volume 23, no. 2 fall/winter 2011 The Magazine

No ordinary Joe The extraordinary art of Joe Fafard

The 2011 Alumni Crowning Achievement Award recipients (left to right) Outstanding Young Alumnus Award recipient Rachel Mielke BAdmin’03; Ross Mitchell BSc’86(High Honours), MSc’89, Award for Professional Achievement; Eric Grimson, Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Robert and Norma Ferguson Award for Outstanding Service recipient Twyla Meredith BAdmin’82; Bernadette Kollman BAdmin’86, Distinguished Humanitarian and Community Service Award recipient. Photo by Don Hall, University of Regina Photography Department.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 1 On September 16, 2011 have endured for 30 years. The Founders’ Dinner in February the University of Regina would the University lost a great University was the first post- that he could not attend. have been without Lloyd Barber. administrator, colleague and secondary institution in Despite being tethered to an For 14 years he gave as much friend. Dr. Lloyd Barber was to establish such relationships. oxygen tank and having to of himself to the University the second president and Upon his retirement in 1990, make his way around his home of Regina as anyone has ever vice-chancellor of the University Barber was presented with a on an electric scooter, Barber given. I can’t say for sure if he of Regina and shepherded bronze sculpture of himself entertained us for hours with fully appreciated the mark that it through its early, shaky sculpted by the subject of stories from his days in the he left on the place. I wonder if independent days, under mostly our cover story – artist Joe president’s office. he found satisfaction knowing trying financial conditions. Fafard. Fafard and Barber He talked about a leaky office that for generations, students Barber was president when I aren’t connected solely by the ceiling and having to put plastic at the University of Regina will was an undergraduate student sculpture. The two also share a bags on his desk to keep his walk across the Dr. Lloyd Barber in the early 1980s. I remember number of awards and honours: papers dry in case it rained Academic Green to attend him walking the hallways, both are Order of during the night. He talked classes that will turn sparks of sporting his trademark marine- Merit recipients. They received of having to get replacement curiosity into flames of curiosity corps-style brush cut and Saskatchewan Centennial parts for the telephone system and ultimately help them think smoking his ever-present pipe. Medals on the same night, from Mexico, the only place more critically. I don’t know for Barber was a pioneer. He was September 4, 2005. They are that could supply the aging sure, but I suspect so. instrumental in establishing the both Officers of the Order U of R system. He talked of As former U of R president Jim Saskatchewan Indian Federated of Canada (Barber was later the educational innovation Tompkins put it in the closing College, the forerunner of promoted to Companion of and the niche academic moments of Barber’s memorial University of the Order of Canada). And, programming that the U of R service held in front of close to Canada. For that and other Barber was on the convocation implemented. He talked of the 1,500 in the main gymnasium contributions he made to First stage as president when Fafard spark of curiosity that higher of the University’s Centre for Nations education he was made received his University of Regina education can impart on eager Kinesiology, Health and Sport, honorary Saskatchewan Indian honorary degree in 1989. students. He talked about how “To Lloyd I say, thank you. Rest Chief Little Eagle in 1980 and Last year, on a sunny, early a great education can turn well my friend. You’ve earned received the Aboriginal Order of winter day, I was fortunate those sparks of curiosity into it.” Canada in 1985. enough to spend an afternoon flames of curiosity. Mostly he Barber was a visionary. In with Barber at his Regina Beach talked about the significance Lloyd Barber is survived by the early 1980s he led the home. We were there with his of a university education and his wife of 55 years, Duna, six University of Regina delegation granddaughter, Kaytlyn, to how valuable it was for society children and 27 grandchildren. to China and established conduct a videotaped interview to produce graduates who can agreements with Chinese that was to be played at a think critically. Greg Campbell post-secondary institutions that special University of Regina It’s hard to imagine what

2 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Greg Campbell BFA’85, BJ’95 Editor

Anna Willey CPR’96 Director, Communications and Marketing

Alumni Association Board 2011-12:

Richard Kies BAdmin’93, CPR’03 President

Sean McEachern BEd’03 Past President

Gwen Keith BEd’74, MEd’77, PGDEA’83 First Vice-President The University of Regina Magazine Jeff Maystruck BBA’08 Fall/Winter 2011 Second Vice-President volume 23, no. 2 Colin Woloshyn BAdmin’99 Vice-President Finance

Margaret Dagenais CVTEd’87, BVTEd’91, MEd’97 On the cover: Former University of Regina art instructor Joe Fafard near his studio U of R Senate Representative at his country residence Chez Nous. Photo by Don Hall, University of Regina Greg Swanson BAdmin’76 Photography Department. Past-President Council Representative

Lisa King BEd’78 U of S Senate representative

Kent Peterson BBA’11 URSU Representative

Don Burns BA’97, MPA’05 Linda Dewhirst BA’75, MVTEd’04 Bob Friedrich BA’76, CPSTST’07 Brian Hillier DDA’04, BA’04, MBA’09, MHRM’11 Jay Kirkland BAHon’99 Curt Schroeder CA’96, CCS’03

Contributors Bill Armstrong 14 24 30 Gregory Abraszko Shannon Bachorick Sabrina Cataldo BA’97, BJ’99, CPR’04 Sheldon Gordon Don Hall features as president of First Nations Trevor Hopkin University of Canada, the Andrew Konoff successor of the institution he Nick Miliokas 2011 Alumni Crowning Diane Mullan Achievement Awards 8 taught at all those years ago. Dianne Olmstead This year’s ACAA recipients Deborah Sproat came literally from all over Mr. Yeates All photos by the University of Regina North America to take part in goes to 34 Photography Department unless this year’s special centennial U of R alumnus Neil Yeates otherwise noted. Original design and is Canada’s highest ranking layout by Bradbury Branding and Design. ceremony. Meet them up close and personal. immigration bureaucrat at Degrees is published twice a year by a crucial time. What does External Relations at the University No ordinary Joe 14 reassessment look like for of Regina. The magazine is mailed to Citizenship and Immigration alumni and friends of the University. Joe Fafard has established Ideas and opinions published in Degrees himself as one of Canada and what are the do not necessarily reflect those of the Saskatchewan’s most well potential impacts on the editor, the Alumni Association or the country and those new University of Regina. Letters and editorial respected and popular artists. contributions are welcome. Advertising He is also inextricably linked to seeking to relocate to inquiries are invited. the University of Regina. the true north, strong and free? To reach us: Harvest of plenty – the Editorial/Advertising/Letters struggles of farm women 24 departments Degrees, External Relations Amber Fletcher is a University 210 North Residence, University of Regina Feed Back 2 3737 Wascana Parkway of Regina doctoral candidate Regina, Sask. S4S 0A2 studying how changes in farm President’s Note 4 Ph: (306) 585-4402 Fax: (306) 585-4997 policy impact the lives of farm E-mail: [email protected] Around Campus 5 women. Address Change/Alumni Relations Spot Light 21 210 North Residence, University of Regina Anderson comes 3737 Wascana Parkway Focal Point 22 Regina, Sask. S4S 0A2 full circle 30 Ph: (306) 585-4112 Fax: (306) 585-4997 Early in his career, Doyle Alumni President’s E-mail: [email protected] Anderson was an assistant Message 38 Toll-free: 877-779-4723 (GRAD) (in Canada and the U.S.) professor at the Saskatchewan Class Notes 39 Indian Federated College’s University of Regina homepage campus. Now, 360 Degrees 42 www.uregina.ca after spending time outside Publication Mail Agreement Number the country, Anderson has 40065347 come full circle. He’s back Return undeliverable magazines to: in Saskatchewan this time External Relations 210 North Residence, University of Regina 3737 Wascana Parkway Regina, Sask. S4S 0A2

ISSN 0843-7092 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 3 President’s Note It has been an activity-filled Convocation stage with our entitled Honouring Our and Darke Hall. Restoring the autumn and early winter around graduates, sharing in the joy Past, Embracing Our Future: historic College Avenue Campus the University of Regina, with and excitement they feel as they Celebrating a Century of – to be known as the University many milestone events and are rewarded for their years of Excellence in Education at the of Regina Leadership and initiatives taking place. hard work and commitment. University of Regina Campus. Outreach Centre – will continue I’m pleased to report that As we work together to Published by the University to support our academic the 2011 Alumni Homecoming ensure as many students as of Regina’s Canadian Plains mission. The project will also was a tremendous success, as possible have the opportunity Research Center, the book is continue to honour the College Alumni Association President to graduate, we have launched a beautiful collection of more Avenue Campus’ primary Richard Kies and I welcomed a new initiative that I am than 100 archival and modern benefactor, Mr. F.N. Darke, alumni, family, friends optimistic will help very much. photos selected by University of whose vision for Darke Hall in and other members of our In keeping with the objectives Regina Photography Department the 1920s was to build a temple extended University of Regina of our strategic plan, we manager Don Hall and the to the arts, and a centre of community to the University. formed an Aboriginal Advisory President’s Office senior cultural activity for the college The culmination of the weekend Circle to help address the researcher Stephen King, with and the community. was the Alumni Crowning challenges Aboriginal students accompanying text by history The day after the book Achievement Awards, which face while pursuing post- professor Jim Pitsula. launch, “University of Regina sold out two weeks before the secondary education. Made up The text, which encapsulates Day” was declared by the City event and was attended by of Aboriginal employees, this Jim’s three books on the history of Regina to acknowledge the 271 guests. The evening was group is dedicated to making of the University, and the 100th anniversary of the laying enjoyed by all, and ended with a our campus more attuned to photographs – carefully selected of the cornerstone of Regina spectacular display of fireworks. meeting the needs of Aboriginal from the University of Regina College, which took place on In early October we marked students and staff, and I look Archives, the Saskatchewan October 25, 1911. To celebrate the 30-year anniversary of forward to working with the Archives Board, and Don’s own the day, we encouraged the University of Regina’s members in the months ahead. collection of photos – together everyone to wear University of relationship with China As we think about the provide a fascinating glimpse Regina clothing. In addition, through a special celebration University of Regina’s exciting into our campus’ 100-year students and employees had that included visiting Chinese future, it is also important to history. The book is available the opportunity to ride to City dignitaries, the unveiling of reflect on our history. Over at the University of Regina Hall on the City of Regina’s a new book on our shared the past year, we have been Bookstore as well as through special University of Regina- history and the opening of celebrating the University’s the Canadian Plains Research themed bus so they could the University’s Confucius centennial and 100 years of Center, with proceeds going participate in a special flag- Institute, a non-profit institution excellence in education. We to the renewal of the historic raising ceremony. dedicated to promoting Chinese enjoyed many special events College Avenue Campus. As you can see, this fall has language and culture. over the course of 2011, such The planned renewal of been an exciting and productive In the midst of these special as the University of Regina the College Avenue Campus time for everyone associated events was our annual Fall Founders’ Dinner, Trudeau took another step forward the with the University of Regina. Convocation, which saw 518 Foundation Lecture series, day the centennial book was As this centennial year comes graduates from all over the unveiling of a Canada Post launched. That day, I took to a close and the holiday world earn degrees, diplomas centennial commemorative the opportunity to formally season approaches, please take and certificates. While there envelope, and President’s announce our vision for serving the opportunity to reflect on are many events I attend over Centennial Gala. To cap off the community for the next 100 our shared history – and look the course of a year in my role our centennial celebrations, years. “Building Knowledge – forward to a bright future at our as president, the spring and however, I wanted to initiate The College Avenue Campus University. fall convocations will always a lasting memento for the Renewal Project” is an initiative remain among my favourites. University community. that will fully realize a restored Vianne Timmons I find it inspiring to be on the That memento is a book College Building, Conservatory President and Vice-Chancellor

4 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Left: University of Regina Board of Governors Chair Paul McLellan. Centre: University of Regina Board of Governors Vice-Chair Lee Elliott. Right: University of Regina Heating and Cooling Plant.

Briefly appointed to a term that runs The Heating and Cooling Plant The recently completed until April 30, 2012. He is at the University was among University of Regina United The University Board of completing a second degree in four Canadian buildings to Way Campaign raised more Governors has a decidedly new theatre. win the 2011 Prix du XXe than $107,000, its largest look. Paul McLellan BAdmin’81, Siècle Award for enduring total ever and in the process MBAdmin’09, a Regina Continuing on the Board quality and influence on surpassed its goal by more than businessman who graduated of Governors are ex-officio contemporary architecture. The $12,000. This year’s campaign from the University with a member Chancellor William F. plant, designed by acclaimed total represents a 100 per cent bachelor of administration in Ready, QC, LLD (Honorary)’89; Canadian architect Clifford increase from just five years 1981, has been elected the new President and Vice-Chancellor Wiens, has been a landmark ago and realized a ten per cent Board chair. He is president of Vianne Timmons; Patrick Maze in Regina since it was built increase in donors this year Sun Electric Ltd., president and BA’92, BEd’96, MEd’05; Past- 40 years ago, and remains alone. The goal of this year’s CEO of Mancon Holdings Ltd., Chair Susan Barber QC, BA’84; an impressive example of campaign was to raise $95,000. and general manager and CEO Brenda Barootes BSc’84; and innovative and expressive of Alliance Energy Ltd. Stuart Pollon. modernist architecture. Ken Probert MA’71 a long- The Heating and Cooling serving University of Regina Lee Elliott BA’88, MBAdmin’08 The University hosted more Plant provides heated and faculty member in the has been elected the new vice- than 25 delegates from China chilled water to the University Department of English passed chair of the Board of Governors. during special events held campus buildings, and is away suddenly on November A business entrepreneur and October 4 and 5 to celebrate distinguished by a unique 8. Probert joined the University management consultant from the 30th anniversary of the A-frame form of exposed 1982 and retired in 2010. White City, Sask., Elliott has institution’s relationship with precast concrete and steel. The been the owner and manager of China. The University was one Prix du XXe Siècle Award was Comings and goings End of the Roll in Regina since of the first Canadian post- created in 2007 by the Royal 1997. secondary institutions to sign Architectural Institute of Canada Daniel Gagnon has been a formal partnership with a and recognizes the enduring appointed the new dean of Elaine Bourassa BAdmin’84 higher education institution excellence of nationally Science. He comes to the has been elected to the Board in China when the People’s significant architecture. University from the Université of Governors by the University Republic of China opened its du Québec à Montréal where he of Regina Senate. Bourassa is a door to the world. Since that University of Regina President served as a professor of biology. chartered accountant with more time, the University of Regina and Vice-Chancellor Vianne He earned a BSc(Hons) at the than 35 years of experience has developed relationships Timmons has been appointed University of Ottawa, an MSc in finance and administration with approximately 50 Chinese honorary Consul General at the Université de Montréal roles with companies such institutions. in Saskatchewan for the and a doctorate in botany at the as Greystone Managed As part of the celebration, the Republic of Korea. The overall University of British Columbia. Investments, IMC Potash, and University officially launched the responsibility of the honorary He joins the University of SaskEnergy. Confucius Institute. Developed Consul General is to represent Regina after a 29-year career in partnership with Hunan the Government of the Republic at the Université du Québec à Mark Brigham, head of the University, the Confucius of Korea to promote economic Montréal. The appointment will Department of Biology, has Institute is the first of its kind in development and trade, and take effect on January 1 2012. been elected as the faculty Saskatchewan. The Confucius the exchange of art, science representative to the Board of Institute is a non-profit institution and education between Wanda Kontak Deschamps Governors. He has received a that will contribute to meeting Saskatchewan and South Korea. has been appointed associate University of Regina Alumni the increasing demand for In addition, the honorary Consul vice-president (Development). Award in both public service Chinese-language learning in General provides consular Kontak Deschamps comes to the and teaching. Regina and Saskatchewan. It will services to Korean nationals University after 10 years working offer academic instruction in the residing in the province and in Nova Scotia with Ketchum Kent Peterson BBA’11, president areas of Chinese language, to persons who plan to travel Canada Inc. While there, she of the University of Regina history, cultural­ diversity, artistic to South Korea for business or consulted for a variety of clients Students’ Union, has been traditions and business practices. personal reasons. including University of King’s

