ON CAMPUS NEWS news.usask.ca

JAN. 10, 2020 Volume 27, Issue 5

PRESIDENT’S PRIORITIES President Peter Stoicheff sits down with On Campus News to discuss the highlights of 2019 for the University of Saskatchewan and what he is looking forward to in 2020, as well as his plans and priorities for USask over the next five years following his re- appointment for a second term.

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UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF PLANT HEALTH SENS specialist seeks food solutions the world needs

 MEGAN EVANS

On Campus News is published 12 times For University of Saskatchewan is critical for food security. As the per year by University of Saskatchewan (USask) computational biologist human population increases, so Marketing and Communications. It is Dave Schneider, plant health ulti- does the need for food production. distributed to all USask faculty, staff, graduate students and members of mately comes down to an issue of Without plants that are resilient governing bodies, as well as to others food and economic security. to ever-changing environmental in the university community, related “There is no computer factors, Schneider said we can organizations, some Saskatchewan algorithm that is going to feed the expect to see crops, and the farming government officials and news media. world,” Schneider emphasizes. operations that produce them, fail. Subscriptions are available for $24 “Only by people working together The stakes are high, but per year. Story and photo ideas in teams can we solve these incred- answering smaller questions related are welcome. Advertising rates are available online or on request. ibly complex problems.” to plant health one at a time allows Schneider, a professor in for the creation of a bigger picture - USask’s School of Environment and, ultimately, a vision for a On Campus News aims to provide a and Sustainability (SENS) and the sustainable future. Climate change forum for the sharing of timely news, Global Institute for Food Security means changes in temperature and  MEGAN EVANS information and opinions about Research Chair in Digital and temperature extremes, drought, events and issues of interest to the Professor Dave Schneider (right) of the School of Environment and USask community. Computational Agriculture, is one pathogens, and new pests, among of a growing number of researchers Sustainability and student Yujie Pei, a Baxter Fellowship recipient. other threats. These evolving condi- The views and opinions expressed by writers of letters to the editor and on campus dedicated to searching tions force plants to adapt. But when viewpoints do not necessarily reflect for solutions to providing food Assembly has declared 2020 the ending hunger, reducing poverty, plants fail to adapt quickly enough, those of USask or On Campus News. security for an ever-expanding International Year of Plant Health, and protecting the environment, as crops fail—ultimately putting the - global population, as a new year and with the purpose of raising global well as economic development. global food supply and economic decade begins. awareness on how protecting plant As Schneider sees it, plant We acknowledge we are on Treaty 6 SEE DEVELOPING, PAGE 15 Territory and the Homeland of the The United Nations General health has broad implications for health optimization in agriculture Métis. We pay our respect to the First Nation and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. - IN CASE YOU MISSED IT EDITOR A lot happens at the USask during the weeks when On Campus News isn’t published. James Shewaga Here are a few of the top stories from news.usask.ca: WRITERS Katie Brickman-Young, Shannon Boklaschuk, Ashley Dopko, Megan Evans, Kieran Kobitz, Kristen Pomeroy presents Water warning Excellent educator Toxic dust findings McEwen, Chris Putnam, James Shewaga, Univerity of Saskatchewan researcher A group of international scientists USask College of Education lecturer Chemicals commonly used in Alyssa Wiebe, Naomi Zurevinski Dr. John Pomeroy (PhD) reported to including Univerity of Saskatche- and Saskatoon Marion M. Graham smartphone, television, and DESIGNERS the United Nations Climate Change wan researcher Dr. Jay Famiglietti Collegiate teacher Nat Banting is the computer displays were found to Brian Kachur Conference in Madrid on Dec. 11 (PhD)—executive director of the first instructor in Canada to receive be potentially toxic and present in Pierre Wilkinson about the urgent need for action Global Institute for Water Securi- the prestigious Rosenthal Prize nearly half of dozens of samples of to stop the loss of snowpacks and ty—say we are not doing enough to for Innovation and Inspiration household dust collected by a team glaciers that poses a serious threat to protect and manage groundwater in Math Teaching for his lesson of toxicologists led by USask. The world water security. “It is disturbing resources, which will have long-term Dice Auction: Putting Outcomes of international research team, led by to see world leaders struggling to find effects on the planet’s drinking wa- the Dice Up for Sale. In Banting’s USask environmental toxicologist ways to hold warming to 1.5° Celsius, ter, food production, and adaptation lesson, students test their intuitive Dr. John Giesy (PhD), is sounding when 1.5° Celsius of further warming to a rapidly changing climate. The probabilistic reasoning of dice the alarm about liquid crystal ISSN: 1195-7654 is too much for our snow and ice,” Global Groundwater Statement—A throws with a dynamic “outcomes monomers—the chemical building PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40065156 said Pomeroy, Canada Research Call to Action, cites recent scientific auction.” He is the first Canadian blocks of everything from flat Return undeliverable addresses to: Chair in Climate Change and Water breakthroughs that highlight the re- to receive the award, designed to screen TVs to solar panels—and the UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN Resources. Pomeroy presented as gional and international importance promote hands-on math teaching, potential threat they pose to humans MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS part of the Canadian delegation, as of the issue as well as global threats to and featuring a cash award of and the environment. Ninety per G16 THORVALDSON BUILDING well as a UN observer and delegate for groundwater, which makes up 99 per $25,000 from the National Museum cent of the monomers tested had 110 SCIENCE PLACE SASKATOON, SK S7N 5C9 World Meteorological Organization. cent of Earth’s liquid freshwater. of Mathematics in New York. concerning chemical properties. Email: [email protected] FOR MORE UP-TO-THE-MINUTE NEWS, VISIT: news.usask.ca @usask

