CONCORDIA TURNS 40 a Look Back at Four Exciting Decades

FALL 2014

UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

CONCORDIA TURNS 40 A look back at four exciting decades

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48_MM9178-13_MMI.EN•concordia (8.125x10.75).indd 1 13-10-30 9:27 AM Projet : Annonce MMI 2013 Province : Québec Épreuve # : 2 Publication : Queen’s Alumni Review Client : TD Assurance Date de tombée : 30/10/2013 Format : 8.125x10.75 Dossier # : 48_MM9178-13_MMI.EN•concordia (8.125x10.75) Couleur : Quad Graphiste : Yannick Decosse

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CANADA’S LOOK WHO’S 40! DEMOGRAPHIC SHIFT As Concordia celebrates University experts examine the its 40th anniversary, we long-term implications — from feature the high points of financial to health and more — the past four decades. 12 of an aging Canadian population. 22 By Beverly Akerman

FICTION: THE ROOF WEATHER FORECAST: An excerpt from the NEW SOLUTIONS 2014 Irving Layton Award ON THE WAY for Fiction winner Concordia researchers from By Rudrapriya Rathore varying academic fields 30 bring a fresh perspective to environmental issues. 32 By Julie Gedeon

FINDING A GOOD FIT 46 FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: Students and employers JOHN MOLSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS benefit from Concordia’s Co-op — the Institute for An interview with Jordan LeBel, new director Co-operative Education. of the John Molson Executive MBA By Joanne Latimer 38 By Yuri Mytko

48 FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: ARTS AND SCIENCE Take a cultural walk with theological studies students, and meet Quebec’s inaugural First Peoples Studies graduates. By Matthew Anderson and Tom Peacock

fall 2014 volume 38 number 2 concordia.ca/magazine

Cover: Concordia at 40 3 EDITOR’S VOICE Credit: Concordia University 4 CONCORDIA NEWS 50 ALUMNI NEWS This publication is printed on 100% recycled paper, 56 CLASS ACTS including 20% post-consumer waste. Each ton of recycled paper that displaces a ton of virgin paper reduces total 62 WORDS & MUSIC energy consumption by 27%, greenhouse gas emissions by 47%, particulate emissions by 28%, wastewater by 33%, 64 ENOUGH SAID solid waste by 54% and wood use by 100%. JOE DRESDNER 25/08/2014 3:57:10 PM Dorothy Martin BA 59 Mikalachki, — Dorothy DOROTHY MARTIN MIKALACHKI AND JOHNNY AL PAREDES SEMINARIO AND JOHNNY AL PAREDES MIKALACHKI MARTIN DOROTHY CELEBRATION. DONOR AND STUDENT AWARDS THE 20 4 CONCORDIA AT I had the most wonderful at Sir George. My time for the past, appreciation gave me a fresh courses and futurepresent — and a taste for learning that to this day. has continued a full-time to remain ord Although I couldn’t a which college, on to teachers’ student, I went my and continued in those days, was free at night. bachelor’s I was 25 when I graduated, to marry just in time had Al Mikalachki, at Sir George. We whom I met and have all been successful in our children three he died always Since savers. Al and I were goals. I have used some of ago, six years to our money help others. It gives me a great deal of to honour my pleasure students with Concordia alma mater and provide the same opportunity I received. Concordia!” Thanks, Sir George! Thanks,

an an

| 54-848-2424, ext. 4856 | -888-777-3330, ext. 4856 | [email protected] concordia.ca/alumni-giving

I went to see HenryI went Hall, then dean of Sir George He problem. and laid out my Williams University, scholarship. me an entrance ered immediately o came true! dream And my In a eureka moment as I walked home one day, home one day, as I walked moment In a eureka at night, I job that with a part-time I realized save enough for ofcould one year I just school. for enough money tuition. I still had to help lacked support family. my I used a forged baptism certifi cate to make myselfcate to make I used a forged certifi baptism older and became a sales clerk. years appear two nearlyI gave parents my earnings. I insisted all my of and dreamed school nishing high going on fi when all of Yet on friends went my to university. full I worked time to studies, to post-secondary support family. my My mother was pregnant with her fi fth child when when fth child her fi with was pregnant My mother for evicted space the landlord’s to make were we for homeless were We son, a returning veteran. found to and when we a place several months, live, Life was very it was double our previous rent. for cult us. di “The return of after WW II spelled veterans familydisaster for blue-collar my living in Montreal. WHY I GIVE

Find out how you can join Dorothy Martin Mikalachki in contributing to Concordia: in contributing you can join Dorothy MartinFind out how Mikalachki Info: example setting Setting an example Summer2014.indd 2 EDITOR’S VOICE

Acknowledging the team

often get asked if I get the summer off, since there are few classes at the university. If only. I Summers are actually quite busy in university communications as we gear up for the academic year and prep the magazine for the next issue. This summer was especially hectic. There’s a Yiddish proverb: Man plans and God laughs — I learned how true that is communications of Advancement and today’s 46,000-plus students, contem- when I was unexpectedly forced out of the Alumni Relations, and Sami Antaki, porary centralized facilities and more office for a spell, right in the middle of the BA 82, executive director of University than 188,000 alumni worldwide, the magazine’s production schedule, as we Communications Services. Concordia experiment clearly has worked. headed towards our deadline. Teamwork is an essential element of all A big thanks to the Concordia University Fortunately, I also learned how skilled our lives, and it’s no different at the uni- Magazine crew, and congratulations to the and dedicated my co-workers and super- versity. This issue is filled, as usual, with entire Concordia team, which includes visors are. Even though my picture and many examples of the work and findings our readers. Here’s to the next 40! signature are on this page, many folks of Concordia faculty. (See “Canada's work behind the scenes on the magazine. demographic shift” on page 22, “Weather These include the magazine’s lead forecast: New solutions on the way” on creative, Christopher Alleyne, BA 09, page 32.) While research projects are of- who was capably helped this time by ten led by individual professors, their Concordia University Magazine welcomes Mercedes La Rosa, BA 06. Graphic work is conducted with the assistance of readers’ comments. Letters should include designer Stephen Pan creates many of graduate students, as well as colleagues at the writer’s full name, address, school(s), degree(s) and year(s) of graduation for the Concordia-related ads. Concordia and elsewhere. alumni. Letters may be edited for length and I was lucky to have two extremely This issue highlights another self- clarity. No letter will be published without the full name of the correspondent. th dedicated student interns, Kayla Morin evident example of teamwork: the 40 Concordia University Magazine is published and Marilla Steuter-Martin, who were anniversary of the joining of Loyola three times a year for alumni and friends of Concordia University. Opinions expressed asked to do more, with less supervision. College and Sir George Williams herein do not necessarily reflect the views They delivered beautifully. University to form Concordia University, of the alumni associations or of the university. Communications officer Louise in late summer 2014. (See “Look who’s Please address editorial correspondence to: The Editor, Howard Bokser Morgan, GrDip 99, and senior advisor of 40!” on page 12.) It wasn’t an obvious Concordia University Magazine communications Scott McCulloch, BA 90, marriage: the Jesuit, suburban, tradition- 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W. GM 600, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8 lent their writing talent and keen editing al liberal arts Loyola and the accessible, Phone: 514-848-2424, ext. 3826 eyes. Scott’s name (and stamp) are urban and modern Sir George Williams. email: [email protected] For advertising information, call all over this issue, and he deservedly Yet administrators, faculty, staff, donors 514-848-2424, ext. 3819. gets co-editing credit. and, ultimately, students pulled together Co-editor: Scott McCulloch The team would not have been to make it work. Student interns: Marilla Steuter-Martin, Kayla Morin able to step in and step up their From its initial student body of games without the support of Sylvain- about 27,000 and a handful of build- Design: University Communications Services T15-20069 Jacques Desjardins, BA 97, director of ings scattered around Montreal to

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 3 CONCORDIA NEWS

PROVOST BENOIT-ANTOINE BACON: STUDENTS FIRST

enoit-Antoine Bacon, BA (psych.) 95, B recently completed his first year as Concordia’s provost and vice-president of Academic Affairs. He spoke to Concordia University Magazine.

What is your and your office’s role? Benoit-Antoine Bacon: “My office oversees all academic matters at Concordia — all faculties, departments and programs, teaching and learning, including the implementation of the academic plan, plus relations with academic personnel as well as the libraries. As of this year, recruitment, admissions, the registrar’s office and all aspects of student life, including recreation and athletics, are also part of our activities. I work with the president and in collaboration with the other vice-presidents on reputation building, research development, budgets and external relations.”

Can you describe some of your achievements so far? BAB: “I can’t believe it’s been a year already. I’m very proud of the 10 or so great people we’ve been able to hire in key leadership roles. We have new programs coming — doctorates in English and in Geography, Planning and the Environment, as well as a bachelor’s J oe degree in Aerospace Engineering and a major D res

in Interdisciplinary Studies of Sexuality. d ner We’re sparking innovation in teaching and learning through a Curriculum Innovation ONE YEAR INTO HIS TERM AS PROVOST AND VICE-PRESIDENT OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS, BENOIT-ANTOINE BACON IS KEEN TO BUILD ON HIS OFFICE’S LATEST ACHIEVEMENTS. Project that supports 25 new ideas for courses and programs, and by funding retreats to encourage departments to be strategic in their research agenda, curriculum and student I loved my Concordia years as an experiences. We’ve improved recruitment and undergraduate. The spirit, diversity admissions and we’re having a record year in terms of qualified applicants. More than ever, and the sense of community have Concordia’s a first choice for outstanding remained the same. students.”

What do you hope to achieve next? Your office comprises Student and Enrolment Services, BAB: “Concordia’s an urban, innovative and 21st-century Faculty Relations and Teaching and Learning. How’s business? university that’s firmly connected to the real world. I want BAB: “All three sectors are led by brilliant, dedicated people: to provide optimal conditions so our community can thrive. Lisa Ostiguy, Jorgen Hansen and Cathy Bolton respectively. We need to make sure everyone realizes how Concordia has It’s a pleasure to work with them. We’ve made progress in all grown and evolved. Some of our key objectives for this year sectors — teaching and learning initiatives, relations with will be recruitment and retention, digital learning, faculty academic unions, recruitment and admissions and our student development, and emphasizing excellence in teaching.” experience. They are also building strong teams and we will continue to improve.”

4 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine Describe the “students first” policy your office promotes. Concordia is an incredible place. The diversity of programs, BAB: “‘Students first’ is self-evident. We’re here for our people and ideas here is astounding. It’s a mind-opening students and we are committed to delivering the experiences place. I can’t think of a better institution to launch a young that they need and that they deserve, both in and out of person on a personal and professional journey towards a the classroom, from admission to graduation. We work self-determined life.” with students to ensure we understand their needs and –Scott McCulloch preoccupations. We’re totally committed to strengthening their Concordia experience.”

What’s changed since you earned your BA honours KEEP IN TOUCH degree in psychology in 1995? BAB: “I loved my Concordia years as an undergraduate. New job? Just moved? Just married? Or just want to let your I came in as a shy French-speaking boy and left as an engaged former classmates know what you’ve been up to? Visit citizen of the world. The spirit, diversity and the sense of community have remained the same, but the sheer size, concordia.ca/keepintouch infrastructure and research culture have shown incredible Or mail or email us any information about yourself — don’t be shy — change and development. Concordia is now truly a modern, you’d like to appear in Class Acts. research-engaged, next-generation university.” Please include: your name (including name at graduation); year(s) What’s the most satisfying part of your job? of graduation and degree(s) from Concordia, Loyola or Sir George, BAB: “It’s not an easy decision to put teaching and and other universities; street address, phone number(s) and email research on hold to take on a leadership role. What makes address; and any other relevant personal or business info. it worthwhile is that I get to see — and help to improve — By email: [email protected] every sector of the university and everything in between. Subject: Class Acts I do interesting things with brilliant people every day. I’m grateful for that. By mail: Class Acts, Advancement and Alumni Relations, My schedule is daunting but I enjoy what I do and I’m proud Concordia University, 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., to work for Concordia. It can be a challenge to reconcile our FB 520, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8 dreams and ambitions with fiscal realities. Because Concordia Search for the Concordia University Alumni Association group on is urban, large, diverse, innovative and has a great reputation, LinkedIn. we can withstand financial challenges better than most.

DO YOU KNOW A FUTURE CONCORDIAN? Bring them to our Open House and see how much we’ve grown.

concordia.ca/openhouse SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2014 facebook.com/CUfuturestudents 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. @CUFutureStudent

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 5 I BELIEVE ANY FORM OF DONATION WILL “ GIVE YOU THAT GOOD FEELING THAT YOU ARE TAKING CARE OF YOUR ALMA MATER AND DOING SOMETHING FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS OF STUDENTS.”

– Andrew Elvish, MFA 97

YOUR GIFT YOUR LEGACY YOUR PLAN

A planned gift can help fulﬁ ll your philanthropic and estate-planning goals. Concordia’s Planned Giving sta can meet your unique ﬁ nancial needs.

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Planned Giving ad.indd 1 16/07/2014 11:48:02 AM RESEARCH SHOWS EXERCISE HELPS DEPRESSED SMOKERS QUIT

linically depressed people reach C for their cigarettes twice as often as those without mood disorders, according to new research from Concordia and France’s Université Montpellier. Those struggling to quit may have more mental health problems than they’re aware of. Added exercise might help, the findings recently published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research suggest. One in five North American adults smokes regularly, yet among those ock with depression some 40 per cent t hinks are habitual smokers. The statistical T disparity prompted the researchers to CLINICALLY DEPRESSED INDIVIDUALS ARE MORE LIKELY TO SMOKE THAN OTHERS. examine why. The findings show that smokers with not enough to alleviate the symptoms of of Exercise Science. mental illness have a tougher time quitting. the depression itself. “Our hope is that this study will contin- Cold-turkey attempts to quit smoking are Quitting was easier in the midst of ue to sensitize researchers and clinicians often short lived due to intense cravings. even the most basic workouts, the find- on the promising role of exercise in the A person without clinical depression ings showed. “The review should be seen treatment of both depression and smok- is better equipped to ride things out. For as a call to arms,” says study co-author ing cessation,” adds first author Paquito the depressed, more exercise has been Grégory Moullec, a postdoctoral re- Bernard of Université Montpellier. shown to reduce cravings — even if it is searcher with Concordia’s Department –Cléa Desjardins

CONCORDIA TO HOUSE UNITED NATIONS PROGRAM FOR SUSTAINABILITY

oncordia will be home to one researchers throughout the city’s says Concordia President Alan Shepard. C of five global hubs for a United universities. “Future Earth clearly recognizes Nations (UN) venture called Future Collaboration between Montréal Montreal’s research capacity and the Earth, a 10-year initiative devoted to International — which touts the city’s valuable contribution we will make in environmental research. economic advantages — the provincial developing solutions to global environ- The project will also operate in Paris, government and Montreal universities, mental challenges.” Tokyo, Stockholm and Boulder, Colo. will be vital to the network’s success. Future Earth is the result of a com- While Future Earth involves all of “We are very excited about hosting mitment made in 2012, at the UN Montreal’s universities, Concordia this unique venture linking thousands conference Rio+20, to develop a new will house the local hub composed of researchers across three continents,” international network to advance of sustainability researchers from sustainability. across Quebec. It will be overseen by the The program is supported by several International Council of Science, a international research councils and non-governmental association whose the United Nations Educational, goal is to strengthen international Scientific and Cultural science for the benefit of society. Organization (UNESCO). Future Earth will also engage Montreal’s bid stood out with the World Climate Research from more than 20 com- Programme to attract new petitors and highlighted a research. nexus of interdisciplinary —Fiona Downey

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 7 DAVID AZRIELI, LLD 75, ABOVE, IN A RECENT PHOTO, AND FAR RIGHT, IN A 1975 NEWS PHOTO, WHEN HE RECEIVED AN HONORARY DOCTORATE FROM CONCORDIA. WITH AZRIELI IS ALEX DUFF, WHO AT THE TIME WAS CHAIR OF THE UNIVERSITY’S BOARD OF GOVERNORS.

CONCORDIA MOURNS PASSING OF DAVID AZRIELI

avid Azrieli, LLD 75, visionary builder, developer and The Azrieli Foundation donated $5 million to Concordia businessman, community leader and philanthropist, in 2011 to establish the Azrieli Institute of Israel Studies, a died on July 9, 2014. He was 92 years old. The research hub that looks beyond the lens of Israeli politics. MontrealerD had just stepped down as chair of real estate Norma Joseph, the institute’s associate director, says: “David developer Azrieli Group days before his passing. was a builder. His vision as a philanthropist helped create Members of the Concordia community will remember institutions. We are indebted to him for his commitment to Azrieli as a man committed to advancing education and to Israel studies and to Concordia.” deepening society’s understanding of Israel’s role in the world. Azrieli also established the first endowed fellowships for Bram Freedman, vice-president, Development and External Concordia graduate students. In 1984, he helped create the Relations, and Secretary-General, describes Azrieli as a key Azrieli Holocaust Collection, some 8,500 titles on anti-Sem- figure in Concordia’s growth and in the 2011 birth of the itism, at Concordia University Libraries. In 1975, Concordia university’s Azrieli Institute of Israel Studies. bestowed an honorary doctorate upon Azrieli, calling him an “David Azrieli was a visionary man in business and in “exemplary contributor” to the university. philanthropy. His generosity towards Concordia was transfor- Last year, Azrieli donated $560 million and Azrieli Group mative,” says Freedman. “Just last spring, we celebrated his stock to his Azrieli Foundation. His family has given some achievements by granting him an Honorary Life Membership $100 million in philanthropic funds over the past 23 years. into the Concordia University Alumni Association. Our com- Azrieli’s financial success, much of it derived from his real munity marks his passing with great sadness.” estate acumen, fostered his love of Canada and devotion to Lillian Vineberg, BFA 83, a past chair of Concordia’s Board Israel, where he thrived. “I have two homelands,” Azrieli once of Governors and long-time friend of Azrieli, calls his passing said, “two places I love and where I have been blessed to do a tragic loss. “He loved the mission of Concordia. He was a ter- what I love best. My opportunity to express myself profession- rific husband and father and he adored his wife Stephanie.” ally started in Canada and eventually let me fulfill my dream of Azrieli was born in Poland in 1922. His parents, brother and sis- making a contribution to my other homeland, Israel. The two ter were killed during the Holocaust. He fled Poland in 1939 and have always been entwined.” fought in Israel’s War of Independence in 1948 before settling in His deepest belief, as he once said, was that “genuine free- Montreal in 1954, where he made his fortune in real estate. dom is being able to do what you love to do. If you have to spend Renowned as an architectural innovator, Azrieli graduated your life doing things you don’t love to do, you are no better from Carleton University with a master’s degree in architecture than a slave. This then, is my message: do what you love to do.” in 1997, when he was 75 years old. An avid reader of newspapers and lover of classical music, He studied at Technion – Israel Institute of Technology from Azrieli was named to the Order of Canada in 1984. He was in- 1943 to 1946. Later, in Canada, he earned a Bachelor of Arts vested as a Chevalier of the Ordre National du Québec in 1999. from Université de Montréal. Azrieli is survived by his wife of 57 years, Stephanie, GrDip The second of four children, Azrieli was an ardent philan- 76, BA 71, and by his children, Rafael, Sharon, an opera singer thropist. In 1989, he established the Azrieli Foundation — which and cantor, Naomi, CEO of the Azrieli Foundation, and Danna, supports education, medical research, Jewish appreciation and vice-president and acting chairman of the Azrieli Group. Holocaust commemoration — to realize his charitable goals. –Scott McCulloch

8 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine SUMMER 2012

CONCORDIA WELCOMES NEW ASSOCIATE VICE-PRESIDENT OF DEVELOPMENT

arcel Dupuis’s new role as associate vice-president of M development at Concordia’s Advancement and Alumni Relations is a homecoming of sorts. He returned August 25 to a university where he was director of development from 2001 to 2006. “I had a great time at Concordia and I can’t wait to return,” says Dupuis, who has 23 years of fundraising experience, including 12 in higher education. “In his new role, Marcel will be providing strategic leadership and operational expertise for the university’s fundraising priorities,” says Bram Freedman, vice-president, Development and External Relations, and Secretary-General. Since 2011, Dupuis has worked as director of development at the Faculty of Science and Engineering — and then at the Lassonde School of Engineering — at York University in Toronto. LEARNING TO FLY He also served as executive director of development at the Université de Montréal from 2006 to 2010. A graduate of Reach 95,000 Quebecers! the Université de Sherbrooke, Dupuis began his career as a physical education teacher. Advertise in “In fundraising, we meet people from all walks of life,” he Concordia University Magazine says. “What each has in common, whether they’re making a $25 The magazine provides advertisers with an donation or a $5 million gift, is their commitment to advancing excellent and cost-effective way to reach a project that is meaningful to them.” our affluent and highly educated readers. “Each project is different, each donor is different,” Dupuis continues. “In all cases, private support enables For information about advertising rates exceptional projects that are meaningful to donors and the and publication deadlines, contact: cause they support.” Yanick Dahan —Sylvain-Jacques Desjardins Coordinator, Alumni Services & Marketing Phone: 514-848-2424, ext. 3819 Fax: 514-848-4510 Email: [email protected]

UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

> CONCORDIA’$ CONTRIBUTION

NON-TRAD LAWYERS MARCEL DUPUIS WILL PROVIDE LEADERSHIP AT ADVANCEMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 9