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 5 College, Saint Mary’s University, professor and senior of nature interact and form Saskatchewan, which has the QEII Health Sciences Centre, research scientist at the the universe. The fundamental highest rates of sexual assault Dalhousie Medical Research Prairie Adaptation Research research being conducted in Canada, highest rates of Foundation and others. Prior Collaborative. The University will in this project is part of the spousal homicide and higher- to working as a consultant she partner with the Universidad de international Tokai-to-Kamioka than-average rates of intimate worked in the development and Chile in its work on the five-year (T2K) project in Japan. This partner violence. alumni areas at Dalhousie and project, which will also involve research will help to improve The SSHRC grant was awarded Mount Saint Vincent Universities. collaboration with researchers humankind’s knowledge of our through the Community- and decision-makers in natural world and inspire the University Research Alliance Former University of Regina Argentina, Brazil and Colombia. next generation of scientists in (CURA) program and will support dean of the Faculty of Social Sauchyn has been at the their quest to understand the research investigating intimate Work David Schantz has been forefront of research looking creation of the universe. partner violence in the Prairie appointed vice-president into climate change and provinces and the Northwest Academic and Research at adaptation for years, including A $2.7 million investment Territories. Currently, little data Algoma University in Sault Ste involvement in a 2008 Natural through the Canada- is available about rural and Marie, Ontario. In his new role Resources Canada report which Saskatchewan Western northern communities’ incidence at Algoma, Schantz will have a found that the climate of the Economic Partnership of intimate partner violence broad range of responsibilities Prairies is warming faster than Agreement (WEPA) is funding and, as a result, resources that touching on academic the global average, potentially the building and commissioning respond to this social problem, programming, research support, leading to an increasing number of a feed-flexible and process- or knowledge of how to improve strategic planning, budgeting, of extreme events such as flexible precommercial community responses to and the recruitment of faculty drought and excess water. hydrogen production intimate partner violence, are and students. demonstration plant. The H2 poor. The latest round of Natural Plant project will demonstrate Eighteen academic Research news Sciences and Engineering new and innovative ways researchers and 15 community Research Council of Canada to produce hydrogen in an partners comprise the CURA Kristi Wright BA(Hons)’00, (NSERC) grants, scholarships environmentally sustainable research team. The project MA’02, a faculty member in the and fellowships amount to manner. The pilot plant is will bring together researchers Faculty of Arts, and Rebecca a $1.9 million investment by intended to commercially prove from universities in each of Genoe, a member of the Faculty the Government of Canada in new hydrogen technologies the three Prairie provinces and of Kinesiology, have been research at the University of that have been successfully Northwest Territories, as well awarded funding through the New Regina. The funding has been tested on a lab scale at the as co-applicants, collaborators Investigator Establishment grant awarded to 14 researchers International Test Centre for and partners including program by the Saskatchewan through the NSERC Discovery CO2 Capture located on the governmental justice, social Health Research Foundation. Grants Program, as well as five University campus. Once services and shelters. Wright’s project will graduate students and one commercialized, these new Over five years, the team develop and evaluate an post-doctoral fellow through the technologies will help to will work together to generate interactive, Internet-delivered NSERC 2011 Scholarships and improve the energy sector, information to improve preoperative preparation Fellowships competition. including ethanol and bio-diesel response to intimate partner program for parents and their Among those researchers production. The University of violence in rural and northern children – a program with high receiving funding is Renata Regina would own and operate communities. GIS mapping, potential for widespread use Raina, associate professor the plant and hold ownership of interviews with key informants in Saskatchewan hospitals. of chemistry, who was the new technologies developed and community profiles will Genoe’s project will explore awarded $140,000 to study through its research. Canada generate a model to address the the role of leisure on older the concentration and and Saskatchewan committed needs of communities as well Saskatchewanians’ ability to transportation of pesticides in $25 million each to a renewed as suggest effective responses cope with chronic obstructive the air in three key agricultural four-year Canada-Saskatchewan to intimate partner violence in pulmonary disease. The grant regions in Western Canada Western Economic Partnership these areas of Canada. program aims to build health throughout the growing season. Agreement in 2009. The research capacity and help new This new information will help Agreement works to strengthen Gifts Saskatchewan researchers enter the agricultural industry better economic activity and improve the highly competitive research understand the effects of quality of life in western Former University of Regina scene. pesticides on the environment Canadian communities. employee Walter Raff has and air quality in these different endowed more than $300,000 University researchers have agricultural regions and help Luther College psychology to the Dr. John Archer Library. been awarded $1.25 million to develop improved management professor Mary Hampton has Funds from the Walter Raff study how climate change will practices for pesticide use. been awarded a $1 million grant Collection Development impact the Prairies, especially from the Social Science and Endowment will be used to regarding the agricultural Physics professors Edward Humanities Research Council acquire books for the Library industry and indigenous Mathie and Mauricio Barbi and (SSHRC) to conduct research in the collection holdings in communities. TRIUMF scientist Roman Tacik into intimate partner violence. English literature and history The project will be led by have received a $160,225 award Intimate partner violence is and philosophy of Western David Sauchyn, a geography to study how the building blocks a serious social problem in Europe.

6 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Left: Nick Carleton. Right: Mathew Fetzner.

Raff worked in the Dr. John University Microfilms University of Regina graduate inaugural recipients. Mary Archer Library from 1965 to International (UMI) student Mathew Fetzner MA’11, Hampton from Luther College 1988 and after his retirement Distinguished Dissertation a doctoral student in the Department of Psychology is the continued to serve the Award. The award recognizes Department of Psychology, other recipient. Hampton is the University by volunteering doctoral students whose received one of 167 prestigious President’s Chair for Academic his time in the Library. For dissertations make an original 2011 Vanier Canada Graduate Excellence in Scholarly Teaching more information on planned contribution to their academic Scholarships from Prime and Community Outreach. giving, visit www.uregina.ca/ field. Carleton is the first Minister Stephen Harper She is best known for bringing campaign/planned-giving. University of Regina graduate in August. The awards are her research and community to receive the award, which has presented to graduate students connections into the classroom, The Saskatchewan Blue been presented since 1994. from across Canada and around thus creating a scholarly Cross donated $100,000 to This marks the first time that the world who are pursuing their environment that provides help support the University’s a doctoral student studying doctoral studies at Canadian undergraduate students with Love2Live Program at the Dr. at a post-secondary institute universities. Fetzner will receive unique learning opportunities. Paul Schwann Applied Health in Saskatchewan has ever $150,000 ($50,000 per year Her research focusses on and Research Centre. The received this celebrated award. for three years) through the intimate partner violence. program, established in 2010, The award is an outstanding Canadian Institutes of Health helps southern Saskatchewan acknowledgement of the high Research (CIHR). Fetzner’s Master’s of fine arts student residents reduce their risk calibre of our graduate students research will study the effects Zane Wilcox has received factors for cardiovascular and the contributions they are of aerobic exercise on reducing the International Sculpture disease and manage chronic making through their research post-traumatic stress disorder, Center’s Outstanding Student diseases such as diabetes, and scholarly endeavours. which could ultimately relieve Achievement in Contemporary cancer and stroke. In addition to winning the the physical and mental Sculpture Award for 2011. CAGS/UMI award, Carleton is suffering of thousands of Based in Hamilton, N.J., the Former Regina resident Sylvia the recent recipient of the 2011 people while reducing the International Sculpture Center Aumuller gifted the University Governor General’s Academic economic burden on Canada’s received 1,200 submissions more than $275,000 to create Gold Medal, which recognizes health-care system. This is the from 485 students at 190 the Sylvia Aumuller Awards the most outstanding academic first Vanier scholarship awarded colleges and universities from Fund at the Paul J. Hill School performance of a graduate to a doctoral student at the 16 countries. A panel selected of Business. The awards, to student. He also received University and will help attract 15 winners. This is the first be given annually, will present the University of Regina’s high-calibre doctoral students time that a student from the three undergraduate students Outstanding Young Alumnus worldwide. University of Regina has been with $5,000 each. Aumuller Award in October 2010, which selected as a winner by the worked as a financial accountant recognizes graduates under The first two recipients of International Sculpture Center. with Alex Marion Restaurants. the age of 35 who are making the new President’s Chairs Wilcox grew up on a farm Eligibility requirements and significant contributions in for Academic Excellence, a near Stalwart, Sask. He earned application deadline for the their field, as well as the 2010 new award unveiled as part a cooking diploma at Vancouver Sylvia Aumuller Awards Fund President’s Distinguished of the celebration of the Community College, and in Business Administration are Graduate Student Award, University’s centennial and then a bachelor of music in located at www.uregina.ca/ which is given to the student its 100 years of excellence in composition at the University of awards/scholarships. deemed to have achieved an education, were named in July. British Columbia. He owned and exceptional thesis, exhibition or Gordon Asmundson, a faculty operated a ceramics studio in Congratulations performance and corresponding member in the Department Saskatoon before entering the defence, and who had an of Psychology, a fellow of master of fine arts program at Nick Carleton BAdmin’01, outstanding academic the Royal Society of Canada, the University of Regina. BA(Hons)’02, MA’05, PhD’10 performance in their graduate director of the Traumatic Stress is the 2011 recipient of the year. Currently, Carleton is Group and the President’s Canadian Association for an assistant professor of Chair in Adult Mental Health Graduate Studies (CAGS)/ psychology in the Faculty of Arts. Research, is one of the

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 7 2 011 Alumni Crowning Achievement Awards

The Alumni Crowning Achievement Awards were established in 2005 to celebrate University of Regina alumni who have realized extraordinary achievements and made remarkable contributions to the University and their community. The seventh annual Alumni Crowning Achievement Awards gala was held on Saturday, October 1 during University of Regina Homecoming celebrations. Meet this year’s deserving recipients in the pages that follow.

by Deborah Sproat

Photos by the University of Regina Photography Department unless otherwise noted.

8 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Eric Grimson BSc’75 (High Honours) Lifetime Achievement Award

ritically ill patients undergoing surgery and thousands of students are among the many that have benefitted from Eric Grimson’s love of research and teaching. The University of Regina is celebrating Grimson’s Cmany accomplishments in both areas by awarding him the 2011 Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes an alumnus who has distinguished himself or herself on a regional, national or international basis. Grimson graduated from the University of Regina with a bachelor of science (high honours) in mathematics and physics in 1975. He earned a PhD in mathematics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, Photo: Adam Hunger Photography Hunger Adam Photo: Mass., in 1980. He went on to build a career as a faculty member at MIT, opportunities in science and technology or developing new culminating in his appointment as chancellor earlier this curriculums, has given him great satisfaction. year. Prior to this appointment, he was the Bernard Gordon In his new job as chancellor, Grimson is one of the top Professor of Medical Engineering and head of the Department two academic officers at MIT. He supports the president by of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. handling all aspects of MIT dealing with students, as well As a researcher, Grimson has worked to develop computer as serving as one of the senior officers responsible for MIT’s systems that can be used to analyse images and infer strategic direction. information about them. One use of this technology is the Guiding the development of curriculums; fostering new analysis of medical images. modes of teaching, especially those that use emerging “Our systems build detailed, three-dimensional models technology; supporting entrepreneurship opportunities for of patient-specific anatomy, which are then used to provide students; and guiding the creation of opportunities for students surgeons with guidance during surgery,” he says. “This enables in areas such as athletics, public service and global experiences minimally invasive neurosurgical procedures, in which the are Grimson’s main priorities. surgeon operates through a small opening, yet accurately and Grimson said his years at the U of R, and in particular the safely reaches and removes a tumour.” mentorship provided by some of the faculty members he Grimson says it is extremely satisfying to know that the encountered, helped him to grow intellectually and gave him research he and his graduate students have done has been the confidence needed to succeed at MIT. used in hundreds of neurosurgical cases, enabling surgeons to “I was fortunate to have a set of inspiring faculty members complete procedures in less time, with less collateral damage, who encouraged me to aim high, who provided me with and with improved patient outcomes. opportunities and who fostered a strong sense of tackling As a teacher, he has focussed on undergraduate education, challenging situations by reasoning from basic principles,” he in particular introductory courses in computer science. says. Throughout his 27 years at MIT, he has taught more than Though his career has taken him far from Regina, he is 10,000 students, supervised close to 50 PhD students and was pleased to be coming back to accept this award. awarded the Bose Award for Excellence in Teaching in the “I would never have reached this point in my career without School of Engineering at MIT. the strong foundations that I gained through my four years at He says this aspect of his work, whether it’s been offering U of R,” he says. “Being acknowledged by my alma mater in this advice on career paths, making students aware of the exciting way is a wonderful honour.”