2 JANUARY 10, 2020 Creed leads new sustainability strategic plan  JAMES SHEWAGA Tasked with creating a comprehen- house gas emissions is an ongoing sive sustainability strategic plan challenge. In the latest emissions for the University of Saskatchewan report released in November 2019, (USask), Dr. Irena Creed (PhD) the university’s total greenhouse wasted no time in getting started. gas emissions increased 7.8 per The former Canada Research cent. However, emissions per square Chair and former executive director metre of building space decreased of USask’s School of Environment 13 per cent across campus despite and Sustainability (SENS) was expansion, due to the construction recently named by President Peter of more energy-efficient buildings Stoicheff as special advisor to the and retrofits. president on sustainability. Creed “One transformation action is quickly established a 16-member to decarbonize our campus,” said advisory circle as she began working Creed, who wants to establish five- to prepare the plan to present to and 10-year goals moving forward. University Council by Dec. 1, 2020. “We are committed to reducing our “It is a very ambitious greenhouse gas emissions, and our timeframe, but it is a necessary approach is to explore a combina- timeframe,” said Creed, who also tion of proposed actions, including serves as associate vice-president wind and solar, as well as other of research at USask as well as a forms of renewable energy. This professor in SENS. institution has already reduced our Sustainability is one of the greenhouse gas emissions substan- four key principles in the univer- tially. However, we are a growing sity’s Mission, Vision and Values campus, so while on a square-metre document approved in 2016, as Dr. Irena Creed (PhD) was recently named special advisor to the president on sustainability at USask. SUBMITTED basis we are reducing, our emissions well as a pillar of the new strategic have gone up overall.” plan to be The University The World to engage in difficult conversations. sity established SENS in 2007 opment goals as articulated by the The comprehensive plan will be Needs, announced in 2018. For example, if we want to de-car- and the Sustainability Education United Nations,” said Creed. “I designed to bring all the initiatives “When you consider the bonize the institution, there are Research Institute (SERI) in 2012. think part of the issue is that it is together and bolster a culture of strategic plan of the university going to be challenges and conse- USask started the Sustainability not presented in a co-ordinated, sustainability across campus, from through to 2025, if we want to be quences. So, we have to be careful Revolving Fund in 2014 to support cohesive statement. So, the first teaching and research, to university authentic and have meaningful listeners on how to come up with projects across campus, and signed step is to benchmark where we are, operations, and governance, as well impact on the sustainability file, we a made-in-Saskatchewan plan that a memorandum of understanding by completing an inventory of past as community engagement. need to move quickly,” Creed said. is respectful of the people in the with the USask Students’ Union and ongoing sustainability initia- “We want to make this an open The President’s Sustainability province but still has meaningful to fund student-led initiatives. tives on campus. The next step and transparent process,” she said. Council has evolved into the impact in terms of moving forward The university has implemented is to identify where we can take While future financial invest- advisory circle to assist Creed in on sustainability.” water conservation, energy and transformative action and become ments have yet to be determined, conducting a thorough review of The university has had success recycling initiatives, turned waste sustainability leaders.” Creed said the university is sustainability initiatives underway in a number of areas, including into compost used for campus Reducing the university’s committed to doing what it takes to on campus and to help formulate a earning a silver rating in 2017 in grounds, installed solar panels and carbon footprint with funding for make a difference. “Because this is new comprehensive plan for moving the Sustainability Tracking, Assess- solar-powered compactors, and building retrofits and renewable a priority for the university, we do forward. While the university has ment and Rating System (STARS) established community gardens and energy projects remains a major know that we will have the resources been successful in many areas of that measures sustainability a farmers’ market. priority, although addressing green- moving forward.” sustainability, Creed said a more achievements at more than 600 “I think this institution is co-ordinated approach is required. post-secondary institutions across already engaged in a lot of positive Members of the campus community interested in engaging in “We need to listen carefully to North America. activities towards achieving or learning more about the university’s sustainability efforts our stakeholders both on campus In addition to creating an sustainability and, in particular, are invited to email: [email protected] and beyond,” said Creed. “We need Office of Sustainability, the univer- to meeting the sustainable devel-

NEWS.USASK.CA 3 Lindsay. “For example, selenium contamination of rivers in south- eastern British Columbia is a direct result of coal mining operations in the region.” Geoscience is fundamental for addressing societal needs that include meeting growing demand for non-renewable and renewable resources and minimizing the envi- ronmental impacts of resource development. This includes working with the resource sector to remediate sites impacted by mining activities as well as working with industry partners and mining companies “to be proactive in managing their activ- ities and minimizing environmental impacts,” said Lindsay. Canada is currently home to more than 10,000 abandoned mine sites and an even larger number of inactive oil and gas wells. Recla- mation costs, which can reach into the tens of billions of dollars, are often borne by taxpayers. Graduates Geological Sciences Professor Dr. Matt Lindsay (PhD) at the Diavik Diamond Mine in the Northwest Territories in 2011. SUBMITTED of USask’s environmental geosci- ence program will be able to assist resource companies in enhancing their environmental stewardship practices, helping to reduce the need for major cleanups. New environmental “Better practice now will help minimize environmental impacts and increase economic benefits,” Lindsay said. “First of all, it will help reduce the environmental liabilities, geoscience program offered which is good for the environment. Second, it will reduce the financial  SHANNON BOKLASCHUK liabilities associated with environ- The University of Saskatchewan because there is a demand for people department was one ence students will mental impacts—and those financial (USask) is set to offer a new under- to work in this field,” said Lindsay, of three that initiated participate in a new liabilities, in many cases, become the graduate program in environmental who will serve as the program’s the previous under- field school, starting responsibility of taxpayers.” geoscience, effective May 2020. faculty advisor. “It is a growing field graduate environ- in the 2022/2023 Lindsay said many traditional The Bachelor of Science degree, of practice for geoscientists.” mental earth sciences academic year, which geoscience jobs, particularly those taught and administered through Geoscience is a diverse scien- program, which has help them to meet the in exploration and extraction, are the College of Arts and Science, tific field with sub-disciplines that been replaced with knowledge require- linked to economic cycles. That will position graduates to take on a include geochemistry, sedimen- a new program in ments necessary for means the job market for those number of growing job opportunities tology, geomicrobiology, geophysics, hydrology that will registration as profes- occupations tends to change with in areas such as responsible resource mineralogy, paleontology and hydro- also begin accepting sional geoscientists. commodity price changes. With extraction and environmental stew- geology. Geoscientists integrate students in 2020. The new environ- environmental geoscience, however, ardship, said Dr. Matt Lindsay (PhD), knowledge in these and other areas The program Lindsay mental geoscience employment is often more stable a professor in the college’s Depart- to improve understanding of the revision and renaming program will also because the jobs are less tied to ment of Geological Sciences. physical, chemical and biological presented an opportunity for the represent two of USask’s signature commodity prices. Completing the program will aspects of the Earth system in the department to establish a distinct areas of research: energy and mineral “I think the overall trend will be also ensure graduates are eligible for past, present and future. undergraduate environmental resources, and water security. growth,” Lindsay said. registration with the Association of The Department of Geological geoscience program, which will focus “Contamination of water Professional Engineers and Geosci- Sciences is already well-known for its on geochemistry and integrate other resources is often the environmental Shannon Boklaschuk is a entists of Saskatchewan. undergraduate programs in geology, related disciplines, said Lindsay. issue of most importance with the communications officer in the “There is need for this program geophysics and palaeobiology. The USask’s environmental geosci- energy and minerals sectors,” said College of Arts and Science.

4 JANUARY 10, 2020 Every month in On Campus News, we highlight an exceptional graduate of the University of Saskatchewan in our Alumni Spotlight feature series. In this issue, we chat with USask distinguished professor emeritus Bill Waiser (MA’76, PhD’83, DLITT’10), who taught for more than 30 years in the Department of History.

Distinguished Professor Emeritus Dr. Bill Waiser (DLitt) spent more than 30 years teaching in the history department at the University of Saskatchewan. SUBMITTED Bill Waiser: Saskatchewan’s historian  KATIE BRICKMAN-YOUNG