Advert in ConU mag ad.indd 1 25/08/2014 3:58:55 PM ENGINEERING A KINDER AND GENTLER WORLD

wo Concordia alumni are putting Wygodny recognizes a need to im- a social touch on engineering, prove students’ grasp of the social influencing how graduates implications of engineering activities. Twill shape the planet in their chosen “We want engineers to think outside of profession. their specific discipline and see what Through a generous donation, Susan they’re proposing or how their designs Raymer, BA 71, and Ben Wygodny, BA will affect society,” he says. 69, will help engineering students de- Through the Global Engineering velop skills to gauge the social, ethical Initiative, students will add sustainable and environmental ramifications of engineering practices to their arsenal their engineering projects. “We view of technical skills. Concordia’s District it as an investment in people,” says 3, an innovation centre that helps start- Raymer, president of Montreal-based ups, will be a key partner. Rayrow Realties. Raymer’s husband, As for the Centre for Engineering in Ben Wygodny, who heads wealth man- Society, its wider plans are to become a

agement firm Angus Partnership, adds: organ global engineering hub based on three

“It is an investment in students with M pillars. The first — immersive learning ouise the hope they’ll bring something posi- L — would see students meet global engi- tive to society.” BEN WYGODNY AND SUSAN RAYMER neering employers, attend boot camps The donation will support the Global Engineering Initiative at on leadership and communications and pursue courses abroad. the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science’s Centre for “Students bring back so much knowledge when they see how Engineering in Society (CES). Global engineering approaches engineering issues play out elsewhere,” says Dysart-Gale. projects through the lens of ethics, sustainability, community The second pillar focuses on collaborative work and the needs and other socially sensitive areas. Cultural sensitivity is creation of an ecosystem of global technology awareness. The often needed for product designs for foreign markets and to third area — knowledge communication — will build on the first collaborate with diverse colleagues. two with a view to the CES becoming a key destination for those “What we’re better able to do now is to position Concordia as a who seek know-how on global engineering best practices, train- catalyst for change,” says CES chair Deborah Dysart-Gale. “We’re ing or research opportunities. providing essential elements to a new cohort of student leaders.” The Global Engineering Initiative will enable students to con- “We are grateful to Susan Raymer and Ben Wygodny for their nect with people from other disciplines and cultures and, in some foresight, generosity and continued engagement with their alma cases, collaborate with Engineers Without Borders. Other proj- mater,” says Concordia President Alan Shepard. “The Centre for ects will be web-based, with collaborators in Canada, the United Engineering delivers on Concordia’s promise to prepare students Kingdom and Australia. for the real world.” —Scott McCulloch

CE • PE RIEN RSO PE NA EX L L C A O WHAT’S NEXT IN E A R C CORPORATE EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP? • H S I N C I G

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THE NEXT GENERATION EMBA N D

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INTERNATIONAL. IMMEDIATE. INTEGRATIVE. INSPIRED. A N

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10 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine INTRODUCING CONCORDIA’S FIRST CROWDFUNDING PLATFORM: F u n d O n e

THE lumniFUTURE and friends OF nowROBOTS have a new way to give to Andrea Cartile, a student in Concordia’s Department of IS ABOUTConcordia TEAMWORK — crowdfunding. Mechanical Engineering, sees a great opportunity in the new FundOne is Concordia’s first crowdfunding platform. platform. Cartile is vice-president, Marketing and Sponsorship, AIt wills unite a child members in Iran, ofOmid the communityDanesh who have an idea and for Concordia SAE, a chapter of SAE International (formerly the aA planwatched — but not his the father, means a professional — and donors who want to make a Society of Automotive Engineers).ACFAS CONGRESS differenceanimator, onstruggle a specific to create project. a realistic Every year,OFFERS Concordia SAE’sPUBLIC 100 students EVENTS design 3-DIt’s animation a peer-to-peer of a flock fundraising of birds: model “How that and build prototypeAT CONCORDIA vehicles to compete at inter- givesdo you donors animate a clearer 100 birds idea atof thehow same their national events across the United States. “Even giftstime?” make a difference. “The idea is though we do therom majority May 12 toof 16,the Concordia machining is our - to helpThe Concordianschallenge became spread one the of word devising selves, ourF prototypehosting the vehicles 82nd Congressare very costly of to amongbasic algorithms their networks, to control to make the a animals’ direct manufacture,l’Association so the impact francophone of financial pour lesupport savoir connectionmovements with within donors established without param-a mid- is enormous(Acfas), for the SAE,” largest she says.multidisciplinary dleeters. man,” And says the FundOne passion it project inspired leader would Likegathering any donation devoted to Concordia, to knowledge gifts in made Sophieeventually Johnson, bring a Danesh development to Concordia. officer throughthe FundOne French-speaking are eligible world. for charitable Over the in AdvancementNow, as a master’s and Alumni student Relations. in the tax receipts.course of the week, 5,000 researchers FacultyBefore of making Engineering their gift, and donors Computer can FundOnefrom across is now the accepting globe will project take part appli in- readScience, about his the aim project is to and make the complex team behind sets it, cations.colloquia Learn moreexploring at concordia.ca/fundone subjects as diverse. soof they mechanical know exactly devices where work their as amoney team. is going. as art therapy and the aging–Louise process. Morgan Under the supervision of Department of Acfas also niversiTy

Mechanical and Industrial Engineering U presents an PATRONSprofessor Chun-Yi SUPPORT Su and Jamal FINE ARTS EDUCATION opportunity oncorDia

Bentahar, an associate professor at the c for the gen- OMID DANESH WITH A QUADROTOR HELICOPTER: “I Concordialaudine Institute and ofStephen Information Bronfman have renewedREALIZED I WANTEDtheir support TO KNOW MOREof emerging ABOUT ROBOTS artists. eral public to SystemsThanks Engineering, to a donation Danesh of is $600,000 de- overAND five CONTROL years, SYSTEMS.” their foundation will support learn from velopingtop technology graduating that students may one from day Concordiahelicopters and Université — mini du helicopters Québec à Montréalin an pre-eminent (UQAM)Cchange the as theyway wetransition see machines. from students to professional80-sided carbon artists. fibre cage — that would academics — IntroducedWhile studying in 2010, mechanical the Claudine engi- and Stephenbe capableBronfman of conductingFellowships surveillance in many who are Contemporaryneering at Khorasgan Arts were Islamic created Azad to enhance Quebec’smissions premier over a large fine areaarts infaculties. a very short Concordians. TheUniversity Bronfmans’ in Isfahan, support Iran, provides Danesh one saw student time. from Concordia and one recipient from A series of UQAMhow robots to further were beingtheir research used to help and peo-advance their“Quadrotors profession. could be used to make a 16 “Activités ple“We undergo are very physiotherapy. proud of our fellows“I realized and I have hadreal-time the pleasure map of of the visiting inside the of previousa building grand public” will showcase the calibre winnerswanted toin knowmany more different about venues, robots including and theirunder studios, attack, gallery so that exhibitions, police officers shows can and breadth of Concordia’s research and ascontrol part of systems,” international he says. exchanges, live performancesbe aware and of risksshowings inside at beforehand,art fairs,” says or highlight its deep ties to the French- StephenMaking Bronfman, machines executive co-operate chairman requires of Claridgeto measure Inc. and air co-chairpollution of in the parts Claudine of a city speaking community. These free public

an understanding of sophisticated con- that would otherwise be inaccessible,” events include everything from Quartier e

and Stephen Bronfman Family Foundation. tt o H ceptsConcordia in control Faculty theory, of Fine graph Arts theory student Brendansays FlanaganDanesh. and UQAM Faculty of Concordia walking tours to conversa-

and game theory. Its potential applica- Though neither of these scenarios is tions with two of Quebec’s foremost enée R

Arts student Marie Dauverné are the recipients of the 2014-15 Claudine and Stephen -

Bronfmantions are remarkable. Fellowships in Contemporary Arts, avalued reality at yet, $55,000 Danesh each. is confident both filmmakers. nne A ListenHe points to the to announcementthe idea of a team at concordia.ca/alumni-friends/news/podcastsof ag- can be. . CLAUDINERegister AND or STEPHEN learn more:BRONFMAN acfas.ca . ile, flying robots, such as quadrotor — Laurence–Scott McCulloch Miall —Lucas Wisenthal

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concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 11 YOU’RE A MEMBER concordia university magazine spring 2014 | 13 ENJOY THE PRIVILEGES

Setting an example spring 2014-Scott.indd 7 08/04/2014 1:12:18 PM THE UNIVERSITY HAS BUILT UPON ITS FOUNDERS’ STRENGTHS TO EVOLVE INTO A THRIVING EDUCATIONAL AND RESEARCH INSTITUTION

CONCORDIA AT 40: POISED FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE

12 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine BY JULIE GEDEON

tudents heading into fall classes or buying a Stingers hoodie along with new course packs at the Concordia Bookstore are following in the footsteps of four decades of students — now alumni — as the university Scelebrates its 40th anniversary this fall. “Concordia has matured into a world-class learning and research institution while never losing sight of its roots,” says President Alan Shepard. “The result is a university in which we can all take pride, with goals grounded in dynamism and social responsibility.” Hardly anyone gives the shuttle bus ride between the Sir George Williams and Loyola campuses a second thought today, but the idea of those founding institutions merging initially caused some unease. “When you join together two lively institutions, each with its own philosophies and ways of doing things, each firmly dedicated to freedom of thought and speech, you must expect a measure of friction,” said the late John O’Brien, former rector and vice-chancellor, one week prior to the merger. Fortunately, faculty, staff and students quickly realized that while Loyola and Sir George Williams differed in character, they shared the goal of delivering an accessible, quality higher education. In 1975, O’Brien observed: “There are still people, particularly from other parts of Canada, who say, ‘So you did finally get together.’ Yes, we have got together, there is a new university, and its reputation is being affirmed here and now.” Named after the Englishman who founded the Young Men’s Christian Association, Sir George Williams traces its origins to classes offered by the YMCA in 1873. The institution grew into Sir George Williams College by 1926 and began granting university degrees in 1936-37. By 1959, it was the first Canadian university to offer a full range of evening programs. The Jesuit Loyola College, founded in 1896, started offering some evening courses for part-time students in 1958, a year prior to opening its doors to women and welcoming people from more varied backgrounds. The two institutions came together to form Concordia, whose name was derived from Montreal’s Latin motto Concordia salus — meaning well-being through harmony. “It’s that increasing openness and flexibility that Concordia has embraced from both of its founders that has resulted in enrolment climbing from 27,000 in 1974 to more than 46,000 today,” Shepard says. Today, Concordia offers some 500 undergraduate and graduate programs, diplomas and certificates, through its Faculty of Fine Arts, Faculty of Arts and Science, Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, John Molson School of Business and School of Graduate Studies.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 13 INTERNATIONAL APPEAL past decade into interdisciplinary Business Building, as well as purchased Concordia continues to draw many facilities such as the Centre for the Grey Nuns Building, while the students in part because of the Structural and Functional Genomics, Loyola Campus has added the state- reputation it has earned for welcoming and the Hexagram-Concordia Centre for of-the-art Richard J. Renaud Science those of diverse origins, cultures and Research-Creation in Media Arts and Complex, Communication Studies socio-economic backgrounds. The Technologies. “Concordia has aligned and Journalism Building, Centre for university now attracts more than 8,700 itself with Montreal’s economic fabric Structural and Functional Genomics, students from outside Quebec annually. by embarking on initiatives that bolster and PERFORM Centre. “Upwards of 6,300 students arrive from the city’s health fields and technology/ Plans are in the works for more than 150 other countries — an gaming sectors with innovative research significant transformations to the international student body that was and a highly qualified labour pool,” R. Howard Webster Library and minimal at Concordia and elsewhere in Shepard says. Georges P. Vanier Library, which North America 40 years ago,” Shepard The university’s value to the now open 24/7 to meet demand. notes. “Another 2,400 students join our Quebec economy is estimated at Concordia has achieved substantial community from the rest of Canada.” $1.3 billion annually. It also benefits progress in offering digitalized The university has worked towards from contributions from its 188,000 information and online availability helping out-of-towners feel more at alumni, 95,000 of whom reside in the to students by lending tablets home by establishing new student university’s home province. Graduates and laptops, providing a wireless accommodations as part of the extensive from other provinces and countries have network and establishing free and renovations and restorations this become key champions as well. open access to scientific findings. summer at the Grey Nuns Residence, As Concordia’s scientists have Concordia’s influence extends an iconic former convent on René- connected to Canada’s leading research locally and globally. Its reach extends Lévesque Blvd. The transformation networks, external initiatives such as into the local community by inviting of the splendid convent and chapel the United Nations’ new Future Earth neighbours at both campuses to establishes a quiet reading room for program for global sustainability, the participate in projects such as the up to 240 students — a haven within Solar Buildings Research Network, better health through improved the city. and the National Cyber-Forensics and lifestyle programs at the PERFORM Concordia has welcomed many of the Training Alliance of Canada have chosen Centre and the Concordia Volunteer world’s top academics who have fostered to launch their respective bases at the Abroad Program. a climate of research and innovation university. This presence propelled As Concordia fetes its 40th that spurs graduates to publish 500 its research funding to more than anniversary throughout the coming theses a year on average and garner $44 million last year. year, it will look back — and forward. many prestigious awards for their Concordia has expanded dramatically “We are poised for a bright future pioneering work. over the past dozen years. On the Sir as a next-generation university,” The university has encouraged George Williams Campus, the university Shepard says. innovative research by putting a has built the Engineering, Computer significant portion of its $600 million Science and Visual Arts Integrated —with additional research by investment in infrastructure over the Complex and the John Molson School of Kayla Morin

14 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine ANNIE PROULX: HISTORY, FICTION AND AWARD-WINNING STORIES

FIVE GREAT CONCORDIANS

MEET A HANDFUL OF ALUMNI WHO SHINE IN THEIR FIELDS oncordia has more than 188,000 alumni today, so it’s quite a task to single out just a few. Nonetheless, inC January, the university asked members of its community — students, faculty, staff and alumni —to nominate outstanding individuals for inclusion among the university’s Great Concordians. The five alumni featured on these pages are a sample of the countless notable alumni leaders whose achievements uthor Annie Proulx, MA 73, LLD 99, was enrolled in the reflect positively on their fields: prominent A doctoral program in history when Sir George Williams authors, athletes, thinkers, public servants University and Loyola College merged to become Concordia. and entrepreneurs. These inspiring Proulx had just completed a master’s thesis on the topics individuals serve as models for of avarice and usury by exploring the writings of Florentine Concordia’s next generation of students. humanist Poggio Bracciolini. Her interest in Renaissance Each Great Concordian was selected by economic history was matched by a similar fascination for a special committee overseen by the Office the work of scholars attached to the Annales School. of the Provost that included staff, faculty, Proulx was on the path to academia when she decided, university leaders, students and alumni shortly after successfully completing her oral examinations, representatives. to move back to New England with her sons. Great Concordians will be unveiled each Proulx worked as a freelance journalist but she experiment- week, over 40 weeks, beginning in the fall. ed with fiction in ways that reflected her continued interest in Visit concordia.ca/greatconcordians. history. “I was attracted to the French Annales School, which pioneered minute examination of the lives of ordinary people through account books, wills, marriage and death records, farming and crafts techniques and the development of technologies,” she told the Missouri Review. Postcards (1992), Proulx’s debut novel, received a PEN/ Faulkner Award for Fiction. Proulx was awarded a National Endowment for the Arts grant and a Guggenheim fellowship in the early 1990s, which allowed her to complete The Shipping News (1993), a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel adapted for the screen in 2001. She has since published several novels and short stories, including the widely acclaimed “Brokeback Mountain” in 1997, which was subsequently adapted into an Oscar-winning movie in 2005.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 15 MARC GERVAIS: JESUIT FILM ALEXANDRE BILODEAU: CONCORDIA’S SCHOLAR AND PEACE ADVOCATE TWO-TIME OLYMPIC CHAMPION

ather Marc Gervais, BA 50, first visited France in the lexandre Bilodeau is currently the shining star of F mid-1960s to complete his Jesuit tertianship. He travelled A Concordia’s winter Olympians. The John Molson School to the Riviera and attended his first Cannes Film Festival. of Business student recently returned from the 2014 Winter Growing up in Sherbrooke, Que., he had developed a passion Olympics in Sochi, Russia, with a second gold medal in moguls for moving images, thanks to his grandmother, who often took skiing. The world champion successfully defended the title he him to the cinema. won at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, thereby becoming the Father Gervais became a Cannes fixture over the years as first freestyle skier to stand twice on the highest level of the he became well known as a film scholar. He joined Loyola Olympic podium. College’s Communication Arts program in 1967, teaching This was one of many firsts for Bilodeau who became, film studies to enthused students, many of whom became at age 14, the youngest athlete to perform a triple jump in accomplished writers and directors. competition. He started off as the Fédération Internationale Father Gervais published seminal works on Pier Paolo de Ski’s Rookie of the Year in 2006 and quickly started Pasolini and Ingmar Bergman, sat on the juries of sever- collecting victories at international ski events, including al international film festivals, served as commissioner for 19 World Cup gold medals and three World Championships the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications in dual moguls. Commission and acted as consultant on a number of films, Bilodeau is a spokesperson for — and a dedicated supporter including Black Robe (1991) and The Mission (1986). of — many charitable organizations. Bilodeau says he has two Father Gervais told the Winnipeg Free Press that he nearly heroes: his brother Frédéric, who is affected by cerebral palsy, secured a role alongside Robert De Niro in the latter film: and Jean-Luc Brassard, the former Olympic freestyle skiing “For about three months, [the producers] wondered whether champion. they were going to use me or an established actor. Alas, they He is now ready for a new challenge, namely completing his chose Jeremy Irons, who was awfully good in it.” BComm in accounting. He has been studying on a part-time Father Gervais discussed art, yet he spoke about the culture basis for several years. of peace through the Loyola Jesuit Institute for Studies in At a Concordia homecoming in March, Bilodeau said: International Peace, which he helped establish in 1988. Father “Without John Molson [School of Business] or Concordia people Gervais died March 25, 2012. I would never have been able to do school and skiing, and probably I would’ve stopped skiing if I couldn’t have done both.”

16 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine CORINNE CHARETTE: CANADA’S BARBARA DAVIDSON: PULITZER TOP TECHNOLOGY BUREAUCRAT PRIZE-WINNING PHOTOJOURNALIST

hen Corinne Charette, BSc 75, LLD 11, took up the reins arbara Davidson, BFA 90, says she knew by age 15 she wanted W as the Government of Canada’s chief information officer Bto be a photographer. She completed undergraduate work in 2009, she may not have envisioned herself as the nation’s in the Faculty of Fine Arts’ photography program while snapping key commentator on state-sponsored cyber-attacks emanating images for Concordia student newspaper The Link. Davidson began from distant shores. Yet last July, journalists sought her out her career at The Record, in Waterloo, Ont., after receiving her on that issue when the National Research Council of Canada degree. In 1995, she jumped on the opportunity to travel with the was hacked. Red Cross to the Balkans, but circumstances resulted in her group Earlier this year, when governments suffered from being held hostage by a Serbian paramilitary group. Heartbleed, a computer coding flaw, Charette directed federal Davidson’s experience in a war-torn and impoverished departments to disable vulnerable websites. “This is the best region proved life-changing. She soon established her course of action to protect the privacy of Canadians,” she said. reputation in the field of photojournalism and eventually A cool head in a crisis, Charette has a long history of high-level joined the Los Angeles Times. Davidson has since travelled problem solving. around the world to document humanitarian crises caused by Several key private and public sector roles led Charette to armed conflicts or natural disasters. her position as Canada’s top technology bureaucrat. Charette, Max Wallace, BA 90, aptly described his former Link col- one of the highest-ranking women in the federal civil ser- league when he wrote in Concordia University Magazine in 2006 vice, was among a handful of women who studied engineering that Davidson’s “calm demeanour in the face of danger has at Loyola College. An active campaigner for charity and board earned her a reputation as one of the world’s most respected member of the former Loyola Alumni Association, Concordia photojournalists, and the laurels to go with it.” Davidson won awarded her an honorary doctorate in 2011. her first Pulitzer Prize in 2006 for her coverage of Hurricane In her current role, Charette is responsible for policy and Katrina and another in 2011 with a series of photographs de- oversight of six areas, including how the government’s sensi- picting innocent victims of Los Angeles gang violence. tive information is accessed, managed and secured. In a 2009 “The same thing holds true today as some 20 years ago interview with CIO Magazine, Charette said successful tech when I worked at the student newspaper: It’s all about projects boiled down to sound project management, effective good storytelling,” she recently confided to the Canadian information sharing and rigorous reporting practices: “You University Press. can’t be effective if you’re trying to do it all.” —Eric Fillion, Marilla Steuter-Martin and Scott McCulloch Visit concordia.ca/greatconcordians.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 17 WHAT WE DID FIRST

WE COMBED THROUGH 40 YEARS OF ARCHIVES: NEWSPAPER CLIPPINGS, NEWS RELEASES AND OFFICIAL PUBLICATIONS. OUR GOAL? TO DISCOVER WHAT WE DID FIRST ON CAMPUS, IN MONTREAL, QUEBEC, CANADA AND THE WORLD. AS WE CELEBRATE OUR 40TH ANNIVERSARY, LET’S LOOK BACK ON SOME OF THE MANY CONCORDIA FIRSTS.