At left: The 2011 Alumni Crowning Achievement Award recipients received a modified version of one of the panels from Joe Fafard’s Le Jardin de l’esprit, the sculpture that sits north of the University’s Ad Hum Building.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 9 Ross Mitchell BSc’86(High Honours), MSc’89 Award for Professional Achievement

pending co-operative terms at the Allan Blair Cancer Centre in Regina convinced Ross Mitchell that he wanted to apply his computer skills to the field of medicine. SThat specialization didn’t even have a name in the 1980s when Mitchell was an undergraduate at the University of Regina. Today, it is called biomedical informatics and Mitchell is at the forefront of research into applying technology to improve health-care delivery and patient outcomes. At the same time, as co-founder and founding scientist of Calgary Scientific Inc. (CSI), he has taken a leadership role in ensuring what’s learned by researchers becomes commercialized and can Photo: Todd Korol Photography Korol Todd Photo: have widespread impact. Mitchell is the 2011 recipient of the Alumni Award for will be better for the patient and better for the health-care Distinguished Professional Achievement, which recognizes an system.” alumnus who has achieved professional excellence and shown Mitchell says there is still much research to be done in leadership. biomedical informatics because health care has been slow to Mitchell graduated from the University of Regina with a use information technology to improve efficiencies and quality bachelor of science (high honours) in computer science in 1986 of care. The core of his research has been and continues to be and a master of science in 1989, then earned a PhD in medical a virtual biopsy or developing methods to extract additional biophysics from the University of Western Ontario in 1995. information out of medical images to help doctors diagnose, Mitchell’s research program has been based at the University treat and monitor disease. of Calgary, where he has held positions as professor in the Mitchell first attended the University of Regina as a 12-year- departments of Radiology and Clinical Neurosciences, adjunct old enrolled in computer classes for kids. It was a familiar place professor of computer science, and the Innovates because his father, George Mitchell, was a biology professor Technology Futures/CSI and Industrial Research Chair in there. Medical Imaging Informatics. He has also won numerous He soon spotted the manuals for Computer Science 100 and research awards. other first-year courses and began working his way through This fall, Mitchell begins work as the Division Chair for them, then ended up getting more course books from the Health Sciences Research at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, library. Ariz., where he will continue the research begun in Calgary. He “By the time I was 13 or so, I had completed all the labs for will also be a full professor at Arizona State University, which the first couple of undergrad computer science courses,” he is collaborating with the Mayo Clinic in expanding research in says. “It was a lot of fun.” biomedical informatics. The University of Regina provided a great education, he says, Mitchell recently made headlines when his research team, and the impact of the co-operative program in particular was working with CSI, developed a medical application that allows huge. He said watching patients go through treatment at the doctors to examine and manipulate brain-scan images on their Allan Blair Centre, sometimes recovering but more often not, smartphone or iPad, then diagnose and prescribe treatment had a big impact on his choice of career path. for patients who have suffered stroke, heart attack or trauma. “I could have gone into medicine and been a doctor but I This gives medical facilities access to experts thousands of figured there are not many people doing this sort of research,” kilometres away. he said. “This is going to be critical for the future of health care “An expert can now weigh in on the diagnosis and hopefully because health care is fundamentally about gathering and this will mean the patient not only is treated sooner but may interpreting information.” not even have to be moved to another centre,” he says. “This

10 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Bernadette (Bernie) Kollman BAdmin’86 Distinguished Humanitarian and Community Service Award

rowing up in a small, rural community and seeing first-hand what can be accomplished if everyone contributes left a lasting impression on Bernie Kollman. G“I watched my parents and our neighbours work together to make things happen in our community,” she says. “If everyone contributed a little, a lot could be accomplished! And it was expected that everyone would contribute. With these values instilled in me from a young age, there was never a question of whether or not I would be an active volunteer.” Today, Kollman is vice-president of IBM’s Public Sector Division in Alberta and devotes countless hours to a wide range Photo: Fred Katz Photography Katz Fred Photo: of community projects in , often juggling several big projects at once. a road map for the 21st century, focussing on issues such as Kollman is the 2011 recipient of the Alumni Award for transportation, food safety and healthcare. Distinguished Humanitarian and Community Service, which She currently has leadership roles in several other recognizes an individual who has contributed service that has organizations, including the United Way (campaign chair made a difference to the well-being of others. in 2007), Centre for Advanced Studies Alberta, Canadian She graduated from the University of Regina in 1986 with Information Processing Society Women in Technology, a bachelor of business administration, with distinction. As and fundraising for muscular dystrophy and for Olympic a co‑operative student, she spent several work terms at IBM, and Paralympic athletes. This Christmas, her home will be where she was later hired and is still employed 25 years later. decorated and opened to Edmontonians to raise funds for Kids’ Kollman has volunteered at both the corporate and personal Help Phone and the Junior League of Edmonton. levels, and her contributions range from serving the business “There are no links between these initiatives except there is community to organizing major fundraising campaigns, a need in the community and I was approached to get involved, encouraging girls to study math and science, and sharing her the cause resonated with me and I felt that my involvement knowledge overseas. This level of involvement is possible would make a difference,” she says. because of the value IBM places on community service. Leading the United Way campaign was particularly As current chair of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, rewarding, she says, because she learned so much about the she represents and works on behalf of business. In addition, needs of the community and the many generous people who she has taken a special interest in the diversity employment contribute. The Chamber of Commerce provides insight into initiatives, which are aimed at placing Aboriginal as well as the challenges and opportunities facing business, as well as mentally and physically challenged persons in the workforce. how to effectively lobby government. Also in 2011, she was the honorary chair of Books2Eat, a “These positions provide such a breadth of perspective of gala that challenges chefs and bakers to design cakes based Edmonton, from totally different vantage points, that I find on literary themes. The gala is a fundraiser for the Edmonton them both very rewarding,” she says. Public Library. Kollman said her years at the University of Regina were a In May 2010, she participated in the IBM Corporate Services time of growth when she met new people and made friends Corp. in Vietnam. Using knowledge gained from many years at with similar interests and career aspirations. IBM, she and five other IBM executives from around the globe “I have not been back to U of R since I graduated – this is a worked with the Ho Chi Minh City government to develop great reason to visit and reconnect with my alma mater.”

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 11 Twyla Meredith BAdmin’82 Dr. Robert and Norma Ferguson Award for Outstanding Service

wyla Meredith has put her love of sports and superb organizational skills to work for the University of Regina. Twice over the last decade, she has helped organize Tmajor national sporting events hosted at the University of Regina. In both cases, the events were hugely successful, drawing large crowds and earning a profit that could be invested in building sports for the future. Meredith is the 2011 recipient of the Dr. Robert and Norma Ferguson Award for Outstanding Service. This award is given to an alumnus who has shown exceptional leadership and service to the University of Regina or its Alumni Association. Meredith graduated with a bachelor of administration in 1982 and qualified as a certified management accountant As well as being involved at the University, Meredith gives the following year. She is now president and CEO of the a lot of time to the community. She sits on the Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation, which operates Casino Roughriders Board of Directors and, as president of Casino Regina and Casino Moose Jaw. Regina, is also involved in the Regina Downtown Business Though she works a demanding job, she has been generous Improvement District. She received the Saskatchewan in setting aside time for the University and other community Centennial Medal in 2005 in recognition of her commitment to involvement. She says she has always been a huge sports fan the community. and that’s probably why much of her contribution has been She feels alumni have a responsibility to give back to the made through sports. University, either through funds or service, and says she In 2002-03, she served as chair of Finance for the 2002 and personally feels it’s important to give back to the community. 2003 CIS Women’s Hockey Championships hosted at the “I feel very fortunate to have lived here in Regina my whole University of Regina. life and do relatively well,” she says. “It’s just part of giving A few years later, she became chair of the 2009 CIS Women’s back. I was raised with that – my parents were always giving Basketball Championship, an event that took three years to back to the community. It’s just an important part of my life.” organize. The event was so successful it is now considered a The reward, she says, is the people she works with on these model for the organization of future championships. projects and the results of their efforts. “We filled that gym, which exposed the University facilities “A lot of it is working with a great group of people, forming to over 2,000 people a game,” she says. “I think it was an event a team and starting out with a bunch of ideas that we narrow that was able to profile the University and show that it’s down to what we are actually going to be doing,” she says. successful.” “It’s actually delivering on that, and usually surpassing More recently, Meredith has been asked to lend her anything we thought we could do – it’s the excitement in the knowledge and skills to the University in a different way by community. participating in a CEO round table established by the Faculty “An award is that last thing I thought would come out of any of Business Administration. The round table is an opportunity of this, but it is nice to be recognized. Certainly, there are lots of to bounce ideas and contribute to the future of the faculty, and deserving people and I’d like to thank the University of Regina she feels fortunate to be in a position where she can participate. for even considering me.”

12 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Rachel Mielke BAdmin’03 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award

n just a few years, Rachel Mielke has turned a hobby into a successful, internationally acclaimed jewellery business. Mielke’s Regina-based company Hillberg & Berk now has more than $1 million in annual sales, sources materials Ifrom around the world and features unique designs worn by celebrities including Michelle Obama, Sarah McLachlan and Celine Dion. She also makes it a priority to give back to the community, both locally and globally. “I’m not just passionate about creating jewellery but also about using Hillberg & Berk as a tool to create social change,” she says. Mielke is the 2011 recipient of the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award, which recognizes an alumnus under the age beyond the design and sale of jewellery – from working with of 35 who is making significant contributions in their field of local organizations and charities and serving as president of endeavour. Regina Business and Professional Women, to sourcing silver Mielke, 31, graduated from the University of Regina in from a small woman-run company in Bali. 2003 with a bachelor of administration degree, specializing “This company outsources to other women-run businesses, in marketing. After graduation, she worked for Women who mostly work out of their homes to do other parts of the Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc., a non-profit organization silver production,” she says. “The growth of our company has that supports women business owners. had a strong impact on this boutique industry and the lives of In 2005, she displayed jewellery at a local event in Regina these women.” that she had designed and got such a positive response that she Mielke says she left university feeling much more assured launched her first company, Urban Pearl. and empowered. She says the soft skills she gained have been The company was renamed Hillberg & Berk in 2007. The just as important to her success as the business knowledge. following year, she appeared on the CBC show Dragon’s Den She has given back to the University by mentoring students in and convinced businessman W. Brett Wilson to invest in her business classes. business. She garnered more attention when she was invited to “The first important lesson I came away from university the 2008 Oscar gifting lounge. with was failure, how to deal with it, learn from it and alter my The jewellery Mielke creates combines classic design course accordingly,” she says. “No one likes to fail, but learning with bold detailing, and is sold through exclusive boutiques, from mistakes and becoming better from them has allowed me galleries, stores and the Internet. Over the last three years, to grow my business to where it is today. The second was the the company has quadrupled its staff and more than doubled importance of teamwork. It doesn’t matter what career path its retail locations; it will open its first store this fall. Equally you choose, if you are a great team player, you will likely be important, she says, is that Hillberg & Berk now competes as more successful.” one of the strongest designer jewellery lines in Canada. Though her business is only a few years old, Mielke has “There are many factors that contribute to the success of won numerous awards. Earlier this year, she was named the Hillberg & Berk, some of which are a solid team of employees Saskatchewan recipient of the Business Development Bank of who share and are invested in my vision of the company, Canada’s 2011 Young Entrepreneur Award. continual design innovation, a supportive community and lots “Receiving the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award is a of hard work,” she says. tremendous honour,” she says. “There is an amazing group of Mielke works hard to ensure her company’s impact reaches recipients who have come before me.”

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 13 No ordinary Joe It was almost 40 years ago that Joe Fafard LLD(Honorary)’89 left a position as a University of Regina instructor to concentrate on making art full time. Since then, Fafard has established himself as one of Saskatchewan’s most popular artists. His iconic prairie sculptures can be found in galleries and collections around the world. And while he’s earned the acclaim, Fafard looks at his career with one simple sentiment: he feels blessed to be making art.

By Nick Miliokas Photos by the University of Regina Photography Department unless otherwise noted.

14 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 These days, Joe Fafard’s connection degree at Penn State. He taught classes pursuing your own work.” with the University of Regina is not as in sculpture primarily but also taught Determined to do exactly that, Fafard immediate as it was almost four decades drawing and pottery as part of a staff that chose to devote himself full time to ago. The association is no longer hands- included ceramicist Jack Sures. David making art. But he would return to the on in the way it was from 1968 through Thauberger, now a successful and highly University, of course, symbolically if not 1972 when he taught visual art on regarded artist in his own respect, is the literally, in 1999 with the installation College Avenue at what was then known student that Fafard remembers most of Le Jardin de l’esprit. This came at a as the Regina Campus of the University vividly. “It was a sculpture class in the time when Fafard would make another of Saskatchewan. first semester,” Fafard recalls. “David was reconnection as well. Several years However, an inextricable bond in his late teens. He impressed me right earlier he had purchased a property exists between the University and away. He had an inquiring mind. He kept outside the city. He was in a period of the acclaimed artist in the form of a pushing for answers.” transition. He was returning to the land. magnificent sculpture that stands in the For Henry David Thoreau it was a clearing on the south side of Wascana An inextricable bond exists cabin near Walden Pond. And like the Creek across the road from the Ad Hum 19th-century American author, poet and Building. It is called Le Jardin de l’esprit between the University philosopher, Fafard has his own special and it consists of eight bronze panels and the acclaimed artist in place that he and his wife Alyce Hamon each measuring three and a half metres the form of a magnificent call Chez Nous (Our House). tall. Arranged in a circle in a manner that Purchased in 1995, the 72 acres of suggests Stonehenge, the panels present sculpture that stands in the land sit in the tranquillity of the scenic a depiction of the province’s natural clearing on the south side Qu’Appelle Valley some 15 kilometres history. of Wascana Creek. north of Regina and just off the highway If further proof of the ties between that continues to Lumsden. the man and the University were Fafard enjoyed the environment at As comforting and welcoming as needed, it can be found in the artwork the University and, for the most part, the the name would suggest, Chez Nous is Fafard has created for the most recent interaction with his students. “Some are defined by a house at the top of the hill Alumni Crowning Achievement Awards, keen and curious and want to learn,” he and a studio down the paved road a the University’s awards for its most says. “Others just want a credit. That’s pleasant walking distance away. distinguished alumni. The award is a where the frustration comes in. Those Fafard lives at Chez Nous with Hamon modification of one of the panels from who are serious make it satisfying. If you and their two children: a daughter, Le Jardin de l’esprit, a panel that salutes stimulate them properly they become Solenne, who is 17, and a son, Julien, the arts, both visual and performing, by better because they become excited.” who is 13. He also has three adult portraying painters, writers, musicians, The five years he spent as an offspring – Joel, Misha and Gina – by his singers, dancers and an audience. instructor at the University convinced previous marriage. Fafard was hired by the University Fafard that “the amount of energy that Although she is not a permanent shortly after he completed his master’s teaching requires is not compatible with resident at Chez Nous, there are times