Dr. Bill Waiser (DLitt) has devoted student in western history. From to teach them how to read critically, Society of Canada (RSC) in 2007. digenous history in Saskatchewan. his life and career to telling people’s there, he went on to have a distin- think critically, and both speak and “Winning the Order of Canada “I don’t think you can do the stories. guished and decorated career in his write critically.” confirmed the work that I’ve work on Canadian history without The University of Saskatchewan field. been doing has been talking about Indigenous-Non-In- (USask) distinguished professor “I was always important work,” he I don’t think you can do the work digenous relations—it is essential to emeritus in the Department of intrigued by western said. the story,” Waiser said. History is a specialist in western and history, partly because on Canadian history without talking In 2018, Waiser Waiser’s research was used in northern Canadian history, specifi- of my family’s past,” earned the RSC’s about Indigenous-Non-Indigenous the exoneration of Chief Pound- cally Saskatchewan history. Waiser said. “I was J.B. Tyrell medal for maker, more than 130 years after For Waiser, people and their looking for a school to relations—it is essential to the story. outstanding work in the Plains Cree chief’s conviction for stories have always been at the study prairie history Canadian history and treason-felony. —Dr. Bill Waiser (DLitt) forefront of his interest in how the and Saskatchewan the Governor General’s Waiser hopes that 2020 will bring province was shaped and why he seemed the best.” History Award for further strides towards reconciliation went into history as a career. Waiser began his teaching career Throughout his career, Waiser Popular Media (The Pierre Berton in Saskatchewan and Canada. “Everyone has a story. I like in 1980 at USask, instructing large has published 18 books on Canadian Award), as well as the Governor “Reconciliation is a shared research and uncovering new things,” introductory survey classes as well as history, with a focus on Saskatch- General Literary Award for Non-Fic- journey and we need to go down that he said. “History is about looking for small graduate seminars. Since then, ewan and Indigenous-Non-Indig- tion in 2016 for his book, A World We road together,” said Waiser. “It will be stories inside the bigger story. I try more than 3,000 USask students have enous relations. It was through his Have Lost. an uncomfortable journey and it isn’t and write history that way.” taken a course with Waiser and 41 writing that he earned some of the “That was probably the hardest Waiser was born in Toronto, graduate students completed their highest awards and honours. book I’ve ever done,” he said. “I simply moving forward together … but visited his paternal grandpar- theses under his supervision. The In 2017, Waiser was named a learned a lot about my own under- We will have to recognize some hard ents’ homestead in Manitoba every impact is not lost on him. member of the Order of Canada, the standing of Saskatchewan history truths about what happened and that summer. He went to Trent Univer- “It is very gratifying to see where country’s highest civilian honour. and it was wonderful news when I will be difficult, but necessary.” sity in Peterborough, Ont., where he they all are and what they are doing This recognition complemented won.” studied with prominent Manitoba with their history degrees,” said his appointment to the Saskatch- Over the course of the past three Katie Brickman-Young is historian W.L. Morton, before Waiser, who retired from full-time ewan Order of Merit in 2006 and decades, much of Waiser’s work has a communications officer coming to USask as a graduate teaching in 2014. “I hope I was able his election as a Fellow of the Royal been focused on Indigenous-Non-In- in Alumni Relations.

NEWS.USASK.CA 5 Health Sciences enhancing

interprofessional training  NAOMI ZUREVINSKI

 NAOMI ZUREVINSKI A wave of collaboration is sweeping opportunity to improve practical Mills (PhD), associate director, University of Saskatchewan (USask) skills such as communication and academic programs and interpro- Health Sciences, with an updated teamwork. fessional education, was brought approach to InterProfession- Although IPBL sessions have on to the Health Sciences team in al-Based Learning (IPBL) sessions, previously been a staple of USask 2019 to improve interprofessional giving students of all disciplines the health science disciplines, Dr. Sheryl teaching and practice. “Part of the Health Sciences’ focus is finding ways in which all of our colleges and programs can 3RD ANNUAL PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD (PAW) CONFERENCE work together, and interprofes- sional education is one of those SUSTAINABILITY THE WORLD NEEDS: DEVELOPMENT IN ACTION places,” Mills said. “It’s important because health-care teams are made up of professionals from all areas, depending on the needs of the patient, the pet, or the client.” The format of the sessions has changed from students working in groups of eight to 11 with a tutor, to self-made groups of three to four in Dr. Sheryl Mills (PhD) leads a refreshed approach to Inter-  NAOMI ZUREVINSKI large rooms with a few facilitators. Professional-Based Learning in Health Sciences at USask. The sessions involve solving a case or completing a task and intention- to do, but if you can’t work with and feels empowered to contribute, February 6 & 7, 2020 ally practicing the skills necessary someone else, you’re not going to patients have better outcomes,” he Marquis Event Centre, University of Saskatchewan for a high functioning team. be good at your job, no matter what said, adding that Health Sciences is “The teamwork and skill devel- area you’re in.” excited to continue building more Learn about and be inspired by innovative, international research hap- opment piece has included things Mikayla Laube, a second-year content into programs. pening at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) with partners around like being present, truly listening, student in the College of Medicine, For Mills, the newly renovated the world. An initiative of the International Blueprint for Action 2025, and working on how to speak up even was also involved in developing the Health Sciences Building and this conference aims to advance the university’s internationalization efforts in the areas of global research and sustainable partnerships. though it’s awkward,” Mills said. sessions. She said groups are now heightened approach to interprofes- Additionally, an online pushed to take initiative. sional education is a natural inter- CONFERENCE KEYNOTE SPEAKERS INCLUDE: platform and app called IPECT has “The new format fosters inde- section to improve interdisciplinary been developed, to help students pendence and role assignment teaching and research. NIKHIL SETH, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General, and Executive Director of the U.N. Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) access session material, quizzes and within the groups, which better “Ultimately, the new building resources and keep track of their reflects a true interprofessional was created with the goal of JON BEALE, Manager of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network skill development. team,” she said. “The value of a (SDSN) of Canada increasing the health and wellness Ali Stobbe, a fourth-year team-based approach to health care of our population,” she said. JOHN POMEROY and CORINNE SCHUSTER-WALLACE, USask Global Institute student in the College of Pharmacy is becoming more recognized, and for Water Security, Global Water Futures, and College of Arts and Science “Whether you’re solving a patient and Nutrition, helped develop the every change in our curriculum case, working with a pet, or solving a new session format. She said the that reflects this will contribute to PAW 2020 will focus on the U.N.’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals complex public health problem, the (SDGs) and address the university’s commitment to achieve these change in group size allows students the creation of high-functioning ability to work as a team member global goals by 2030. The SDGs are the blueprint to achieve a to build better relationships. health-care professionals.” transcends all content matter. What better and more sustainable future for all. “Now that I’m in the field and Dr. Steven Jones (PhD), we’re doing here is intentional work interacting with others, I’m seeing associate provost, health, said that to create great team members.” Join us at PAW 2020! View the conference program and first-hand how much everyone strong interprofessional skills are a register at: internationaloffice.usask.ca/paw-2020.php relies on each other,” Stobbe said. gateway to better patient outcomes. Naomi Zurevinski is a “Working together, problem solving “When everybody in health USask graduate and a freelance and conflict resolution are hard care sees themselves as part of a team writer from Saskatoon.

6 JANUARY 10, 2020 Chelico looking for answers at molecular level USask’s Dr. Linda Chelico (PhD) is currently working on research projects funded by  KRISTEN MCEWEN the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