1974 Faculty of Fine Arts professors Donald 1982 The American Association of Cost 1990 Concordia’s men’s Stingers basketball Andrus and Sandra Paikowsky launch Engineers awards Concordia engineer- team beats the Guelph Gryphons the Journal of Canadian Art History, ing student Michel Brulotte, the first 80-62 to win its first Canadian Canada’s first journal devoted to Canadian so honoured, its namesake Interuniversity Athletic Union Canadian art history. scholarship. championship. 2

1975 Roy Wise, a professor in the 1983 Department of Management 1991 Nino Ricci, MA 87, becomes Department of Psychology, and professor Theodore Hebert is Concordia's first graduate to win a post-doctoral research associate made a Fellow of the esteemed Governor General’s Award for Fiction R.A. Yokel, publish Concordia’s first Academy of Management. He is for his novel Lives of the Saints. peer-reviewed study on amphetamines the third Canadian — and first in the esteemed journal Science. Concordian — to receive the title. 1

1976 The Faculty of Commerce and 1984 With 8,500 titles, including rare books Administration offers its first joint and pop culture items, the university PhD in Business Administration libraries become Canada’s first home with McGill University, Université du of the Azrieli Holocaust Collection, one

Québec à Montréal and HEC Montréal. of Canada’s most comprehensive col- rchives A

lections for research on the Holocaust. y t 1977 In its first steps towards better ways

to build safe and energy-efficient 1985 Concordia’s first Executive MBA niversi U

buildings, the Faculty of Engineering degree is launched. By 2013, The d and Computer Science establishes Economist ranked it second among oncor

the Centre for Building Studies. Canadian contenders. C

1978 Feminist study gets its first home 1986 Concordia takes its first steps towards 2 in Canada as the pioneering Simone the eradication of genocide by found- de Beauvoir Institute is born, and ing the Montreal Institute for Genocide Concordia’s Liberal Arts College, and Human Rights Studies. the first of its kind in Canada, is established. 1987 Father John O’Brien is named

Concordia’s first Distinguished rchives A

1979 Senate approves a new BFA Major Professor Emeritus. In 1965 at t in Modern Dance, the first Canadian Loyola College, O’Brien founded niversi

university dance program for training the Department of Communication U

1 ia choreographers. Arts, now the Department of d Communication Studies, Canada’s oncor 1980 Concordia wins its first Vincent first department dedicated to the C Bendix Award from the Institute for study of communications. Electrical and Electronic Engineers 1992 The J.W. McConnell Building, the for a proposal to replace industrial 1988 In a Canadian first to rehabilitate first major new building project at motor starters with microprocessor- prisoners, Ontario inmates pur- Concordia’s Sir George Williams controlled starters. sue distance-learning courses from Campus, opens. It includes the Concordia’s Department of Library R. Howard Webster Library, Leonard 1981 Department of Religion professor Studies. and Bina Ellen Art Gallery, Birks Charles Davis is the first Concordia Student Service Centre and J.A. faculty member to receive the 1989 The Faculty of Arts and Science is DeSève Cinema. prestigious Killam Research Fellowship selected to house North America’s from the Canada Council for the first research centre in computational Arts to expand his research on the algebra — the Centre interuniversitaire practical meaning of Christianity in en calcul mathématique algébrique. modern society.

18 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine 1993 A $7,500 research grant from profes- 1998 The Stingers host — and win — 2006 In a world first, PhD students sor Lawrence Bessner leads to the their first Canadian Interuniversity Fiorenzo Vetrone and Chris Boyer establishment of the Centre for Small Sport national championship in receive NSERC fellowships to study Business and Entrepreneurial Studies’ women’s hockey. microscopic particles with infrared Minority Institute in the Faculty of light and lasers. Commerce and Administration (now 1999 In its first major focus on genomes, the John Molson School of Business). Concordia creates the Centre for 2007 Quarterback Liam Mahoney is the Structural and Functional Genomics first-ever Stinger to win the Peter 1994 In a Canadian first, film studies pro- to contribute green solutions to the Gorman Trophy for outstanding rookie fessor Thomas Waugh develops bio-food and paper/wood industries. in Canadian university football. Concordia’s AIDS course, HIV/AIDS: Culture, Social and Scientific Aspects 2000 Department of Art History profes- 2008 Department of Mechanical and of the Pandemic. sor Catherine MacKenzie establishes Industrial Engineering professor Canada’s first courses on art restitu- Georgios Vatistas, along with assistant 1995 Department of Finance professor tion through groundbreaking research professor Kamran Siddiqui and gradu- Lawrence Kryzanowski becomes the and teachings on art provenance and ate student Hamid Ait Abderrahmane, first winner of the Prix ACFAS Caisse works plundered by Nazis during the are the first to prove J.J. Thomson’s de dépôt et de placements du Québec Second World War. 125-year-old theorem on the stability for his contribution to research and of vortex rings. 3 institutional portfolio management. 2001 The John Molson School of Business becomes the first university 2009 In a first push towards deep 3 program in Canada — and one of understanding of the subtleties of the first in the world — to become consumer behaviour, the John Molson a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) School of Business launches the Program Partner. Laboratory for Sensory Research.

2002 Department of Design and 2010 In a Canadian first and Open Access Computation Arts professor initiative aimed at widening the

y Joanna Berzowska fashions the dissemination of scholarly works, t future through the first “wearable Concordia launches Spectrum, a

niversi computers” — clothes that blend web-based repository where faculty U

ia technology and design. and others can deposit copies of their d peer-reviewed research with a view to oncor

C 2003 Loyola Campus sees its first key increasing readership and citations. transformation of the millennium as 4 Concordia inaugurates the Richard 2011 In a study published in J. Renaud Science Complex, an Psychophysiology, a Concordia $85 million interdisciplinary research team led by Department teaching facility. of Exercise Science professor Simon Bacon makes the first links between 2004 Concordia first acquires the historic heart disease and depression. Grey Nuns Mother House on Guy St. y

t The landmark building is later trans- 2012 A Concordia research team, led by formed into the Grey Nuns Student Department of Biology professor

niversi Residence and Reading Room.

U Vladimir Titorenko, finds the first

d compound that kills cancer cells and 2005 Solar power research gets its first extends lifespans. 4 oncor

C major boost when engineering professor Andreas Athienitis founds 2013 The revamped Ed Meagher Arena 1996 Professor Sofiène Tahar founds the and leads the federally funded NSERC reopens in its first incarnation as Hardware Verification Group, the first (Natural Sciences and Engineering an NHL-standard hockey rink. research unit of its kind in the Faculty Research Council) Solar Buildings of Engineering and Computer Science, Research network, a pan-Canadian 2014 In its first push towards transform- to develop tools to check computers group dedicated to advances in ing the study of film and media for bugs. energy-efficient buildings. history, Concordia’s Department of Communication Studies establishes 1997 Department of Studio Arts profes- the Media History Research Centre. sor Irene Whittome becomes the first woman in a decade to win the Prix Paul-Émile-Borduas, Quebec’s most See more Firsts at prestigious arts award. concordia.ca/concordiafirsts.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 19 FOUR DECADES OF CAMPUS FASHION

FLASHBACK ON 40 YEARS OF CONCORDIA FLARE

MARILLA STEUTER-MARTIN

Fashion is a benchmark that can clearly distinguish eras, from 1970s sideburns and feathered ’80s hair to ’90s grunge shirts and ’00s skinny ties. Over the last four decades, it’s remarkable to see how styles and trends changed — and re-emerged — on the Loyola and Sir George Williams campuses. As we celebrate Concordia’s 40th anniversary, we take a look back on four decades of campus fashion.

1970s Sideburns anyone? This 1970s-era photo shows two Concordia students playing table hockey. At left, notice the Canada-Soviet summit series 1972 Team Canada hockey jersey and, at right, groovy plaid pants.

Big earrings and bigger glasses: This science student, circa 1976, sports thick rimmed glasses, dangling dream catcher-inspired earrings and classic pigtails.

Sit back and relax: Flared jeans and furry moccasins, as worn by this studious Concordian, were all the rage in the mid-’70s.

1980s The bold and the preppy: At right, a student sports a classic Gucci purse, buttoned up white shirt and Olivia Newton-John inspired hair. Her companion dons a Tom Selleck-style moustache, polo shirt and striped blazer.

Cartoons and royalty: Another ‘80s fashion trend, at left, shows how track suit jackets surfaced as daily wear and Mickey Mouse popped up on T-shirts. At right, a student mirrors the same hair style as Princess Diana.

1990s Blond ambition: Gents during this time period put blonde highlights in their hair and wore shell and bead necklaces over layered T-shirts and short-sleeved button-ups.

Oversized fits all: Women of the ‘90s wore big Madonna-inspired hair and loose-fitting sweaters and knits.

2000s Y2K accessories: Choker necklaces and pixie cuts were big trends for women at the start of the millennium. Long locks for men re-emerged, on and off, for decades. This 2001 photo, right, shows students at an editing console — equipment now outdated by next-generation laptops. rchives A

Millennial chic: Comfortable, casual style was prevalent among students y t during the late 2000s. Bold highlights, short-sleeved blazers and chunky

jewellery were a hit with the women; guys wore laid-back button-up niversi U

collared shirts and dark jeans. ia d oncor

2014 C

by Slim is in: In 2014, skinny jeans reign supreme. Guys favour undercuts os with shaved parts. t ho P

20 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine CONCORDIA’S RHODES SCHOLARS Gilly Filsner, BA (soc.) 84, 1 became Concordia’s first fe- male Rhodes Scholar. Filsner remained in the United Kingdom after finishing at Oxford and worked for many years as a jour- HONOURING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF SEVEN ALUMNI nalist for Bloomberg Business News. Selected one year later, WHO WON THE PRESTIGIOUS PRIZE Boris Maksimov, BA (poli. sci.) 85, worked for many years at the BBC World Service in its African and Russian offices. Siobhan Harty, BA (poli. sci.) 89, took Latin American MARILLA STEUTER-MARTIN Studies while at Oxford before pursuing a PhD in political science at McGill University. In 2012, Harty was appointed When Cecil Rhodes first set aside funds to create a schol- director general of social policy at Human Resources and Skills arship bearing his name over 100 years ago, he couldn’t have Development Canada. imagined it would one day be considered the most prestigious Another history major, Carol McQueen, BA (hist.) 95, went academic student award in the world. on to become a political affairs officer for the United Nations Rhodes sought to promote international understanding Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of the and peace by bringing together the best and brightest academic Congo. McQueen wrote a book on conflict and peace studies young minds to pursue their education at the University in 2006 entitled Humanitarian Intervention and Safety of Oxford in England. Today, Rhodes scholars are known Zones. She is now political counsellor at the Canadian High to be not only academically engaged but also involved with Commission in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. extracurricular activities, volunteerism and athletics. Most recently, Liliane Chamas, BSc (biol.) 09, and Valued at about $50,000 a year, Rhodes Scholarships provide Michael Noonan, BSc (ecol.) 12, 2 were the university’s students all expenses for two or three years of study at Oxford. first science students to receive the Rhodes Scholarship. The seven exceptional students who have been selected Chamas was an honours student in cellular molecular biology. from Concordia over the years exemplify these qualities and In 2013, she earned a PhD from Oxford in clinical/medi- more. Coming from a range of departments from history to cal laboratory science/research and allied professions, and is mathematics to biology, Concordia’s lucky 10 have gone on to now a consultant for mHealth for NCDs at the World Health experience an even broader range of success. Organization in Oxford. In 1979, Robert Bradley, BSc (math) 79, became Noonan balanced varsity wrestling and ecological research Concordia’s first Rhodes Scholar. Bradley studied mathematics focusing on conservation. The native of Chateauguay, Que., and philosophy and went on to become a professor of math- published a research article in 2011 as a first author in the jour- ematics and computer science at Adelphi University on Long nal Fish and Fisheries. He went on to pursue a DPhil in zoology Island, N.Y. at Oxford’s Wildlife Conservation Research Unit. y t niversi U

ia d oncor C 1 Gilly Filsner 2 Michael Noonan

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 21 WE ARE GROWING GREYER ock t hinks T

22 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine CANADA’S DEMOGRAPHIC SHIFT

CONCORDIA PROFESSORS WORK TO ENSURE HEALTHIER — AND HAPPIER — LONGEVITY

BEVERLY AKERMAN anada is growing much greyer. In 2011, as baby boomers began crossing that 65-year-old threshold, the Census reported almost C 15 per cent of us were seniors. By 2031, one quarter of Canadians will fit that bill. Centenarians are the country’s fastest growing age group. This demographic shift has major social, medical and financial repercussions. For instance, within a generation, the number of Canadians with dementia will more than double, to 1.1 million people, and the cost of their care will rise from today’s $1.5 billion to a projected $153 billion. How can society deal with these huge challenges? Concordia experts are looking at these issues from multiple angles.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 23 PATRIK MARIER, A PROFESSOR IN CONCORDIA’S DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE, IS ALSO SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR OF THE CENTRE FOR RESEARCH AND EXPERTISE IN SOCIAL GERONTOLOGY IN MONTREAL.

INVESTING IN PLANNING Charles Draimin, professor and chair care costs. “A higher number of older Patrik Marier is concerned about your of the Department of Accountancy at people will most likely increase health financial future. Will retirees have Concordia’s John Molson School of care expenditure, but upcoming seniors enough money to live in the mid- Business, concurs. “In the early ’80s, are also healthier than those in previous and long-term? the Quebec government changed the generations.” As a professor in Concordia’s laws on mandatory retirement, and Louis Bherer is scientific director Department of Political Science, Ontario followed suit about eight years of Concordia’s PERFORM Centre (see Marier’s research focuses on the policy ago,” he says. “As a result, people are no the sidebar on page 29) and also serves implications of our changing demo- longer forced to retire except for spe- as researcher and lab director at the graphics. These days, he’s analyzing the cific, highly physical occupations like Institut universitaire de gériatrie de implications to pension, health care and police officer or fire fighter.” Montréal. He agrees that 60 is the new labour policy, and working on a book The situation varies across jurisdic- 40 — which delays retirement age. When about Canada’s preparations for aging tions, Marier points out. “In general, he started in the field as a graduate stu- populations. populations in the eastern provinces dent about 15 years back, Bherer recalls “A large cohort of seniors have in- are older than western ones, and federal that 65 was considered the start of being comes barely above the poverty line,” he health care transfers don’t take into ac- considered old in neurosciences re- says. “And a substantial number of baby count there are more older people per search. “Now 75 is the geriatric cut-off.” boomers carry impressive amounts of capita in Nova Scotia than in Alberta, Nonetheless, the concern for the pop- debt into retirement.” for example.” This makes the current ulation’s retirement income remains Gender defines another worrying health care funding formula “unfair,” he real, as a significant portion of pension- pension issue, Marier adds: women says, and describes “huge ongoing de- ers have relatively small incomes and tend to have more career interruptions bates” about the effect of aging on health one quarter of the retired population than men and therefore are more than twice as likely to rely on the Guaranteed Income Supplement. CHARLES DRAIMIN, PROFESSOR AND CHAIR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTANCY AT CONCORDIA’S JOHN MOLSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, NOTES THAT A SEGMENT OF THE CANADIAN POPULATION IS NO Yet it’s a complex issue. Governments LONGER FORCED TO RETIRE. in Canada and elsewhere are certainly aware of the potential future crunch on pensions. Marier, the holder of a Canada Research Chair in Comparative Public Policy, feels we’re not necessarily headed toward a disaster. “We must take care not to frame the issue as a crisis, a tsunami,” he says. “Public authorities should act on the challenges, but need to understand that adjustments are already taking place. For example, the data show people are already retiring later.”

24 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine lacks any pension savings outside the Kim Sawchuk, a professor in the Sawchuk describes a recent flash mob public plan. As well, public pensions in Department of Communication Studies, at Montreal’s Place Alexis Nihon orga- Canada were designed to replace only a is working to counter digital ageism. nized with Ressources ethnoculturelles fraction of the median wage of a working Sawchuk holds a Concordia University contre l’abus envers les aînées and the person. Draimin points out that when Research Chair in Mobile Media Contactivity Centre in support of World German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck Studies, a Canadian first, and directs the Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15. offered pensions to German work- Mobile Media Lab, which is dedicated to “It was fantastic to see the reaction ers over 65 in 1888, few people lived interdisciplinary research in “mobili- of these 50 seniors dressed in purple long enough to qualify. Yet with life ex- ties,” the movement of people, objects, who participated, and then put up their pectancy now nearly 86 years old, “the capital and information, locally and intervention on YouTube. They were a length of the modern retirement has across the world. force taking over the public space and effectively doubled. While still young From earlier work with seniors and putting their perspective on aging, enough to save for it, people should cell phones, Sawchuk understands that using new media, into the virtual world.” probably be finding out what they’d have seniors are extremely heterogeneous: She has other ongoing projects to invest to approach 90 per cent of their “There are differences, for example, with many seniors’ organizations. “At Concordia, we’re being encouraged to make what we know, and the studies we’ve done, relevant to the real world. And that’s a good thing.”

TAMING REGRET In a society that extols persistence as a goal-seeking behaviour, for an older person, knowing when to abandon a goal can be an equally valid path to well-being. For a young person seeking a lover or a job, persistence in the face of adversity makes sense. Yet Carsten Wrosch, a professor in Concordia’s Department of Psychology,

COMMUNICATION STUDIES PROFESSOR KIM SAWCHUK HELPS FIGHT THE ATTITUDE BY YOUNGER says that for some of the intractable GENERATIONS THAT OLDER PEOPLE DON’T HAVE A CLUE ABOUT DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES. problems of older age, “Giving up, quitting or abandoning goals, or finding some other goal to focus on can be the most adaptive response.” pre-retirement income,” he advises. between someone who is 60 and not yet Especially if the person’s circumstances Marier believes we need to prepare retired, someone recently retired and can’t be altered. better. “People spend far more time those retired 20 years or more.” Wrosch is director of the Personality, buying a new car or fridge than on the She explains that culture, language Aging and Health Lab, affiliated with financial decisions related to retire- and social and kinship networks are at the university’s interdisciplinary Centre ment,” he says. “People need to ask least as significant as age on technol- for Research on Human Development, questions and they need to know what ogy use and practice, and that limits which unites top researchers and train- to ask. Don’t be shy.” He recommends on access can be related to incomes, or ees from six Quebec universities in the The Naked Investor: Why Almost Everybody simply to the realization “we have too study of development over the human but You Gets Rich on Your RRSP (2007) by much stuff” to manage in our lives. lifespan. A major research focus is the John Lawrence Reynolds as a resource. “We need to understand how people long-term study of aging. The Montreal decide what they want and need. We Aging and Health Study has followed QUALITY OF LIFE MATTERS need to value those as well, those who about 200 older adults for a decade. Last We live in the digital age. We also live in are sceptical: every new technology is year, the study received a third Canadian a time of digital ageism, an attitude that not absolutely necessary,” Sawchuk says. Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) assumes younger people have a natural The Mobile Media Lab provides digi- grant of close to $1 million. fluency with digital media their elders tal learning to seniors groups based on Wrosch says research shows that re- lack, and a major reason seniors are their requirements. “We ask seniors grets — such as being unable to walk often left out of research on new digital what they want to learn and do, and then or no longer able to do the groceries — technologies. we help them access that knowledge.” can lead to excessive rumination and

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 25 even depression, and increase one’s older adults enjoy a happier and they might exhibit while simultane- vulnerability to disease. Wrosch has healthier life.” ously listening to words or doing mental demonstrated these psychological states arithmetic.” — and their alteration — are reflected in TRAINING YOUR BRAIN As cognitive tasks increase in diffi- measurable health-relevant biological One road to such a happier and culty, older adults show a greater drop in processes such as levels of cortisol healthier life is keeping our bodies — performance than younger adults. “That (reflecting stress) and C-reactive as well as our minds — in shape. suggests that in older age, what used protein (related to inflammation states). That’s one area being examined by to be an automatic physical task — “What I’m really interested in is pre- Karen Li, a professor in Concordia’s balancing — requires more attention venting this downward spiral through Department of Psychology. Li is in- and cognitive resources. Avoiding a loss self-regulation, a life-management terested in executive functioning, an of balance has practical implications for approach,” he says. umbrella term for those cognitive skills healthy, independent living,” she says. One such approach So how to taken in his lab, pub- strengthen lished in the journal As our population ages, we are looking these cognitive Psychology and Aging, towards overwhelming numbers of people functions? “ experimented with A growing directed writing: coach- with dementia, yet are not prepared for this. number of ing seniors to write We have an obligation to provide them studies show about their life regrets by that aerobic fit- “making social com- the best possible quality of life. ness training, even with a mod- est physical improvement, can lead to improved executive functioning,” she says. “Social engagement is also an important source of mental stimulation.” Li’s work has also established that brain training with computer games can be a useful add-on to more conven- tional forms of physical therapy/fitness training. Together with Louis Bherer and other Concordia researchers at the PERFORM Centre, Li’s latest projects involve older adults with (and without) mild hearing impairment. In population studies of age-related conditions, hearing loss is associated with increased

THE RESEARCH BY PSYCHOLOGY PROFESSOR CARSTEN WROSCH HAS SHOWN THAT WHEN SENIORS ARE falling. Li hopes that brain-gym in com- TRAINED TO WRITE ABOUT THEIR LIFE IN A POSITIVE LIGHT, RATHER THAN FOCUSING ON REGRETS, THEY FEEL BETTER ABOUT THEMSELVES. bination with aerobic fitness training will better elucidate this link and, ultimately, be used to decrease falling. She’s also keen on an ongoing project, funded through CIHR, involving parisons, silver lining and positive harnessing mental control, organization the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. reframing” — basically, making real- and self-regulation. She explains execu- Healthy young and older adults and istic comparisons with others in the tive functions are closely tied with areas older adults with hearing loss walk on same situation, as opposed to lamenting of the brain that shrink more rapidly a treadmill in a virtual reality simula- the loss of an ideal state. Results show as we age. tion of crossing a six-lane street. As the marked decreases in the intensity of Li and her team at the Laboratory for subjects are challenged with listening regrets and improved outcomes, Adult Development and Cognitive Aging tasks, their walking is measured using including better sleep. test older and younger adults as they use motion-capture technology. The goal “Our research is a pathway to helping executive functions to multitask by com- is to simulate a real-life multitasking older people deal with regrets over the bining cognitive and motor activities. situation in a safe environment to un- intractable problems of aging,” he says. “We measure how much a person sways derstand how hearing loss and mobility “The ultimate goal is to discover mecha- while balancing on one foot and com- decline are linked. nisms that can contribute to helping pare that with the increased fluctuations