Joe Fafard’s Le Jardin de l’esprit.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 15 Left: Where’s Joe? Fafard (at centre left of photo) poses for this 1982 photo while working on his series of flattened portraits of Vincent Van Gogh in his Pense, Sask. studio. The series explored the intersection of painting and sculpture. Right and below: Fafard’s work from a 2007 exhibit organized by the MacKenzie Art Gallery and National Gallery of Canada.

no doubt when Lana Siman must surely one day as she was jogging through “The last thing I expected was to go to feel like one. Siman is the operations Wascana Centre near the University. work for an artist who makes cows.” manager at the studio. She takes over Siman had no idea the sculpture Over the past decade, Fafard has come once the artwork is complete and the existed and she knew very little about to be as much a friend as an employer process moves on to such indispensable the man who had created it. “I had heard and Siman has gotten to know him very matters as promotions and marketing, the name, of course, and I was aware of well. She describes the artist who makes and sales and accounting. the phenomenon of Joe Fafard,” she says. cows as a calming presence, an upbeat “Out here,” she says smiling, “working “But that was about it.” and assuring individual who is warm, life flows smoothly with family life. It Siman had been contemplating a compassionate and caring. truly is a blessing. I’m so grateful to be change of career and somehow the The two greet each other each day part of it.” sculpture in some mystical, magical with a hug. “With Joe,” Siman says, Siman has been “part of it” for 11 years way was a confirmation that she should “people and their feelings are the now. Interestingly it was Le Jardin de follow “the inner voice.” Around priority.” As workplaces go, she couldn’t l’esprit that introduced her to Fafard and this same time Siman learned from a ask for a better environment. Chez Nous thus brought her to Chez Nous. She was colleague that someone in the local brings instant relief from stress. “I’ll approaching the end of maternity leave business community was looking to come out and just walk,” Siman says, following the birth of her second child hire a bilingual administrative assistant. “and everything goes away.” and happened to pass by the sculpture “I had no idea that it was Joe,” she says. There are times when, she confesses, in order to concentrate on completing her tasks, “I have to actually close the door and pull the blinds to avoid distraction from the beauty of the surroundings. But when I’m on a tight deadline I find the peacefulness helps.” Fafard can identify totally. “I’m not really a town guy. It puts me at ease when I see the land,” he says. “Not that I have ever lost connection with the land, but as strictly an urban artist I wouldn’t be able to create work realistically. The environment here is what makes it possible for me to do this with honesty and with integrity. It gives it credibility. Otherwise it would be just fantasy.” Joseph Hector Yvon Fafard was one of 12 children (six boys, six girls) born near the border in Ste. Marthe, Sask., to Leopold Fafard and Julienne Cantin, whose forebears, the DeCorbys,

The environment here is what makes it possible for me to do this with honesty and with integrity. It gives it credibility. Otherwise it would be just fantasy.”

16 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Above left and right: Fafard at work in his studio near Lumsden. Below: One of Fafard’s large-scale bulls in his studio.

The 1980s were a decade Fafard refers to 1968 a master’s degree from Penn taken when several of Fafard’s pieces State. Following his short tenure as an were selected for Trajectoires, a Canada as his “bronze age.” It was during this instructor at Regina Campus, Fafard Council initiative that was shown in period that he established the Julienne launched what he still refers to as “my Paris. Next came the 1976 Summer Atelier foundry in Pense, Sask. career as a professional artist.” Olympic Games in Montreal where, as As an instructor at Regina Campus, a cultural sidebar to the competition, Fafard made the acquaintance of Michael Fafard was one of the artists who had settled in the Qu’Appelle Valley in Haynee, a 107-year-old immigrant from collaborated on a project called The 1883. One of the DeCorbys, Jules, was a Lebanon whose son Aly worked for the Grain Bin. The other artists, all from missionary from France and settled in University as a custodian. Fafard was Regina, were Russ Yuristy, Vic Cicansky Lebret in 1868. inspired to create a sculpture of Haynee, BA’67 and Fafard’s former student David The Fafards, who were farmers which in turn led to portraits of other Thauberger BFA’71. initially, arrived in Ste. Marthe, which friends and family members. By now The 1980s were a decade Fafard refers was populated by a cultural blend of Fafard had moved from plaster to clay to as his “bronze age.” It was during this French, English and Métis, in 1904. Later and from caricatures to portraiture, period that he established the Julienne the family would purchase the local which he considered to be “more Atelier foundry in Pense, Sask. It was general store and, in the process, assume serious.” also in the 80s that he brought the some responsibilities related to the post In the 1970s a significant stride was countryside to downtown in the office. The family was devout Roman Catholic and so young Joseph’s life was largely defined by three components: home, school and church. The earliest influences of an artistic nature came from Clarence Tillenius of Manitoba and Berthold von Imhoff, a resident of Lloydminster. Tillenius was a frequent contributor to Country Guide magazine. His articles instructed people on how to make art. When his columns were collected and published as a book, there was one piece in particular that caught Fafard’s attention. It was titled “How to draw a cow.” Von Imhoff’s contribution was an oil painting of Christ with Martha and Mary. Later, as a high school student in St. Lazare, Man., a teenaged Fafard came under the influence of a nun called Sister Anastasia who strongly encouraged him to consider the art school at the . A 20-year-old Fafard arrived in Winnipeg in 1962. By 1966 he had a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Manitoba and by

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 17 Left: Fafard and his operations manager Lana Siman share a laugh at Fafard’s studio. Right: MacKenzie Art Gallery head curator Timothy Long.

form of The Pasture, a sculpture that was Fafard is also a man whose work is perhaps, to describe this as “the next commissioned by the Cadillac Fairview highly sought after by private collectors phase.” But the fact of the matter is, even Corporation. and collecting institutions alike, of now, decades into a lengthy and storied Consisting of seven bronze cows, The which the MacKenzie is one. career as a sculptor who has earned the Pasture was installed on Wellington “He has entered that select group of admiration and respect of the public and Street at the Toronto Dominion Centre. artists whose work will define their academics both, Joe Fafard has managed At the time, this was considered a most times and will have lasting significance,” to find something . . . different. unlikely location, but it wasn’t long Long says. “His work has a quality He is taking the old and making it before adding a touch of the rural to the that will endure. The things his work new again, by recreating existing, new urban became a trademark of Joe Fafard. expresses symbolically will outlive the and future works on a grander scale. Yes, In Regina, for example, there is the artist himself. It’s hard to predict the Fafard has done this in the past, quite frog on College Avenue, the bison on the successfully. Now he’s doing it more Frederick W. Hill Mall and the cows on He has entered that select efficiently. Which is to say, faster. Albert Street in front of the MacKenzie Last January, Fafard entered into an Art Gallery. group of artists whose artistic partnership with a new company During the 1990s, Fafard began to work will define their in Regina called Silver Fox 3D Studios. work with laser-cut steel. In 1999 he times and will have lasting Computers are used to scan existing created and installed Le Jardin de l’esprit, works to create larger models to scale. which was eventually cast in bronze. significance. In Fafard’s studio on the farm, there The MacKenzie Art Gallery’s head are Styrofoam likenesses of these works, curator Timothy Long BA(Hons)’86, future, but I think he’s a pretty safe bet.” which will be covered with clay and then BFA’86 praises Le Jardin de l’esprit as “a The many awards Fafard has received cast in bronze. Two pieces have been major accomplishment both technically include the Queen’s Silver Jubilee completed, and there are more on the way. and artistically.” Medal, Order of Canada, Saskatchewan Fafard is extremely pleased with the In scope alone, the sculpture is Order of Merit, Lieutenant Governor’s process. ambitious almost to the point of Saskatchewan Centennial Medal for the “As long as your work is well done imponderable. Arts, Prix Monfort and Saskatchewan and accurate in the small size,” he says, “It is a narrative of our cultural history Arts Board Lieutenant Governor’s Art “it will be well done and accurate in the from the first inhabitant to the present Award for Lifetime Achievement. He is large size. My work doesn’t suffer by day,” Long says. “Think about it. How do also the proud possessor of an honorary being enlarged.” you do that?” doctorate from both the University of Done manually, the enlarging of Indeed, the Fafard work reminds Long Regina and the University of Manitoba. smaller pieces would take several of a Paul Gauguin masterpiece, an oil It has been a full and illustrious career, months. Now it takes a couple of weeks. on canvas called D’où Venons Nous / Que to be sure. But it isn’t over yet. Not by a “I’m fascinated with that. I’m Sommes Nous / Où Allons Nous. Translated long shot. very excited by it,” Fafard says from French into English the title reads: There is, for example, the enthusiastically. “When it comes to my Where Do We Come From? What Are commissioned work from Manitoba art, or anything else in my life, I suppose, We? Where Are We Going? “What a Hydro for its office building in I generally follow my instincts and my fascinating avenue for exploration,” downtown Winnipeg of four bison interests. I guess you could call this my Long says. “Those have been central rendered in bronze and installed one on latest passion – the latest of numerous concerns of Joe’s all along.” each corner of the intersection following passions. I consider myself a fortunate As a curator who has known Fafard for a technique that combines traditional man in many respects. I am blessed to be some time and considers him a friend, sculpture with silhouette. Once more an able to make art.” D Long says, “The face he presents to the element from rural life has appeared in world is genuine. He is a man of integrity the urban environment. Nick Miliokas is a freelance writer living in and a man of values.” It would be an overstatement, Regina

18 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Celebrate Alumni pride!

Nominate an outstanding alumnus for the 2012 Alumni Crowning Achievement Awards. For more information and a complete listing of criteria visit our website at http://www.uregina.ca/alumni/acaa.htm

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20 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Next year will mark Howard Leyton-Brown’s 60th year teaching at the University of Regina Conservatory of Performing Arts. The Australian- born violinist has taught hundreds of students including several who have gone on to international stardom. In 1939, when WWII broke out, Leyton- Brown interrupted a promising musical career to enlist in the Royal Air Force where he served for six years including a stint as a flight instructor near Estevan, Sask. Following the war, he attended the Guildhall School of Music and Drama before joining the London Philharmonic Orchestra in 1948, becoming concertmaster in 1951. He immigrated to Canada in 1952 with his wife Myrl and two sons and became head of the string department of the Regina Conservatory of Music, a position he held until his retirement in 1987. He served as director of the Conservatory from 1955 until 1986. He also served as the conductor of the Regina Symphony Orchestra from 1960 to 1971, and as its concertmaster from 1978 to 1989. Leyton-Brown was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1944 for his service as a bomber pilot. He was named a Member of the Order of Canada in 1986, received the Lifetime Award for Excellence in the Arts in 1991, Saskatchewan Order of Merit in 1996 and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.

D Do you consider yourself a teacher first or a D What do you find most satisfying about violinist first? teaching? I should like to say both, but if I have to choose one The infinite variety of personal contact. One is it would be violinist, since all my other activities called upon as mentor, friend, financial advisor, seem to have evolved from my training and marriage councillor, medical expert, etc., but all experience in playing the violin. with the love of music as the guiding principle.

D How difficult was it to part with your Ruggieri D Which is more nerve-wracking – flying a WWII violin? bomber or performing a solo with the London Philharmonic? Why? My Ruggieri was made in about 1695 and I owned it for 55 years. It was like cutting off my arm to sell This is what I believe is called a no-brainer. it, but it is in good hands, as it should be. Both activities require thorough conscientious preparation and therefore confidence, but when D If you were stranded on a desert island and playing the violin one is not usually being shot could only listen to one piece of music what would at! In my squadron only two of 42 crewmen it be? Why? finished their tours so of course flying under such circumstances was extremely nerve-wracking. I couldn’t possibly choose one piece but if it had to be one composer it would be Mozart, because D What does the Conservatory mean to Regina? of the effortless beauty and simplicity of his melodies. It offers a wide variety of cultural training to people of all ages from kindergarten to seniors and D How do you get your musical fix now that maintains an exemplary standard of teaching. arthritis prevents you from playing? D What does the Conservatory mean to you? Throughout my life my principal musical enjoyment has been derived from performances The Conservatory has been my musical home for in which I have been personally involved either as 60 years and during this time I have been able to soloist, ensemble player or conductor and now I enjoy every possible musical activity to my heart’s find a great deal of pleasure in replaying the many content. recordings that I have of these performances.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 21 Artist John Nugent has been a central figure on Saskatchewan’s cultural scene for more than 50 years. The Lumsden, Sask.-based artist taught in the University’s Faculty of Fine Arts from 1970 until 1985. Best known for his large abstract metal sculptures, Nugent was born in Montreal in 1921 and moved to Lumsden Snow Drifts in 1948. In 1960, Regina architect Clifford Wiens designed a studio for Nugent that, in 1967, received a Massey Silver Medal for architectural design. The unique conical-shaped building was officially designated a provincial Photographs by John Nugent heritage property in 2005. The artist’s practice over his career has included liturgical commissions in silver, life-sized cast bronze figures, candle making and welded steel constructions. In the 1990s, Nugent shifted his attention from sculpture to photography. Snow Drifts, an exhibit of Nugent photographs and sculptures, was held at Regina’s Dunlop Art Gallery from July 16 to September 22, 2011.

22 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 23 Harvest of plenty – the struggles of

farm women University of Regina doctoral candidate Amber Fletcher’s research is looking By Sabrina Cataldo BA’97, BJ ’99, CPR’04 into the challenges faced by women Photos courtesy of Saskatchewan History and who are bearing an Folklore Society, Everett Baker collection and by University of Regina Photography Department. inordinate amount of the burden for the

Photo above: Mrs. Lewis, Klintonel, Sask., 1954. well-being of the family farm.