 KRISTEN MCEWEN

Much of Dr. Linda Chelico’s (PhD) Saskatchewan has one of the As a USask microbiology student, causes of DNA mutations. While they interact with HIV. success in her career as a biochemist highest levels of HIV in the country. Chelico decided to venture into in L.A., Chelico found her passion Chelico recognizes the chal- at the University of Saskatchewan The HIV virus attacks the body’s agricultural microbiology in what for studying the APOBEC enzymes, lenges that come with applying (USask) comes from having an eye immune system, leaving it more is now the Department of Food and their impact on human DNA. for funding to help get research for detail. vulnerable to infection. According and Bioproduct Sciences. There, she While she enjoyed the work in agri- projects off the ground. For individ- “You have to have something to the Canadian Cancer Society, obtained her Bachelor of Science in culture, she was more interested in uals starting a career in research, it that really drives you and interests one in two Canadians will develop Agriculture and PhD. medical research. is essential to establish a good publi- you,” Chelico said of her work, cancer and one in four will die of “I really was fascinated by the “In medical research there’s cation record, or collaborate with which largely focuses on studying the disease. role micro-organisms have in the more room to do basic science, others to create one. cellular mechanisms and functions. “In humans, the immune environment,” Chelico said. “They discovery of information,” Chelico She also recommends using “I think it’s always important in system can change the DNA in make up the majority of the biomass said. “There’s lots of fields that we internal resources in the university science to also appreciate that certain immune cells to of soil. They can change so many don’t know, we don’t have enough to help with applying for funding, larger picture.” adapt to new pathogens things, including our water system.” information to translate it into such as utilizing research facilita- In 2019, Chelico that we encounter From there she received a something.” was awarded more in our lifetime,” post-doctoral fellowship at the After she completed her fellow- tors and attending seminars. than $1.6 million Chelico said. University of Southern California, ship she returned to USask in 2009 And if an idea for a project is for two separate W h e n l e ft Los Angeles. It was a major move for for a faculty position in the College rejected, it’s important to under- Canadian Insti- unchecked the someone who was raised in small- of Medicine and to be closer to her stand constructive criticism. tutes of Health enzymes can town Saskatchewan. family. Chelico wanted to find her “It’s hard sometimes if Research (CIHR) alter the DNA “It was a big thing to go from own research path and noticed there someone has an idea and it doesn’t projects. Her team of a human cell, Melfort to Saskatoon to there,” was a gap in HIV research from a get funded,” Chelico said. “It’s is investigating how causing mutations Chelico said. “I had wanted to move molecular studies perspective. difficult, but divorce yourself from a family of 11 proteins, and cancerous cells. to a bigger city for my PhD, but my She received her firstyour ideas … It’s important to listen called APOBEC enzymes, Chelico has always been mom didn’t want me to go that far.” Tri-Agency funding in 2010 from to people.” interact with the human immu- interested in the mechanisms that But, she could not resist the the Natural Sciences and Engi- nodeficiency virus (HIV) and change DNA at the molecular level, job offer from Dr. Myron Goodman neering Research Council of Canada Kristen McEwen is a contribute to cancer when not whether it’s been from the perspec- (PhD), who has done pioneering (NSERC) and CIHR to characterize communications co-ordinator regulated properly. tive of medicine or agriculture. work in the field of enzymatic APOBEC enzymes and study how in the College of Medicine.

NEWS.USASK.CA 7 Innovation the inspiration for USask president’s second term JAMES SHEWAGA

University of Saskatchewan President Peter Stoicheff delivers his annual Spring Convocation address at Merlis Belsher Place on campus in June. 2019 was the first year that convocation ceremonies returned to the USask campus, after 50 years at Saskatoon's TCU Place.

and I would like to focus on making of understanding (MOUs) signed students by the end of the 2019/20 University of Saskatchewan (USask) that more deliberate and strategic. throughout the province. academic year. We have all the pieces in place to be “It has been a very successful “I think having record President Peter Stoicheff will have a driver of innovation and I want year again for the university and enrolment again is an accomplish- to build on the work that we are there are many research accom- ment on everybody’s part because the chance to finish what he started. already doing here.” plishments that I point to, many it tells us that people are confident Stoicheff wants USask to faculty accomplishments that I in the university and that they want The driving force behind “This university has a huge build on a successful 2019 that point to, and community initia- to study here, parents want their USask’s new seven-year plan potential to contribute to a provin- included record enrolment, an tives that I point to, that were all children to study here and graduate unveiled in the fall of 2018 to be cial and a national innovation innovative new branding strategy, extremely important for the univer- students from around the world The University The World Needs, agenda and my focus in a second and campus-wide implementa- sity,” said Stoicheff. “We have a want to undertake research here,” Stoicheff will see it through to term will be on that,” said Stoicheff, tion of the university plan. USask strong research agenda here that said Stoicheff. “Everybody at the completion in 2025 after receiving who was installed as the 11th researchers were at the forefront of is engaged with issues that have an university should take pride in the unanimous support from the president and vice-chancellor of climate change analysis and food impact locally and internationally.” fact that our enrolments are going Board of Governors to serve a USask back on Oct. 24, 2015. security discoveries, including Enrolment is on the rise for up, because they are not going up at second five-year term as president “The research that we do here helping international teams crack the fifth straight year, bolstered by every university across the country.” beginning July 1, 2020. As the and the graduates that we produce the code to sequence durum wheat increases in the number of Indige- Stoicheff said the continued university begins the new year and here have an enormous impact on and pea genomes. The university nous students (up 6.1 per cent) and increase in enrolment is an a new decade, Stoicheff is firmly the region and far beyond it. The also strengthened its community international students (up 5.5 per indicator that the university’s repu- focused on the future of innovation expertise that comes out of this connections through a series of cent) that have put the university tation is also on the rise, bolstered at USask. university contributes to innovation innovative new memorandums on pace to reach a record 26,000 by a rebranding initiative designed

8 JANUARY 10, 2020 The research that we do here and the graduates that we produce here have an enormous impact on the region and far beyond it. The expertise that comes out of this university contributes to innovation and I would like to focus on making that more deliberate and strategic. — President Peter Stoicheff

issues, Stoicheff said the univer- far, far beyond the university,” said sity is increasing its commitment Stoicheff. to community throughout the In 2020, Stoicheff is looking province, signing MOUs to work forward to this fall’s official grand on new initiatives with the City of opening of the new Prince Albert Saskatoon and the Saskatoon Tribal campus, reaffirming the universi- Council, as well as with Métis ty’s commitment to northern and Nation of Saskatchewan, Prince Indigenous education. Albert Grand Council, Cumber- “It is a real indication of the land House Cree Nation, and the positive impact that we can have and Northern Lights School Division. I’m very gratified that we can extend “They are more than just words our reach northward and that we on a page,” Stoicheff said of the can have a strong and sustainable MOUs. “These are public commit- and coherent presence in the great ments signed in a very public way city of Prince Albert,” he said. to build these relationships, so they Funding USask’s major plan are extremely important. You can’t priorities while balancing the budget imagine a university like this one, remains an ongoing challenge, as that is deliberately outward-facing, the university awaits this year’s not engaging in partnerships. This provincial education funding shows how deliberate we are being while the government grapples University of Saskatchewan President Peter Stoicheff delivers his annual Spring Convocation address at Merlis Belsher Place on campus in June. 2019 was the first year that convocation ceremonies returned to the USask campus, after 50 years at Saskatoon's TCU Place. DAVID STOBBE in our desire to be The University with a sluggish economy. However, The World Needs.” Stoicheff is optimistic about the Among major appointments province’s new plan for growth, to better tell the USask story to a “There is a large amount of activity USask’s world-class research and awards in 2019 was the instal- an innovation-driven agenda that wider audience. in our 17 colleges and schools facilities—the Fedoruk Centre, lation of Grit McCreath as the aligns perfectly with the university’s “There are so many terrific and many examples of how they VIDO-InterVac, and the Canadian university’s new chancellor, Dr. Jane focus moving forward. things going on here and so many are each moving forward on the Light Source. The university also Alcorn (PhD) named dean of the “I am encouraged by what I people who are working so effec- plan. So, it is extremely exciting basked in the international spotlight College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, see in the province’s new plan for tively in their disciplines in the to see. We are only one year into a in 2019 in its signature areas of Dave Hardy hired as chief athletics growth because a lot of it is about teaching and learning space, in the seven-year plan and as we progress research in water and food security, officer of Huskie Athletics, and Dr. innovation and the government research and discovery space, and through future years, we will be with USask scientists front and Chelsea Willness (PhD) announced knows that we can help drive a in the community outreach space,” able to refine our assessment and centre in global genome research as university secretary and chief provincial innovation agenda,” said said Stoicheff. “And branding is it will be important to identify breakthroughs. governance officer. Stoicheff. “I see ourselves in that one way of ensuring that people not only those areas that we are “Mapping the pea genome, Meanwhile, Dr. John Pomeroy plan for growth in many encour- beyond the university know at least moving well in, but also to identify mapping the durum wheat genome, (PhD) and Dr. Irena Creed (PhD) aging ways. We are in a province something about the wonderful those areas where we need to move those were great research accom- were honoured by the Royal Society that recognizes the value that we things that are going on here.” more, faster, or differently in.” plishments in the year,” Stoicheff of Canada, while Dr. Maud Ferrari add, particularly on the research The university’s brand is driven The university announced a said. “And some of the work that (PhD) earned the prestigious and innovation side, and many by the commitment to be The number of research initiatives in the Protein Industries Canada Steacie Fellowship, one of a number other sides as well. While I can’t University The World Needs, a plan 2019, from areas of Indigenous supercluster is doing now involves of major research awards received predict what the next provincial that Stoicheff said is being imple- health, cancer, climate change USask researchers, so I think that is by USask scientists last year. budget will look like, I can say that mented across campus. and cybersecurity, to renewable terrific, too.” “All of these things speak to we are valued by our government “We are making a lot of and northern energy, while also In addition to focusing on the terrific research that is going because of the nature of the work progress on the plan,” he said. receiving renewed funding for finding local solutions to global on here that is being recognized that we do.”

