out half of out of that.” per hour. “That paid my rent and put groceries Lakeside Roofing and becoming its president. And it probably doesn’t hurt that the boss is on the table,” he says. At first, business expenses were paid with known to help out on the job site. Having been raised on a farm, Chatters wasn’t credit cards and payroll time was defined by afraid of physical work. “I think it gave me a frantic collection calls to clients. But as the
28 Management matters | 2008 DEAN’S MESSAGE ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
Shannon Pestun’s background set her on the path to success in the business world.
Giving Back
Shannon Pestun (BMgt ’01) grew up in Calgary in a family with great entrepreneurial spirit. “I have worked hard to give back to my profession and She learned early on the ins and outs of to mentor others.” business and had those closest to her to look to for inspiration. including re-branding a multi-million-dollar assist in setting the strategic direction for CMA “My parents had an incredibly strong work oil-and-gas company, Pestun took on a project Alberta, focusing specifically on marketing and ethic. Witnessing this, I saw the value of being to redesign a mentorship program for women communications objectives. Pestun’s overt pride in business and always had a passion for it,” she in marketing and communications wishing to for her organization demonstrates how perfect says. “I attribute a great part of the success I advance their careers. Along with the success the fit is. have had in my career to my parents. They have of this program came the reward of witness- “When I look around the table at the calibre of always been my biggest supporters.” ing women excel professionally. It also delivered my management peers, I feel proud to be sitting In 1999, Pestun attained a marketing diploma Pestun a nomination for the Canadian Women among them. They are a brilliant team and are from Mount Royal College in Calgary. Interested in Communications (CWC) National Mentor of doing great things for our organization and our in furthering her education, she looked to the the Year award. members,” says Pestun. newly established University of Lethbridge “I have worked hard to give back to my And at the end of the day, Pestun says, being Calgary campus. profession and to mentor others,” she says. “I successful in the business world is significantly “The U of L offered night classes in Calgary have had a lot of people help me throughout my influenced by the relationships you build. which meant that I could remain working full career so it is only right that I give back in the “It is imperative that you surround yourself time during the day and could complete my same way.” with people who support you and challenge degree at night,” she recalls. In January 2007, Pestun was hired as the you. This influence can only provide positive Pestun graduated from the U of L in 2001 director of marketing and communications for inspiration in your professional life.” and went on to work in a number of different Certified Management Accountants (CMA) industries. Among a multitude of initiatives, of Alberta. This position has enabled her to
Management matters | 2008 29 Richard Siemens, Creative Services, U of A 30 Management matters | 2008 owners business employees, without or consultants) as is orwith as (either entrepreneurs as leap asoften astheir malecounterparts. entrepreneurial the taken traditionally haven’t Hughes,theywomen, sayssinceamongmarked a factor of 2.5 since the 1970s. The growth is more total number of self-employed Canadians rose by women’s of growth entrepreneurship inCanada. the including work, women’s and preneurship who of part we are.” central a such just It’s not. or it like they whether lives, people’s of part central to fascinate her. continuestopic the work,as about complaining research consultant. the at Business University of Alberta, Hughes is also a part-time of School the and Sociology careers. studying out of Dr. Karen Hughes (BMgt ’83) Career Investigation ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS h icesn tnec o wmn o work to women of tendency increasing The the that reported Canada Industry 2005, In entre- on focus to tends research Hughes’ a being as work see really I me, for think ever “I her find you’ll unlikely it’s But of Department the both in professor A has made a career
on globalization onand work,globalization led by the University network research international an to tributing identifypeople entrepreneurial opportunities. how and trends employment overall to relate women’swork in changes how studied also has she notes. things,” of sorts those and benefits, of lack and family through entrepreneurship. and work between balance better a seek to men than likely more are women whole, the on and, appreciate the and “variety interest the of work,” limiting, workplaces others simply prefer the traditional independence. But most find Some to BC). only (second 1989 since year each cent per 4.8 self-employed women has risen by an average of of number the where Alberta, in true especially central partofpeople’s lives.” “I reallyseeworkasbeinga n o hr ot eet nevus s con- is endeavours recent most her of One She program. research broad a has Hughes security of lack the is trade-off the “But varied. are solo going for Women’s reasons
you? It’s job quality.” Icall what work make challenges that and you doing enjoy you something do how in] interested [I’m person, practical very I’ma standpoint,because practical a from guess I that. experience people how understand to interestingthem. “It’s really fulfills that work find people how by fascinated in sociology). (both Cambridge at doctorate her and A of U the master’sat her completed A), of (U Alberta University the fromof science) (political arts of from the University of Lethbridge and a bachelor they’re hoping to move into?’ work ” of areas the into move they do ‘How is, college or post-secondary training. The question ippines andeducated. Phil- the fromare whom workers, care of many Canada to work temporarily as nannies or elder- to moved who’ve those specifically caregivers, tribution to the project is focused on immigrant Montreal’sMurray.Dr.Gregor Hughes’of con - While her research is varied, Hughes is most is Hughes varied, is research her While Hughes, who holds a bachelor of management of kind some have they cases, of lot a “In to immigrant caregivers. women’s entrepreneurship explores everythingfrom Dr. Karen Hughes