24 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 hen the “farm crisis” comes up in the news, farm “I spent most of my life dreaming of moving to the city. Then women are rarely mentioned. However, according I got to the city and it drove me crazy. The light pollution, the to University of Regina PhD candidate Amber sirens, the smells. I couldn’t think. There are way too many Fletcher BA(Hons)’06, the crisis hits women people way too close together. You can’t see the northern lights, Whardest due to the large amount of “invisible” work they do, you can’t see the stars,” says Pedersen. “So, I would come back both on and off the farm. Fletcher’s research explores how to the farm to work the harvest season. And I just enjoyed it so changes in agricultural policy affect Saskatchewan farm women. much more than anything I had done in the city.” “The farm crisis is gendered. When there are times of At first, Pedersen assumed her brother or male cousins financial or environmental stress, women tend to play a would take over the family farm. “It became pretty clear that supportive role in holding their families together,” Fletcher the guys weren’t going to farm. I saw there was a hole that I says. “We have really strong gender roles and ideologies in the could potentially fill. My family was thrilled when I told them farm context. Most women report doing 100 per cent of the I wanted to do it. It became a better choice for me to make less domestic and caregiving work on farms. That’s a lot of stress money than be surrounded by all that pollution in the city.” to take on when there’s a crisis, and others are stressed or Pedersen now manages the farm along with her mother, suicidal.” father and uncle. She has seen first-hand the important work According to Fletcher, as family farms increase in size to women do to keep the farm running, particularly in the peak keep up with large corporations, women are doing more farm season. When Pedersen was growing up, her mother and aunt work, whether it’s in the field or preparing meals for additional ran errands, prepared meals and brought food out for the workers. Research shows that farm women are performing crews. “They did all of that support work that kept the rest of significantly more farm work than they did 20 years ago. us able to put in hours to no end on the farm. I get really upset They are also taking extra jobs to bring in stable income and when women say that they’re not farmers because they are employment benefits; approximately half of all farm women only doing the cooking, gardening, mowing the lawn, running and men are working off the farm at waged labour. As well, a errands and picking up the mail,” she says. “My farm doesn’t 2004 study found that almost half of the Saskatchewan farm function if I don’t get fed. If the lawn doesn’t get mowed, we women surveyed are working an average of 14 hours per day, could get mice which might affect food safety. If errands don’t which can have dramatic results on well-being and health. get run, I don’t have parts. If the mail doesn’t get picked up, the “Farm men are stressed, too, but the women’s labour is bills don’t get paid. All of these pieces are just as integral to the stretched in more directions because the on- and off-farm farm as working with the bees.” work is in addition to the domestic roles they are structured Pedersen says the majority of work that goes into supporting into. Women have to balance their time on the combine with the farm is unpaid. “There’s a real problem when we don’t making meals and bringing them out to the paid workers,” realize that productive labour – producing food, raising Fletcher says. “It’s very stressful for them.” children, looking after workers who are doing paid jobs – is Karen Pedersen was nine years old the first time she helped contributing to our society and our economy,” she says. “If we with the harvest on her family’s farm in Cut Knife. Now 37, don’t realize that, our economy is doomed to fail, because it’s she is a fifth-generation beekeeper who has been farming based on that unpaid labour.” for almost 20 years. If you had asked her as an adolescent if Her aunt has since retired and moved to town, but Pedersen’s she would become a farmer, her answer would have been a mother still cooks and runs errands for her husband and resounding “No.” the farm workers, including going on grocery trips that take

Left: University of Regina doctoral candidate Amber Fletcher. Right: Karen Pedersen, a fifth-generation beekeeper on her farm near Cut Knife, Sask.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 25 Left: Lunch time at the McCoy harvest, Aneroid, Sask., 1952. Centre: Ladies who served at Saskatchewan Wheat Pool Committee Convention. Anderoid, Sask., 1951. Right: Mrs. Moeckl making lace. Brightsand, Sask., 1943.

her several hours due to the distance she must drive and the Fletcher’s thesis, titled The View from Here: multiple lists she juggles. “As a woman who is now living on my own and bridging the jobs of both genders, I really Agricultural Policy, Climate Change, and appreciate how much they did,” Pedersen says. the Future of Farm Women, delves into how Fletcher grew up on a grain farm near Kelvington, where macroeconomic policies have gendered she watched her mother balance farm support work, such as making large meals for farm workers, with a full-time job at effects at the micro level in people’s the credit union. At 17, Fletcher moved to Regina to begin a everyday lives. bachelor of arts honours degree in women’s and gender studies at the University of Regina. Later she moved to Toronto to do Transportation Act) and the 1990 onset of Plant Breeders’ Rights her master’s degree at York University. legislation, as well as the underlying free trade and government A tireless volunteer and advocate for women’s issues deregulation philosophies. in Saskatchewan, Fletcher is chair and co-founder of the The Crow Rate was a fixed freight rate promised to farmers Women’s Information Network of Saskatchewan (WIN-S), an in perpetuity as payment for the million-dollar land tracts the organization that connects rural and urban women to address government gave to the railroads in the late 1800s. In 1983, the shared issues; she also serves as a director on the boards of rate was replaced with the Crow Benefit, a subsidy that ensured Ovarian Cancer Awareness and Treatment in Saskatchewan farmers’ freight costs were below the rates charged by the (OCATS), Prairie Lily Feminist Society, and University of Regina railroads. In 1995, that subsidy was eliminated, leaving farmers Women’s Centre. Fletcher’s research and volunteer work were to pay full freight costs. recognized nationally in October when she received a 2011 The elimination of the Crow Rate had a major impact Governor General’s Persons Award for Youth. on Pedersen’s farm, which used to grow grain in addition Wendee Kubik, a former co-ordinator of the Women and to keeping bees. When the rate was converted to a subsidy, Gender Studies program, encouraged Fletcher to return her family members could see the writing on the wall. “The to Regina to pursue her PhD through the Canadian Plains government moved it into a subsidy so other countries could Research Centre. “She was one of the key reasons I came back suggest that it wasn’t right under free trade laws. That was one to the U of R. I was her research assistant in my undergrad and of the reasons we moved from grain farmers to beekeepers,” she she inspired me to pursue the topic of farm women,” Fletcher says. says. “My master’s thesis was really theoretical and interesting, Pedersen, who has a degree in political science from the and I loved it. But I wanted to do something where I could talk University of Saskatchewan, says farmers need to be aware to real people about their experiences, and do work that would of government policies. “We used to raise sheep as well. The result in real social change instead of theoretical interests,” she reason we got out was because the government was promoting says. Kubik is now Fletcher’s PhD co-supervisor, along with sheep, saying, ‘If you get into this, it will save your farm.’ Greg Marchildon, a professor and Canada Research Chair in That drove the price of sheep up to the point where my father Public Policy and Economic History at the Johnson-Shoyama couldn’t afford to keep them,” she says. “Government policies Graduate School of Public Policy. like that push forward a bandwagon that’s going to be a fad. We Fletcher’s thesis, titled The View from Here: Agricultural didn’t invest in the hog barns because we knew it would be the Policy, Climate Change, and the Future of Farm Women, delves same thing.” into how macroeconomic policies have gendered effects at the Fletcher’s research reinforces the Pedersen’s experience of micro level in people’s everyday lives. Her research focusses how government policies and free trade agreements favour on the two most dramatic agricultural policy changes in the large corporations. “The free trade regime and value system has 1990s: the 1995 elimination of the Crow Benefit (Western Grain led to elimination of many domestic support policies,” Fletcher

26 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Left: Lunch break at the Lewis’. Eastend, Sask., 1954. Centre: Pie makers at youth training school. Kenosee Lake, Sask., 1949. Right: Muskeg moss and cranberries. Loon Lake, Sask., 1942. says. “Because of the North American Free Trade Agreement effects are huge.” (NAFTA), the Crow Benefit was eliminated because it was seen Farmers experience those environmental effects through as a subsidy.” As a result, farmers’ freight rates jumped from extreme weather and drought. “We often think the effect of $5.25 per tonne in July 1984 to $31.82 per tonne in 1995/96. The drought on a farm is to change farm practices. But there’s introduction of Plant Breeders’ Rights legislation in 1990 also more to it than that,” Fletcher says. “Women have talked about contributed to farmers’ financial hardship, as it led to seed price having to drive 45 minutes to an hour to haul water so they increases by adding technical usage fees. “This situation has could wash and do laundry. It affects women in ways we don’t been beneficial for corporations in the transport and seed input often see or hear about because of their unique roles on the sectors, but has caused the price of agricultural production to farm.” rise dramatically – and to fall primarily on the shoulders of Fletcher says that family farmers have a vested interest in producers,” Fletcher says. preserving the quality of the land that goes beyond a motive Fletcher also explores how free trade policies damage the for profit. “Some of the women I’ve talked to have spoken environment. At a conference presentation this September about the effort of maintaining the family farm for future in Italy, Fletcher cited statistics on the “trade for trade’s sake” generations. There’s an awareness of environmental practices phenomenon: “In 2008, Canada exported 21,810 tonnes and wanting to preserve the quality of the land, to pass it on,” of boneless beef products to New Zealand. The same year, she says. Canada imported 18,953 tonnes of boneless beef products However, the declining number of family farms means from New Zealand. This is just one example of what we do less opportunity for future farmers. The number of small to with food under free trade,” she says. “The environmental medium farms in Canada declined by 10.5 per cent between

Left: Pedersen readies her hives for the impending winter. Right: Fletcher at work in her office.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 27 Left: Harvesting Saskatoon berries. , Sask., 1943. Centre: Threshing crew lunch. MacNutt, Sask., 1949. Right: Cheeseman’s sod house. McCord, Sask., 1954.

2001 and 2005 while the number of large corporate farms social categories of empowerment and disempowerment,” she increased 23.5 per cent. Shifting demographics and an aging says. “I would like to see policy that’s more human. That’s the population also means there are fewer young people left in goal.” rural areas. In the meantime, her research is on its way to the United Pedersen has watched these changes take place in her own Nations. At the conference she attended in Italy, Fletcher and community. “People are retiring, and there are not enough other academics collaborated on recommendations on climate young people to fill in. It’s not just that the baby boomers are change and gender. The recommendations will be presented getting older; it’s that we’ve taken that younger generation at the UN International Framework Convention (COP-17) in and moved them to urban communities,” she says. “They don’t November 2011 and at Earth Summit 2012. have the money to make the investment in the farm, so it’s a “I see this work as my contribution in a bigger global push lot easier to move to the city. It has a lot to do with the farm for sustainability – both human and environmental. It’s policies.” necessary to understand how macroeconomic policies have Pedersen sees the potential loss of the Canadian Wheat real-life effects, and how those effects are shaped by gender Board as a policy change that will have a major impact on and other forms of inequality,” Fletcher says. “The lives of farm her community and her beekeeping farm. “If we lose the women are a key example of this. The better we understand Wheat Board’s single desk, my services – where I get parts and the unique effects of policy on our lives, the more we can do to supplies – will move farther way because I don’t have as many change those policies for the better.” D neighbours. It increases the pressure,” she says. Once Fletcher’s research is complete, she will create policy Sabrina Cataldo is a communications consultant, animal rescuer and recommendations that reflect the voices of farm women. “I perpetual graduate student. Although she was born and raised in the would like to see policies that are designed with a gendered city, she still sits in her cubicle and daydreams about trying her hand lens in mind, as well as a broader lens that attends to other at beekeeping.

Everett Baker worked for the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool from 1935 to 1957 and toured the province extensively. In the late 1930s, Baker began to record everyday scenes on Kodachrome colour slide film. Upon his death in 1981, Baker donated his 11,000 slides to the Co-operative College of Canada in Saskatoon. The collection eventually ended up with the Saskatchewan History and Folklore Society, for which Baker had served as first president in 1957.

Left: Rohacs binding wheat. Makwa, Sask., 1940. Centre: Lunchtime at stockyards. Mankota, Sask., 1957.

28 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Realize. You can make a difference.

Are you a University of Regina graduate? Why not consider nominating a fellow alumnus for the 2012 Senate Election.

It's easy. Just send us a nomination form signed by three graduates and endorsed by the nominee. Include relevant biographical information and a photograph. Nominees must live in the district for which they are nominated.

The Senate ensures that the academic integrity of the University is maintained. For more information, or to access The date of the 2012 Senate Election and the deadline for receiving nominations nomination forms, visit our website will be posted at the University of Regina website on January 3rd, 2012 at the or call the University Secretariat at following link: www.uregina.ca/presoff/senate/elections.htm 306-585-4436. Nominations are called for the following:

District 4 (Swift Current - Gravelbourg) District 5 (Maple Creek - Rosetown - Lloydminster) Vacant Vacant

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Realize. Your planned gift is your legacy.

www.uregina.ca/campaign Talk to us, or contact your financial advisor. Darlene Freitag (306) 585-4446, 1-877-779-4723

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 29 Anderson comes full circle By Bill Armstrong Photos by University of Regina Photography Department and courtesy of First Nations University of Canada.

The circle is a powerful symbol for First Nations Peoples. These days, for new First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) President Doyle Anderson, it’s doubly so. Early in his career, the member of the Red Pheasant Nation was an assistant professor of business at the Saskatoon campus of the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College – the forerunner of FNUniv. Anderson takes over an institution that is on the upswing – the current semester has seen an increase in enrolment, funding has been stabilized and a national Board of Governors has been established. For those reasons and more, Anderson is feeling optimistic about the institution’s future and is grateful for the opportunity to return to Saskatchewan.