NEWS.USASK.CA 9 SPOTLIGHT ON FINANCE AND RESOURCES: Epp’s team committed to serving students

 ASHLEY DOPKO

When Wade Epp first stepped onto of experiences on campus and his and people-watch. The university campus in 2000 as a commerce passion and understanding of the is sort of a living organism that student, he couldn’t have antici- student experience continues to continues to evolve with the needs pated that he would still be here grow. of our students. It wasn’t the same almost 20 years later. “So many of my memories as a place when my mom was studying The son of a pilot and business student were shaped by the people here, and who knows where the owner, Epp gained insight into the I met, the places we stayed and the focal points on campus will be for customer and employee experience food we ate,” said Epp, adding those my two kids.” early on in life. He went on to spend experiences are something that he Things change all the time on his summers as a student working and his team take into consider- and off campus, and that’s something in a fishing lodge in Northern ation every day. Epp and his team are keeping pace Saskatchewan, and wasted little With a team of more than 600 with. In 2000, the food options on time in establishing his career at the people, services unit employees campus were limited to Marquis University of Saskatchewan (USask), work to enhance the student expe- Hall and the Arts, Agriculture and transitioning from student to rience, some working directly with the now-defunct Education Buffete- chartered human resources profes- students daily, with others lending rias. Today’s campus offers students, sional after earning his Bachelor of their expertise and enthusiasm staff and faculty a wide variety of Commerce in 2004. behind the scenes. options, including a Starbucks and “I went from writing my last “It’s fascinating to see how multiple Tim Hortons locations. Wade Epp is the associate vice-president of services  JAMES SHEWAGA final to starting my job almost things have changed since I was “It’s not just that we’ve got in the Finance and Resources portfolio at USask. immediately after,” Epp said. a student,” said Epp. “Something more options,” said Epp. “We’ve Now, serving as USask’s as simple as the tunnel is a great also got award-winning chef James to move ahead.” possible,” said Epp. associate vice-president, services, example. When I was a student McFarland, who has created a nutri- Becoming The University the While that is evident every day within the Finance and Resources it was this huge collecting point tious and often locally sourced menu World Needs is something that at the university, it was especially portfolio, Epp has had his share where everyone would hang out for Marquis Culinary Centre.” Epp and his team take seriously. clear the night of the campus power The broad range of talents Whether they’re housing students, outage on Oct. 21, 2019 when a within services lends the team of experts managed the portfolio to a number of emergency power to ensure unique and creative connec- The work that our team that critical research projects tions. Whether its culinary were secure through the services partnering with does ensures that our faculty night. grounds to compost food have the time, the space, and “I’m not in a lab doing waste, or ConnectionPoint—a groundbreaking research, leader in North America for supports that make world- or in front of students in a shared services—Epp and his class research possible. classroom, but I know that team are always looking to the work our team does break down silos and establish —Wade Epp helps everyone on campus meaningful and efficient part- do theirs,” said Epp. “It’s a nerships on campus. privilege to be part of the “Anyone who knows me knows doing emergency repairs, or university. Where else can you that I can’t sit still, I’m always handling travel reimbursements, work and know that what you’re looking for change,” said Epp. “I’m the services team is doing its part to doing every day, in some small or sure no one on campus feels that support the university. large part, is helping to change the more than my team, but they are “The work that our team does world?” always up for the challenge. Many ensures that our faculty have the of our team members have a long time, the space, and supports Ashley Dopko is a communications history with USask and they are that make world-class research specialist in University Relations. always looking to improve the expe- rience on campus, whether it’s for students, faculty or staff. My role is Learn more about how the services team is supporting really about helping to make sure students, staff and faculty at: news.usask.ca. that they have the tools and support

10 JANUARY 10, 2020 Epp’s team committed to serving students

USask researcher Dr. Jaris Swidrovich (PharmD) was recently published in the journal Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning.

 KIERAN KOBITZ Indigenizing pharmacy education

 KIERAN KOBITZ

An article by Dr. Jaris Swidrovich speech pathology. the classroom. share resources, discuss what they’re about her experience with the Buffalo (PharmD) recently published in The research to Indigenize these In USask’s PharmD program, working on and provide feedback to Circle, which recognizes non-Indig- the journal Currents in Pharmacy programs was minimal, but did he takes the lead on four hours each other on how to implement new enous senior leadership, staff and Teaching and Learning assessed the provide some guidance which could of Indigenous content during the initiatives. faculty as outstanding allies, and current state of research and the help inform recommendations for annual orientation week, while The discussions in the SIG go nominates them to be part of the number of peer-reviewed publica- pharmacy education. also teaching on Indigenous topics beyond pharmacy education and circle by Indigenous staff and faculty. tions on Indigenizing pharmacy “It was unfortunate, but not throughout each year of the program. include how non-Indigenous people Swidrovich plans to continue education. surprising, to verify that minimal There is also strong interest at can be allies and how to create with his research and advocacy at the The College of Pharmacy and research and publishing has been done all 10 pharmacy schools in Canada procedures to help support Indig- university and collaborating with Nutrition professor at the University on Indigenizing pharmacy education to develop Indigenous elements in enization across all aspects of a other pharmacy schools. of Saskatchewan (USask) conducted and the health sciences education in pharmacy education, which has post-secondary institution. One of the next steps at the a literature review with the intention general,” said Swidrovich. led Swidrovich to advocate for and Additionally, a symposium was university will be to hold a student of collating any and all publica- Looking at the available share his findings through the Asso- held after the annual AFPC Confer- recruitment event for the college, tions on Indigenous engagement material, Swidrovich developed a ciation of Faculties of Pharmacy of ence last June, which was attended by which will incorporate Indigenous in pharmacy education, but found number of recommendations for Canada (AFPC). representatives from each pharmacy culture and methods to engage with that there were no scholarly, peer-re- Indigenizing pharmacy curriculum. Swidrovich created the Truth school and included topics on the potential applicants to the pharmacy viewed publications specifically on With Indigenization a priority and Reconciliation Special Interest various areas required to Indigenize program. Indigenous education in pharmacy. at both the university and college Group (SIG) through AFPC, which pharmacy education. Swidrovich then broadened his levels, Swidrovich has been has representation from every Swidrovich spoke about Kieran Kobitz is a search to the other health sciences working to share his findings and pharmacy school in the country. SIG evidence-based medicine through an communications and alumni and discovered some education liter- recommendations with colleagues members collaborate through an Indigenous lens and the college’s Dr. relations specialist in the College of ature in areas such as nursing and and to implement new initiatives in online portal and teleconferences to Yvonne Shevchuk (PharmD) spoke Pharmacy and Nutrition.

