UNews - Janice Varzari

Varzari family establishes new bursary to help students in need

caroline.zentner — Thu, 11 May 2023 17:10:35 +0000

Not only are post-secondary students facing increased costs for their education, they’re also facing higher costs for food and housing. Chancellor Emerita Dr. Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02, LLD ’21) and her husband Glenn understand those challenges and have donated $50,000 to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge to create the Varzari Family Bursary Fund. The fund will support students in need with a variety of flexible bursaries.

“We know students face increased stress when they experience the financial challenges that come with today’s economy and inflation,” says Janice. “Our goal with this donation is to help alleviate some of that financial pressure so students can focus on their studies.”

As an honorary campaign chair of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s current Campaign for Students, Janice continues to be a steadfast supporter of students. During her time as chancellor from 2015 to 2019, Janice was a skillful ambassador for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. She saw ULethbridge through its 50th anniversary celebrations as it ushered in a new era of growth and maturity and she took a personal approach to enhancing the ULethbridge experience for all students. In 2021, she and Glenn backed the launch of the Student Wellness Ambassador Program to provide students with peer support. The Varzaris pledged to match money raised for the program up to $20,000.

“Bursaries like this greatly enhance the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s ability to support students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue post-secondary education,” says Kathy Greenwood, vice-president external relations. “I want to thank the Varzari family for their gift, which will ensure a positive, well-rounded experience for more ULethbridge students. Their support sends a powerful message to students who are facing financial hardships.”

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Board of Governors will match the donation to establish the Varzari Family Bursary Fund as part of its $10-million pledge in matching funds to establish new endowed student awards. In addition to significantly increasing the sustainability of its student awards program, the current scholarship drive aims to build a base of support to remove barriers, increase accessibility and unlock opportunities for future generations of students.

Visit the Campaign for Students for more information.

Alumnus Terry Whitehead named ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s 15th chancellor

trevor.kenney — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 17:38:27 +0000

Terry Whitehead (BA ’94), one of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s most engaged and impassioned alumni, has been elected by the ULethbridge Senate as the institution’s 15th chancellor. It is just the second time in the 56-year history of the school that an alumnus will occupy the role.

Currently a managing partner of a Vancouver-based executive search and management consulting firm, Whitehead has served on the ULethbridge Board of Governors and been a champion of multiple initiatives over the years through his philanthropic support of the arts, Pronghorn Athletics and student food security issues.

Terry Whitehead is one of ULethbridge’s most engaged and impassioned alumni.

“When you think of the chancellor’s role and their relationship to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, you can’t help but see Terry as an absolutely perfect fit,” says Dr. Mike Mahon, ULethbridge president and vice-chancellor. “He has long been one of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s greatest advocates and his support is tangible in the ways he has affected the lives of our students through the many awards and prizes he has created over the years. I’m excited to see what he will do in this new role and how he will continue to raise the profile of our ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.”

Whitehead views the chancellor position as an opportunity to take his work with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ to another level. Already the philanthropic impetus behind the creation of such initiatives as the Bridge Prize (Canada’s only national short story writing contest for post-secondary students), the Play Right Prize (annual student one-act playwriting competition), HistoriCity (annual student historical essay competition), the Pronghorn Citizenship Award, and most recently the Spirit Prize (annual award recognizing excellence in visual arts by an Indigenous student), Whitehead says his connection to ULethbridge is a sincere recognition of how his time as a student shaped his future career and opened his world view.

“This is a fantastic institution, and I have such wonderful memories and am deeply appreciative of my time here as a student,” he says. “Coming here really changed my perspective on everything, changed my worldview. I’m so grateful for the liberal education experience — it really inspired my curiosity for and gave me the critical thinking skills to apply to the bigger world.”

The chancellor’s primary responsibilities are to chair the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Senate and preside over convocation ceremonies. ULethbridge chancellors have also used the role as an opportunity to champion key initiatives in support of students and the student experience. Outgoing chancellor Charles Weaselhead was instrumental in his support of inclusivity and indigineity on campus while his predecessor, Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02), was a strong advocate for energizing the vast ULethbridge alumni base as well as student mental health and wellness initiatives.