30 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 oyle Anderson is a storyteller, administration program and the Pauline and I talked it over, and we knew and he’s good at it. He relishes Indigenous Nations Institute. With the it was the right thing to do.” recounting the story of how a work he was doing on a national scale It clearly was. Anderson is both professor challenged him by in American Indian and Alaskan Native animated and deliberate in speaking Dshowing the intimidating stack of books education, research and economic about the mentors who inspired him on Aboriginal history he would have to development in United States, Anderson by deepening his understanding of the read if he chose to pursue his idea for a was inclined to disregard the urging of meaning of leadership, and of knowing special topics course. The two literally others to apply for the job of FNUniv one’s own history. had to lean over past the edge of the desk president. It was Paul Dudgeon, the head of to see each other. Undaunted, Anderson “Business opportunities were coming the School of Business and Public said he wanted to do it. to fruition for Tribal Nations in the Administration at SIFC, who asked “Once I got started I couldn’t put the U.S. and I hadn’t thought about the him to “stay home” and teach. Even books down. That history is part of who I possibility of coming here,” he says. though teaching would mean a take- am!” he exclaims. He discussed it with his wife Pauline, home pay cut of about 50 per cent Storytellers are highly regarded in reflected on it and prayed about it. In the from what Anderson would receive Aboriginal culture for their ability to end, his ties to the school, Saskatchewan if he resumed working for Raytheon, listen, glean knowledge and wisdom and his First Nations roots won out. the decision was clear for him and from what they hear, and pass it on to Born in Idaho, Anderson is a member Pauline. He taught business and helped future generations. Anderson will use of the , and establish the certificate program in those skills – and many others – in his grew up on the edge of the Blackfeet Indigenous Business Administration new role as president of First Nations Reservation near the Sweetgrass Hills at SIFC, supplementing his income by University of Canada. in Northern Montana. After earning a consulting with First Nations engaging First Nations University of Canada degree in environmental engineering at in developing forestry, energy and other opened in 2003, but its roots originate Montana Tech, University of Montana, natural resource projects. in the Saskatchewan Indian Federated Anderson joined the United States Army. Building capacity – helping First College (SIFC), which was founded His expertise in nuclear, biological and Nations people develop their leadership in 1976 as a federated college of the chemical warfare led him to work for and management abilities – was a major University of Regina. Becoming Raytheon, managing projects to clean priority of Anderson’s teaching and president of the institution is a up contaminated nuclear and chemical consulting work, and he is still delighted homecoming of sorts for Anderson. He test sites in Nevada. Anderson was on when he crosses paths with an SIFC taught business and helped establish “the corporate fast track,” thanks to his graduate or former consulting client the certificate program in Indigenous degree in environmental engineering who is succeeding. His experiences Business Administration at SIFC. Before and his experience, when he received also confirmed for him the wisdom of that, he earned his First Nations MBA in a phone call from the post-secondary combining Western and Indigenous 1997 at the University of Saskatchewan education co-ordinator at Red Pheasant knowledge systems to add greater and in 2009, completed a PhD in First Cree Nation, urging him to continue his depth and breadth to planning for Nations business management and education with a First Nations MBA from natural resource development projects. organizational analysis at the U of S. the University of Saskatchewan. Leveraging the best of both systems is a In 2004, Anderson accepted an “It meant exchanging a corporate theme to which he often returns when invitation from Idaho State University management training program for being discussing the future of FNUniv. to establish a Native American business a student,” Anderson says, “but my wife With an encouraging nudge from

Left: University of Regina President Vianne Timmons and new First Nations University of Canada President Doyle Anderson. Right: Anderson’s installation ceremony in October at First Nations University of Canada.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 31 one of his mentors, Dr. Richard Canada an international centre of The culture, history Long, Anderson chose to pursue an excellence for Indigenous research, in interdisciplinary doctorate degree at terms of culture and tradition, and also and languages of the University of Saskatchewan with a in developing cutting-edge ideas in areas Indigenous peoples dual emphasis in First Nations business such as resource management and the management and organizational environment,” Wells says. are the foundations of analysis. He completed his doctoral work In her position as VP (Academic), while he was working at Idaho State Wells will contribute to the school’s Indigenous knowledge, University. strategic plan, conduct a review of all and the programs here Anderson has his sights set firmly academic programs, work with the on the growth of FNUniv, starting with director of Student Success Services have been under a lot ensuring the well-being of its core to enhance supports for students mission – the Indigenous studies and and increase student recruitment of strain. I’d like to see languages programs. and retention, and oversee the “Our Indigenous studies and redevelopment of community-based a Canada Research Indigenous languages programs need programs, including possible distance- Chair in Indigenous to be shored up,” Anderson states. education options. It’s a crucial “The culture, history and languages of administrative role. The university has Studies established Indigenous peoples are the foundations created an associate VP (Academic) of Indigenous knowledge, and the position, Anderson notes, with an eye here, to help support programs here have been under a lot of to capacity building and succession Indigenous research. strain. I’d like to see a Canada Research planning. A search is underway to Chair in Indigenous studies established fill this position with an Aboriginal here to help support Indigenous academic leader, whom Wells will research.” mentor. First Nations University of Canada’s “With very few exceptions, academics Vice-President (Academic) Lynn Wells are not natural administrators,” Wells describes Indigenous Studies as key to explains. “We need to learn things the school’s founding mission. At present such as budgeting, hiring, conducting there are very few full-time faculty left, performance reviews and so on. I’ll work she adds, although about 900 students with that person [in the associate VP – many from the University of Regina – (Academic) position] to pass on the skills take Indigenous Studies 100 each year as needed to succeed at the executive level a core requirement. in a university.” Wells held senior administrative More broadly, Anderson is consulting positions at the University of Regina, widely during a strategic planning including serving as academic liaison to process to develop a roadmap for the FNUniv from 2009 to 2011, before taking future of the institution. This strategic up her new post. planning process is being spearheaded “President Anderson and I both want by professor Richard Missens a long to create a thriving research culture, time First Nations University faculty to make First Nations University of member. Anderson has already consulted with more than 50 Elders and he plans to visit communities and meet with other stakeholders – and of course, with students. Anderson is also pleased that a top priority of the University of Regina’s Aboriginal strategy is to help strengthen First Nations University of Canada. “We’ll find more ways to create new opportunities for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people,” Anderson says. He also plans to reach out to develop new partnerships with industry, something he did at Idaho State both to develop training and internship opportunities for students, and to replace declining funding from government sources. “Saskatchewan has a looming labour shortage,” he notes, “but 30 per cent of students in our K-to-12 schools are Aboriginal, so there are opportunities to work with companies looking to engage Left: First Nations University of Canada Vice-President (Academic) Lynn Wells. Right: Former Students’ with us. These opportunities will bring Association President Cadmus Delorme (photo copyright 2009 Canadian Press Images, Gord Waldner). benefits to our people.”

32 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Cadmus Delorme is a former FNUniv Students’ Association president and has a keen interest in the institution’s future well-being. He likes what he sees and hears in his chats with members of the current Board of Governors. They have followed different paths in achieving success in life, he observes, and are more prepared to think outside the box than previous Boards. His conversations with Anderson have also been upbeat. “I believe his heart is in the right place,” Delorme observes. “He has a welcoming attitude, and he talks about building stronger leaders.” For his part, Doyle Anderson looks around his office in the University’s distinctive landmark building in Regina and affirms that, yes, there is a sense of coming home, that this does feel like home. “I’m definitely still on a learning curve,” he cautions, “but I’ve been well prepared. It’s also important to keep in mind that I’m just one of many people who have a passion for this institution – for the powerful vision of its founders and for the important work that it does to build a better future for this great country.” D Bill Armstrong is Regina freelance writer and amateur photographer with a strong Anderson chats with one of the powwow dancers on the occasion of First Nations University of interest in Saskatchewan history. Canada’s 35th anniversary celebration in late September.

Lead Change Realize. Your passion. In today’s changing world, responsible public management and evidence-based policy making are more important From Philosophy than ever in improving the quality of public life. to Geography, English to The Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School is training students Political Science who will shape that change. We have expertise in a wide variety of areas from health, innovation and social policy to resource – you’ll find and environmental policy, and offer graduate programs in it all @ the public administration, public policy and international trade. University Be a part of the change the world needs. of Regina’s For more information about our campuses, programs or to apply, visit our website. Faculty of Arts. With fourteen departments and ten programs to choose from, Explore your you’re sure to options @ WWW.SCHOOLOFPUBLICPOLICY.SK.CA discover your www.arts.uregina.ca passion here.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 33 Mr. Yeates goes to

Canada is a country built on immigration. It’s Ottawa a beacon of hope and opportunity for people from around the world. Toronto has the highest proportion of residents born outside the country than any city in the world. For many countries, By Sheldon Gordon Citizenship and Immigration Canada is the model Photos by Gregory Abraszko, Visual Factors and courtesy of Neil Yeates. of how to successfully integrate newcomers into society. Now, at a time when Canada is reassessing its immigration policies, the ministry’s highest ranking bureaucrat, University of Regina alumnus Neil Yeates, and his colleagues are looking to make policy decisions that will help Canada and Canadian immigrants prosper through the 21st century.

University of Regina alumnus Neil Yeates and colleagues Kathy Young, executive assistant, (left) and project officer Sarah Yan at Citizenship and Immigration Canada offices in Ottawa.

34 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 s federal deputy minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Neil Yeates MA’86 is the gatekeeper for foreign nationals seeking entry into Canada. He oversees the administration of the complex policies andA rules that determine who is allowed in and who isn’t. But the University of Regina alumnus is not too immersed in the policies and rules to notice the human impact of immigration. His voice rises with enthusiasm as he discusses the challenges of managing the immigration queue. Yeates makes sure to see the queue first hand, taking at least two international trips annually. (He has visited Canadian missions in Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia, China, India and Mexico.) Now, Canada is reassessing its immigration policies. In a series of cross-country and online consultations, Immigration Minister Jason Kenney is asking Canadians to weigh in on the appropriate level of immigration and the most suitable mix of economic, family class and refugee migrants. Deputy Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada Neil Yeates. According to his department’s data, Canada has the highest per-capita level of immigration in the developed world. After own Provincial Nominee programs that favour certain kinds holding steady between 225,000 and 250,000 newcomers of economic migrants. “We’ve seen a better distribution of annually for most of the 2000s decade, the inflow spiked to immigrants across the country,” says Yeates. “Saskatchewan and 280,000 in 2010. As a proportion of the population, immigrants Manitoba are the big beneficiaries” of this dispersion. And federal were 0.7 to 0.8 per cent for most of the decade. money allocated to settlement services, such as free language This contrasts sharply with past decades, especially during training, is now three times as high as it was in 2006, he notes. the Laurier years, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, While most provinces have their own selection programs, when immigrants accounted for four to five per cent of Quebec has had the exclusive right to choose its immigrants the population annually. Then, of course, Ottawa needed since 1991. The province has accepted newcomers at the same immigrants to populate an agrarian society. levels as B.C., despite having twice as much population into Yeates doubts that Canada will ever accept that rate of which to absorb them. “Recruiting Francophone immigrants immigration to what is now a largely urban society. “To the is a challenge, because the supply is more limited,” says Yeates. extent that we see increases, they’ll be much more modest,” he Quebec, he notes, is doing its own public consultation, and has says. “We have to be mindful of the number of people we can proposed a 10 per cent cut in its own immigration levels for integrate. It’s always a delicate balancing act.” economic and integration reasons. As the Canadian population ages and labour shortages loom, While Canada’s capacity to absorb immigrants into the Yeates’s department is considering not only the overall level labour force will be the key determinant for future levels, to set for future immigration but also the composition and another important factor will be the country’s ability to destinations of the arrivals. “We’re mindful that our labour integrate newcomers in a socio-cultural sense. While the force demographics are changing fairly quickly,” he says. terrorism plot of the “Toronto 18” showed that the country Currently, 60 per cent of immigrants to Canada are economic is not immune to radical ideologies, Canada has suffered less – skilled workers, entrepreneurs or investors – and 40 per cent than Europe and the U.S. from the importation of political are humanitarian – family-sponsored or refugees. “We will extremism. always have the family reunification and refugee streams,” This is due to Canada’s tolerant culture and values, Yeates says Yeates, “but a mix somewhere in the ballpark of 75 per says. “We’re seen as a model by many other countries of how cent economic and 25 per cent family and humanitarian is to integrate newcomers into society. Canadians have been very likely needed to address our labour market needs in the longer accepting of other cultures. Toronto has the highest proportion term. This will also depend on the total number of immigrants of people born outside the country of any city in the world.” we’re bringing in. If that number increases, maybe there’s less The schools are playing an important socialization role, adds concern about changing the mix, or maybe you do a bit of Bruno Dupeyron, assistant professor of public policy and law both.” at the University of Regina. “Immigrant children in Canadian Immigrants tend to concentrate in or near the large cities, schools are happy about the way they are welcomed and make particularly Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal, straining social friends. Multiculturalism has been quite a positive force.” services. “The Federal Skilled Worker Program does not direct Less effective, ironically, has been the economic integration people where to settle,” says Yeates. “We feel that’s impractical. of immigrants, especially foreign-trained professionals. Once people arrive in the country, it would be impossible to Provincial regulatory bodies have been loath to accept the enforce that. People will go where the jobs and opportunities credentials of many doctors, engineers and other professionals are.” trained and certified abroad. Dupeyron considers the That said, he notes that whereas the three megacities attracted certification barrier a “protectionist measure” used to shield 90 per cent of immigrants five years ago, their proportion Canadian-trained practitioners from competition. He notes has dipped to 75 per cent. Most provinces now have their that, “in some provinces, family doctors [from abroad] have

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 35 Yeates oversees the bureaucracy with the highest per-capita level of immigration in the developed world. After holding steady between 225,000 and 250,000 newcomers annually for most of the 2000s decade, the inflow spiked to 280,000 in Canada in 2010.

been recognized very quickly when there have As Yeates points Yeates rejects the terminology, noting that been shortages.” the money is returned to the investor (without Dupeyron believes that “not much can be out, “I have a interest) at the end of five years. But “are there done about the problem at the federal level.” personal experience better ways to operate this program?” he Yeates, however, cites federal leadership in of being an muses. “We’re thinking about that right now.” establishing a “pan-Canadian framework” to Immigrants who jump the queue are always accelerate the credentials review process. immigrant.” a hot-button issue. They tend to be “visitors” The economic integration of non- He arrived in Canada who overstay their welcome or bogus refugee professional immigrants is also a concern. “In from the UK with his claimants who go underground once their the past, it took two to three years for them appeals are exhausted. to reach the same income level as Canadian- parents in the late However, there is no credible number as born workers,” says Dupeyron. Now, the 60s when he was to how many illegals are in Canada, largely immigrants need more time to close the gap, age 10. because, says Yeates, “at present we have no “and more are near the poverty level than was exit system which registers when people leave true a few years ago.” the country. Canada Border Services Agency, In response, the Federal Skilled Worker which is responsible for deportations, has to Program (FSWP) has become more demanding. Skilled workers prioritize. The people at the top of their list are the ones who applying to Canada today must have an occupation that is pose the highest risk.” in demand or a firm job offer. The number of occupations in Estimates of illegal immigrants range from 35,000 to which skilled workers qualify for permanent resident status 120,000. But even at the high end of the range, Yeates notes, this without a specific job offer has been reduced to 29. would amount to only one per cent of the illegal immigrants Ottawa is also reviewing the two federal programs that estimated in the U.S. Dupeyron agrees that “it’s not a serious provide entry for foreign investors. Immigration Canada has issue for Canada.” temporarily stopped accepting applications for the federal As Yeates points out, “I have a personal experience of being Entrepreneur Program while the program is being redesigned. an immigrant.” He arrived in Canada from the UK with his Under the current program, applicants must have experience parents in the late 60s when he was age 10. managing a business and a net worth of at least $300,000. He and his wife, Glenda, who had met as undergraduate Under the federal Immigrant Investor Program, foreign classmates at Queen’s University in the early 80s, moved to investors must have a net worth of at least $1.6 million and Saskatchewan following graduation so that they could live “invest” $800,000 in Canada, both thresholds having been raised within reach of her family in her hometown of Lethbridge, Alta. in recent years. But the money to be “invested” is actually paid to Yeates earned his M.A. in Political Science at the University the federal government. Is this a modern-day “head tax”? of Regina in 1986. “I really enjoyed doing my M.A. there,” he