NEWS.USASK.CA 11 Hub supports Kinesiology,

Huskies student success Keeran Wagner (left) is the manager of undergraduate student  ALYSSA WIEBE academic services in the College of Kinesiology.  ALYSSA WIEBE

The College of Kinesiology and way,” said Keeran Wagner, manager With three full-time staff Huskie Athletics have partnered to of undergraduate student academic currently overseeing the student open an inclusive and safe space, services in the College of Kinesi- support hub, they are a one-stop putting student success and support ology. “By providing all of these shop for students. As the college at the forefront. supports in one central location, we continues to grow, so will the The Student Support Hub allow students to have a supportive, student support team. With plans opened in the fall of 2019 in the personal experience.” to hire another part-time academic Physical Activity Complex (PAC) The college has experienced a advisor in spring 2020, it will allow at the University of Saskatchewan 10.2 per cent growth in enrolment for more support to help students (USask), giving kinesiology and in the last year. As part of its 2025 reach their full potential in the Huskie student-athletes access to Strategic Plan, that growth rate will classroom and beyond. immediate support. Whether they are continue year-to-year, opening an One unique part of the hub is looking for academic advice, access to mental health and tutoring, mental health wellness services. support, or sport-life balance, It is important that our “Student success depends there are qualified profes- students know they are valued on having the right balance sionals on-site dedicated to of supports available,” supporting them. and supported by the college. explained Chandra “As we considered We want them to have a safe LePoudre, student support the increasing need for co-ordinator for the Chandra LePoudre (right) is the student support co-ordinator  ALYSSA WIEBE a wholistic approach to space to go to, regardless if it’s College of Kinesiology and in the College of Kinesiology and Huskie Athletics. student and student-ath- for personal, mental health, Huskie Athletics. “The hub lete support, the vision was provides a safe, confidential mental health, well-being and tions from coaches, teammates, to create a one-stop centre wellness, or academic support. space where students can academic success. The hub is acces- and themselves in relation to their that provides students the — Keeran Wagner drop in and access resources sible for all kinesiology students in sport performance and coping with supports they need in an on various campus activi- both undergraduate and graduate the emotional ups and downs that accessible way,” said Dr. ties, events, and initiatives, programs, as well as all Huskie come with the winning and losing Chad London (PhD), dean of the extra 50 seats annually. By 2025, the in addition to getting academic student-athletes. in sports, both as individuals and as College of Kinesiology and vice- college expects its undergraduate advice and mental health support. “Student-athletes have many a team.” chair of the Huskie Athletics Board program to be educating more than There is a level of anonymity in additional and unique pressures to At the end of the day, the goal of Trustees. “We renovated an 800 students. coming to the space that is removed juggle, which can make their univer- is to ensure students receive as under-utilized space in the PAC to “It is important that our from both the Dean’s Office and the sity experience much more stressful much support as possible to aid in construct the hub, and the team of students know they are valued faculty offices.” and challenging,” said LePoudre. their academic success. staff supporting students are now and supported by the college,” said A priority in the college’s “In addition to the demands of housed there as the go-to place for Wagner. “We want them to have 2025 Strategic Plan is to enhance their academic program, they Alyssa Wiebe is assistance.” a safe space to go to, regardless if the undergraduate and graduate are keeping up intensive training the communications and “It is very important to us that it’s for personal, mental health, student experience by providing schedules, travelling regularly for alumni relations officer our students are supported in every wellness, or academic support.” support services that enhance competition, managing expecta- in the College of Kinesiology.

12 JANUARY 10, 2020 HUSKIES AT HOME: Huskie hurdler Harrison holds Olympic hopes FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 Track and Field: Sanderson Classic,  JAMES SHEWAGA at Saskatoon Field House. Basketball: vs. Victoria at the PAC, Michelle Harrison has one more in competition have made her an Women’s: 6 pm. Men’s: 8 pm. major hurdle to overcome in her excellent example to follow for Women’s Hockey: vs. Lethbridge, quest to compete in the 2020 her younger Huskie teammates, at Merlis Belsher Place, 7 pm. Summer Olympics. according to her coach. SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 The reigning U Sports 60-metre “Any time you get an indi- Track and Field: Sanderson Classic, hurdles national champion and pride vidual who can combine all the at Saskatoon Field House. of the Huskie Athletics track and field pieces of being a student-athlete, Basketball: vs. Victoria at the PAC, team is looking to finish her fifth and they are definitely a role model for Women’s: 5 pm. Men’s: 7 pm. final year with a flourish by success- the new athletes on the team,” said Women’s Hockey: vs. Lethbridge, fully defending her Canada West Reindl. “It really resonates with the at Merlis Belsher Place, 7 pm. conference and Canadian university reality of what we are trying to do as FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 championship titles on her way to a program.” Volleyball: vs. Winnipeg at the PAC, qualifying for the Olympic Games in Having another Huskie become Women’s: 6 pm. Men’s: 8 pm. Tokyo, from July 31 to August 9. an Olympian would also be a major Women’s Hockey: vs. Calgary, “It would be a great way to accomplishment for the program. at Merlis Belsher Place, 7 pm. end my career as a Huskie if I can Harrison has until June 29 to qualify SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 repeat at both the Canada West for the Olympics, culminating in this and U Sports championships this year’s Canadian championships and Volleyball: vs. Winnipeg at the PAC, Women’s: 3 pm. Men’s: 5 pm. year,” said Harrison, a Bachelor Olympic team trials from June 25-28 Women’s Hockey: vs. Calgary, of Science student at the Univer- in Montreal. But first, she is deter- at Merlis Belsher Place, 7 pm. sity of Saskatchewan (USask). “The mined to go out as a champion to Olympics is my No.1 goal for this close out her university career, with FRIDAY, JANUARY 24 year and I am hoping to use the the Huskies scheduled to host the Basketball: vs. Calgary at the PAC, university season as a stepping stone Canada West championships on Feb. Women’s: 6 pm. Men’s: 8 pm. TREVOR HAGAN/BISON SPORTS towards achieving that.” 21-22 in Saskatoon, before nationals Men’s Hockey: vs. UBC, at Merlis Belsher Place, 7 pm. Just how close is Harrison to Huskie Athletics track and field star Michelle Harrison is the current U Sports in Edmonton from March 5-7. becoming an Olympian? She needs national champion in the 60-metre women's hurdles. “It will be really nice to SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 to trim less than three-tenths of a compete at home,” said Harrison. Basketball: vs. Calgary at the PAC, second off of her best time of 13.13 on track as she finishes the final have been able to get to where I am “And both our men’s and women’s Women’s: 5 pm. Men’s: 7 pm. seconds in the 100m hurdles to auto- semester of her bachelor’s degree today without them.” teams are defending champions for Men’s Hockey: vs. UBC, matically qualify for the Summer and completes her Huskies career. Harrison studied nursing Canada West, so it would be nice at Merlis Belsher Place, 7 pm. Games, and be ranked in the top A former national under-18 and before choosing to major in health to repeat that this year in front of a FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 three in the country (she is currently Canada Summer Games 100m studies. Along the way, she learned home crowd.” Basketball: vs. UBC-Okanagan at the PAC, fourth) or the top 40 in the world hurdles champion, Harrison how to successfully balance Harrison is hoping a memorable Women’s: 6 pm. Men’s: 8 pm. (currently 51st). Huskies head coach accepted a full-ride scholarship to academics and athletics, earning final season with the Huskies Women’s Hockey: vs. Manitoba, Jason Reindl is confident Harrison Rice University out of high school, Academic All-Canadian status in helps set her up for her run to the at Merlis Belsher Place, 7 pm. can do just that. but battled injuries and illness and 2019 for averaging 85 per cent while Olympics, as she chases a dream that Track and Field: K of C Games “She was third at the (2019 returned to Saskatoon to come to taking a full course load. she has held since the first time she at Saskatoon Field House. Athletics Canada) national champi- USask and has never looked back. “It was definitely something I stepped onto the track. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 onships in the summer and she was “Coming back, I have had a way was proud of, just knowing that all “It would mean everything,” Basketball: vs. UBC-Okanagan at the PAC, able to beat two of the athletes who more positive experience here and I the work and the hours that I put said Harrison. “For all my hard Women’s: 5 pm. Men’s: 7 pm. are currently ranked just ahead am way happier here,” said Harrison, into both track and school pays off,” work to pay off and get where I have Women’s Hockey: vs. Manitoba, of her, so she is right there,” said a 27-year-old from Saskatoon. “This said Harrison. “I definitely think I been aiming for all these years and at Merlis Belsher Place, 5 pm. Reindl. is my home base and the support have grown a lot as a student over to be able to represent Canada and Track and Field: K of C Games, Harrison has overcome a few of my Huskies teammates and my the years.” support my community and country, at Saskatoon Field House hurdles in the past, but is now back coach is just great. I would never Harrison’s efforts in class and that would be pretty special.” Feel like you’re the home team, IHG® even when you’re on the road. Game Changing Give your group a Game Changing Advantage. advantage Holiday Inn Express & Suites Saskatoon East - University (Proudly located on campus). Book your group today! 306.954.1250