“An issue of real importance and concern for me is sustainable food security for our students,” says Whitehead, who is also one of the four recently named co-chairs of the current fundraising campaign for student scholarships. “This romanticized image of the starving student as some important rite of passage into adulthood is just so wrong. Students can’t study or write papers if they are hungry, so working with the Ulethbridge community to address this issue is one area I’d like to focus on during my term.”

Whitehead found early in his time as a ULethbridge student how important it was to engage with the opportunities available on campus. He dove right in, serving on Students’ Union council, writing as Sports Editor for the Meliorist, acting in fine arts dramatic productions, attending Pronghorns games and basically immersing himself in the campus lifestyle.

“You arrive on campus, and the world just opens up for you. You might come in thinking you’re going to do this one thing and then you discover there are so many other opportunities to explore, and you gain confidence and just run with it,” he says. “I recall attending student plays, art exhibitions and grad recitals for music students and being blown away by the talent. Those experiences really ignited an appreciation for the talented artists who attend our campus and the outstanding faculty who inspire them. You go to a Horns game or a concert or a play and you just dive into the student experience and it’s intoxicating.”

Kairvee Bhatt, Students’ Union president, has worked with Whitehead in his role as a board of governors’ member and respects his dedication to ULethbridge.

“Terry is just the embodiment of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge spirit,” she says. “He’s someone who has a continual commitment to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, to its students, alumni and the community beyond.”

Whitehead will be officially installed as chancellor at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s Spring Convocation ceremony to be held June 1-2, 2023. He will also host his first Chancellor’s Dinner on the evening of June 1.

Check out the chancellor's web page for more.

Student scholarship drive championed by ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge alumni and community leaders

trevor.kenney — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 16:49:23 +0000

When the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Board of Governors pledged $10 million in match funds for the establishment of new endowed student scholarships, it laid the groundwork for the most ambitious student scholarship drive in the 50-plus year history of ULethbridge.

ULethbridge alumni and community leaders Janice Varzari, Roland Labuhn, Terry Whitehead and Bernadine Boulet are lead ambassadors for the student scholarship drive initiative.

Now, alumni and community leaders Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02, LLD ’21), Terry Whitehead (BA ’94), Bernadine Boulet (BEd ’88) and Roland Labuhn (BMgt ’90) are leading the way through the next phase of the initiative, with ULethbridge students, current and future generations, destined to benefit.

“We are so excited to have the support of these outstanding alumni and community leaders to help us champion this new initiative and build a plan to move it forward. They are fantastic ambassadors for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, and we are so grateful for their advocacy and support,” says Kathy Greenwood, ULethbridge vice-president (external relations). “As graduates, these alumni know the difference a ULethbridge education can make, and they are committed to ensuring more students have the same opportunities they had. This will significantly increase the sustainability of our current awards program and lay a strong foundation to build upon moving forward.”

At the heart of the drive is the $10 million in match funds, providing an opportunity to double the impact donations of all sizes make to endowed scholarships — significantly enhancing the endowment base and its sustainability for generations to come.

“What excites me about being a part of this initiative is recognizing that the need for student financial support is greater than ever. It’s so challenging right now for post-secondary students to go to school, and I think students today have a lot more barriers than when I was a student,” says Whitehead. “This is an extraordinary opportunity to have donations matched, and the impact of your gift being doubled will really go a long way. If an alumnus or a member of our community has never donated before, this is a wonderful time to make that first donation as it will be leveraged significantly.”

One of the hallmarks of the scholarship drive is its focus on removing social and financial barriers and creating pathways for Indigenous and racialized communities, people with disabilities and 2SLGBTQ+ students to access post-secondary education.

“I want to see this improve accessibility so that more students can get assistance with their education,” says former chancellor Varzari. “By making a donation, by writing that cheque, you’re going to assist lots of students moving into the future who may not be able to attend university otherwise. People who make a donation, even a small donation, they can see that gift grow and make a difference with the match funds.”

Boulet graduated from the education program in 1988 and is still deeply connected to ULethbridge, personally and professionally. As an educator, she is quick to mentor student teachers in her classrooms and sees how support from the Lethbridge community creates lasting connections with students.

“I really hope that through this we can build those connections, and that students see we value them,” says Boulet. “You can make a difference in a student’s life by them receiving a scholarship, even if it’s not a big scholarship, and that student will go on to have a positive impact in our community and our province in the future. By giving, you can inspire others to give too.”