26 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine says. “Research has also shown that both these attributes may be enhanced, even as other capacities deteriorate.” Creative arts therapies won’t cure dementia, Young says, but by decreasing agitation, stimulating cognition and facilitating meaningful interactions with others, they can significantly improve quality of life for many patients. She describes a case where the husband was institutionalized and hadn’t spoken for many years. The wife usually visited daily, sharing in much of his care. Young would see this couple in a small music therapy group. Singing gentle songs on guitar and touching the man’s hands, she was often able to rouse him ONE OF THE RESEARCH PROJECTS CONDUCTED BY KAREN LI, A PROFESSOR IN CONCORDIA’S DEPARTMENT from his languor. OF PSYCHOLOGY, FOUND THAT PLAYING COMPUTER GAMES ALONG WITH FITNESS TRAINING HELPED IMPROVE SENIORS’ CONDITION. When Young discovered that the couple’s song was Let Me Call You Sweetheart, the results were revelatory. MUSIC TO THEIR EARS with the anecdotal experiences that She would sing “Let me call you sweet- In 1993, veteran Hollywood actors Walter music therapists have been talking heart,” and the husband would finish Matthau and Jack Lemmon starred in about for years,” she says. the line with “I’m in love with you,” and the comedy Grumpy Old Men. Why She expanded her bio-psycho-so- then look at his wife. Here was a wom- were they so grumpy? Possibly, along cial health perspectives into the area of an, Young explains, who for years didn’t with many seniors, they were agitated and singing and health, yet her passion for know if her husband was aware of her unable to relax. Unfortunately, for those working with seniors remained. “With presence or anything she did to help suffering from dementia, such agitation almost all dementias, the music func- him. When the husband acknowledged is fairly common. tions of the brain remain intact. Most his wife in that setting, it was moving Laurel Young, an assistant profes- individuals retain a sensitivity to music, and meaningful for them both. sor of music therapy in Concordia’s and have the ability to participate in a “Music is a distinct domain of func- Department of Creative Arts Therapies, wide variety of music experiences,” she tioning in the brain that seems to serve may have one solution. Young is an ac- credited music therapist with clinical experience in geriatrics and dementia, palliative care and other areas of physical and mental health. Prior to her music therapy training, as a university student Young had the opportunity to play music in the locked dementia units of a long-term care facility. “I could also awaken those who were very withdrawn,” she says. “I knew I needed to understand more and that’s why I decided to pursue training as a music therapist.” Young’s initial interest in research came out of an internship where she worked with dementia patients at Toronto’s Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care. While there, she investigated the use of music to stimulate object recognition. It was clear that music stimulated memory and interpersonal connection. MUSIC THERAPY ASSISTANT PROFESSOR LAUREL YOUNG RECENTLY RECEIVED AWARDS FROM WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY AND TEMPLE UNIVERSITY IN PHILADELPHIA FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FIELD. “The science is just starting to catch up

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 27 a variety of purposes, but we are still discovering its full potential,” Young maintains. “My theory is that if the music functions of the brain are so important, shouldn’t we be trying to maintain these functions to the fullest possible extent?” She believes using creative arts therapies in this way is “not just fun and enjoyable, but clinically indicated.” As our population ages, we are looking towards overwhelming numbers of people with dementia, yet are not physically, financially, or psychologically prepared for this, Young warns. We have an obligation to provide them the best possible quality of life. In future, she hopes, “We may be able to understand how music works when other forms of communication have failed, to discover a way to capitalize on this in creative, functional, and mean- LOUIS BHERER, SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR OF CONCORDIA’S PERFORM CENTRE, WILL WORK WITH LES GRANDS BALLETS CANADIENS TO COMPARE AEROBIC EXERCISE WITH DANCE AS TREATMENT FOR THE ELDERLY. ingful ways. These people will be us — if we live long enough. How will you want to be treated?” –Beverly Akerman is a Montreal writer.

CONCORDIA'S PERFORM CENTRE AND LES GRANDS BALLETS PARTNERSHIP: LOUIS BHERER’S RESEARCH INTO DANCE THERAPY AND SENIORS

28 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine LOUIS BHERER, SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR OF CONCORDIA’S PERFORM CENTRE, WILL WORK WITH LES GRANDS BALLETS CANADIENS TO COMPARE AEROBIC EXERCISE WITH DANCE AS TREATMENT FOR THE ELDERLY.

Louis Bherer, scientific director of Although it’s true that about eight to 10 per randomized trial results hold even for frail Concordia’s PERFORM Centre, questions the cent of seniors aged 60 to 65 experiences older adults, a population for whom exercise traditional medical research approach to the dementia — rising to almost 50 per cent is less commonly recommended. study of aging, and he’s promoting a radi- for those 85 and over — the glass-half-full cal notion: if you want to understand and view means that around 90 per cent do not, In the search for engaging and stimulating promote healthy aging, you need to study Bherer points out. So his focus is to discover exercise forms for future studies, the idea to normal people and figure out what works for what healthy seniors do that helps protects use dance was a natural fit. When Les Grands them. Once you study aging in the medical them from developing dementia. Ballets Canadiens and its innovative National setting, you deal with sick older adults. Being Centre for Dance Therapy, led by director old does not mean being sick. Through studies of healthy seniors, he says: Christian Sénéchal, approached Bherer, he “We’ve managed to pinpoint four ways to de- saw a brand new way to make older adults “Avoiding a medically biased perspective,” crease the risk of cognitive decline. Foremost move. Now, with a $300,000 grant from the he says, is key to his work, which has been among them is exercise. Nutritional aspect Ministère de la santé et des services sociaux turning heads locally and internationally. is a promising approach as well. The others in hand, Bherer is poised to begin clinical tri- Now Bherer is about to launch an excit- are social activity — the happier you are with als comparing aerobic exercise with dance as ing and innovative dance therapy project in your social network, the more protective it a treatment intervention. partnership with Montreal’s renowned Les will be. And finally, cognitive stimulation: Grands Ballets Canadiens. reading books, magazines, playing games. Other projects from Les Grands Ballets And you don’t need to buy fancy computer Canadiens are to be conducted in part- “In a hospital, if you’re an MD, the older games to experience these effects.” nership with the Institut universitaire de adults you tend to see are those who are gériatrie de Montréal, the Centre hospitalier sick, especially in geriatric institutes. So People who exercise two to three times per universitaire Saint-Justine, and the Centre if you want to study and promote normal week show less cognitive decline and are hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal. aging, you need to move outside the hos- up to 35 per cent less likely to develop de- pital, and work with healthy people,” says mentia. Bherer’s research has shown that The dance therapy centre is unique in Bherer, who’s also chair in Preventive Health after previously sedentary seniors take being conceived and implemented by a Science Research at the PERFORM Centre, a part in even a three-to-four-month fitness cultural company, and also for offering place devoted to promoting healthier living regime they walk better, feel better and ex- three interconnected services: dance and through changes in behaviour and lifestyle perience a better quality of life.” Attention movement therapy, clinical research and supported by research, education and pre- spans and memory also measurably improve, Canada’s first graduate-level dance therapy vention-based programs. and Bherer was pleased to discover these training program.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 29 Irving Layton Award For Creative Writing: Fiction

ach year, Concordia’s Department must submit a single story of no more Toronto. She is the recipient of the 2014 of English hands out prizes than 5,000 words. Compton-Lamb Memorial Scholarship, for excellence in the studies of This year’s recipient for fiction, and her writing has appeared in various EEnglish literature and creative writing. Rudrapriya Rathore, calls herself “a publications, including Yiara Magazine Those include the Irving Layton Awards worrywart and a student.” She studies and Headlight Anthology. for Creative Writing, which are worth creative writing at Concordia, writes Here is an excerpt from her Layton- $500 each and given to undergraduate fiction, poetry and essays and reads all Award-winning short story “The students for works of poetry and fiction. with great enthusiasm. Rathore was born Roof,” which provides a glimpse into To qualify for the fiction award, students in New Delhi and grew up in Calcutta and experiences of girlhood in India.

RUDRAPRIYA RATHORE

30 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine he summer that follows Nandini’s eleventh birthday nowhere to be seen. The nannies don’t look up from their isn’t different from those that preceded it in any vegetables. Avi’s brothers, chubby three-year-old twins, obviousT way. She’s not yet tall, though her father predicts sit and squabble over toy cars a few metres away. My that one day, she will be — jokingly, he tells neighbours little Nannoo! and relatives who stop by their home that her lengthening Nandini closes her book and tucks it under her arm. Her feet are outgrowing her, and will one day surely detach foot toes a pedal, ready to fly. For a moment all is still. Then themselves and walk away. There’s nothing for Nandini to Avi bursts from behind a laundry line, wet sheets swing- do but smile on these occasions, ing, and snatches the book from her thin lips stretching between Excerpt from “The Roof” under her arm. He is all wiry wide cheekbones, her weight limbs and slitted eyes and flash- BY RUDRAPRIYA RATHORE shifting from one big foot to ing white teeth as he runs, but the other. Nandini has a vehicle — and When it’s Avi Kumar’s parents who stop by, she doesn’t she thrusts her legs down on the pedals after him. Avi zips bother to pretend like she hasn’t heard her father’s joke between the lines of hanging clothes and clusters of maids a hundred times. Instead, she stares at the way the lined and nannies and small children, shouting at the top of his pouches and folds on Mr. Kumar’s froglike face quiver as lungs, and Nandini follows, furious, paying no heed to the he laughs into his teacup. Avi is a year older and lives above damp clothes her handlebars ensnare and tear down, ig- her, on the top floor of the building. Just the thought of him noring a yelp as a child scrambles out of her way — until, calls to mind some petty trauma inflicted on Nandini’s dig- overturning a pot, she’s gaining speed and flailing her hand nity. A swift tug on her hair to accompany the insult isn’t to free it of sticky chunks of okra and doesn’t realize that the uncommon. short wall at the edge of the building is fast approaching. After a lunch of spiced potatoes and rotis, eaten while She slams her pedals backwards to brake as Avi’s face just perching on a steel trunk in front of the television, Nandini ahead of her looks back, still mid-laugh, and the bike’s back takes her book and climbs up the concrete stairwell as usu- wheel skids out of control. Toppling onto Avi and effectively al. The afternoon is glaringly hot. The heat of the cement halting them both just short of the edge, she watches as the warms her feet as soon as she steps onto the open roof. A book slips from his hands and flies over the three-foot-high short wall runs around its perimeter. Six storeys below, traf- wall, pages flapping, to fall to the street below. fic moves in a sluggish river densely banked by crowds of Before they can untangle themselves, Avi shouts, “You’re people. Though she is out of reach of the clouds of dust and crazy! You’re trying to kill me!” At the sight of the maids the animal stench rising from the road, the noise is inescap- running towards them, his indignation swells. “She tried to able. Everything that moves on the streets of Calcutta makes push me over the edge! She tried to kill me!” noise. Everything honks or shouts or bleats or whistles. “No I didn’t!” Nandini shouts back. “He stole my book! From her vantage point, the roofs of other buildings And now it’s gone! He’s a thief!” stretch in every direction. Damp clothes on criss-crossing “Look at her, she’s a lunatic! Trying to kill me!” Avi contin- laundry lines grow stiff under the sun. Maids and nannies ues as the maids carefully stand the two up and brush them spread their green chilies and fish for drying and sit chop- off, checking for scrapes. The smaller kids cluster around and ping vegetables. Under their eyes and despite the heat, shove each other to get a look, fingers in their mouths. children ride bicycles around each other in circles and draw “She’s a lunatic,” one crows with delight. on the concrete with chalk. Sitting on her bike, a storybook Angrily, Nandini shoves a maid away and glowers at Avi. held open against the handlebars, Nandini leans against the “He tried to get his hand under my dress,” she says in a only shaded wall on the roof. She has the story memorized, quaking voice. Silence. The noise from the street below rises but it makes no difference. The pleasure lies in moving her to fill Nandini’s ears. Open-mouthed, Avi stares. lips and tongue to form the imagined sounds of a language “What? No —” she has heard only adults speak. It lies also in sitting very “Okay, okay, bachche, you’re both fine,” Sita-bai, Avi’s straight and still on the red bicycle as the children speed nanny, says hurriedly. “Come, Nannoo, let’s go clean your around her. Birbal was the emperor’s most valued advisor. knee up.” Akbar trusted only him when it came to important matters. Heart pounding, Nandini dares a look at Avi’s face. He Everything in English shone with the promise of something is baffled more than defeated, staring at the maids as if they pristine and quiet and grown-up. She turns the pages slowly, might turn back to him and say, “She’s pulling your leg, you only after touching the words on the paper to absorb their badmash, she’s just joking.” But of course they don’t do any- square, sophisticated meanings. thing of the sort, and Nandini walks away from Avi into the Nannoo! A boy’s voice reaches her through the din, cool of the building, unable to say where her words origi- laughter hidden in its pitch. A familiar sliver of dread dances nated or why a fiery, electric buzz has come to life beneath through Nandini’s chest. She looks left and right, but he’s her skin.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 31 WEATHER FORECAST: NEW SOLUTIONS ON THE WAY

CONCORDIA EXPERTS TAKE A FRESH APPROACH TO ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE AND RESOURCE ISSUES

BY JULIE GEDEON

32 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine Unexpected hurricanes. Freak snowstorms. Devastating tsunamis. Polar vortexes. The Earth’s climate is undeniably becoming increasingly volatile. A number of professors and students from Concordia’s four academic faculties are examining the effects of climate change and looking for ways to sustain human activities without depleting the Earth’s resources. Their research and teaching are serving as scientific warnings, opening up exciting new opportunities revolving around sustainability and deepening human understanding and awareness. We present a few of their efforts.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 33 y t niversi U ia ock d t oncor hinks C T

DAMON MATTHEWS IS AN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IN CONCORDIA’S DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT. HE SAYS IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO STOP THE RISE OF THE EARTH’S TEMPERATURE — AND THE DECLINE OF OUTDOOR ICE HOCKEY — BUT IT WOULD REQUIRE “PROMPT AND SIGNIFICANT ACTION.”

SKATING ON THIN ICE The only way to stop the planet from effects on the climate system, such as im- hen Damon Matthews warming further is to stop emissions impacts on the ozone layer and changes in co-published a 2012 pa- mediately. “Of course, zero emissions rainfall patterns.” per warning that the days of are unlikely to happen overnight because His modelling indicates that reach- WCanada’s outdoor skating rinks could be people won’t decommission current ing zero emissions as soon as possible numbered, the associate professor in the production and transportation systems through renewable energy sources and Department of Geography, Planning and or change their habits that quickly,” significant changes in our lifestyle and Environment received more media atten- Matthews says. habitat remains the best solution. To tion than he ever had before. Hockey in Matthews and his Concordia colleagues show what needs to be done, one of his Canada is, after all, sacred. have therefore looked at the amount of recent projects involved calculating the “Based on the conditions needed to cre- emissions already embedded into the cur- historical emissions produced by na- ate outdoor rinks and what we’ve observed rent fossil fuel infrastructure to determine tions and how each country’s emissions from the meteorological data over the pre- the amount of “wiggle room” to stabilize are contributing to the global tempera- vious 30 years, we extrapolated that we the increase in the Earth’s overall temper- ture increase. “Of course, the United have about three more decades of viable ature to only 2 degrees Celsius. “If we want States produces the most emissions, and outdoor skating,” Matthews says. “That global warming to stay below 2 degrees Canada ranked 10th, which is not very really touched a cultural nerve among Celsius, we need to cut all emissions by at good given its relatively small popula- Canadians that I hope will help lead to least half,” he says. tion,” he says. “We’re hoping this kind of significant action in terms of reducing Given this reality, some researchers information will spur governments carbon emissions.” are proposing to remove CO2 from the to action. Matthews uses mathematical calcula- atmosphere to keep global warming to 2 “There’s a misconception that even if tions to model climate response to carbon degrees Celsius. “That’s when people start we stopped emitting carbon, the Earth’s dioxide (CO2) and other emissions. “The talking about geo-engineering projects, temperature would continue to rise, and ratio is a 1.5-degree-Celsius-higher global such as artificial trees to suck CO2 from that’s not the case,” he emphasizes. “We temperature for every trillion tonnes of the atmosphere,” Matthews says. could stabilize the planet’s temperature carbon emitted into our atmosphere,” he He’s conducting simulations to de- if we take prompt and significant ac- explains. “And while it took us 200 years termine how the climate might respond tion.” It’s why Matthews conducts studies to emit a half-trillion tonnes, it will take to some of the proposed technological that alert people to the fact that if car- us only 50 years to emit another half-tril- solutions. “For instance, one idea is to bon emissions aren’t dramatically curbed lion at current levels.” spray reflective particles into the atmo- without delay, other young boys and girls With carbon emissions still increasing, sphere to deflect sunlight,” Matthews says. might not have the chance to learn hockey that additional 500 billion tonnes might “However, that would introduce a whole on an outdoor rink like Wayne Gretzky did. occur even sooner, he adds. other suite of potential side

34 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine org 2013. ance l unba - d ar ance l W d ba

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RICARDO DAL FARRA, AN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IN THE DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC, HAS WORKED ON SEVERAL BALANCE-UNBALANCE CONFERENCES. BALANCE-UNBALANCE MERGES ART AND ISSUES OF STAINABILITY.

RAISING AWARENESS THROUGH ART government officials and other key people the large number received. The climate esearch in the fine arts has to understand the complexities of disaster centre selected nine compositions for its a less obvious connection to risk management. purposes. Dal Farra and the other contest sustainability than that of other Dal Farra suggested a contest to find organizers are programming many of Rdisciplines — but Ricardo Dal Farra, an original music and sound-art works for the remaining high-quality pieces into associate professor in the Department of the climate centre’s overall humanitarian conferences and festivals related to Music, is helping change that perception. responses to people dealing with floods, climate change around the world. Dal Farra has been a leading organizer drought and other disasters related “We’re also in the process of putting of three international BALANCE- to climate change. “Pablo Suarez, the all the pieces on a website (ceiarteuntref. UNBALANCE conferences that have centre’s associate director for Research edu.ar/art_climate_selected_works) brought artists together with scientists, and Innovation, was so pleased that he with a Creative Commons licence that engineers, sociologists, policymakers asked if we could also launch a contest gives organizations and individuals and others to help resolve the world’s for music miniatures specifically for the the permission to download and use pressing environmental issues. efforts to obtain mosquito nets to prevent them in connection with any initiatives BALANCE-UNBALANCE 2011 (balance- dengue fever,” Dal Farra says. specifically related to dealing with climate unbalance2011.hexagram.ca) involved The contests have been a springboard change,” he says. the collaboration of colleagues from for the “art! climate” project, which The response and outcome of the initial Concordia’s departments of Geography, aims to use art as a catalyst for social contests were so successful that Planning and Environment, Political awareness and⋈ change. “To compose a the “art! climate” project and Science, Design and Computation Arts, piece about climate change or dengue BALANCE-UNBALANCE conference Communication Studies and Music, fever, you really have to understand series were⋈ featured in the April as well as the David O’Brien Centre what the problem is, so the contest rules 2013 issue of Leonardo – Journal of the for Sustainable Enterprise. prompted entrants to read white papers International Society for the Arts, Sciences The highly successful 2013 BALANCE- and other documents about climate and Technology. “We really have shown UNBALANCE conference was held at the change and its consequences,” Dal Farra how art can play a fundamental role in UNESCO-designated Noosa Biosphere in says. “The contests encouraged sound social change,” Dal Farra says. “It’s a Queensland, Australia. It prompted the artists to reflect significantly on the message that I keep emphasizing to my Red Cross/Red Crescent Climate Centre situation and what kind of message they students by integrating issues related to approach Dal Farra about creating wanted to get across.” to climate change in my teaching and some original music to play during their A jury of highly regarded composers making them a part of the curriculum presentations and workshops, as well as and media artists chose 39 submissions activities for my composition of games that the organization uses to help as being of very good quality from among electroacoustic music classes.”

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 35 y t niversi U

ia ock d t oncor hinks C T

DEPARTMENT OF MARKETING ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ZEYNEP ARSEL’S RESEARCH INCLUDES LOOKING AT “UPCYCLING,” THE PROCESS OF TAKING SOMEONE ELSE’S TRASH AND TURNING IT INTO SOMETHING OF VALUE.