36 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 says. “There were not that many graduate students, so a lot of is the scale of operations, he says. “My federal department has what I did was one-on-one with one professor or another. It was 5,000 employees, which is probably half the size of the entire possible to have a concentrated and rich interaction with the Saskatchewan public service.” Another difference is that the professors, which I found very valuable.” federal service has an international dimension – Immigration He recalls the department’s head, Dan de Vlieger, and his Canada has 84 field offices abroad – whereas the provincial thesis advisor, Phillip Hansen, as valued mentors. He wrote his service is more domestically oriented. thesis on government decision-making in the development of Yeates was named deputy minister of Citizenship and long-term care facilities for the elderly in Saskatchewan. It was Immigration Canada in July 2009. Prior to that appointment, he an apt choice, as Yeates was working as a policy analyst for the was associate deputy minister of Indian Affairs and Northern provincial Ministry of Health at the time. Development, assistant deputy minister of the Health Products “I worked for three years before entering the masters and Food Branch at Health Canada and assistant deputy program,” he says. “I got more out of it because I was working,” minister of the Industry Sector at Industry Canada. he recalls. “It’s a lot of work if you’re going to do a grad degree Yeates’s wife, Glenda, who had been deputy minister of while working full-time, but I was young at the time and it was Health in Saskatchewan for the five years prior to their move to manageable.” Ottawa, now holds the same post in the federal public service, His career in the Saskatchewan civil service covered 23 making the Yeateses a highly regarded “power couple” in the years, the last five as deputy minister of three departments – national capital. Post-Secondary Education and Skills Training; Corrections and They’re on the invitation list of many Ottawa receptions Public Safety; and Learning. He is proudest of his work while in and dinner parties. “You have to be careful in deciding what the Ministry of Social Services on an inter-departmental project you want to do,” says Neil. “Otherwise you’d be spending every in the 1990s called the Child Action Plan, which focussed evening of the week going to an event. You have to protect your on improving human service outcomes for children in the personal time. But in some ways, it’s easier when the two of province. us are doing similar jobs, because each understands what the In the tradition of Thomas Shoyama, Al Johnson, Wayne other is going through – and you can always get free advice if Wouters and other outstanding Saskatchewan-trained civil you want it!” servants, Neil and Glenda Yeates made the move to Ottawa The couple live in central Ottawa as empty nesters, with in 2004, with Neil joining the federal civil service on an their adult daughter, an engineer, living in Calgary. They cross- executive interchange. “We had reached a point where we country ski in the winter, play tennis in the summer and attend felt professionally it was important to move on to bigger the theatre year-round. opportunities,” says Glenda, who had also ascended to deputy- “Neil is one of the most egalitarian people I know,” says minister rank in the province. Glenda. “I always felt we had a relationship of equals. That has Reflecting on why the province has incubated such been fundamental to our careers developing in the way that successful mandarins for Ottawa, Neil says: “Saskatchewan they have.” D historically has had a good public service. It’s benefited from a good mix of home-grown and imported talent. You get a lot of Sheldon Gordon is a freelance writer based in Toronto. Originally responsibility at a relatively young age, if that’s what you want from Winnipeg, he has worked as a parliamentary reporter for the to do. There have been solid and well-run administrations, and Toronto Star, an editorial writer for the Globe and Mail and a that makes you very marketable to other places.” producer with CBC-TV. He holds an MA in International Affairs One big difference between the federal and provincial levels from Carleton University.

Left: Bruno Dupeyron, assistant professor at the University of Regina’s Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy. Right: Ottawa’s “power couple” Neil and Glenda Yeates in tranquil surroundings during a vacation getaway.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 37 Alumni Association President’s Message

It’s been said that in life, timing pancake breakfast and birthday many Homecoming events as Association and the University is everything. If that’s true, then cake cutting, Rams football I could and connecting with undertook an extensive alumni the timing for me to be Alumni game Friday night (including alumni from many generations, engagement survey. More than Association president could a Rams victory!), and College including some who graduated 2,500 alumni completed the not have been better than this, Avenue Campus tour and when the University was still survey and I’d like to thank each our University of Regina 100th luncheon on Saturday. In known as Regina College or the of you for participating – your Anniversary Homecoming year. between these larger events University of Saskatchewan, feedback is incredibly valuable. From its humble beginnings were dozens of smaller Regina Campus. Among many The survey results indicated as Regina College with 27 gatherings, hosted by the personal highlights and that our overall level of alumni students in 1911, the University various faculties and federated memorable moments was engagement is comparable of Regina has grown into colleges. running into an alum and former to the average scores of other a modern, progressive, The highlight of elementary school teacher of universities of similar size comprehensive institution Homecoming weekend – and mine who not only remembered and age. In late October, your with nearly 13,000 registered the Association’s signature me, but also produced a copy Association Board of Directors students this year. After the annual event – was the Alumni of my grade 5 yearbook – and met to review the survey results recent Fall Convocation, our Crowning Achievement Awards shared my class photo with and we’ll use this information alumni base around the world (ACAA). Held on campus University President Timmons! as we work toward increasing now numbers close to 59,000. October 1, the gala saw the I’m sure they shared a good the level of alumni involvement Who could have foreseen that lobby of the Terrace Building on laugh over that picture. in the University this year and in 100 years ago? Research Drive transformed into While Homecoming and the the years ahead. Since June when my term a stunning banquet hall. The ACAA gala has commanded I look forward to every as your Alumni Association dinner was capped off with an much of the Association’s opportunity that I’ll have to president began, the primary outdoor fireworks display that time and resources recently, meet you, our amazing alumni, focus of the Association and was visible from inside the hall we continue to provide other until the end of my term as the University has been the through the Terrace Building’s services that benefit current president next June. If you’re in Homecoming celebration that huge glass windows. alumni. Those services include Regina, please mark January 28, took place September 29 to As spectacular as the setting affinity partnerships for credit 2012, on your calendar for our October 1. Our goal was to was, it was the five Crowning cards and insurance products. annual Slam Dunk of an Evening welcome alumni back to both Achievement recipients who We also sponsor events for of Cougars basketball, a night the main campus and the were the most dazzling part alumni both in and outside of for our alumni and families College Avenue campus, renew of the evening. These five Regina to connect with each to attend a special pregame acquaintances, meet new accomplished alumni – Dr. Eric other and the University. The reception and get game tickets friends, and reconnect with our Grimson, Dr. Ross Mitchell, Association also provides at a reduced price. I hope to alumni from near and far. Bernadette Kollman, Twyla support for students (our see you there or at other alumni Thanks to the tireless efforts Meredith and Rachel Mielke future alumni) in the form of events in Regina or elsewhere. of University staff, Association – showcased the type of undergraduate and graduate In the spirit of our motto, “As directors and dozens of incredible achievements that scholarships. We provide One Who Serves,” thank you volunteers, Homecoming was our 59,000 alumni around sponsorship of Cougars and for allowing me to serve as your a resounding success. Several the world are capable of. Any Rams athletics and fund a alumni president. hundred alumni attended the University would be proud to variety of student groups and core Homecoming events – have any one of these talented events. We even sell degree Richard Kies the Thursday night opening individuals as an alumnus. frames! art reception, Friday morning I enjoyed attending as This past spring, the

38 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 We depend on our readers to students from Wadena, Sask. clients. She is a 2010 certified Saskatchewan. His 2001 feature send in items for Class Notes. that started at the University of graduate of Harvard’s Palladium film Solitude staring Lothaire Please e-mail your information Saskatchewan, Regina Campus Kaplan-Norton Balanced Bluteau (Jesus of Montreal) to [email protected] or in the fall of 1970, he too was Scorecard Program and received earned rave reviews upon its send to our mailing address in that delegation. He was a her organizational development initial release. which can be found on page 3. member of the first graduating certificate from Queen’s Digital photos must be of class of the independent University in 2006. Deanne Mohr BMUS’93 was sufficient quality to appear in University of Regina in 1974. recently promoted to full the magazine. Please note that After teaching for three years in The inaugural Department of professor at Winona State Degrees is also posted on our Lashburn, Sask., he returned to Media Production and Studies University in Winona, Minn. website. the University to get a bachelor Distinguished Alumni Award Mohr completed a doctorate of arts degree to supplement his was presented to Robin Schlaht in musical arts in piano bachelor of education degree. BFA’92. Since graduating, performance at Université 1960-69 Schlaht has gone on to make de Montréal and has been First Nations University of film and television programs on faculty at Winona State, Robert (Bob) Harris Foster Canada Art Gallery is featuring that have screened across where she teaches piano and BA’65, BEd’71 passed away artist Robin Brass BFA’77 in the Canada and around the world. music theory, since 2002. She – – – Sept. 28, 2011 at Meadow Lake, exhibition mi ima ehkosit until His work includes the feature currently serves as department Sask. at the age of 83. Foster December 16, 2011. Brass is a length documentaries Moscow chairperson and maintains an was a member of the University member of Peepeekisis First Summer (1995), which looks at active career as a soloist and of Regina Senate in 1977-78, as Nation, Treaty IV Territory, and is the emerging post Soviet city; collaborative musician in the an elected representative for of Nahkewe, Scottish, and Métis The Heart Remains Quiet (1999) mid-western U.S. District 4. descent. She has been active about survivors of the Union in creating a local Indigenous Carbide disaster in Bhopal, Corla Rokochy (née Shaw) art scene for 20 plus years in India; and To Be Romeo and BEd’94 lived at Luther College Saskatchewan as co-founder of Juliet (2008), which looks at and played Cougar Volleyball 1970-1979 Sakewewak Artists’ Collective three different productions of during her four years with the James T. Smith PhD’70 won and Sakewewak’s Storytellers’ Shakespeare’s play in Canada, University. In February 2011, the Lester R. Ford award Festival. She is a graduate of the UK and Chile. Schlaht’s her family appeared on the for expository writing in the Indian Fine Arts Department 2008 TV series A Few Good popular CBC program Dragon’s mathematics, for his paper and taught for 10 years at First Men and Women, followed the Den where they successfully Definitions and Nondefinability Nations University of Canada. training of police cadets in secured funds to promote in Geometry in the June 2010 issue of the American Mathematical Monthly. Smith 1980-89 is professor emeritus of Enter our new mathematics at San Francisco Before becoming a full-time State University. writer, Ross King BA’83, MA’86 went on to complete a PhD Stay Connected The Honourable Georgina R. at York University and then Jackson BA’73, one of Canada’s pursued post-graduate work contest. at the University of London. top jurists, is a recipient of Stay Connected to the U of R and we’ll keep you Campion College’s Alumni of He has published six books, Distinction Awards. Jackson including two novels and up-to-date on the news and events at your university received the award in the works on Italian and French in 2011-12! professional achievement art. His most recent book, category. Jackson received an Defiant Spirits: The Modernist Update your information at www.uregina.ca/alumni/uyi Alumni Crowning Achievement Revolution of the Group of Seven for a chance to win more than $3,000 in prizes. Refer a Award from the University of was published in conjunction lost alumnus and you get two additional ballots when they Regina in 2009. with an exhibition he curated update their information. at the McMichael Canadian Art Ted Venne BA’73, BEd’75 retired Collection in 2010. after teaching for 33 years in Draw date June 22, 2012: Fort McMurray, Alta. He was the Eileen Pete BSW’89 taught For an Apple 64GB iPad 2 with WiFi. math/science department head English in Guangzhou, China for part of that time. He taught from 2001 until 2005. at Father Mercredi Community Draw date January 27, 2012: High School for 26 years and Let Marlin Travel set you up with a warm winter at St. John’s Junior high for the 1990-1999 holiday valued at $2000. first seven years. Linda Allen-Hardisty BEd’92, C. Gordon Rock BEd’74, BA’78, MEd’02 owns and operates Note: Alumni employed by the U of R External DAA’79 wrote that although we Allen-Hardisty Consulting Relations Department and members of their immediate indicated that Susan Carter and Inc. specializing in strategy families are not eligible to enter this contest. Pamela Wallin were the only two management for public sector