Labuhn has long championed the benefits of post-secondary education and how it enhances career outcomes for students, thereby collectively bettering southern Alberta and the communities ULethbridge graduates call home. He sees donations to establish student scholarships reaping immediate dividends.

“What I really like about this is how the money goes directly to students, and it’s going to be something where you can really see the results,” he says. “A scholarship and an advanced education can have a huge influence in life. These scholarships will help people who may be in a difficult situation get access to post-secondary education, or maybe they will be used to accelerate the path current students are on — it’s all about helping students get to where they want to be.”

To contribute to or create a new student scholarship, contact Director of Development, Erika Scott (BA ’08), erika.scott@uleth.ca or by calling 403-332-4030. Visit the campaign web page.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge seeking community input in search for new chancellor

trevor.kenney — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 16:33:09 +0000

The search for a new chancellor is on and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is engaging the public at large to participate in the process.

ULethbridge Chancellor Taatsiikiipoyii (Talks in the Middle) Charles Weaselhead’s term is ending after being appointed the institution’s first Indigenous chancellor in 2019. His successor will be chosen in the coming months following a public search and nomination process — after which the ULethbridge Senate will short-list candidates and eventually choose the institution’s 15th chancellor.

While a volunteer position, the chancellor’s role is integral to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and its mission as the chancellor represents the public interest in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. As Chair of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Senate, the chancellor is an ex officio member of the Board of Governors and serves as a key ambassador for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ locally, provincially and beyond. In addition, the chancellor presides over all degree-confirming ceremonies and confers all degrees, as well as represents the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ at ceremonial occasions.

“We have been very fortunate over the history of ULethbridge to have an outstanding group of chancellors,” says Dr. Mike Mahon, president and vice-chancellor. “We saw over Charlie’s term, his engagement with the community and his dedication to advancing the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s strategic vision. He was key in championing several Indigenous initiatives and strengthening the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s commitment to and connection with the Blackfoot Nation. He was and will continue to be an outstanding ambassador for the institution.”

Past chancellors include L.S. Turcotte (the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s first) (LLD ’72), Van E. Christou (LLD ’84), Ingrid Speaker (LLD ’01), Robert Hironaka (LLD ’02), James Horsman (LLD ’04), Richard Davidson (LLD ’12) and Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02, LLD ’21), among others. Each has brought unique talents to the role, and all have helped forward ULethbridge in communities close and abroad.

“It’s been said that education is the new buffalo that sustains and empowers our young Indigenous learners. I am a firm believer that knowledge provides the tool to make sound decisions to further careers and provide support to underserved communities,” says Weaselhead. “The past four years have been very rewarding, and I will leave this role with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. It has been the highest honour to serve as the first Indigenous chancellor in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s history.”

Nominees for chancellor must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, possess a strong interest in university-community affairs and education, and have adequate time to apply to the considerable duties involved. This is a volunteer position with no remuneration.

Official nomination forms, requiring the names and addresses of three nominators, the signed consent of the nominee and any supporting documentation, will be received in the Senate Office until November 30, 2022. The successful candidate will take office March 16, 2023.

For nomination forms and further information, please contact The Chancellor Search Committee, care of The Senate Office (403-329-2482) or via e-mail at governance@uleth.ca. Details are also available by visiting the Chancellor Search web page.

Board of Governors pledges $10 million in match funds to support student scholarships

trevor.kenney — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 14:21:00 +0000

Acknowledging that increased financial support is critical in ensuring a university education remains an option for more students, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Board of Governors is pledging $10 million in match funds for the establishment of new endowed student scholarships.

The endowed funds will significantly increase the sustainability of the ULethbridge awards program.

The funds, which will be used to attract and inspire philanthropic support from the community in support of student awards and scholarships, will significantly increase the sustainability of the ULethbridge awards program and lay the foundation for future generations of students.

“Our students are at the centre of everything we do here, and student support and the student experience has long been a hallmark of ULethbridge,” says Board of Governors Chair Dean Gallimore. “What is available to our students is an enriching experience across a breadth of programs and majors, and one that prepares them as critical thinkers and global citizens. We see this endowment of funds as a means to remove barriers and allow more students the opportunity to pursue their passions and realize success.”

By offering $10 million in match contributions, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ is aiming to build a significant base of support that will unlock opportunities for future generations of students. It will allow ULethbridge to further attract, retain and reward diverse and promising students now and for generations to come.