CREATING NEW VALUE items, such as used makeup,” she notes. the world, provides another example. The FROM OLD GOODS Her current project involves examining site helps individuals to pass along and lamp from the 1980s may be various forms of exchange within Canada receive items for free. “People are using nothing but junk to a lot of us. and the United States that exist outside the site to give things away because they Yet some people would love to the formal marketplace, such as bartering. realize the value in creating more space Aget their hands on one. It’s this kind “I’m investigating how people are creating for themselves, or they want to increase of unprecedented value for items that and maintaining systems that I would say their moral capital by helping others in the Zeynep Arsel, an associate professor in make up for the limitations of the formal process of facilitating the reuse of items the Department of Marketing at the John marketplace,” she explains. rather than just discarding them,” Arsel Molson School of Business (JMSB), is She is also looking at upcycling — the says. “I think there may be a real con- researching as a consumption scholar. process of using what would otherwise sciousness-awakening here.” She’s looking at how people’s evolving become trash to create new items, such as Arsel is noticing that as some are ideas of what holds value might help to leather bags from worn jackets. “People becoming more aware of the dormant save the planet’s resources. are really starting to recognize the value in used and upcycled items, they are “I am increasingly seeing people desire dormant value of the items in their closets creating formal marketplaces for them. items in ways that were unimaginable in and cupboards and putting that into Entrepreneurs are establishing upcycling the past,” Arsel says. “And I’m examining action,” she says. “I’m researching this in businesses. Organizations are opening how that desire could help to avoid resource terms of the concept of value which I think thrift shops to raise money for medical depletion in the long run.” needs to be re-theorized in light of these research or charitable efforts. Arsel’s research is focused on how relatively new activities.” For now, Arsel is focusing on value people are creating value by trading items The growing popularity of the Freecycle that isn’t determined by a monetary that wouldn’t otherwise be marketable. Network (freecycle.org), which claims amount. “I’m more interested in floating “This includes exchanging unsellable nearly eight million participants around value,” she says. “What is it that makes

36 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine SUSTAINABILITY LESSONS ealizing the sustainability challenges that lay ahead, in 2008 Concordia Chancellor David O’Brien, BA 62, made a generous donation to help the university promote more environmentally consciousR business practices. Paul Shrivastava was hired as the first director of the David O’Brien Centre for Sustainable Enterprise when it opened a year later. Shrivastava, a professor in the Department of Management, feels business leaders have come a long way in only a few years in terms of understanding the need for sustainability. “Most corporate executives recognize climate change as an urgent situation and know there are newer technologies that are a lot more sustainable,” he says. “The problem is that many companies have already made huge investments in technologies that are supposed to last for a decade or longer, and they’re unwilling to abandon this legacy investment.” The centre has been playing a pivotal role in not only instructing John Molson School of Business (JMSB) students about sustainability, but educating current business owners and operators about the economic advantages of making a transition to newer technologies sooner rather than later. As part of the Sustainable Internship Program, JMSB students are hired by companies for a school term to identify feasible sustainability improvements that often come with a pleasantly quick return on investment. “Other internships involve students helping a company to develop a more sustainable product, or designing, developing and implementing more sustainable production systems,” Shrivastava adds. Companies involved with internships have also opened the eyes of JMSB students when it comes to sustainability. Sofia Coelho, who’s pursuing a BComm in marketing, found her whole attitude towards food and its production radically changing during her three-month marketing/ analytics internship at Montreal’s Crudessence restaurant, which serves people decide that a used object is worth organic vegan food. something? What is it that makes some “What blew me away was how the restaurant prioritizes sustainability of us seek out items that others consider over profits and still manages to make money,” she says. “Since working junk or garbage? What determines a there, I’ve become involved with Sustainable Concordia and the Concordia fair exchange? How is it that a book Food Coalition, and I’m really hoping to find a job that puts my marketing could end up being a fair trade for skills to work for a sustainable enterprise.” a chair?” Concordia is aiming for a similar change in attitude for existing Arsel has received a wide array of professionals. Shrivastava is among the professors who have developed answers so far, which is making it a the Sustainable Investment Professional Certification Program. It focuses real challenge to establish some kind on sustainable investment strategies for professionals already working of shared criteria. “It’s very subjective,” in the financial field. “The 90-hour certification program is designed she emphasizes. “What’s interesting for frontline portfolio managers,” he says. The program covers what is that people are not just exchanging sustainability is, why it’s important, all of the ethics, governance and physical items in many cases, but objects social responsibility intertwined with it, as well as the new investment that come with stories that form part of opportunities arising from sustainability, such as micro-financing and their value structure.” renewable energy projects. As more networks for bartering “The course teaches investors to assess the social and ecological or swapping become established, impacts of investing in a project, and encourages them to find out Arsel suspects that society’s mainstream what governments may be offering in terms of financial assistance,” notions of value might also keep shifting. Shrivastava adds. “Every course module comes with an assignment that She speculates: “Fixed currencies refers to a real company situation so these financial professionals can might become less important in learn what questions to ask and how to better connect potential investors determining exchanges.” to projects that adhere to sustainability principles.” —Julie Gedeon

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 37 FINDING A GOOD

Concordia’s Institute for Co-operative Education — Co-op — takes students into the workforce

38 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine BY JOANNE LATIMER

o you have any experience in the field?” That’s the question that fills most young people with dread during job interviews. Sure, they’ve had summer “Djobs, but it isn’t the same thing as real experience in a chosen profession. Getting a foot in the door can be nearly impossible with a resumé that contains nothing more than retail and restaurants. Employers want to know that junior applicants are mature enough to transition into their first full-time position. Enter Concordia’s Institute for Co-Operative Education (Co-op). Since 1980, Co-op has been working in partnership with students, faculty, staff, employers and alumni to provide a high-quality co-operative education. It’s a learning model that rotates four-month work terms with periods of formal academic study. During their work terms, students earn a wage (always a good thing for them), while their employers solve staffing shortages and receive a tax credit from the government. There is a rigorous application process to become a Co-op student, including academic performance requirements. If successfully admitted into the Co-op program, students take mandatory workshops — covering topics including how to write a resumé and cover letter, interview skills, email etiquette, identifying styles of management and French-language training — before they have access to the job board.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 39 “We set the table for students to enter the workforce,” ex- recruitment expenses, tackle special projects, meet peak plains Gerry Hughes, BComm (bus. admin.) 74, director of workloads, evaluate potential full-time hires, engage in joint the Institute for Co-operative Education, which has increased research projects with the faculty and get first pick at the top the number of students by over 20 per cent in the last three talent — all while enjoying tax breaks. years. “It’s exciting because we’re expanding horizontally Wow, indeed. With almost $10,000 in Co-op scholarships and vertically, continually adding more non-traditional awarded through the program to worthy students last year, Co-op programs in areas like anthropology, political science word is growing about this vibrant way for students to bridge and journalism.” university life and the working world. Hughes, who took over the directorship in 2011 after running the career centre at the John Molson School of Business (JMSB) for four years, stresses the importance of alumni outreach. “We want to foster a tribe mindset of ‘hire one of your own.’” It must be working. In the 2013-14 academic year, Co-op created more than 1,000 work placements for 1,450 students at non-profits, government agencies and private-sector employers, including Google, RIM, Bombardier, Beiersdorf, CAE, Ericsson, Genetec, GE, Bank of Nova Scotia, Terry Fox Foundation and Le Château. There’s still a need to develop y

jobs in certain fields such as finance, accounting and civil t and mechanical engineering. “Some disciplines are easier niversi U to place than others,” explains Hughes, whose team ia introduced Co-op’s new website (concordia.ca/co-op) d oncor and social media presence in 2013. “But the benefits to the C students, employers, faculty members and the Concordia CONCORDIA CO-OP DIRECTOR GERRY HUGHES, SEATED, AND (FROM LEFT) CO-OP COORDINATORS ALEX BOTTAUSCI, FRED FRANCIS, RICHARD MELKONIAN AND JANE community as a whole speak for themselves.” FAIRHURST, WHO WORK TO HELP PLACE STUDENTS WITH EMPLOYERS. After each of their three work terms, students are required to meet in small groups to reflect on what they’ve absorbed. Some of the positive learning experiences exceeded even Hughes’s “The misconception is that we’re simply a placement agen- expectations. “We placed a student at Pratt & Whitney, where cy,” clarifies Hughes. “A key part of our branding is the official he helped supervise 110 unionized employees,” he recalls. ‘Co-op experience,’ with our professional staff, value-added resources, services and seminars that go above and beyond the prac- I thrive in this kind of supportive environment. tical work experience students gain in their fields. It’s the definition of They’re going to have to pry me out of here win-win.” with a crowbar. When it comes to discovering their niche in the field — be it accounting, biochemistry, mechanical engineer- “When I asked him what makes a good supervisor, he spoke ing or any of the 39 available programs — students in Co-op about the importance of respecting the staff, getting your are one step ahead. Maybe they excel at strategy or client de- hands dirty, doing what you say and showing that you care. velopment. Maybe they thrive in a research lab or rise to the It was invaluable knowledge, learned on the job.” challenge of project management. Co-op students begin their The Co-op experience, then, is more than just the job op- critical process of self-discovery earlier and obtain a “head portunities. It’s about processing each experience and mining start” on establishing their career journey. it for patterns of best practices and student growth. Hughes, who helms a team of 16 staff at Co-op, explains, “We are working to establish a Co-op wow factor,” says “Our goal is to enable students to develop the knowledge, skills Hughes. “The idea is to give students the training and the and experience they need to lead successful professional lives.” preparation that boost confidence.” On the other side of the coin, companies who take on a Co-op student can reduce For more information, visit concordia.ca/co-op.

40 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine CASE STUDIES IN ACTION Meet recent Institute for Co-operative Education students and grads at their companies

HENRY S. CHEANG AND “Initially, I thought I was getting CAROLINE LE BRUN, ETELESOLV someone to write web content, but what I got was someone who created a fresh voice for the company,” says was at a career dead end,” recalls “My original mandate was to write 32 Etelesolv marketing director Caroline “I Henry S. Cheang, who earned a blogs and a few e-books,” says Cheang. Le Brun, BComm (mktg.) 02. “He can PhD in communication sciences and “But now I write between 5,000 and do so much more than we expected, disorders from McGill University in 10,000 words a week, while doing com- especially in research and analysis.” 2008. “It was time for a complete change petitor research. I’ve also learned how Le Brun describes Cheang, who leads of tactic.” to read a public patent and my knowl- her team’s daily huddles and weekly Cheang did his due diligence and de- edge of social media has gone through meetings while she’s away on business, cided to complete an MBA through the the roof.” as her “right hand.” Institute for Co-operative Education Most importantly, Cheang appreciates Cheang was Etelesolv’s first at Concordia’s JMSB, where he ad- what he learned about workplace cul- Co-op student. “We were so pleased mired the school’s Community Services ture. “At Etelesolv, we show each other with the experience that I created an

CAROLINE LE BRUN, LEFT, AND HER “RIGHT HAND,” HENRY S. CHEANG, AT ETELESOLV IN LACHINE, QUE. er t chach S ie l es L

Initiative and the Small Business respect and tolerance. There’s room for on-boarding document for future stu- Consulting Bureau. honest difference in a workforce with dent placements,” states Le Brun, herself “It wasn’t an easy decision to go back people from 29 different countries,” a Concordia Co-op graduate. “The docu- to school, but I made a resolution that he says. “I thrive in this kind of support- ment tells them how our marketing team whatever program I did, there would have ive, non-toxic environment. They’re is structured, what cloud-based software to be a way to break into the field with going to have to pry me out of here with to review and what social media accounts concrete experience. Co-op has that,” a crowbar.” to create for themselves. says Cheang. He applied for three work No crowbar will be necessary. “We’ve learned to give students placements, starting in the marketing Etelesolv offered Cheang a full-time room to show us what they can do,” says department at Etelesolv, a software composition, once he completes his Le Brun. She adds with a laugh, “Henry pany based in Lachine, Que. studies this year. kept showing us that ‘he’s the man.’”

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 41 YUAN HAO WANG AND AMANDA before selecting Wang for the Co-op CURREN, ROLL HARRIS AND placement. As a Co-op alumna herself, Curren is supportive of the initiative ASSOCIATES INC. and sees the mutually beneficial value of the program. hen Yuan Hao “Winnie” Wang mind and think as if the company is “Employers get a fresh perspective W left Shanghai, China, to study their own.” when students come through accounting at Concordia in 2011, she While getting hands-on experience the door,” says Curren, who was offered wondered how she’d ever break into doing client taxes, audits, year-end a full-time position at Roll Harris the work world in Montreal. Then statements, T1 and T4 preparation, when she graduated. “Students ask friends told her about the Institute Wang also became familiar with the questions that force you to act in a for Co-Operative Education. office software, including CaseWare different way or think about things “I fit the profile,” she says. “I’m a and Taxprep. from a different perspective.” newcomer to the country and don’t “It’s important to be a self-starter in a From her own Co-op experience, know many people. I’m ‘book smart,’ small company,” says Wang, who didn’t Curren remembers that a common but have no contacts. Plus, I wanted find it difficult to adapt to the profes- challenge is adapting lessons from the another way to connect to the city.” sional workforce because her student classroom into real-life scenarios. Wang spent her first work term at jobs were quite serious, involving “There’s a disparity there,” she points er t chach S ie l es L

YUAN HAO WANG, LEFT, AND AMANDA CURREN AT ROLL HARRIS AND ASSOCIATES INC. IN MONTREAL. SOON AFTER BEGINNING AT THE ACCOUNTING FIRM, WANG FOUND “I REALLY LIKE TAX!”

a wholesaler and her second placement confidential information about stu- out. “But Winnie wasn’t in that boat. at an international corporation. Her dents. “My skills were transferable that She’s a quick learner with a great atti- third placement was at the accounting way, since accounting involves clients’ tude. She took initiative, too, and fit in firm Roll Harris and Associates Inc. confidential information.” well with our learning-on-the-job style in Montreal. Wang has chosen to take one academic of training,” Curren says. “I was hired in January for tax season course during each work term. “I like Now that Curren is an employer, and that placement confirmed that I to know what’s happening on campus,” she is seeing another value. “It takes really like tax!” recalls Wang. “It wasn’t she explains, cheerily. “You can’t forget time and money to train new hires, so a huge shock, because I enjoyed tax in about your student network either.” a Co-op situation is a great way to get school, but I particularly liked it in a Amanda Curren, BComm (acct.) 11, started with someone,” she says. “If it small-sized company, where everyone’s intermediate auditor at Roll Harris isn’t a good fit, you aren’t married to encouraged to have an entrepreneurial and Associates, reviewed 20 applicants each other.”

42 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine JONATHAN D’ARIENZO about the importance of managing client AND BRANDON CHAU, expectations and providing alternative solutions when you hit a roadblock. SYNCRUDE CANADA LTD. “Technical skills can be taught,” he says. “But I saw that interpersonal skills are ometimes, work placements company in Fort McMurray, Alta., why you move up in a company.” S reveal to students what they where he worked in the soil lab. Back at Syncrude Canada in Fort don’t want to do with their work days. His duties included testing rocks McMurray, Co-op students continue That’s a good thing. Take 22-year-old for their engineering properties for to impress their employers. “Students civil engineering student Jonathan construction purposes. help us bridge the gap in terms of gen- D’Arienzo, for example. “My boss had over 30 years of expe- erations,” says Brandon Chau, BEng “Now I know that I’d rather be in the rience, so it was great because he could (mech.) 12, an assistant project manager h t i m S - eichuk l i W race G

JONATHAN D’ARIENZO JUST WRAPPED UP HIS FINAL WORK TERM AT THE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT OF THE CITY OF THOROLD, ONT., IN THE NIAGARA VALLEY.

construction process,” says D’Arienzo, explain concepts you’d never learned in in Project Development and Execution after completing a Co-op placement school,” says D’Arienzo. “The oil sands at Syncrude. “With the aging workforce, at a consultancy firm, where he handled provided a wonderful learning opportu- we have to make sure there’s a transfer- construction disputes and claims. “Even nity, but ultimately, they’re too remote ence of knowledge and experience to the though I had a great mentor and I en- and cold for me.” younger staff, so students are trained, joyed doing schedule analysis for claims, D’Arienzo’s final placement was then paired with a mentor.” it can take five years for a claim to close, in the engineering department of the Chau, like many Concordia Co-op or maybe two years to open a claim. City of Thorold, Ont. “The job deals alumni, contacted his alma mater when I need something more immediate directly with infrastructure — the roads, he saw opportunities to match students and tangible.” sidewalks, water, lights — and I’m with placements. He says, “It benefits That realization prompted D’Arienzo involved in every project. Infrastructure Syncrude too, because when a student to seek a totally different work experi- is fantastic and I like the feel of a has a positive work term, they go home ence for his second placement. He mid-sized organization.” and promote the company to other went to Syncrude Canada, a large oil Along the way, D’Arienzo also learned students and their family and friends.”

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 43 HRAG KOZADJIAN AND JONAH offered Kozadjian a permanent position KIRKWOOD, AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES the day after he graduated. Agilent takes Co-op students (including from other schools) year round, providing an on- ike D’Arienzo, student Hrag “Greg” R&D isn’t for me,” he says. “At boarding program to help them make L Kozadjian, BSc (biochem.) 14, the crime lab, I really enjoyed when the transition. used the Co-op experience to find his we’d get sales reps giving technology “We see that co-op students bring particular niche within his field. He presentations about their new products. a direct benefit to our bottom line of signed on for five work terms — not the I thought, ‘This is how science advances’ $150,000 to $200,000 in sales a year,” standard three terms — to maximize — with better equipment.” reports Jonah Kirkwood, national sales his exposure and identify his most Kozadjian hit his stride while work- director at Agilent. “In fact, a student marketable qualities. ing at Agilent Technologies in sales and just facilitated a $285,000 deal for “With a degree in biochemistry, there marketing for the Chemical Analysis one of our new products. I’m certainly are so many options that it’s important group. “It turns out, I really love the glad we devoted 17 days to on-board to learn the landscape,” says Kozadjian, business end of things,” says Kozadjian. training.” er t chach S

ie l es L

JONAH KIRKWOOD, LEFT, AND HRAG KOZADJIAN AT AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES IN MONTREAL, WHERE KOZADJIAN WAS ABLE TO MERGE HIS INTERPERSONAL AND SCIENCE SKILLS. listing possible professions in immu- “I like being a frontline sales scout, Kirkwood praises his own Co-op nology, toxicology, pharmaceuticals, contacting clients and learning about undergraduate experience for help- cosmetics and petrochemicals. He en- the instruments.” He also valued ing him excel in his career. “I learned joyed his work placement in a Montreal the chance to work on soft skills in patience, among other things, and crime lab, with the Ministère de la a science environment. the right way to train people,” says Sécurité publique's Laboratoire des sci- “It’s important to know how to ask Kirkwood, who believes it’s worth the ences judiciaires et de médecine légale, for a favour from a different depart- effort to mentor students because of where he was part of a toxicology team ment. What’s the etiquette and how do what they give back to the company. building an express method of analyzing you word the email?” says Kozadjian, “Students bring a lot of enthusiasm and blood and urine samples. Kozadjian ap- who also credits the Co-op program for fresh eyes. They’re not jaded, or set in preciated the opportunity to learn good making him realize he didn’t want to their thinking. This gives us a pool of laboratory standards and good manufac- continue on to graduate school. “I’m candidates to replenish our workforce turing practices. already armed for the workforce with and build our capacity.” “While I liked the team aspect and a resumé and a job.” —Joanne Latimer, MFA 94, is a working with people, I learned that pure Yes, a real job. Agilent Technologies Montreal-based freelance writer.

44 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine $8,000,000CO-OP STUDENTS’ APPROXIMATE TOTAL ANNUAL EARNINGS (BASED ON AVERAGE PAY OF $1 4/HR.) IN ALL IN ALL ANNUAL PLACEMENTS ANNUAL AWARDED, 2012-13 AWARDED, STUDENTS IN FOUR FACULTIES 2013-14 ,000

92% ,700

0 1 TO ANNUAL JOB POSTINGS ANNUAL 3,000 STUDENTS VALUE OF CO-OP SCHOLARSHIPS SCHOLARSHIPS OF CO-OP VALUE MORE MORE

THAN UP TO $9 RATE OF CO-OP OF CO-OP RATE STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

87 1,45 CO-OP FACTS CO-OP

GRADUATE 6 PROGRAMS COMPUTER SCIENCE COMPUTER STAFF

50% 42% YEAR OF YEAR OF

1 22

OF ENGINEERING AND OF ENGINEERING AND 980 UNDERGRADUATE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN THE JOHN STUDENTS IN THE JOHN (FACULTY (FACULTY MEMBERS) INCEPTION ACADEMIC ACADEMIC STUDENTS IN THE FACULTY STUDENTS IN THE FACULTY

DIRECTORS 1 MOLSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS MOLSON FACULTY SPOTLIGHT JOHN MOLSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

The next-generation EMBA for the complete executive

For example, in the term themed around thinking globally, all courses are viewed through a global lens, culminating y

t in a week-long international trip filled JORDAN LEBEL IS THE NEW with exchanges and meetings with other

DIRECTOR OF THE JOHN MOLSON niversi U EXECUTIVE MBA (EMBA) PROGRAM. business students and leaders. ia d Even the first term, on mastering oncor

C the fundamental concepts of business, ends with a real-life case study on BY YURI MYTKO issues the partnering company is not free to study full-time and who’ve currently facing. This year’s case oncordia’s John Molson come to the conclusion that they need involves Transcontinental Media, and School of Business (JMSB) has help to move to the next stage the company’s whole executive team, launched a new Executive MBA in their professional development. including the CEO, will attend students’ (EMBA)C program. The convenience of having a once- presentations in December. The innovative program goes a-week commitment fits with their Three important components support well beyond traditional academic busy schedules. the delivery of the curriculum and add subjects, offering students professional The program’s content is focused on tangible value for participants: the leadership coaching, a health and fitness developing students’ ability to think more Executive Connects Series, the Healthy component created with executives in broadly and strategically; it challenges Executive module and Leadership mind and solid links to the them to step out of their comfort zone. Effectiveness and Development (LEAD) business community. After seven or eight years in the business Executive Coaching. Jordan LeBel was recently named world, it’s easy to get set in your ways, The Executive Connects Series focuses the program’s director. LeBel has so you need to be challenged to think on networking and learning from been a professor in the Department of differently and to approach problems accomplished individuals: we invite Marketing since 2000; he also leads from a different angle. business leaders into the classroom to JMSB’s Luc Beauregard Centre of That’s what the EMBA brings you. share their experiences, good and bad. Excellence in Communications Research. It’s giving you new tools and new ways Each cohort is assigned a champion — In 2013, he was named a 3M National of thinking that can help you meet new a well-respected business leader who Teaching Fellow, Canada’s highest challenges and move on to the next stage will remain in contact with the group honour for university instructors. in your career.” throughout the two-year program. The We sat down with LeBel to discuss first champion will be Andrew Molson the EMBA program, its mission and HOW IS THE JOHN MOLSON [vice-chairman of the board of Molson what being a “complete executive” EMBA DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS? Coors Brewing Company]. really means. JL: “Our program is unique in a number The Healthy Executive module teaches of ways. First, terms are organized along how to sustain high performance at work WHO IS THE JOHN MOLSON themes so that each course complements while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. EMBA FOR? the next, and the themes tie together the It also focuses on the importance of Jordan LeBel: “The Executive MBA notions presented in individual courses. healthy workplaces and acquiring tools, program is designed for people who Then, each semester is capped by an techniques and habits that you can pass already have considerable business integrative course that allows for the on and share. experience — busy executives, assimilation and application of newly We have a chance here to educate entrepreneurs or professionals who are acquired knowledge in a real-life context. future business leaders and not only

46 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine THE NEXT STEP IN EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

sensitize them to the importance of work PERFORM Centre, will help participants you still need to be physically fit to move environments and habits that support develop and implement a plan to achieve to the next challenge in your career path, healthy lifestyles, but also to give them their personal goals. so it’s really tying different dimensions tools and techniques they can then Coaching sessions intensify in year two, together and giving students the tools implement and share at work, thereby when coaches are there to help student that they need to succeed. creating a powerful ripple effect. teams with the challenges of completing JMSB is unique among business This module is delivered by a team their program and term projects — but also schools insofar as its curriculum of specialists from Concordia’s to help them plan for post-graduation life.” and practices build on the community- PERFORM Centre that includes focused values of our founding experienced certified exercise WHAT EXACTLY IS THE institutions and of John Molson, Andrew physiologists, registered dietitians and “COMPLETE EXECUTIVE”? Molson’s great-grandfather, a successful Concordia’s Health Services health JL: “It’s really a holistic approach to businessman, a family man and a promotion experts.” developing future business leaders, champion of community involvement. based on the idea that these individuals It’s therefore no accident that our WHAT IS EXECUTIVE COACHING? are far from one-dimensional. What we EMBA program is focused on the notions JL: “This component of the program call the “complete executive” is really an of doing well and doing good, of actionable actually has many parts, and it’s aspiration, and it rests on the premise and useful education and of the triple spearheaded by James Gavin, a professor that success in business doesn’t occur bottom line — not merely financial in the Department of Applied Human in a vacuum and is not independent of profits, but human and environmental Sciences. He’s an expert in leadership success in other spheres of life. components as well. We aim to develop and a certified Integral Coach. We also want to develop leaders who future leaders who will not only succeed In year one, starting at orientation, will be mindful of their impact on others in business but also fulfill their many participants go through rigorous self- and the environment. We help students roles with competence, compassion and a assessments designed to develop assess their health, interpersonal strong ethical compass. self-awareness, identify areas for dynamics and social support systems, It’s really about integrating all these improvement and help them set goals. then explore how these areas interact parts so that by the time you graduate The results of these tests are debriefed and affect their overall effectiveness and with the John Molson Executive MBA with and used by trained coaches to help happiness and that of others. degree, you’re really confident that you’ve participants develop their leadership You may be very mentally fit and got the well-roundedness that it takes abilities and skills. Personal coaches, intellectually savvy and get high grades, to be among the next generation of alongside professionals from the but you still need to apply all of this, and business leaders.”