DEAN’S MESSAGE ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
Dr. Paul Hribar finds professional and personal success in Iowa. Photo submitted Taking Stock
Some days, Dr. Paul Hribar (BMgt ’93) grabs a “Dr. George Murphy really encouraged me and gave me stack of student work and heads to a local coffee shop to enjoy a cup of joe as he reviews papers. insights about what the academic side was about.” Unlike academics whose ‘Eureka!’ moments happen in research labs, the accounting for something quantitative-based.” So, when he a place that keenly reminds him of Lethbridge. professor’s work is portable and flexible. enrolled at the University of Lethbridge, he opted “It strikes a nice balance of being able to stay “I can’t imagine trading it in for any other for accounting, which he felt would make him at a nice research institution and live in a place job,” says Hribar, who kicked off his academic more marketable than a math degree would. with a very small-town feel to it,” he says. In fact, career at the University of Lethbridge as an But after graduating in 1992, Hribar didn’t he’s made this choice despite job offers from Ivy undergraduate. chase a hot job in Calgary, like many of his peers League schools like Yale. Although it’s also enormously complex work, who were eager to start their careers. Instead, Now, at 36, Hribar has presented his research Hribar explains it simply: “Basically, I look he opted for graduate studies at the University across the U.S. and parts of Canada and is at the relationship between stock prices and of Saskatchewan. already a tenured faculty member. information published in a company’s annual It was a hard choice, after living on a student’s In fact, he’s risen quickly in his field despite report,” he says. budget. But guidance from an influential pro- the tendency of American academia to prioritize “It’s very much looking at the role of accounting fessor, Dr. George Murphy (who was a visiting “pedigree” in the selection of graduate students information and predicting future stock prices. professor at the U of L at the time), helped him and academics. In the U.S., Ivy League grads It’s got a very strong investment angle to it.” make the decision. “He really encouraged me generally trump those with comparable educa- Like all accounting, his work is “about taking and gave me insights into what the academic tion at smaller schools, he says. complex information and processing it, in order side was about,” says Hribar. But Hribar adamantly disagrees with this to make good decisions.” In this case, stock After earning his master’s, he completed his practice and maintains that studying at the purchasing decisions made by investors. PhD work at the University of Iowa in Iowa University of Lethbridge created a solid base for As a youth, Hribar was encouraged to study City before working as an assistant professor at his career. accounting by his banker father. “I was good Cornell University. These days, Hribar and his “I don’t think the quality of students is different with numbers in high school, so I was looking family are happy to be living again in Iowa City, or the quality of education is different.”
Management matters | 2008 31 ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS
Congratulations Alumni! The Faculty of Management proudly congratulates the following alumni on achieving their professional designations:
CA Class of ’07
Kenneth Atwood, BMgt ’04 Tara Gerla, BMgt ’06 Christopher Rodway, BMgt ’05 Monica Bach, BMgt ’00 Charles Hastey, BMgt ’02 Kerri Roper, BMgt ’05 Brock Bevans, BMgt ’04 Amy Janssens, BMgt ’05 Steven Salt, BMgt ’05 Leanne Bjalek, BMgt ’06 Gregory Joyce, BMgt ’05 Blair Sanderson, BMgt ’05 Ryan Boser, BMgt ’06 Jason Kirkpatrick, BMgt ’06 Andrew Sheer, BMgt ’05 Shannon Corry, BMgt ’05 Jason Lins, BMgt ’05 David Sherwin, BMgt ’05 Andrea Desjardins, BMgt ’05 Jocelyn (Kyska) Loria, BMgt ’03 Chandra Storvold, BMgt ’05 Stephen Dykau, BMgt ’06 Rob Melnyk, BMgt ’03 Adina Street, BA ’02, BMgt ’05 Dennis Edwards, BA ’04 Stephanie Mezei, BMgt ’05 Justin Tanner, BMgt ’05 Morgan Elliot, BMgt ’04 Erin Miller, BMgt ’04 Sharon Uppal, BMgt ’04 Alberta Evans, BMgt ’03 Randi Perry, BMgt ’03 Heather (Sutherland) Upshall, BMgt ’05 Lana Fulcher, BMgt ’93 Aletta Pulfer, BMgt ’05 Lacey Wells, BMgt ’05 Steven Gauthier, BMgt ’05 Candace Roberts, BMgt ’05 Pamela Wilhite, BMgt ’04
MPAcc: CMA Class of ’07
Daniel Bosters, BMgt ’04 Robyn Arienzale, BMgt ’03 Darrell Mathews, BA’99, BMgt ’99 Angilynn Chan, BMgt ’05 Daniel Riva Cambrin, BMgt ’04 Kerry Meyers, BMgt ’04 Nicole Heinzer, BMgt ’04 Mitchell Dunlop, BMgt ’03 Adam Murnaghan, BMgt ’04 Walter Mussi, BMgt ’05 Alastair Hill, BMgt ’99 Serena Provincial, BMgt ’04 Lindsay Oligny, BMgt ’05 Karen-Lee Hoffman, BMgt ’04 Zoë Rudland, BMgt ’03 Jason Krefting, BMgt ’01 Holly Turner, BMgt ’04 Leo Marcuk, BMgt ’03
CGA Class of ’07
Darren Boman, BMgt ’05 Jennifer Monteith, BMgt ’99 Dal Pirot, BMgt ’99 Heather Gray, BMgt ’93 Kevin Morais, BMgt ’04 Stephen Poettcker, BMgt ’03 Deborah Jarvie, BMgt ’88 Karl Odland, BEd ’89 Carmen (Charron) Schmidt, BA ’00 Sharon Lo, BMgt ’05 Cameron Ollenberger, BMgt ’05 Ian Stacey-Salmon, BMgt ’04 Cynthia Matheson, BMgt ’93 Alisa Palic, BMgt ’04 Alexandra Sun, BMgt ’01 Joshua Molcak, BMgt ’03 Kevin Pengelly, BMgt ’02 Muriel Tsoi, BMgt ’02
32 Management matters | 2008 “The Master of Science in Management program pro- vides an exceptional environment to learn the skills and techniques to pursue an academic or business career. The small class size, quality programming and knowledgeable instructors provide students with a well-rounded educational experience.”
Kristene D’Agnone BA ’99, MSc (Mgt) ’04 Consultant