“I applaud the board for this substantial commitment, which will have both an immediate and everlasting impact on the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s mission to educate students as adaptive learners and strong-minded community leaders,” says Dr. Mike Mahon ULethbridge president and vice-chancellor. “This pledge is a vote of confidence in what we do, who we are as a university and the future that is before us.”

Scholarships and awards play a key role in student success. For some, scholarships are the incentive and reward for hard work and dedication, community service or athletic excellence. For others, scholarships relieve the financial burden post-secondary education can place on themselves and their families, and in some cases, scholarship funds create access and make the dream of attending university possible.

“I have had the opportunity to speak to many of our students who have received scholarships over the years and the difference it makes in their lives is substantial,” says Mahon. “So many speak of how scholarship support allows them to focus on their studies, pursue their passions and really embrace the full university experience.”

ULethbridge is also pleased to announce a distinguished group of alumni and community leaders who have been chosen to champion this new initiative and help build a plan for it moving forward. Former chancellor Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02), Terry Whitehead (BA ’94), Bernadine Boulet (BEd ’88) and Roland Labuhn (BMgt ’90) have all been selected as outstanding ambassadors for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.

Former chancellor Janice Varzari to be recognized with honorary degree

trevor.kenney — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 16:34:14 +0000

A champion for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge on a number of levels, Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02) will be recognized with an honorary degree as part of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s 2021 Spring Convocation celebrations.

Janice Varzari has been a steadfast champion of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge for greater than 30 years.

Connected to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge for greater than 30 years, Varzari has been a steadfast ambassador for the U of L throughout her many roles, from student to alumnus, senator, board member and chancellor.

“I don’t believe you could find many people more committed to advancing the goals of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and supporting our students than Janice Varzari,” says Charles Weaselhead, U of L Chancellor. “When I followed Janice as chancellor, I understood how difficult it would be to fill the role and also benefitted greatly from the wonderful work she had done. We’re very pleased to present her with an honorary degree for her longstanding commitment to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and its students.”

Varzari will be conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, at the Chancellor’s Reception on Thursday, June 10, 2021.

Janice Varzari

Janice Varzari’s connection to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ began with her time as a student, first in the Bachelor of Nursing program, from which she graduated in 1990 with Great Distinction while earning the Gold Medal in Nursing. She returned to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ to complete a Master of Education with Specialization in Counselling Psychology in 2002. In 2008, Varzari was inducted into the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Honour Society.

Amazingly, this was just the start for Varzari as she continued to not only stay connected with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, but sought ways in which she could further contribute to the institution. She began to take on a number of volunteer roles, beginning with terms on both the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Senate and Board of Directors. In 2015, Varzari was appointed by the Senate as the 13th chancellor, the first alumnus to ever assume the post.

As chancellor, Varzari was able to utilize all her skills as an ambassador for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and was involved in a number of prominent initiatives which further enhanced the profile of the institution. She saw the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ through its 50th anniversary celebrations, ushering in a new era of growth and maturity for the U of L, and was dedicated to taking a personal approach in enhancing the experience for all students.

The vice-president and co-owner (with her husband Glenn) of National Salvage Ltd. and National Holdings Ltd., they have continued to show steadfast support for U of L students in particular. In 2021, the couple backed the launch of the Student Wellness Ambassador Program, ensuring a legacy of student support would continue.

Peer connections the focus of new Student Wellness Ambassador Program supported by former chancellor

trevor.kenney — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 16:13:10 +0000

Janice Varzari headlines program fundraising with matching donation

A new program designed to enhance student wellness at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is receiving a boost of support from its former chancellor, Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02).

Former U of L Chancellor Janice Varzari, left, and her husband Glenn will match all donations to the establishment of the new SWAP program, up to $20,000.

The Student Wellness Ambassador Program (SWAP) is a student-led wellness initiative aimed at developing peer connections and promoting wellness. The program has already been active in raising funds from alumni and donors to support it through its first four years, and Varzari and her husband Glenn pledge to match the money raised, up to $20,000.

“In talking with Janice, she was looking to support something related to student wellness that was more than a one-time gift and would have a lasting impact,” says Jennifer Ellis-Toddington (BSc ’99, MEd’05), manager of Counselling and Career Services at the U of L. “I’ve felt we’ve always needed a peer support program. We have many ways for our students to connect with counselling services at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ but not every student needs or wants a professional counsellor.”