Open doors, open knowledge: Big ideas for better business November 13, 2014 Visit JMSB to learn how Concordia Events include: · JMSB’s Annual Graduate collaborates with small and medium-sized · A presentation of business Research Exposition (poster enterprises in Montreal. The day’s events plans developed by students exhibition showcasing the research will highlight how these partnerships help for local businesses of PhD and MSc students) drive the local economy while helping · A roundtable discussion on improve students’ learning experiences. succession planning Visit concordia.ca/opendoors

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 47 FACULTY SPOTLIGHT ARTS AND SCIENCE

FROM OLD MONTREAL TO erson d n A KAHNAWAKE w he tt A GROUP OF CONCORDIA THEOLOGICAL a M STUDIES STUDENTS BRIDGE CULTURAL — AND PHYSICAL — DIVIDES ON A 34-KM PILGRIMAGE TO COMBAT IGNORANCE STUDENTS TAKE A BREAK ALONG THEIR THREE-DAY WALK BETWEEN OLD MONTREAL AND THE KAHNAWAKE MOHAWK TERRITORY.

BY MATTHEW ANDERSON The voyage we undertook was not so In June, Matthew Anderson and Sara much to a destination as between two Terreault led a group of students on a walking pilgrimage from Old Montreal to the cultural self-understandings. Kahnawake Mohawk Territory. Anderson, an assistant professor in Concordia’s What’s the solution to such a conun- Longhouse, a place for traditional reli- Department of Theological Studies and drum? Part of it may begin with simply gious expression. the Loyola College for Diversity and putting one foot in front of the other. Our pilgrimage concluded on Sustainability, compiled this account. The dynamics of a trek offer a unique Monday with our walk back to Montreal. way to bridge cultural differences. This Terreault said afterwards that she was lotting a 34-kilometre walking is an experience that travelling by motor moved by the weekend’s events. “It’s P route between Old Montreal and vehicle just doesn’t offer. humbling as well as instructive to see the Kahnawake Mohawk Territory was how warmly we were welcomed through- difficult. But the hardest part turned out TAKING STEPS TO out our journey,” she said. “Communitas to be the last few kilometres. COMBAT IGNORANCE is a technical term used in pilgrimage Sara Terreault, a lecturer in the To test how walking pilgrimages change studies that refers to the spontaneous Department of Theological Studies, the cultural suppositions of those who emergence of fellow-feeling among and I were temporarily stymied at city undertake them, Terreault required people journeying together, regardless hall in Sainte-Catherine, a city near her students to critically engage with of social or other differences. There Kahnawake on Montreal’s South Shore. pilgrimage theories during their trek was certainly a sense of that about our “Oh, no, you can’t walk to Kahnawake between the historic destinations. entire trip.” from here unless the police stop traffic The walk began on Saturday morn- Ultimately, the voyage we undertook and you use the highway,” a clerk said. ing, with a tour of Old Montreal’s was not so much to a destination as “I’ve lived here for 30 years, and I can iconic 17th-century Notre-Dame- between two cultural self-understand- tell you that it’s just not possible.” de-Bon-Secours Chapel. From there, ings and the physical spaces that Only a couple of minutes later, we we walked the 23 or so kilometres to exemplify them. discovered a service road footpath con- Sainte-Catherine, where we stayed in On our journey, we crossed dense, necting the communities along the the basement of Église Sainte-Catherine urban, suburban and industrial zones, river. The problem is clearly not im- d’Alexandrie. Early the next morning, as well as parks and recreational passable terrain, but something else. we began the roughly 10-kilometre trek areas, rediscovering parts of what was Maps of the town end at the border and to Kahnawake. historically an important Montreal trail. show a blank space to the west, where While there, we visited the shrine But as much as we were retracing the Kahnawake lies. When there is a block- of Kateri Tekakwitha, who became the past, our eyes were definitely on this ade or a political crisis, this benign first indigenous North American saint route’s future. Our political leaders, ignorance on the part of many non- with her canonization in 2012. Later, we including those of the First Nations indigenous Montrealers can turn into toured the Kahnawake Cultural Centre communities, are asking us to learn outright suspicion or hostility, as clear- with Tom Deer, its cultural liaison of- from each other. ly happened during the so-called Oka ficer, before we ended our time in the Walking is a singularly powerful way Crisis of 1990. territory with a visit to the Kahnawake to begin to do exactly that.

48 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine EMMA KREUGER: students training in traditional land and THE VALUE OF KNOWLEDGE sea skills, as well as modern classroom- Although originally enrolled in the based science and technology training. departments of Film Studies and Art History, Kreuger switched to First THEA CAMMIE: AN INDELIBLE Peoples Studies because she felt it would SENSE OF COMMUNITY “INCREASED PRIDE better prepare her for a career in her Kreuger’s classmate, Cammie, says AND INCREASED home territory of Nunavut. “The society she enrolled in the First Peoples and economy is very much based on Studies program to learn more about KNOWLEDGE” Inuit values and systems. I found the her ancestry. “In Newfoundland, I QUEBEC’S INAUGURAL FIRST PEOPLES program suited my needs much more didn’t have a lot of information,” she STUDIES GRADUATES THEA CAMMIE because I could focus on Nunavut for says. “I could speak to members of the AND EMMA KREUGER REFLECT ON WHAT a lot of my work.” community, and I learned a lot through THE PROGRAM MEANT TO THEM Kreuger has lived up north since she them, but there’s so much more.” was a baby, and she says it was difficult Her grandfather, George Cammie, BY TOM PEACOCK to travel so far for university. The fact was adopted, and discovered late in life that her research focused on the people that his birth parents were Mi’kmaq. mma Kreuger believes that a she grew up with certainly helped. “To He helped others trace their families E transfer of knowledge between be graded and do well in school, while and played a role in establishing the First Nations and non-First Nations feeling increased pride in where I’m Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band in people is essential to all Canadians. from, and knowing that I could come Newfoundland, which was officially rec- “You can’t truly understand why things back home with this increased knowl- ognized in 2011. “Community was really are the way they are, why certain issues edge of my own territory — that’s what important to him,” Cammie says. come up, or the history of how Canada made it worth it for me,” she says. Since starting her studies at came to be without understanding this Last spring, Kreuger was accepted into Concordia, Cammie has returned to St. perspective,” she says. the Environment Technology program at John’s every summer to work at the lo- Kreuger — who hails from Baker Lake, Nunavut Arctic College, which offers its cal Native Friendship Centre. This work Nunavut — joined Thea Cammie, contributed to her decision to pursue from St. John’s, Newfoundland, a second major in Early Childhood in June as they graduated from It offers a different way Education. After graduation, she plans Concordia. Together, they form the of looking at the country. to gain experience as an educator at university’s inaugural graduating the centre’s new childcare facility. class in First Peoples Studies. The major became the first of its kind in the province when it received approv- NUNAVUT NATIVE EMMA al from the Government of Quebec last KREUGER WAS ONE OF TWO GRADUATES OF THE FIRST summer. Concordia launched a minor in PEOPLES STUDIES PROGRAM. First Peoples Studies in January 2013. The new program comprised 35 students in the minor and 12 in the major. Its courses are taught from a First Peoples’ perspective, with the aim of providing a solid foundation in indigenous history, culture and society in Quebec and the rest of Canada. “It offers a different way of looking at the country,” says Karl Hele, the program’s director at the School of Community and Public Affairs. He notes that this fall’s Introduction to First Peoples Studies course is already full.

“I’ve got students begging to get into reuger K

it. It looks like the new program is going mm E to be quite popular.” esy t cour

o t

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 49 ho P ALUMNI NEWS

For news on the full slate of recent and future Concordia Advancement and Alumni Relations events in Montreal, across Canada and the world over, visit concordia.ca/alumni ner ner d d res res D D h h p p ose ose

J 1 Alumni Recognition Awards 2 Alumni Recognition Awards J

Alumni Recognition Awards J. Pierre Brunet, BComm 70, was the Quebec. She joined Concordia 30 years recognize stellar group recipient of the Humberto Santos Award ago and has made significant contri- or the 23rd year, the Concordia of Merit, given to an alumnus or alumna butions to the School of Community University Alumni Association who has made a lifetime contribution of and Public Affairs and the Karl Polanyi (CUAA) honoured an impressive exceptional leadership and service to the Institute of Political Economy. Fgroup of alumni, faculty and friends university. A faculty member at the John The award for Outstanding Faculty/ for their loyalty and generosity to Molson School of Business (JMSB) for 25 Staff went to Saul Carliner, an associate the community. About 100 people years, Brunet was a founding member of professor and Provost Fellow for eLearn- celebrated the seven honourees at the board of directors of the John Molson ing, as well as PhD program director in the Alumni Recognition Awards International MBA Case Competition. Concordia’s Department of Education. Banquet, held at Montreal’s Sofitel The recipient of the Benoît Pelland His research and teaching focus is on Hotel on May 20. Distinguished Service Award was John the design of materials for learning and The award for Alumna of the Year was Aylen, MA 76, a lecturer in the JMSB’s communication in the workplace. given to Kahente Horn-Miller, BA 99, Department of Marketing and a market- Concordia President Alan Shepard MA 03, PhD 09. On top of acting as co- ing communications professional. Aylen welcomed honourees and guests, while ordinator for the Kahnawake Legislative was president of the CUAA from 2002 to Bram Freedman, vice-president of Coordinating Commission, Horn- 2005 and is a former member of the uni- Development and External Relations, Miller is also a sessional lecturer at both versity’s Board of Governors. and Secretary-General, served as master Concordia and McGill universities. The MBA Alumna of the Year was of ceremonies. The event was organized The Honorary Life Membership awarded to Nancy Hammond, BComm by Advancement and Alumni Relations. Award was given to David J. Azrieli, LLD 89, MBA 93, vice-president of the Pictured at the event (from left): 75 (who has since passed away; see the Affinity Market Group at TD Insurance Alan Shepard, Philippe Pourreaux, story on page 8), an innovative builder, Meloche Monnex. Hammond has been Nancy Hammond, Marguerite Mendell, designer and philanthropist. In 2011, involved with Concordia as a scholarship Sharon Azrieli-Perez, who accepted on the Azrieli Foundation donated $5 mil- donor and served on the boards of the behalf of her father, Saul Carliner, lion for Concordia to establish the JMSB Alumni Association and the CUAA. J. Pierre Brunet, Kahente Horn-Miller, Azrieli Institute of Israel Studies. He Marguerite Mendell, BA 72, professor John Aylen and Bram Freedman. also endowed fellowships for Concordia in the School of Community and Public 1 Also pictured are (from left) graduate students in the 1970s and Affairs, was given the Alumni Award for Kahentinetha Horn, Kahente the Azrieli Holocaust Collection at Excellence in Teaching. Mendell won a Horn-Miller and Marguerite Mendell. 2 Concordia Libraries in 1984. 2013 Prix du Québec, the highest dis- –Howard Bokser tinction awarded by the Government of

50 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine “THE CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION HAS ONLY GROWN STRONGER WHILE I’VE BEEN AWAY,” SAYS SENIOR DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Leisha LeCouvie: LEISHA LECOUVIE, WHO New head of BEGAN JUNE 30. alumni relations

eisha LeCouvie says the biggest challenge facing university alumni relations teams today is er Lfinding ways to better connect with the t chac S

younger generation. As Concordia’s ie l

es 3 Leisha LeCouvie new senior director of Alumni Relations L since June 30, she’s eager to face that challenge head on. come back with great experience, new “For recent graduates, there are so ideas and knowing that the Concordia many things competing for their atten- University Alumni Association has only tion. We need to find out what’s most grown stronger while I’ve been away,” interesting to these graduates and get she says. “A university like Concordia is them to reconnect,” says LeCouvie, doing such great things; I think it’s re- whose team liaises with the Concordia ally interesting for grads to hear about rchives A

University Alumni Association, organiz- d all that’s happening.” an es Homecoming and seeks new ways to t Bram Freedman, Concordia’s vice- en engage alumni, cultivate volunteers and m president of Development and External anage

bring graduates back into the Concordia M Relations, and Secretary-General, says s community. d LeCouvie will propel Alumni Relations. ecor

3 R LeCouvie began her new role af- “I’ve known Leisha for many years, and ia ter many years in alumni relations at d I’ve always been impressed by her drive, oncor

McGill University, where she was most C vision and intelligence,” he says. “I’m very recently director of Parent and Affinity LEISHA LECOUVIE RETURNED TO CONCORDIA ON JUNE excited that she’s bringing those qualities 30, 2014. THIS 1990 PHOTO SHOWS LECOUVIE SHORTLY Programs. “At McGill, I learned a great AFTER BEGINNING HER FIRST ALUMNI RELATIONS ROLE back to Concordia and its alumni.” deal about tradition and the value of AT THE UNIVERSITY. LeCouvie is eager to get started. deep alumni connections,” she says. given the task of helping to organize “I think that the Alumni Relations team A native of Montreal, LeCouvie stud- Concordia’s very first Homecoming in has done some really good work,” she ied at Trent University. Yet she’s no 1990. She later worked as a marketing says. “My goal over the next five years is stranger to Concordia — it’s where officer at the university for 11 years. to make it the best alumni relations unit LeCouvie landed her first alumni rela- “Concordia really gave me my start in in Canada. I know we can do it.” tions position, in 1989, when she was my profession and I am so delighted to —Marilla Steuter-Martin

Bestsellers for $2 and up? Shop for bargains and support students at the 8th Annual Concordia Used Book Fair

October 6 and 7, 0 a.m. to 7 p.m. All proceeds go to the Multi-Faith Chaplaincy’s Atrium of the J.W. McConnell Building Student Emergency and Food Fund as well as 400 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W. the Concordia Used Book Fair Scholarship.

Mag_bookfair.indd 1 25/08/2014 5:23:04 PM concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 51 ALUMNI NEWS

Concordia alumni While our three alumni associations distinct identity. Our solution was to associations unite worked together on projects, in 2011 create a joint heritage and memorabilia The Concordia University Alumni we joined forces as one voice — for preservation committee, which Association, Association of Alumni of Sir the first time — to publicly support the eventually led us to sign a letter of George Williams University and Loyola university. We learned to work together, understanding with the university Alumni Association have united. On advance the interests of Concordia’s concerning the preservation of each May 28, at special general meetings, the diverse alumni and understand institution’s heritage and memorabilia. associations unanimously approved each other’s priorities, mandates As of May 28, with more than 188,000 amalgamating into one organization. and organizations. alumni and 34 chapters in Montreal and The following is a message from Philippe Since then, we pursued significant worldwide, we are united. By supporting Pourreaux, BComm 00, president of the initiatives together, such as giving a the university’s mission and helping Concordia University Alumni Association. second life to the Loyola Refectory, now students and the university community known as the Loyola Jesuit Hall and in any way we can, we are embarking on hinking back to the creation of Conference Centre, and celebrating a new journey for Concordia. TConcordia University through the the 75th anniversary of Sir George Yet we need your help! We need you to merger of Loyola College and Sir George Williams’s first graduating class and act as ambassadors for your alma mater Williams University in 1974 will spark alumni association in 2012. and to build our reputation and promote memories for many alumni. Those of us At that point, our three associations’ the value of a Concordia degree. who have remained strongly connected board members began to reflect on our We want the Concordia University with Concordia since that time have future. We created a pan-association Alumni Association to become your always enjoyed reminiscing about our committee composed of Donal Ryan, networking tool of choice. We also university years. BComm 67; Steve Avram, BEng 71, hope you’ll discover that spending time The positive influences of both MEng 85; Frank Ciampini, BA 72; John with us will increase your learning and founding institutions are embedded Lemieux, BA 66; Jeff Bicher, BA 02; volunteering opportunities. in the values of Concordia and its Gerry Burke, BA 69; and myself. Most importantly, we want you to graduates. And Concordia has always We thought long and hard about how help us make Concordia a welcoming recognized the importance of building to strengthen the legacy of the founding place for students and alumni to reach strong bonds with all its alumni. institutions and their values within their potential. That’s why the university took an Concordia. We considered how to fulfill I wish concordia salus — well-being important step in 2005 by awarding our greater mandate of creating a strong through harmony — to all Concordia commemorative Concordia certificates sense of belonging within Concordia’s alumni and the newly amalgamated to graduates of Loyola College and Sir community for all alumni. Concordia University Alumni George Williams University. More We realized that we needed to Association. than 1,000 alumni chose this great amalgamate. Yet it was less obvious how – Philippe Pourreaux, BComm 00 opportunity to reconnect with each founding alumni organization President, Concordia University their university. could commemorate their institution's Alumni Association 4

For more information about the Concordia University Alumni Association, please contact Nancy Wada at [email protected].