NEWS.USASK.CA 13 “As proud supporters of Huskie member, head coach of the 1983 Athletics, they will enhance our national champion men’s Huskie Community members bolster connection to the community while hockey team, and former NHL and helping Huskie student-athletes Canadian Olympic team coach. achieve at a high national level,” • Peter Spafford, former Huskie Stoicheff said. hockey captain, Saskatoon surgeon Board of Trustees for Huskies The newly appointed commu- and USask clinical professor, and nity members on the Board of community donor and supporter. Trustees are: The USask board representa- UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS  • Scott Banda, CEO of Federated tives are: Debra Pozega Osburn, Committed to creating the best Co-operatives Limited, and a vice-president of university student-athlete experience in the leader in the Canadian co-opera- relations, Chad London, dean of country, the University of Saskatch- tive sector. the College of Kinesiology, Peta ewan (USask) has appointed new • Colette Bourgonje, former Bonham-Smith, dean of the College members to its Huskie Athletics Olympic athlete, winner of 10 of Arts and Science, and Wade Epp, Board of Trustees. medals at Winter and Summer associate vice-president, services. The new members include a Paralympic Games, and a member Stoicheff said Huskie Athletics legendary Canadian hockey coach, of Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame. is an integral part of the campus one of the country’s most successful • Bob Fawcett, past-president of the culture and creates countless Paralympians, a former president Saskatoon Minor Hockey associ- connections in the community as and CEO of the Saskatchewan ation, prominent local volunteer, mentors, volunteers and ambassa- Roughriders, as well as influential and member of the Saskatoon dors for the university. and committed community leaders Sports Hall of Fame. “We have more than 400 and former Huskie athletes. • Catherine Gryba, former student-athletes working as hard in “Our new Huskie Athletics senior executive for the City the classroom as they work in their board members bring a wealth of of Saskatoon, and committed sport,” said Stoicheff. “We are proud experience, knowledge and passion Former NHL and Canadian Olympic team coach Dave King is one DAVID STOBBE community builder. of the contributions they make to our for sport and the University of of the new members of the Huskie Athletics Board of Trustees. • Jim Hopson, member of the university and the difference they Saskatchewan that will support our Canadian Football Hall of Fame, make in our community. We want student-athletes in the classroom and four USask senior leaders— planning, and community and former president and CEO of the them to have the best experience we and in their sports,” said USask will provide insight and advice on corporate engagement.” CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders, can offer, and our Board of Trustees President Peter Stoicheff. “The broad everything from student-athlete Stoicheff noted that each of the and long-time educator. will be very important in that regard.” experience of this group—including development and merchandising, new board members has close ties • Dave King, Order of Canada and The new board will first meet its seven community members to resource management, program to Saskatchewan. Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame in February.

FEBRUARY BREAK CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY CAMPS February 18 - 21, 2020 Sports “R” Fun & Wall Climbing, How the Body Moves, Basketball, and Sports & Water Mania! Ages 5 - 8 and 8 - 12 Register online at rec.usask.ca