The SWAP initiative will focus on two main areas, regular student-led (and developed) wellness initiatives that allow peer-to-peer connections on and off campus, and peer support services.

“As a proud alumna and long-time volunteer and supporter of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, I care deeply about our students and their experiences while studying at the U of L,” says Varzari. “As at most post-secondary institutions, our students are experiencing significant stresses that affect their mental wellness, and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ is seeing increasing demands upon its mental health services.

“My husband Glenn and I are thrilled to offer our financial support to this initiative. We are encouraging other alumni and supporters to consider making a gift to this much-needed program.”

Ellis-Toddington says students are seeking ways to connect with each other, noting a 45 per cent participation increase in group events offered by Counseling Services.

“Our virtual book clubs fill up almost immediately and it’s been that way since the start of the pandemic, so something like this is needed now more than ever,” she says.

A Student Wellness Ambassador Committee will be responsible for planning weekly outreach events that provide students opportunities to engage in wellness activities as well as learn about mental health resources on campus. Peer listeners will be trained by counseling services staff and provide peer support through active listening and referrals to other services, if needed.

“This will really fill a gap for our students,” says Ellis-Toddington. “I see it as a prevention strategy in that students who may not be willing to come forward to talk with counsellors, maybe they will reach out if it’s a peer they can connect with. Our listeners will be trained to talk with them and if they need further support, they can get the help they need.”

Students who participate as wellness ambassadors will earn valuable training and also receive credit on their My Experience Transcript (MET).

Those looking to support the Student Wellness Ambassador Program can do so on the SWAP web page.

Entrepreneur Arlene Dickinson to receive U of L honorary degree at Fall 2018 Convocation

trevor.kenney — Wed, 10 Oct 2018 15:49:04 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is proud to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of venture capitalist Arlene Dickinson by presenting her with an honorary degree at the Fall 2018 Convocation ceremony.

Best known as one of the stars of the CBC series Dragons’ Den, Dickinson has captured the hearts of many with her positive attitude, encouraging words and forthrightness.

“Arlene Dickinson is an outstanding example of a fearless entrepreneur who recognized opportunity and achieved great success through her exceptional business acumen,” says U of L Chancellor Janice Varzari. “She has since made the most of that success by giving back to society as a generous philanthropist and serving as an inspiration to countless Canadians looking to make their own mark in the business world.”

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ will present Dickinson with a doctor of laws, honoris causa, at the Fall 2018 Convocation Ceremony at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018 in the 1st Choice Savings Centre gymnasium.

Arlene Dickinson

Arlene Dickinson had a high school diploma and four young children when she divorced at age 31. Armed only with a grade 12 education and a need to support her family as a single parent, nothing indicated that she’d one day become a business tycoon.

Her divorce was the turning point that motivated Dickinson to prove she could independently support her children. A year later, she became a partner in Venture Communications, then a small agency based in Calgary. Ten years later, Dickinson became the CEO and transformed the company into one of the largest independent marketing firms in the country. She used her core values — authenticity, honesty and reciprocity — as the foundation of her business relations, an approach that has served her well.

Today, she has extended her passion for growing Canadian entrepreneurs by founding the country’s first accelerator for food, beverage and health companies, and building a venture capital fund focused on investing in innovative entrepreneurs.

Dickinson has been recognized with the Pinnacle Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence, as well as Canada’s Most Powerful Women Top 100, and Chatelaine’s and PROFIT’s top 100 women business owners.

A generous philanthropist, she dedicated her life to improving the lives of others. She is an Honorary Captain of the Royal Canadian Navy and a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Dickinson is also an author, including the bestselling Persuasion and All In, with a third book in the works. Both titles are available for sale in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Bookstore.

Unfortunately, Dickinson is unable to attend Fall 2018 Convocation due to illness.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge publicly launches $100-million fundraising and engagement campaign

trevor.kenney — Thu, 20 Sep 2018 15:49:19 +0000

Today, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge publicly launches the most ambitious campaign in its 51-year history – SHINE: The Campaign for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.

Two clear goals have been set for the campaign, to raise $100 million and to greatly increase alumni and community engagement. For U of L President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mike Mahon, these goals are in step with the history of the institution and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s place in the southern Alberta community.