Concordia’s Liberal Arts College turns 35 oncordia’s Liberal Arts College “C has become the finest of its kind in Canada,” said college co-founder Frederick Krantz to a jubilant crowd of alumni, faculty, staff and friends at Montreal’s La Plaza Holiday Inn ner

d on May 3.

res The event celebrated the Liberal D

4 Philippe Pourreaux oe J Arts College’s milestone 35 years and

52 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine honoured its key figures. Volunteers from the college’s alumni association, led by association president Julie Amblard, BAdmin 85, MBA 88, organized the gala in collaboration with Liberal Arts College faculty members and Concordia’s Advancement and Alumni Relations. Founded in 1978 by professors Krantz and the late Harvey Shulman, the curriculum bolstered the presence of the classics at the university. “It’s a multidisciplinary program,” said college principal Eric Buzzetti. “We study great works of the past, the greatest accomplishments of the human mind. That means great works of literature, great works of art, of philosophy, of history and of science.” ner Course material covers many d res D

influential writers, from Plato to Dante oe to Woolf, as well as philosophers such J 5 Liberal Arts College as Nietzsche and Rousseau. “We’re really unique in Canada in having a full college’s basement seminar room, Pictured at the event are Giorgio Tasca, program dedicated to the study of these which would not have been possible BA 82, Julia Amblard, BAdmin 85, MBA works,” said Buzzetti. without the generous support of Celia 88, Tim Ryan, BA 82, Alain Carrière, BA That same sentiment has attracted Shulman, BA 81, MA 90, MA 04, alumna 82, GrDip 94, and Loren Edizel, BA 84. 5 the college’s donors for more than and wife of the college’s late co-founder. –James Gibbons and Marilla three decades. Stanley Tucker, a Second To honour the Shulmans’ support Steuter-Martin World War veteran, has been a supporter over the years, it was announced at of the Liberal Arts College since its the gala that the seminar room would Christopher DiRaddo inception. As a champion of quality be renamed in their honour. Another reflects on his debut novel, higher education, he explained that the announcement saw the creation of The Geography of Pluto curriculum and mandate evoked fond the Lina D’Iorio student scholarship, fter many evenings and weekends memories of his own education many upon D’Iorio’s retirement after 25 years Aspent hunkered over a desk, years before. “The schooling I had as a of dedicated service to the college and Concordia grad Christopher DiRaddo, youngster was the foundation of a happy, its students. BA 98, 6 has emerged with his first successful life,” Tucker told the crowd. Bryan Brazeau, BA 08, is currently a novel. The Geography of Pluto (Cormorant “I wish all of you the same joy and PhD candidate in Italian studies at New Books, 2014) took nearly 14 years to success.” York University. He calls the college complete. It is now on retail bookshelves While steadfastly devoted to Western one of the “crown jewels” of Concordia. — and online. classics, the college continues to exhibit “The university’s commitment to the “The book deals with a moment of a modern streak. “It’s really grown a Liberal Arts College and its innovative surprise,” says DiRaddo, who works as lot since I was here,” said alumna educational model of small discussion- a writer and content editor at the CBC Catherine Astrakianakis, BA 87. based seminars demonstrates the in Montreal. “I went through a break- “Younger generations continue to comprehensive nature of the university, up. Something I used to think was true invigorate the college.” its engagement with ‘big questions’ and wasn’t anymore.” This invigoration extends to the its goal of making positive contributions This change in reality is reflected college’s infrastructure. For the first to society,” he said. through the fictional book’s protagonist, time in 35 years, the Liberal Arts “Our graduates have been accepted a young geography teacher named Will. College on Mackay Street is undergoing to every major art, professional and law The work, which employs a non-linear a top-to-bottom renovation. Buzzetti school across Canada and the U.S.,” said storyline, moves between periods sur- explained that one of the larger projects Krantz. “What we’re most proud of at the rounding the character’s breakup. underway was the renovation of the college are our students.” The protagonist — who is gay — also

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 53 ALUMNI NEWS

one of Concordia’s two founding institutions. “I’m really so grateful to the university for the athletics they offered. We had access to beautiful facilities.” The horse-training endeavour took on a new level of seriousness after Francois Seremba’s 1955 graduation. “After Sir George, I attended law school. That started to get in the way of racing horses,” he says. “The call of the racetrack was too strong. So I left.” Among their accolades, the Serembas’ t horse Marquise Cut was named the best ech p S in New England in 1987 — an honour l

6 Christopher DiRaddo au P he calls a career highlight. As breeders and trainers, the Serembas have had ce- where he studied in the Department of lebrity clients such as Bruce Norris, who Journalism. “I took several queer stud- owned hockey’s Detroit Red Wings from ies courses,” says DiRaddo. “I was arts 1952 to 1982. editor of The Concordian for a year. My –James Gibbons Concordia experience was wonderful.” –James Gibbons

François Seremba reflects on six decades of horse breeding, training and racing reeding, training and racing stately Bthoroughbreds is a family business for François Seremba, BComm 55, who

ooks lives in Tampa, Fla. B

t Seremba and his wife of six decades,

oran 7 m Yolande, have made horses their live- or C lihood for as many years. Together, they boast 2,500 races and close to 1,300 vic- grapples with revealing his sexuality to tories. “We’ve raced throughout North his mother. In the novel, the mother bat- America and parts of Europe. We’ve been tles colon cancer. all over,” says François Seremba. “I wanted to write about that fine line The two met as children in the where you’re close with a parent, yet can’t 1930s and bonded over their mutual love tell them something very important,” of horses and hockey. “My father was says DiRaddo, who came out as gay when a jockey and a trainer and my mother

he was 20. worked at Blue Bonnets,” he says, ba m

The novel features colourful charac- in reference to the racetrack later re- ere S ters and is set in and around Montreal’s named the Hippodrome de Montréal and rançois

Plateau and Gay Village neighbourhoods. now closed. F

of What about Pluto? “Pluto represents the “It was hockey in the winter, horses esy underdog, the outsider,” says DiRaddo. in the summer,” says François Seremba, t cour

DiRaddo gained invaluable knowl- who played hockey for 14 years — a part o t

7 François and Yolande Seremba ho edge and experience while at Concordia, of that at Sir George Williams University, P

54 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine YOU’RE A MEMBER ENJOY THE PRIVILEGES

The Concordia University Alumni Association lets you:  Keep in touch with fellow graduates  Enjoy exciting programs and activities  Take advantage of special beneﬁ ts and savings

Find out more: concordia.ca/alumni

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 55

CUAA ad.indd 3 20/08/2014 3:41:46 PM CLASS ACTS

Richard Pound, BA, LLD a thermoplastic piping systems than 30 years with challenged Keith Garebian, 63 10, is a Montreal lawyer company in Verdun, Que. He children and adults. My home 71 MA, has been awarded and sports administrator. He has been honoured by the ASTM is in the Eastern Townships, a Canada Council Grant for has been appointed chairman of International Plastic Piping Quebec. Currently I’m a writer, Creative Writing to complete Olympic Broadcasting Services Committee with an Award of storyteller and published author a biography of William Hutt. (OBS), a key frontline position Merit. Peter is also a member (Baico Publishing Inc.), under Keith won a 2012 Ontario Arts within the International Olympic of the Canadian Standards the name Grampa Bob. I write Council Work-in-Progress Committee (IOC). He was Association, NSF International and post a story rhyme daily on Grant for the same project. the founding president of the and the Hydrostatic Stress Board Facebook, and blog (Bee’s Blurb). He hopes to publish the World Anti-Doping Agency. of the Plastics Pipe Institute. My last book, The Flowers Tell biography by fall 2015, by It All, has a Loyola connection. which time his book Accidental Peter Cook, BSc (chem.), Egidio Santori, BA I also teach creative writing Genius (Guernica Editions) 67 is a senior technical 68 (modern languages), and volunteer and organize should also be in print. services specialist at Ipex Inc., writes, “I worked for more spiritual and social activities.”

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1 > Jackie Rae Wloski, BA 71, has started a new 3 > Raymonde Jodoin, BFA 83, participated in Akademi Gallery in Bhubaneswar, India, from November 1, series of paintings called “And Now For Something three group shows this summer: “À tire d’aile” at Musée 2013 to February 15, 2014. 5) Indian Dish and a Dog #1 Different.” Her painting Staircase #1 at the ROM was one de l’Hôtel des postes in Victoriaville, Que., from June to of the artworks selected from more than 500 entries September; “Edible Matters, A 4-Course Exhibition,” at 6 > Pierre Dalpé, BFA (film studies) 93, held a by the Colart Collection in Montreal, during their annual tAd Gallery in Denton, Tex., from April to July; and “12e solo photography exhibition at Gaffa Gallery in Sydney, acquisition contest. 1) Staircase #1 at the ROM Biennale internationale d’art miniature” in Ville-Marie, Australia, from May 15 to 26. Pierre’s show included a Que. 3) Deux oiseaux noirs selection of works from his ongoing body of work entitled 2 > Yvon Lamy, BFA (art ed.) 82, GrDip (art therapy) “Personae.” 6) Val and Alex, 2013 83, MFA 86, led a team of 10 artists at a gathering called 4 > Erik Slutsky, BFA 86, will hold an exhibition “Totem-muses” at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts of his oil paintings, done mostly between 2010 and 2014, 7 > Gabriela Ana Lim, BFA 08, will take part in a on June 19. The project was a partnership between the at Galerie D in Montreal from September 17 to October 29. three-artist exhibition entitled “L’influence de grands museum and Le Centre d’Apprentissage Parallèle. Yvon erikslutsky.ca 4) Crina At Barcola maîtres” at L’Entrepôt in Lachine, Que., from September and the teaching staff of the museum worked on a single 5 to October 5. The show will feature Gabriela’s latest project that reflected the ability of art to contribute to 5 > Taiga Chiba, MFA 87, is a Vancouver artist. paintings, which were inspired by the masters. gabylim. well-being. 2) Totem-muses She held a solo art exhibition of her works made of fabric, com 7) Forêt de feuilles blanches called “God Bulls and Indian Street Dogs,” at Lalit Kala

56 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine Gerry Young, BA signing of 22-year-old herself as a self-employed “chief Jean-René Ello, BA 72 (comm. studies), is the Toronto singer/songwriter listening officer” in marketing 89 (film studies & journ.), long-time president of Current Emilia and her forthcoming communications, a role she’s held is a senior promotion manager Management in Toronto. He CD, E. currentmgmt.com for more than 25 years. Janice for Bell Media in Ottawa. He recently became president, for recently received a certification oversees promotions, marketing the second time, of Current Sharon Condie, BFA in Social Media Marketing from and community relations for Records. The independent 74 (graphics & film hist.), has George Brown College of Applied CTV, CTV Two and four radio Canadian record label was the spent six years researching and Arts and Technology in Toronto. stations in Ottawa, including home of Juno award-winning writing the biography of heiress She is growing her client base TSN 1200. He also works with 1980s bands Martha and the Ida von Claussen in Europe. in social media marketing. Star 96 FM in Pembroke, Ont., Muffins (“Echo Beach”) and Prior to that, she spent a decade and with two French-language The Parachute Club (“Rise making animated films for the Andrew Severs, BA stations in Gatineau, Que. Up”). Current Records is getting National Film Board of Canada. 82 (psych.), has expanded back into the game with the his promotional products Marc Costantini, BSc David Stein, BA (poli. sci.), is business, Publicité Ad Factory 90 (actuarial math.), has been president of Dale & Associates, an Inc., with a new showroom appointed chief financial officer 4 Ottawa-based employee benefits and gift shop. OuiMonCheri, for Guardian Life Insurance consultancy that he launched Severs’s Montreal-based Company of America, one of the 22 years ago. David has been retail operation, promises U.S.'s largest mutual life insurers, elected vice-president of the consumers unique gift items based in New York City. Marc Ottawa Network, a non-profit and personalized products. previously served as executive organization that encourages vice-president of Corporate entrepreneurship and business Mark Ruwedel, MFA, Development and Strategy at innovation in the nation’s capital. 83 received the $50,000 Manulife Financial Corp. Scotiabank Photography Award Janice Maguire, for 2014, in addition to a 2014 Helen 76 BComm (bus. admin.), Guggenheim Fellowship. Mark’s 91 Konstantopoulos, BA lives in Toronto. She describes photography has been displayed (comm. studies & journ.), was at the National Gallery of Canada, recently elected chairman of the Metropolitan Museum of Art the Canadian Business Council 8 and the Tate Modern in London. of Dubai and the Northern He has also published two books, Emirates for 2014-15. Helen Westward the Course of Empire is managing director of (Yale University Press, 2008) development for the International and One Thousand Two Hundred New York Times in Dubai. Twelve Palms (1212 Palms) (Yale University Art Gallery, 2010). Ryan Rice, BFA, has 93 been working with public François-Cyril perceptions of indigenous 84 Jolicoeur, BSc (biochem. art and design for nearly two & phil.), has carried out vital decades. The Kahnawake research on rheumatology at Mohawk is the newly appointed Université de Montréal since chair of Indigenous Visual the 1980s. He was recently Culture and Curatorial Studies honoured by the Centre at the Ontario College of Art Hospitalier de l’Université de and Design University. “The Montréal for 25 years of service. position ties in neatly with my existing experience as a curator.” Guillaume Savard, 85 MEng, is an architect Daniel Goodwin, specializing in construction 96 MA (Eng.), works in administration at CannonDesign. communications in the energy He has returned to Montreal industry in Calgary. He is putting after eight years in Vancouver to his MA to good use with the 8 > Rochelle Mayer, BComm 83, the Women’s Art Society of Montreal Annual work on the city’s $2.5-billion publication of his first novel, BFA (studio arts) 10, won the Mary Martha Art Show and Sale, held May 1 to 15 at the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université Sons and Fathers (Linda Leith Phillips Award (first prize) for her artwork Galerie Fabienne Rhein. 8) Catching Up de Montréal building project. Publishing). The tale is about Catching Up. The prize was presented at

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 57 1 2

3 4

William (Bill) Conrod, BSc 62, 1 recently published More Memories The event takes place at 7 p.m. on September 7 at Concordia’s Oscar of Snowdon in the 50's. a sequel to his first book, Memories of Snowdon Peterson Concert Hall, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W. montrealbeatlesday.com in the 50's (2006), which sold over 1,500 copies. Bill and his twin brother Scott attended Sir George Williams University. “We grew up James Watts, BA (Eng. lit.) 90, BEd 01, 3 received the Prime facing MacDonald Park in Snowdon and like so many others have fond Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in 2013. James was memories of the area. The new book has over 100 new contributions recognized for his work over the last 19 years as the founder and from people who lived in Snowdon. Books are available at Bibliophile principal of Education Plus High School in Saint-Laurent, Que. Watts Bookstore in Snowdon or from me: [email protected].” also published a book, Happy Parent (Friesen Press), in 2013.

John Oriettas, BFA 81, 2 played the Paul McCartney role in the Roula Zaarour, MBA (bus. admin.) 98, 4 received the Montreal Beatles tribute band Replay (replaythebeatles.com). Replay People’s Choice Award at the eighth annual Femmes arabes headlined the Montreal Beatles Day concert to celebrate the 50th du Québec ceremony in May. Roula is vice-president, People anniversary of the Beatles’s only Montreal show on September 8, 1964. and Culture, for CBC/Radio-Canada in Montreal.

that special relationship, as well Janine Cockburn- 2013. After completing his PhD Research and Development as politics, poetry, journalism 00 Haller, BA (anthro.), in war studies at King’s College Award by the NUST School. and spin. Daniel and his wife has started her own fashion London in the United Kingdom, He is also the founder and Kara have three children. design label and now co-owns Youri served as the national director of the System Analysis two stores in Toronto. Janine’s director of the Sierra Youth and Verification Lab. Yvonne Sam, GrDip retail operation, Coalminer’s Coalition from 2007 to 2009. 97 (adult ed.), received a Daughter, carries several Steven Taylor, BA Governor General of Canada's Montreal labels and focuses Osman Hasan, MEng, PhD 06 (poli. sci.), recently Caring Canadian Award in 2014 on Canadian designers. (elec. & comp. eng.) 08, is an joined West Corporation as for her continued volunteer assistant electrical engineering legal counsel in Singapore. West work at the Guyana Cultural Youri Cormier, professor at NUST School Corporation is a NASDAQ-listed Association of Montreal. Yvonne 03 BComm (int’l. bus.), of Electrical Engineering telecommunications provider. has also volunteered in the was appointed executive and Computer Science in Steven previously practised law school system, working with new director of Apathy is Boring, Islamabad, Pakistan. Osman at the London office of Stikeman Canadian families and children. a democracy education was recently awarded the 2014 Elliott and at a liaison office of organization in Montreal, in Teradata Excellence in IT Stikeman Elliott in Singapore.

58 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine KUDOS

1 2 Join the circle! In recognition of our most valued donors, we are introducing Leadership Circles to recognize your support. 4