14 JANUARY 10, 2020 COMING EVENTS

SEMINARS / LECTURES more information, visit: homepage.usask. ca/~akkerman. Philosophy in the Community 7–9 pm, The Refinery, Emmanuel Anglican Public River Transport and Saskatoon’s Church basement. 609 Dufferin Ave. This undervalued thoroughfare community lecture and discussion series is Feb. 14, 9:30–10:30 am, Thorvaldson organized by the Department of Philosophy Building 129. Our urban river has plenty to share the rewards and pleasures of phil- of potential, but has been underappreci- osophical reflection. Free and open to the ated—even neglected—for its public urban public. For more information, visit: usask.ca/ transportation capacity. Paul Van Pul, land philosophy/community surveyor, author and expert in the history of Imaging a hydroponically grown wheat plant at USask to obtain a 3D reconstruction of the root system. PIERRE-LUC PRADIER • Jan. 10, Is the World Getting Better or hydraulic engineering, lays out a practical  Worse? By Dwayne Moore. concept to restore the river’s urban transpor- tation potential. For more information, visit: • Feb. 14, What is Socialism? The Past and homepage.usask.ca/~akkerman. the Future of an Ideal. By Pierre-Francois Noppen. COURSES / WORKSHOPS Developing adaptive plants Literature Matters Multi-lingual Conversational FROM PAGE 2 7:30 pm, Grace-Westminster United Church Language Classes social hall, 505 10 St. E. Reading, studying and talking about literary works helps us Registration is open for winter session livelihoods at risk. diversity. The problems that exist in but that is drought-tolerant, for to make sense of the world. In this series of conversational language classes in French, “Plants can’t run away, so how this space are the most interesting example,” he said. “What proper- Spanish, Cree, German, Italian, Portuguese community talks, members of the Depart- do they respond to these threats? ones to solve.” ties does the drought-tolerant plant ment of English explore diverse literary and Japanese. Classes start the week of topics. January 20 and are limited to 16 people. Call Answering this question is funda- The problems, as they relate to have that the drought-intolerant • Jan. 15, The Greatest Irish Writer You've 306-966-5539 or 306-966-4355, or register mental to building a sustainable plant health, are complex. However, plant does not, and can we get the Probably Never Heard Of: Introducing online at artsandscience.usask.ca/noncredit/ agro ecosystem for the future,” some simple solutions, according drought-intolerant plant to express languages/language-schedule.php Máirtín Ó Cadhain. Presented by Jerry Schneider said. “We need to develop to Schneider, may be found by drought-tolerant traits? I look at White THE ARTS quickly adaptive plants to handle crunching the numbers and delving this problem using mathematical Psychology’s Colloquium Series rapidly changing environments.” into the data. and computational science tools.” 3-4 pm, Arts Building Room 153. The Duo Cellissimo Answering the question of plant “We have to look at issues, like Megan Evans is a communications Department of Psychology at USask Jan. 26, 2:30-4pm, Convocation Hall, Peter responses to biological threats is not a crop that is high yielding versus specialist in the School of presents monthly lectures that are open to MacKinnon Building. Artists Philip Hansen, a simple process. While biology something with a smaller yield Environment and Sustainability. principal cellist of the Orquestra Filarmônica the university community and the general used to be a data-poor science, public. de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, and • Jan. 23, Professor Carie Buchanan of St. Kathleen Solose, pianist and USask professor, technological advancements mean Thomas More College presents: Changing present a recital of Bach, Grieg and The the days of measuring plants and campus culture: Evaluating sexual violence Grand Tango by Piazzolla. The concert will roots with yard sticks is long gone. prevention programming on campus. feature the prized Amati cello, one of the quartet of exquisite Amati instruments. Interdisciplinary work (in this • Feb. 27, Clinical Psychology PhD case the interface between biology, candidate Jake Ursenbach of Department Tickets $15-25 available on Eventbrite: CALL FOR NOMINATIONS of Psychology presents: Measurement https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/duo-cellissi- engineering and mathematics) is Invariance: What is it and why does it mo-tickets-85255143429 required to tackle challenges such UNIVERSITY COUNCIL matter? Greystone Theatre presents: as developing plants that can adapt The Secret in the Wings quickly to environmental factors. 51st annual Sorokin Lecture An election of college faculty members and members-at- Feb. 4-8, 8 pm, Greystone Theatre, John In his research, Schneider Feb. 6, 7–9 pm, Shannon Library, St. Thomas large to the University Council will be held to replace those More College. Dr. David Lyon, Queen’s Mitchell Building, 118 Science Place. Directed writes his own computer software to by Treena Stubel. Mary Zimmerman’s members whose terms on Council expire on June 30, 2020 Research Chair in Surveillance Studies and translate huge quantities of biological and any other vacancies that have arisen this term. Director of the Surveillance Studies Centre The Secret in the Wings adapts a group of lesser-known fairy tales to create a theatrical and genomic data into useful insight. University Council is responsible for overseeing and directing presents Surveillance: Yesterday, today and Like the plant adaptations he tomorrow: from occasional encounters to work that sets their dark mystery against the university’s academic affairs. Your participation by constant immersion. For more information, her signature wit and humor. The framing studies, Schneider’s area of expertise standing for election is essential to the continuing good visit: artsandscience.usask.ca/sociology/ story concerns a child and the frightening evolved out of necessity. governance of the university. Sorokin-lecture.php. babysitter with whom her parents leave her. As the babysitter reads from a book, the “I couldn’t get a job as a characters in each of the tales materialize, chemist when I left grad school, and If you wish to stand as a candidate for election to Let the river flow again: European University Council or if you would like further information, approach to urban river corridors with each tale breaking off just at its bleakest so I took a job at IBM as a computer moment before giving way to the next one. contact the Office of the University Secretary at 306-966-6253 Feb. 7, 11:30 am–12:30 pm, Thorvaldson scientist,” he said. “Working in Tickets go on sale two weeks before each or visit the Council website at: Building 205A. Our urban river has plenty show, available by calling 306-966-5188 or go the space between biology and of potential as an important urban design https://secretariat.usask.ca/council/elections.php on-line at: https://artsandscience.usask.ca/ computer science is my specialty. feature all year round. Paul Van Pul, land drama/greystone/greystone-theatre.php surveyor, author and expert in the history Just as we see the border between The deadline for submitting your nomination to stand for of hydraulic engineering, discusses the NEXT OCN: Feb. 14, 2020 the prairie and the forest is rich University Council is Monday, February 3, 2020. European approach to urban river’s DEADLINE: Jan. 31, 2020 in species diversity, the interdisci- inherent blue role in the city’s fabric. For plinary space is rich in intellectual

NEWS.USASK.CA 15 RARE GRAVITY METER A CORNERSTONE OF THE GEOPHYSICS PROGRAM  CHRIS PUTNAM

The scratched and faded surface of a metal cube stored in the Department of Geological Sciences is a hint at the item’s rugged history.

Virtually every graduate of the University of Gendzwill helped design the original USask Saskatchewan (USask) geophysics program has geophysics program, including establishing one laid hands on the instrument, a rare Lacoste and of Canada’s first field courses in geophysics. The Romberg Model G gravity meter. For 50 years, it gravity meter was used for Gendzwill’s research has helped make the geophysics field school in programs and brought out each summer to train the College of Arts and Science one of the most students at the field school. comprehensive in North America. Generations of students have since been entrusted The instrument is “basically a spring scale of with the delicate instrument, which had a $50,000 the kind used to weigh fish,” except much more price tag in 1970. intricate and sensitive, said geological sciences professor Dr. Jim Merriam (PhD). “We supervised very closely,” Gendzwill said, chuckling. By measuring tiny differences in the pull of gravity, the meter gives geophysicists clues about the Although gravity measurements are a fundamental makeup of the ground below. More sophisticated technique in geophysics, most universities don’t gravity meters have since been invented, but this own their own gravity meters due to the cost, noted (Above) The Lacoste and Romberg gravity vintage box continues to get the job done. Merriam. Students at the USask field school can meter has been used as a teaching tool tackle bigger projects than at other schools that rely in USask’s Department of Geological “It will measure changes in gravity as small as one on rented equipment, including a gravity survey of Sciences for 50 years, since 1970. part in 100 million. I can’t think of another purely the eight-kilometre-wide impact crater near Elbow, mechanical field instrument that can manage that Sask., at the most recent field school in August 2019. CHRIS PUTNAM sensitivity,” said Merriam. Since the 1980s, the gravity meter has occasionally The hand-assembled gravity meter was specially been loaned out to commercial geophysics ordered by the department in 1970 at the request of companies. In return, those companies have Dr. Don Gendzwill (PhD), now a professor emeritus. brought their own state-of-the-art equipment to the field school each year and helped train students. (Left) A USask student takes a gravity “They’re not made like TVs. There’s only a few reading during a geophysics field school manufactured every year,” said Gendzwill. Thanks to these partnerships, said Merriam, “I think at the Elbow crater in August, 2019. we expose our students to more techniques than As a new faculty member in the early 1970s, any other field school.” RAFAEL GONZALEZ