“This is a very bold campaign and reflective of who we are and where we originated,” says Mahon. “Our community came together 51 years ago with a similarly bold and audacious plan, pushing ahead to establish a third university in Alberta and changing forever the culture and economy of southern Alberta. As we look ahead, this campaign will build upon what has already been established and push forward through groundbreaking research activities, new and progressive academic programming, community engagement initiatives and the realization of the Science and Academic Building.”

To date, the campaign has raised almost $67 million through 31,000 gifts from nearly 9,000 donors.

President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mike Mahon announces the launch of the SHINE campaign.

“We are challenging ourselves with this campaign but this is what we do here on a daily basis,” says Mahon. “The U of L has far exceeded the expectations of even its founders and we are consistently one of the country’s top-ranked universities and research institutions. We challenge our faculty to reach beyond in the classroom and through their research, and we challenge our students to do the same. This campaign is symbolic of a university that is not shy of punching above its weight.”

Chancellor Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02) credits the relationship the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ has with the southern Alberta community for making this campaign possible.

“For us to be able to go public with almost $67 million raised speaks to the support we receive from local government, local business and industry and of course, local citizens,” she says. “It is a relationship built on commitment and a trust that we will deliver on what we have articulated as aspirations.”

A large aspect of the campaign involves the U of L’s more than 43,000 alumni and the continuing goal of enhancing their engagement with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.

“Alumni have played an important role in shaping the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and will continue to be important players as we move forward,” says ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association President Michael Gabriel (BA ’04). “It’s important we come together and strengthen our community today and for decades to come.”

Gabriel says the campaign goal is to reach 20,000 engaged alumni.

“There are multiple ways to get involved, including making a gift, attending a U of L event, volunteering or mentoring, or simply staying connected and sharing your story,” he says. “An engaged alumni community translates to a stronger social and professional network for all U of L graduates.”

To learn more about SHINE: The Campaign for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, and to view the campaign video, visit: shine.ulethbridge.ca.

Investing in the future

trevor.kenney — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 21:51:08 +0000

More than 50 years ago, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge changed the landscape of southern Alberta – both physically and culturally. As the new Science and Academic Building takes shape on the north end of campus, it’s about to happen again.

Janice and her husband Glenn have stepped forward with a significant gift towards the Science and Academic Building.

“This facility will lead to new scientific discoveries for the benefit of humanity,” explains Dr. Matthew Letts, associate dean, Faculty of Arts & Science, highlighting the impact the building will have not only on our campus but on the broader community and even globally. “It will allow us to augment research productivity, improve our research funding success, forge new partnerships with industry, develop the regional economy, serve as a science centre for southern Alberta and inspire proud U of L students to embark on scientific careers.”

The building — and its positive impact — is more than the sum of its parts.

“We feel it’s important to make a donation to this phase of the Destination Project because we want to contribute as best as we can to the generations who follow us,” says Janice Varzari (BN ’90, MEd ’02), the U of L’s 13th chancellor, a long-time Senate and Board of Governors member and a proud alumna. Janice and her husband Glenn have stepped forward with a significant gift towards the project.

When the new building opens in fall 2019, it will be one of the most advanced facilities for science and research in Canada. A home for innovation and discovery, the open and flexible laboratory environments will encourage and foster research between the sciences, and with an abundance of transparent walls, science will truly be on display for the public to see.

Sustainably designed with the local climate in mind, students, faculty and community will come together under one roof to create, inquire and discover like never before.

“Education is our future,” Janice explains. “We are investing in the U of L because it is an institution that invests in others.”

Glenn echoes Janice’s statements emphasizing their family’s commitment to tomorrow.

“It’s more than supporting a building. It’s an investment in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, its students and our community,” he says. “It’s creating a legacy that goes beyond our own region, province and even lifetime.”

Truly a U of L family, the Varzaris have a longstanding connection to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and began their support as a show of gratitude. They are now leading by example and have seen the charge taken up by the next generation.

“We’re grateful to see that philanthropic spirit emerging in our grandkids now,” says Glenn. “We hope to see it grow in our own family, but also the community at large.”

As Janice gets ready to wrap up her term as chancellor next spring, she is looking forward to watching the impact of her work and her family’s contributions to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ continue to take root.

“It makes you feel like as small as we are, our tiny little efforts will reach across the world in some way through the thousands of graduates doing their work,” she says.

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