3 YounG alumni CirCle Graduates of past five years who give $250 or more

Deans’ CirCle

Annual gifts of $500 to $,999

Adam Fuerstenberg, 1 BA (Eng. and founder of MS MEDIA, a Montreal- PresiDent’s & hist.) 62, was recently awarded the based communications strategy and public CirCle Louis Rosenberg Award for Distinguished relations firm. She also works in production Service in Canadian Jewish Studies by the and voice-over narration. Annual gifts of Association of Canadian Jewish Studies. $2,000 to $4,999 After retiring from Ryerson University, Adam Nicholas Papaxanthos, 4 MA (Eng.) 14, served as the executive director of Toronto’s was recently named the winner of Kalamalka Holocaust Centre. Press’s third annual chapbook award, the Governor’s John Lent Poetry Prose Award, named after CirCle Tony Loffreda, 2 BComm 85, an the Vernon, B.C. poet and author. Nicholas’s executive at the Royal Bank of Canada, was Wearing Your Pants was selected from more Annual gifts of recently honoured with a Governor General’s than 50 manuscripts. He has published one $5,000 to $9,999 Caring Canadian Award. Created in 1995, chapbook and his writing has appeared in a the award recognizes unpaid community number of anthologies and journals. involvement. Governor General David ChanCellor’s Johnston presented the honour to 46 David Tremblay, 5 BA 14, captured CirCle recipients at Rideau Hall in Ottawa on April 7. a gold medal on July 30 in the men’s 61-kilogram wrestling freestyle division at Annual gifts of Marianna Simeone, 3 BA 86, will be the 20th Commonwealth Games. David $0,000 to $24,999 honoured at the 21st YWCA Women of bested Bijneesh Bajrang of India, Vorel Etko Distinction Awards in Montreal on September of Scotland and Arnaud Essindi Sengui of 30. The Canadian-Italian broadcast journalist Cameroon to claim the podium’s top spot. Make your annual gift at will be recognized for her contribution to All three matches took place at the Scottish communications. Marianna is president Exhibition Centre in host city Glasgow. concordia.ca/giving.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 59 KUDOS IN MEMORIAM Journey: Horror, Hope and Happiness. Together, they have been generous supporters John W. Tibbits, S BSc 47, Thelbert J. “Ted” Harper, Kenneth Barlow, S BA 67, Jessica,Jane (Kuczynski) Peter and Roberta.Robinson, Montreal.Sheila C. RuthLanthier, is survived BA (Eng.) by isAlthea survived Seaman, by her BA husband, (Fr.) 86, of a range of cultural, health died on May 23 in Pointe-Claire, S BSc 61, died on July 7 in died on May 18 in Lachute, Que. HeBSc was (math.) 76. 75, Aug. 27, her79, Oct.long-time 4, Montreal. companion, Mendel,BA (Eng.) and 01, her Sept. daughters, 22, Montreal. and educational institutions, Que. John is survived by his Montreal. Ted is survived by his Kenneth is survived by his Lachine, Que. She was 60. SaulShe wasLemkin, 64. and her children, SelinaShe was and 75. Rhona. She among them the Montreal New job? Just moved? Just married? Or just want to let your children, John, Glen and Willa. wife, Hildred, and his children, wife, Gillian, and his children, Judith A. Coggins, S BSc Clara,1 Miriam, Philip and David. 2 was 73. 3 4 Museum of Fine Arts and former classmates know what you’ve been up to? Visit He was 95. Cathy and Gregory. He was 75. Debbie, Dominic and Andrew. 74,Bruce died Baker, on June BEng 21 in(elec.) Ottawa, 76, SheKevin was J. 84.Leonard, BComm 79, Paul R. Guay, BA (poli. sci.) 87, Jewish General Hospital. He was 76. Ont.June Judith 6, Pointe-Claire, was 63. Que. MBA 79, PhD (admin.) 88, July MariaNov. 14, T.K.Montreal. Sweeney, He was BA 53. 89, alumni.concordia.ca/keepintouch Gilbert R. Haldane, L Paul Hecht, S BSc 61, died He was 60. Necdet15, Toronto. Kendir, He was BA 55. 80, died died on June 21 in Montreal. Chantal Pontbriand 7 has, BSc 49, died on May 15 in on May 4 in Montreal. Paul is Robert “Bob” Kinney, Glenn Cole, S BA 74, died on on July 4 in Montreal. Necdet Maria isMichela survived (Mariano) by her Or mail or email us any information throughabout yourself—don’t her work, contributed be shy— Mississauga, Ont. Gilbert is survived by his wife, Carol, and S BA 68, died on May 5 in MayFay Geitzhals,13 in Brantford, BA 76, Ont. Mar. Glenn 3, isMarlene survived (Shea) by his Matulic, wife, Scherly, BA parents,Maggio, RobertBComm and (human Barbara, res. you’d like to appear in Class Acts. to our understanding of some survived by his wife, Joan, and his children, Debra, Jo-Anne, Charleston, S.C. He was 65. wasToronto. 62. She was 60. and(hist.) his 79, children, July 21, Alexander Kirkland, Que.and andmgmt.) her 87,husband, Aug. 20, Michel Montreal. of the most pressing issues in his children, Scott, Neil, Sheila Mark and Nadine. He was 70. Adem.She was He 56. was 59. Adamus.She was 55.She was 44. Please include: your name (includingthe name art atworld graduation); — globalization, year(s) 5 6 7 and Beth. He was 88. Nicholas G. Sikorski, L BSc MaryOlpherts Eleanor A. Gregory, (Gatenby) MSc 76, of graduation and degree(s) from Concordia,artistic heterogeneity Loyola or Sir George, and Henry Laurence “Larry” 68, died on June 1 in Montreal. Marchadier,Apr. 27, Montreal. L BA He 74, was died 86. CarloAnn R. Delli McGowan, Colli, Cert BComm (TESL) EvaPaula (Klein-Racz) Bloomstone-Ben-David, and other universities; street address,contemporaneity. phone number(s) Pontbriand and email is Michael John McFall, S Cullen, Jr., L BA 63, died on Nicholas is survived by his on May 16 in Montreal. Mary Concordia83,79, BAdied (hist.) on honoraryJuly 79, 6Nov. in Montreal. 16, CBC’sGruenwald,BA (creat. The National writing) BA 91,, 89,and died appears and senioraddress; vice-president and any other ofrelevant personala contemporary or business infoart andcritic and BComm 49, died on April 19 March 25 in White Stone, Va. wife, Louise, and his daughter, isBruce survived R.J. byHagerman, her husband, BA 76, doctoratesCarloMontreal. is survived She was by 72. his mother, ononAug. Radio-Canada’s May 30, 18 Passaic, in Montreal. N.J. Les coulisses Eva Marketingmessages and that Planning you’d likeat to appear.curator. She is the founding in Oakville, Ont. Michael is Larry is survived by his siblings, Kimberly. Michael.Mar. 3, Vancouver. She was 75. He was 58. Ida Longo, and his siblings, duisShe pouvoirsurvived was 46.. by her husband, Alaska Airlines. editor of PARACHUTE magazine, survived by his wife, Dorothy, Michaela and Peter. He was 70. FromMaria,Nancy June Giuseppe, L. Kruse,9 to 11, Amato, BFAmore (art than Elvio hist.) Hermann, and her daughters, By email: [email protected] co-founder Subject: Class of the Acts Festival and his children, Joanne, Carole Poitras, S BA 70, VernonConstance Muratoff, Moore, MA S attendee(hist. & 5,000and81, July Enrico. students 16, Roxboro,He wasfrom 51. Concordia’sQue. BryanAnitaRev. Cheryl and Kolb Sandy. Patricia3 is She a professor Stroud,was 83. Michal and Renata Hornstein international de nouvelle By mail: Class Acts, Advancement and Alumni Relations, Maureen, Patricia and Kevin. Peter S. Maslanka, S GrDip (comp. sci.) 93, died on 73,phil. died of rel.) on June76, May 3 in 9, Montreal. Montreal. fourShe facultieswas 80. and School of atGrDip the University (adv. music of perf.) Lethbridge 89, 6 have dedicated their lives danse and the founder of Concordia University, 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., FB 520, He was 85. BComm 63, died on July 26 in April 20 in Verdun, Que. Carole VernonShe was is 83. survived by his GraduateSylvie Domingue, Studies collected BComm knownMonicaJune 21,for Sherbrooke, Nash,his pioneering BA 93, Que. to cultural and philanthropic PONTBRIAND W.O.R.K.S. Montreal, QC H3G 1M8 Montreal. Peter is survived by is survived by her siblings, Bill daughter, Lianne. their84,Oksana died diplomas Melnyk,on May at 13 convocationBSc in Montreal.(biophys. researchdiedShe wason June in66. the 20 field in Comox, of causes. Michal is a real estate (We_Others and Myself_ Camille Di Salvo, L BA 50, his wife, Helen, and his sons, and Brenda. She was 65. McVain Ollivierre, BA 76, ceremoniesSylvieed.) 81, is BEd survived at (TESL) Montreal’s by 90, her neuroscience.B.C. Monica is His survived work explores by executive, while Renata, a poet, Research_Knowledge_Systems). Join the the Concordia University Alumni Association LinkedIn group died on June 3 in Pointe-Claire, Alan and Gary. He was 78. PeterFeb. 21, RaymondMontreal. He Nadeau, was 69. Placeparents,July 26,des RichardMontreal. Arts. The Domingue Sheuniversity was 55.and howherDaniel neuronsparents, J. Haddad, inCheryl the cerebralBComm and Allan, is the author of two books, at alumni.concordia.ca/benefits/olc. Que. Camille is survived by his Pauline (Hawn) Mullins, BA 76, died on May 28 in bestowedJosee Battistini, eight honorary her husband, cortexher(fin.) husband, respond90, Sept. Greg to 6, developmental Calgary.Sankey, including 2008’s A Tumultuous daughters, Carole and Sylvie. Oleg Podymow, S BEng 63, L BA 70, died on June 11 in Ottawa.Barbara Peter Joy (Tolensky)is survived by doctoratesFrançois,Linda Deluca, and at theher BComm ceremonies.daughters, (quant. factorsandHe was her including 47.children, hormones, Chiara and He was 88. died on June 2 in Montreal. Montreal. Pauline is survived by hisSperling, wife, Carolyn, BA (early his child. children, ed.) 76, Tanyamethods) and 82,Sarah. Aug. She 8, Montreal.was 52. stress,Sage. Shedrugs was and 31. injury — and Oleg is survived by his wife, her long-time friend, Christiane Jason,Aug. 22, Jessica Montreal. and She Jordan, was 64. and StuartShe was McLean, 53. 1 BA 71, howHeather the resulting (Wallace) changes affect Lorraine (Pedvis) Anneli, and his children, Tiina Brisson. She was 96. his stepchildren, Michael and wasIlyse honoured J. Segal, for hisBFA unique 84, died ourLynnHutchinson, behaviour. Henderson, BFA 93, BA 95, Lightstone, S BA 51, died on and Eric. He was 82. Kelsey.Dina (Fusaro) He was Cesari,66. BA contributiononJocelyne June 20 Lemyre-Ryan, into Montreal. Canadian Ilyse is diedJune on 2013, June Val 13 David, in Montreal. Que. May 27 in Montreal. Lorraine is Ruth Issenman, L attendee (transl.) 77, May 29, Montreal. culturalsurvivedBA (Fr./Eng. life by and hertransl.) hischildren, commitment 82, July Philip 2, LouisLynnShe was isR. survived 82.Chênevert by her 4 was survived by her children, Lyon Sarah J. Aitken, S 71, died on June 3 in Santa LauraShe was Vadboncoeur, 58. BA 76, toandMontreal. the Robin. education She She was was of 53.young 74. recognizedchildren, Katie, for his Lisa, leadership Peter in and Michael. She was 81. BA 64, died on July 31 in Cruz, Calif. Ruth is survived died on April 23 in Montreal. journalists. An award-winning theandCynthia field Sean. (Grant-Houston)of She aeronautics was 78. and his Montreal. Sarah is survived by her husband, Bernard, and LauraDr. Ursula is survived M. McGuinness, by her journalistDuncanBrian D. Eastman,himselfLittle, —BSc asBComm 86,well died as 83, an commitmentHowarth, BA to (hist.) philanthropy. 95, Wallace J. Penwill, S BSc by her husband, Allan, and her children, Philip, Robert and daughters,BSc (biol.) 77,Cheryl Nov. and 2, Montreal. Andrea, authoronMBA June 87, and 17July humouristin Calgary.8, Montreal. —Duncan McLean LouisAndrewMay 30,is chairman Montreal. Princz, and BFA chief 95, 51, died on July 14 in Toronto. her children, Ian, James and Tina. andShe herwas stepson, 58. Louis. She isisHe thesurvived was host 60. of by The his Vinylparents, Café Peter, a executivediedShe wason June 40.officer 24 inof Quito,United Wallace is survived by his wife, Jennifer. She was 73. was 80. long-runningand Margaret, variety and his show wife, on TechnologiesEcuador. Andrew Corporation is survived and Lorna, and his daughters, Morris Krymalowski, L BA Joseph Muthana, BComm 77, CBCPam.Darlene Radio. He wasLamothe He 49. is also Ramsli, professor chairmanbyLaurie his parents, Taylor of HEC Milliken,Judith Montréal’s and BA Diane Elizabeth and Kathryn Dave Hobus, S BA 64, died 71, died on May 2 in Montreal. MarionMar. 4. He (Valkema-Blouw) was 71. emeritusBComm (acct.)at Ryerson 83, June University, 8. InternationalJoseph,(transl.) and96, JuneAdvisoryhis sisters, 5, Montreal. Board. Georgina. He was 86. on May 31 in Key Largo, Fla. Morris is survived by his Young, BFA 78, died on whereRajpattieShe was he 67.served Persaud- as director of MarinaShe was and 62. Vicky. He was 40. Dave is survived by his wife, mother, Madzia, his wife, Susan, JulyCharlotte 19 in Montreal. Wertheimer, Marion BA 77,is theBillette, broadcast BA 86,division died ofon the Gregg Saretsky 5 was Eugene Edelstein, Sandra, and his children, Kevin, and his children, Sam and survivedMar. 21, Montreal. by her children, She was Carla 78. SchoolAugustPauline of 1 (Kovachik) inJournalism. Montreal. Paterson, Rajpatti is honouredLouyseJasmin Peleg,forLussier, his BComm dynamic BA 96, (mktg.) MA S BA 56, died on May 29 in Kimberly and Rebecca. Elisabeth. and Ian. She was 92. survivedCert (family by herlife husband,ed.) 83, Paul- and03,97, innovativeGrDipdied on (DSA) June leadership 00, 1 in Oct. Montreal. 3, Montreal. Eugene is survived Mitchell Berozofsky, BA ChantalAndré.July 10, She Stittsville, Hébert was 64. Ont.2 is inLouyseMontreal. the airline is survivedShe industry, was 39.by mosther by his children, Kim, Judi Serge Mercille, S BComm Paulette (Kaufman) Lorne(psych.) G. 78, Carlson, July 3, Menifee, renownedShe was 79. for her reasoned, recentlysiblings, with Vince WestJet, and Ann-Marie. where and Chaim. 65, died on July 12 in Longueuil, Majzels, S BA 71, died on May BCommCalif. He 79, was died 57. on June 8 insightfulJoanne analysis(Van Zwol) of the Brais, heSheMark serves was Warren 57.as president Robinson, and Que. Serge is survived by his 19 in Westmount, Que. Paulette in Montreal. Lorne is survived CanadianGrDipHarold (lib. Sharkey, political studies) BAscene 87, (adult died in oned.) chiefBA (geog.) executive 00, officer.June 9, In 2012, William David Yeates, children, Normand, Johanne is survived by her children, byChristine his wife, Anne Donna, (York) and his bothMay83, July English24 in 13, Montreal. Toronto. and French. JoanneHe was She is90. GreggStephenMontreal. led the HeLisiak, launchwas 38. BA of 97,regional S BComm 58, died on July 31 and Jean. Robert and Claudine. children,Shreves, Gregory GrDip (DIA) and 78,Heidi. issurvived a national by heraffairs husband, writer Jeanand carrierdied on WestJet June 20 Encore, in Montreal. an idea in Toronto. William is survived HeJuly was 23, 77. Toronto. She was 59. politicalClaude.Shirley ShecolumnistMiller, was BA 71. with(hist. the & poli. whichStephenRaja Melad,he putis survived toBEng a company- (bldg.) by his 04, by his wife, Frances, and Kathryn Smith, S BA 66, Otto Gal, S MEng 72, died Torontosci.) 84, Star Aug., a 13, guest Laval. columnist wideparents,Aug. vote. 3, Switzerland. Oswald He was and previously Lillian, his his children, Arlene, Arthur died on July 4 in Montreal. on July 17 in Montreal. Otto RuthIrene Ungar,Aronoff-Birnbaum, BFA 78, Oct. 20, withFlorenceShe L’actualitéwas 50. Luger, and BAa member 87, died executivewife,She was Lisa, 31.vice-president and his son, Andrew of and David. Kathryn was 74. is survived by his children, BAToronto. 80, died She on was July 58. 16 in ofon At May Issue, 31 in a Montreal.political panel Florence on FlightJulius. Operations He was 38. and Marketing

60 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine

40 | fall 2011 concordia university magazine concordiaconcordia university university magazine magazine winter fall 20142011 || 4161 IN MEMORIAM

Charles Irwin Heft, BComm Chipman (Chippie) MacDonald, Karen Halpern, BA 75, May 13, 52, April 13, 2014, Montreal. BSc 69, May 26, 2014, Montreal. 2014, Montreal. He was 85. Michael Weiss, BSc 69, October Giovanni Di Lullo, BA 76, Herbert T. English, attendee 6, 2013, Montreal. He was 68. March 3, 2014. 53, March 26, 2014, La Tuque, Que. He was 82. Andrew Elliott, BA 70, March Norman David Swan, BEng 76, 15, 2014, Toronto. April 2, 2014, Outremont, Que. James Gordon MacMillan, He was 66. BComm 56, March 1, 2014, Gregory Lang, BA 70, March Mississauga, Ont. He was 85. 29, 2014, Pierrefonds, Que. Vladimir Gakman, BA 78, May 6, 2014, Toronto. Ange-Aimée Woods, BFA 00, Jay Irving Rubinstein, BComm Donna Viens, BA 70, June 11, GrDip 03, July 2, 2014, 56, MA 88, April 21, 2014, 2014, Estero, Fla. Joan Macpherson Vivian, Montreal. She was 42. Ange- Montreal. He was 81. GrDip 78, June 15, 2014, Aimée graduated from high Gwendolin T. Glencross, BA 71, Montreal. She was 86. school in Tacoma, Wash., before Jean J. LaTraverse, BComm May 19, 2014, Markham, Ont. moving to Montreal in 1991 to 60, April 10, 2014, Montreal. He She was 98. Gwenyth Doucet, GrDip 79, study journalism at Concordia. was 74. June 8, 2014, Chateauguay, She lived in Montreal for 22 Eglons Z. Platups, BSc 71, June Que. She was 95. years, 10 as a producer, editor, Solly Apel, BA 62, June 9, 26, 2014, Montreal. He was 90. reporter and researcher at CBC 2014, Montreal. Bernice (Iscovitch) Goldsmith, Montreal. She moved to Denver Ronald W. Price, BComm 71, BA 79, March 26, 2014, in 2013 to work for the state’s Fred Lackstone, BSc 62, March June 29, 2014, Wentworth, Que. Montreal. She was 79. public broadcaster. Ange-Aimée 26, 2014, Montreal. returned to Montreal in 2014. Doreen Horen-Greenford, BA Glenn Anthony Hogan, BSc 79, Carl Egil Ellingsen, BA 64, May 72, June 23, 2014, Montreal. May 29, 2014, Deux-Montagnes, 16, 2014, Saskatoon. He was 82. Que. John Gerald (Gerry) Mulcair, Johann Hans Lang, MEng 72, BA 41, May 4, 2014, Winnipeg. James G. Whitton, BA 64, Feb. May 31, 2014, Delta, B.C. He Morey Rossman, BEd 79, May He was 93. 14, 2014, Mississauga, Ont. was 86. 25, 2014, Morin-Heights, Que.

P. Benedict Vanier, BA 45, May Gerald Glantz, BSc 66, May 13, Gerald F. Lange, BSc 72, May 21, Michael Dvorsky, BComm 80, 13, 2014, Saint-Jean-de-Matha, 2014, Ottawa. 2014, Colonie, N.Y. He was 65. May 20, 2014, Montreal. He Que. He was 88. was 55. Peter C. L. Michaux, BComm Judith Susan (Kahn) Donald, William S. Aaron, BComm 48, 66, March 18, 2014, Laval, Que. BA 73, April 12, 2014, South Dianna Deborah Dwire, BFA BA 51, Jan. 30, 2014, Montreal. He was 68. Surrey, B.C. 80, April 26, 2014, Montreal. He was 87. Maurice Galley, BA 68, March Martin James McGrath, BA James Patrick Gallagher, BA Raymond Joseph Conrath, BSc 23, 2014. 74, Cert. (adult ed.) 74, Feb. 15, 80, MA 84, April 1, 2014, West 49, June 2014, Waterloo, Que. 2014, Paris, Ont. He was 63. Grey, Ont. Elizabeth Lebas, BA 68, Norma F. Gould, BA 50, Jan. 2, London, U.K. She was 67. Robert (Bob) Westoby, BComm Janet Wai Yee (Wong) Lo, BA 2014, Montreal. She was 85. 74, April 9, 2014, Scottsdale, Ariz. 82, May 5, 2014, Toronto. She Bronius (Bruno) Niedvaras, was 79. Victor Edwin Mitchell, BComm BSc 68, June 1, 2014, Montreal. Eli Barzilay, BA 75, April 22, 50, June 7, 2014, Milton, Ont. 2014, Montreal. He was 63. David H. Jones, BSc 83, June He was 92. Monica Andreas, BSc 69, May 1, 2014, Montreal. He was 56. 2014, Goshen, Mass. She was 65. Franz-Paul Decker, LLD 75, May Anthony Sosnkowski, BSc 51, 19, 2014, Montreal. He was 90. Carol Kelly, BA 83, April 7, June 26, 2014, Charlottetown. Tatsuko (Takahashi) Furuya, 2014, Pointe-Claire, Que. He was 83. BA 69, May 25, 2014, Montreal. Michael Hailstone, BSc 75, Feb. 19, 2014, Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. He was 66.

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 61 WORDS & MUSIC

Soviet secrets, diamond roads and straight punches

eadership Basics for a savage owl attack, Buster Sylvia McNicoll, BA (Eng.) Sabler now lives in Tampa, Frontline Managers wanders lost and starving 78, tells the story of a be- Fla., but is still involved with (CRCL Press, $29.95) offers until he sees the Magic Star, reaved father and son who the Canadian jazz scene; he quick tips for administrators a relic from ancient Babylon immigrate to Hamilton, Ont. was nominated for Guitarist facing the tough reality of that guides him home. at the turn of the 20th centu- of the Year at the Canadian today’s work world. Based Chadwick is an archaeologist ry to start a new life. Shocked Smooth Jazz Awards in 2008. in management theory but and historian. by the death of his mother pulling mainly from his and baby sister to disease, 8:17 PM, Rue Darling more than 20 years Co-authored by Roxanne 12-year-old William Alton (Guernica Editions, $20) is of experience, Bill Davies, BA (hist. & Eng.) takes avid interest in a fly- the debut book translation Templeman, BA (psych.) 67, 76, Olga: The O.K. Way catching contest. McNicoll, a by John Gilmore, BFA 81. argues today’s professionals to a Healthy, Happy Life Burlington, Ont., resident, The novel, written by Quebec have to develop “not only (FriesenPress, $29.99) tells has taught creative writing, filmmaker Bernard Émond,

skills and knowledge, but the story of the late Olga edited Today’s Parent and trav- is the story of an alcoholic mindset and attitude.” Kotelko, nonagenarian and elled the world on book tours. former Le Journal de Montréal Templeman is a self- star Canadian track and reporter struggling to redeem employed program designer, field athlete. A teacher for Les Sabler, BFA 78, had no his life after a chance escape writer and facilitator. He 43 years, Kotelko took up formal guitar training be- from death. The compassion- started Ascent Associations, competitive sports after fore coming to study music ate, humorous novel takes a coaching practice in retirement, winning 750 at Concordia. Now he has some caustic digs at Plateau Peterborough, Ont., in 1993. gold medals and holding released his seventh studio Montréal residents and in- more than 30 world records. album, Jobim Tribute cludes a cameo by Pierre Robert Chadwick, MA (rel.) The O.K. Way motivates (New Vista Records, $21.04), Elliot Trudeau. Gilmore was a 73, excavates a fantastic readers to embark on their which features 12 tracks ex- visiting researcher last fall in 10,000-year history between own journey to health and ploring the work of Brazilian Concordia’s Centre cats and humans in Buster and well-being. Davies is a jazz composer Antonio Carlos for Oral History and the Magic Star (Les Éditions Vancouver-area journalist. Jobim. The album mixes Digital Storytelling. Champ Fleury, $20.73), a story seven vocal tracks and five about a domestic cat lost in Revenge on the Fly (Pajama instrumentals, and its release Martin Barry, BA (comm. the woods of Quebec’s Eastern Press, $12.95), the latest coincides with the 20th an- studies) 85, has just pub- Townships. The victim of novel for young adults by niversary of Jobim’s death. lished Le Secret De Mhorag

62 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine – Tome 3: Les profond- The book won the 2013 Ryan Catherine Breithaupt, misadventures — and the co- eurs du lac oublié (Libre José Saramago Prize, an BA (French studies) 04, lourful characters he meets Expression, $29.95), the fi- award for outstanding sings heartfelt folk-rock on working everywhere from an nal volume of the Le Secret De Portuguese-language litera- her band’s self-titled debut organic farm to the famed Mhorag fantasy trilogy. The ture. Stephen teaches Spanish album, The Diamond Roads Edinburgh Fringe Festival. French young-adult series, American literature at the (thediamondroads.bandcamp. thetraveller.ca which includes Le passage University of Guelph and is com, $10). Breithaupt, who interdit (2011) and La prison general editor of Biblioasis hails from London, Ont., The ease and abstraction de verre (2012), tells the saga International Translation. earned the playful nickname of communicating online is of lake monsters and is set “thunder lungs” for her today’s defining trope. In in present-day and medieval In Straight Punch (Orca powerful vocals. The duo’s New Tab (Véhicule Press, Ireland and Scotland. Barry Book Publishers, $12.95), other half is Winnipeg na- $19.95), a debut novel, is a screenwriter and TV di- the 15th novel for young tive Ian MacIntosh. Their CD Guillaume Morissette, rector and started his career adults by Monique Polak, offers a repertoire of origi- BA (creative writing) 13,

as an animation filmmaker MA (Eng.) 84, Montreal teen nal creations and inventive captures the depersonalized at the National Film Board Tessa McPhail gets sent to covers of their personal fa- connectivity of his generation of Canada. an alternative school where vourites, including a Lee in Thomas, a 26-year-old students spend afternoons Hazelwood number penned video game designer and Canadian fiction writ- learning to box. Tessa has an for Nancy Sinatra. part-time creative writing er and academic Stephen aversion to violence — and student (read: hipster), Henighan, MA 86, has her fellow students. When a With his 30th birthday loom- who calls his hair a “hostage translated Angolan author neighbour starts a petition ing, Daniel Baylis, BA 08, situation.” CBC Radio’s Ondjaki’s latest novel into to have the school closed, decided to quit his job to Jonathan Goldstein calls English. Told from the voice Tessa discovers something travel — and volunteer in the book, “Weird, poetic, of a child conniving against worth fighting for — in and a different country every funny, and original.” The Russian soldiers to protect out of the ring. As part of month for a year. His mem- story is set in Montreal, his grandmother’s home- her research for the novel, oir, The Traveller (Sparks, Morissette’s home. stead, Granma Nineteen Polak, a freelance journalist $19), takes us from Peru —Kayla Morin and the Soviet’s Secret and teacher at Montreal’s to India to the Australian (Biblioasis, $18.95) is set in Marianopolis College, has outback and beyond. With a socialist, Angolan neigh- been taking private boxing humour and spirit, Baylis bourhood in the 1980s. lessons since 2011. tells of his adventures — and

concordia university magazine fall 2014 | 63 ENOUGH SAID

Remember when you had The things no cares in this world? you do for love

JEANIE KEOGH, BFA 02 eogh K

hen I graduated from eanie J of

Concordia in 2002, I esy thought a successful life t our

Wwas simple: work hard, impress the C right people, don’t back down on your JEANIE KEOGH LITERALLY WENT HALFWAY AROUND THE WORLD TO BE WITH HER BOYFRIEND, ATTILIO FALLETTA. THEY’RE PICTURED IN THE PAMIR MOUNTAINS (AT 4,200 METRES) IN TAJIKISTAN. goals. That life has been considerably less linear than my 22-year-old brain could imagine is an understatement. I dropped the “it’s over” relationship sip of water knowing we were both For one, falling in love turned my well- ender on day four of the trip, at the side dehydrated, hypothermic and dozens constructed master plan into a choose- of the road after my gears had busted of kilometres from a water source. your-own adventure book. on a 3,000-metre uphill climb in At that moment, it hit me like a I met my jet-lagged boyfriend-to-be, 35-degree Celcius heat. 100-kilometre-an-hour headwind: Attilio Falletta, three and a half years Attilio smiled and told me I was invited My master plan no longer existed with- ago in a Vancouver restaurant the day he to bike with him for the remaining 1.5 out Attilio. The next day, as we left the arrived from Belgium. My intention was years of his journey. I had been willing to mountain range that nearly killed us to act as his tour guide. 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64 | fall 2014 concordia university magazine Remember when you had no cares in this world?

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