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 39 her product, Snappy Socks. Silver Award of Excellence for Joanne Sanders Bobiash Marian Donnelly MBA’08 Rokochy’s product addresses Print Publications (External) and BACEd’05 received the Prime opened the Creative City that ever-perplexing problem of a Silver Award of Excellence for Minister’s Award for Teaching Centre, a new creative hub in keeping socks from getting lost Writing (External) for her work Excellence for 2010-2011 Regina’s downtown. Located in the dryer. on the Saskatchewan Arts Board in Saskatchewan. Bobiash in the heritage building above Annual Report 2009-2010. encourages her students to use Loggie’s Shoes, the centre Deanna Elias-Henry BA’95 was diverse forms of educational includes artist studio spaces, recognized with the national Albert Ngui BA’99, CCS’99 is technology including blogging, a performance room and YWCA’s Carolyn B. Bray a member of the Canadian Skyping, Web questing and exhibition gallery, in addition Memorial Award. The award is Association of Information Googling to enhance their to a retail and production given to a YWCA employee who Technology (CIPS) and a studies and prepare them for space for the Regina Fashion shows notable spirit, creativity Certified Computer Professional, the future. She teaches French Collective. The Creative City and dedication on behalf of and holds an Information immersion science and social Centre is also home to the their organization. Elias-Henry Systems Professional studies for grades 6, 7 and 8 at Regina Arts and Crafts Business has been the executive director designation. Wilfred Walker School in Regina. Network and the Articulate Ink of the Regina YMCA for 14 years. Printmaking Collective. Amber Fletcher BA (Hons)’06 Xiang He MFA’95 is the 2000 – WMST was honoured with Rylan Graham BA’09 is a president of British Columbia a Governor General’s Youth pursuing her master of arts Creative Studio, a B.C.-based Award in recognition of her work in planning at the University design team that offers services Present promoting equality of girls and of Waterloo. As a second in a wide range of design Nicole Beepath BA’02 women in Canada. Fletcher, a year graduate student, her disciplines, including mentoring received her diploma in doctoral candidate in Canadian thesis topic is the barriers and young artists. holistic counselling therapy Plains Studies at the University, solutions of neighbourhood from the Institute of Natural is investigating the impact of revitalization within Regina’s Sabrina Cataldo BA’97, BJ’99, Health Sciences. She opened climate change and agricultural Warehouse District. CPR’04 was awarded two Bodhisattva Holistic Counselling policy on the future of farm Canadian Public Relations this year in Regina, specializing Society (CPRS) National Awards women in Saskatchewan. Nadine Kirzinger BA(Hons)’09 in HIV/AIDS counselling, mind- recently completed her MLitt in in June 2011. She received a power and hypnotherapy. Alysia Little BA’07 pursued creative writing at the University a degree in First Nations and of St Andrews in Scotland. Aboriginal counselling in UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS Brandon, Manitoba. Mathew Fetzner MA’11 received the Vanier Canada Graduate Career Exploration in Mining Anne Nguyen BA’07, BKin’07 Scholarship in August 2011 The University of Regina is working in partnership with the is currently a chiropractic to fund research into post- University of Saskatchewan, SIAST, Enterprise Saskatchewan student at Northwestern Health traumatic stress disorder. and the Saskatchewan Mining Association to promote career Sciences University. She Now a doctoral student at the opportunities in the Saskatchewan mining industry to alumni passed the American National University, Fetzner will receive who live outside of the province. Watch for details about Chiropractic Board exams and $50,000 per year for the next presentations and receptions in the following cities: plans to complete the Canadian three years to investigate Fort McMurray: November 22, 2011 equivalent so she can practise the affect of aerobic exercise Vancouver: November 24, 2011 in both countries when she on post-traumatic stress symptoms. Toronto: March 2012 graduates in November 2011. Edmonton: May 2012 Calgary: Spring 2012 (tba)

Slam Dunk of an Evening Saturday, January 28, 2012 Mark your calendar for the alumni family event of the year. The Trusted Slam Dunk of an Evening pregame family social will be held on Financial Advice Saturday, January 28 in KHS Gym #1 in conjunction with men’s and women’s Cougars basketball. More details to follow. Rod Tyler, CFP, R.F.P., CLU We are planning other alumni events in Ottawa, Victoria and Toronto in 2012. Stay connected with the University of Regina and we will send you news and info about what is happening. Update your info at http://www.uregina.ca/alumni/uyi for a chance to win great prizes. Let us know if you would like more information or to help organize an alumni event in your location. Contact us at 2330 McIntyre Street, Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 2S2 [email protected]. (306) 525-5250 • Toll-free: 877-225-5250

40 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Realize. A better quality of life for older Canadians.

Dr. Shanthi Johnson and Dr. Darren Candow are just two of the researchers at the University of Regina's Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies working to improve the quality of life for older Canadians.

Among her areas of study, Johnson examines the role nutrition and exercise regimens play in improving physical capabilities and prevention of falls among seniors in community and long-term care settings. Candow is working to develop effective resistance training and nutritional routines to improve aging muscle and bone health. They both work in partnership with community and industry to improve the lives of older Canadians and save health care costs.

The University of Regina has established a proud Dr. Darren Candow tradition in population health research. Our researchers are collaborating with others across Canada and Dr. Shanthi Johnson around the world to expand the frontiers of knowledge and improve the quality of life for Canadians. www.uregina.ca

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 41 When I met Cliff, Marla and Marla’s brother Mike at the Century Flight Wonderings from the Club’s kickoff barbeque in La Ronge, Sask., I figured I might get to Uranium City after all, and for cheap. Cliff would Saskatchewanderer drop off Marla and Mike in U-City, then circle back to Stony Rapids to pick me by Andrew Konoff BA(Hons)’11 up. The only problem was that I needed to get to Stony Rapids. It’s about half an Photos by University of Regina Photography Department and courtesy of Ministry of Tourism, Parks, hour south of Saskatchewan’s border Culture and Sport, and Andrew Konoff. with the Northwest Territories, and the sand roads in and out are notoriously bad. The next morning I found myself rescued by John Lovelace himself – the guy who started the Century Flight Club to promote the discovery of Canada by private aircraft. Lovelace is a TV producer from Vancouver and he agreed to fly me to Stony Rapids. He’s endearing and smart, and knows Canada in the carnal way that pilots know whole countries as they pass above them. He’s flown from coast to coast enough times to have picked out a few spots worth bringing people to from across the continent; Saskatchewan, as I notice from 3,500 feet, is well worth a trip. There are 60 or so planes in this year’s Century Flight Club, and they all follow more or less the same route to Saskatchewan’s uncultivated far north. The trees – common as canola after Prince Albert – are broken up by lakes and rocky swathes of Canadian Shield. I see a uranium mine, a reforested area in the shape of a stickman, and no roads. The twin-engine prop plane makes quick work of the flight from La Ronge to Stony Rapids, and when I disembark, This past summer, Andrew Konoff landed what I wonder what amenities I’d find at Scott’s General Store. I learn that the can only be described as the dream summer wolf pelt on their wall goes for about job. His task? To hit the road and get to know $800, and that beef jerky is priced nearly as extortionately. I find a bit of a waiting Saskatchewan and Saskatchewanians like room. There’s nothing much to read in few others have. After travelling over 13,000 my two pieces of luggage, so I charge my camera, play games on my phone, kilometres, it was a visit to Uranium City – its and try not to eat my whole supply of beauty and fragility – that got Konoff reflecting food in one sitting. I’m not really used to relaxing on the job. on the province’s current boom and what might A bit more than an hour before we happen should prosperity slow. left, I didn’t think my boss would give me approval to pay for Cliff’s fuel. I didn’t find out that she would until I was standing on the runway in La Ronge.

42 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Left: You have to hand it to Konoff – he’s come to know some of the more obscure parts of the province travelling more than 13,000 kilometres around Saskatchewan this past summer. Right: After 30 years, the forest is reclaiming the neglected Uranium City.

The day before, I had no hope shore of Lake Athabasca – the sand headed to the area that the people who whatsoever of getting to Uranium providing the right conditions for a worked there figured they would need City, as I thought that people’s unique ecosystem to take root. some of the amenities of city life. schedules and flight plans would be Everyone I speak with who’s involved An airport and a liquor board were as uncompromising as the rugged with Saskatchewan tourism wants to followed by car dealerships and bowling landscape I would soon find myself visit them, and to actually sit and touch alleys and population growth at a rate flying over. the sand for at least a few days. I am higher than anywhere in Saskatchewan Fortunately, perseverance and the very much over the disappointment of has ever seen. I spoke with a former incredible kindness of others made not getting to touch down in them, and prospector named Darrell who lived in things happen. I get the sense that even more so when Cliff lets me pilot the the area in the late 70s. He remembered this sort of helpfulness can be the plane as we pass them. I like flying. It’s miners driving new Corvettes on the only way to accomplish anything like driving on a hilly, icy road. municipality’s dozen-odd kilometres in Saskatchewan’s north – and you Cliff takes over again. He and his of paved roads. It was a Malthusian certainly have to be willing to pay it wife Marla are pretty adorable. Cliff’s moment in a nuclear time. forward. In my four months and 13,000 probably 50, always grinning, and calm There are probably enough stories kilometres as the Saskatchewanderer, in ways that northern paramedics about single-industry mining towns I learned at least that much. ought to be. He doesn’t fly the plane that shutting down that you can guess the I braved the stress because otherwise airlifts him to the most remote places in narrative arc of Uranium City’s history. I would have failed to do the only thing northern Saskatchewan – he keeps his In the late 70s, uranium prices had I promised to do when I took on the pilot licence purely a recreational affair. stabilized, and the remaining 2,500 long- job. To become the Saskatchewanderer, He has stories, as one would imagine suffering residents finally had cause for I had to post a few videos on YouTube he would. Besides the fairly high-risk optimism. Eldorado, the most resilient to get people interested enough in activities of mining, hunting, and producer in the area, was investing Saskatchewan so that they would vote for forestry, there’s not much else happening enormous sums of money into new me. I did that mostly by speaking about up north. Marla sits in the back of the facilities. What demand for uranium how much there is to do in the province, plane, offering up jokes at her husband’s was lost in the warming of Soviet-U.S. and I might have waxed fantastical at expense, and discouraging any dramatic relations would be, the producers times. I said I would camp and sandboard aerial manoeuvres. seemed to expect, made up for by buyers on the Athabasca Sand Dunes. After landing in Uranium City, we supplying uranium to the nuclear power I really thought that I would be able meet up with Ken and his wife Cheryl. industry. to do that. And while I didn’t, I got pretty They’re retirees who grew up in A new apartment block went up, close. Uranium City, but now spend winters and a new high school was named for Part of the unhinged-from-reality in Arizona. They’re still willing to drive the CANDU reactor. Unfortunately, excitement I had at the time was due to all the way back here, up the hundreds demand for the commodity never really the fact that no one tells you that there of kilometres of sand roads, and why? materialized, and more concentrated ore are sand dunes in Saskatchewan. People “Because of the country, bud,” says Ken. was found elsewhere in Saskatchewan. have similarly failed to mention that Uranium City was, as its name In June of 1982, Eldorado closed down they’re the most northerly in the world suggests, there because of the uranium. everything. Four years after that, there and the highest in North America. Even After World War II ended the monopoly were only 200 people left, and the still, they move around the southern on uranium mining, enough companies population has hovered there ever since.

Degrees | fall/winter 2011 43 Twenty-five years later, there’s not I wouldn’t think about those questions much left to see of the city. Most of the very much until late September, when I buildings have been scavenged. In one of met with a marketing agency in Halifax. the very few cul-de-sacs where there are I figured they would take interest in more inhabited houses than abandoned my recently developed skill set, and I ones, the residents decided to target one managed to arrange a meeting with one building as scrap, and slowly deconstruct of the bigger firms in the city. it in order to maintain the others. One of the directors asked me about Everything has to be trucked up what I would do if I could market along a winter-only road across Lake Saskatchewan the way I wanted. I don’t Athabasca, so everything is expensive. think I had a perfect answer, but I knew Gas is well over $2 a litre. On the way what I had seen in Uranium City. out of town, we drive along roads where There was once a pretty good reason the asphalt has turned to gravel; rusted for moving there. Someone had seen fire hydrants glow from dense thickets gold in the quartz, yellowcake in the clay. of caraganas. The concrete shells of These were strong signals of prosperity, formerly inhabited houses peek through and now, after 25 years, not much is left. overgrown lawns. Twenty-five years ago, I don’t think it was to Saskatchewan’s this would have looked like any other For Konoff, the beauty of the Uranium City area advantage that the gold shone so suburban road in the country. was unlike anything else he saw during his brightly. God knows that our ancestors I find myself in the back of Ken’s truck summer of Saskatchewandering. worked tirelessly to get the unbroken with Mark. Cliff and Marla are riding land to do what they wanted, so is it so shotgun, and Ken’s the guide. We get out over a lake and the hills; ducklings swim wrong to ask for an easier time? More of the city (if you can still call it that) to their mother in the water below. money? Less work? No, it’s not wrong. soon enough, and followed a road south Strange lichen, red rock and the sepia But I have worried about Saskatchewan toward Lake Athabasca. The road criss- tones of the sunset make this landscape ever since I saw Uranium City, and the crosses an impressive power line that has more Martian than Canadian. Box Mine. been left up, as Ken says, “just in case.” On the flight back to La Ronge, the I worried when I saw the empty It once fed power to the Box Mine, plane touches down at Key Lake at frames under those once productive a gold mine that closed in the 50s. The Cameco’s uranium operation. There, places – I worry, because I don’t want trip there is marked with decidedly un- the ore grade is about ten times more that to be the only thing left when Saskatchewanian views. Rocky fingers concentrated than in Uranium City. prosperity slows. of the Canadian Shield wander into the Miners stay in well-equipped dorms I wonder if the beer and music water, which stretches into an oceanic while they work their one week in, and and culture in the province will keep horizon. The lake is very, very big, and then they are flown off for their one flowing. I wonder if the beauty of the there’s only a sliver of white to indicate week out. north will keep people coming back, the sandy southern shore. I imagine that Our tour guide is an HR guy, and even if the mines shut down. someone from Vancouver Island would knows about Uranium City. This I wonder if the things I saw this be at home here. operation might be more costly on summer – the things that made me Ken tells us the best is yet to come. some accounts, but by not building up a feel as though Saskatchewan deserves What I have seen is really quite enough whole city around one mine, there’s not everyone’s attention – will be resilient to seal it for me – Uranium City is the a community that will be forever lost enough to stick around. Will the things most beautiful part of Saskatchewan I when the mine inevitably closes. that truly make Saskatchewan a worthy have seen. As the sun goes down, though, After a restless night at Key Lake and place for a proud people – will those we hike up past the Box Mine, where a 10-hour drive, I was back in Regina things last? drill bits and extraction holes still dot the and in the home stretch of my summer I don’t know. All I know is that I would red, lichen-covered rock hills. of Saskatchewanderings. In a month, I like all Saskatchewanians to feel the Along the surface you can see bits of would be moving to Halifax with my most magical feeling I felt this summer. quartz, which sometimes holds little girlfriend. When we complete the 4,000 It’s simply the feeling: “Wow, this is specks of gold – that could potentially km drive, I consider that I might just Saskatchewan.” D signal the mother lode. The Box Mine sleep for a month straight. looks simultaneously beautiful and So what have I learned from my Andrew Konoff is a philosophy graduate and haunting, its iron frame stands even with summer of wandering? What does has recently accepted a position as an online the tops of the surrounding mountains. travelling across Saskatchewan reveal community co-ordinator with an e-commerce We crest the hill, to the most beautiful about the place? Why would a person group in Dartmouth, N.S. He keeps his mind view I have ever seen. The sun is setting even chose to live here? sharp by blogging at www.onoffkonoff.com.

44 Degrees | fall/winter 2011 Realize. How far we’ve come.

Now that we’ve had our cake...

The 2011 Alumni Homecoming Weekend was an outstanding success. Thank you to all of our sponsors who helped make it the celebration of the century. Lloyd Ingram Barber by Joe Fafard March 8, 1932 – September 16, 2011 A lifetime dedicated to the University of Regina.