UNews - Jason Elliott

Building strong communities worldwide, Bradley Hamilton recognized as ULAA 2021 Alumnus of the Year

trevor.kenney — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 16:07:56 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association (ULAA) is pleased to announce the 2021 Alumnus of the Year as Bradley Hamilton (BMgt ‘88).

“Brad’s career has been marked by his consistent efforts to make a positive difference in the organizations he works with,” says Jason Elliott, president of the ULAA. “His people-first approach breathes life into companies, allowing them to flourish during times of change. He sets the bar for others and is an exemplar of our alumni community.”

Alumnus of the Year — Bradley Hamilton

Bradley Hamilton (BMgt ‘88) is an industry-leading business professional dedicated to raising the standards and performance of organizations while making lasting positive change in communities worldwide. His background in financial services, performance management and executive governance lend him an expert perspective to help organizations find efficiencies and successful strategies for long-term employee engagement and organizational success. In his current role as vice-president of risk culture, conduct and ethical behaviour with Scotiabank, Hamilton is responsible for mapping employee behaviour as it pertains to regulatory requirements, business policies, procedures and processes. Hamilton assesses human behaviour to establish what drives employees ‘to do the right thing’, and then uses this understanding to enact tangible change within an organization. Armed with an untethered curiosity and dedication to the faces behind corporations, Hamilton ensures people feel a greater sense of connection to their work, and, by extension, organizations remain healthy.

Helping companies enact policy with widespread positive impact has always been a driving force in Hamilton’s career. Over the course of three decades, he has worked at every level of the financial and consulting sector, building his way towards executive leadership. Widely regarded as a subject matter expert in the areas of behaviour economics, conduct risk and risk culture, he regularly speaks at conferences across the globe to share his expertise and enhance the skillsets of his colleagues. Hamilton is also actively involved in community initiatives and committees, having served with numerous boards, including the Niagara Film Festival, BAI, and Up with People, an organization he has been involved with since representing Canada on a world tour in 1982.

At the heart of Hamilton’s work is a desire to elevate others. He readily seeks out any opportunity to pay it forward and do his part to help people succeed. His generosity extends to the four-legged community, and he is currently in the process of building a dog sanctuary and shelter in Mexico. Self-funded and named Tanner’s Place after his own pup, this program will bring homeless dogs in for spays and neuters, with the long-term goal of finding them loving homes. His education at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, where he received his undergraduate degree in Organizational Behaviour, has been the bedrock for a life committed to building strong communities. Selfless leadership aligned to strong values has established Hamilton as a force for positive change in communities worldwide. His legacy speaks for itself, and his dedication to elevating business standards across disciplines is an inspiration for leaders everywhere.

Dentist Fern Leavens named ULAA 2021 Young Alumna of the Year

trevor.kenney — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 16:22:35 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association (ULAA) is thrilled to announce Fern Leavens (BSc ‘13) as the 2021 Young Alumna of the Year.

“In a short time, Fern has demonstrated a high level of excellence in her chosen field of dentistry,” says Jason Elliott, president of the ULAA. “She wears many hats, but above all else, she is passionate about providing all patients with care that goes above and beyond. There is no doubt that she delivers on this.”

Young Alumna of the Year — Fern Leavens

Fern Leavens (BSc ‘13) is an exemplary health-care provider, teacher and mentor who has committed her career to quality patient care. Her impressive track record in the dentistry field is further elevated by her reputation as a thorough, humble and hardworking professional. During her time at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, she completed an undergraduate degree in mathematics, with an honours thesis in biochemistry. As part of her academic endeavours, Leavens conducted research in computational chemistry and biochemistry, resulting in multiple publications. She then went on to become a dentist, obtaining her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2016. However, Leavens’ education journey was far from finished, and she completed additional hospital and advanced dentistry training through a general practice residency.

Leavens works as a dentist at Edmonton’s Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Dental Clinic, providing care to patients with a variety of unique treatment needs. The emphasis of her work is on special needs dentistry, including geriatric dentistry and work with patients who may have mental or physical disabilities. Specializing in this area of dentistry is unique, and a deeply valuable resource for those who might not be able to access care elsewhere. Her commitment to working with underserved populations began during her time as a student, and she has volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters, the SHINE dentistry clinic and Kindness in Action, where she went to Nicaragua to provide dental care to people who otherwise did not have access. At present, she regularly commits time to advancing the dentistry field, and she has served with organizations including the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta Dental Alumni Association and the National Dental Examining Board.

As her early career unfolded, Leavens found herself continually drawn to teaching, leading her to a role as the director of special needs dentistry and assistant clinical professor in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta. This position allows her to combine her talent in the field with her passion for educating the next generation of dentists. She equips her students with the skills and knowledge they need to provide comprehensive care for patients with a wide variety of needs. Leavens also leverages her position as an opportunity to ensure that more of our communities’ future dentists are prepared for the breadth of physical and cognitive differences that are present in dentistry. Her commitment to education prevails in her ongoing journey towards completing her Master of Health Sciences Education. An extraordinary and generous person, Leavens elevates the standard within — and beyond — the dentistry community.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association inducts six exceptional alumni into 2021 Alumni Honour Society

trevor.kenney — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:04:41 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association (ULAA) is pleased to recognize those in the alumni community who have achieved significant accomplishments by inducting six new members into the Alumni Honour Society.

“We are incredibly pleased to recognize this year’s honour society inductees,” says Jason Elliott, president of the ULAA. “This year’s inductees showcase the value of a liberal education and the scope of impact our alumni have. Each individual has carved out an exemplary path for themselves, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.”

2021 Alumni Honour Society Inductees

Rhonda Crow (BMgt ‘99, Certificate in Mgt ‘97)

Rhonda Crow is the Indigenous learning and program coordinator for Indigenous Governance and Business Management with the Dhillon School of Business, providing Indigenous students with support and resources to guide them on their post-secondary journeys. For more than a decade, Crow has coordinated the Elders in Residence program, which brings an Elder to campus to offer guidance and cultural support to the campus community. From managing the Malaysia work study program to campaigning for significant Indigenization priorities, Crow has dedicated her career to upholding uLethbridge’s reputation. Rhonda actively volunteers with organizations including the Indigenous Women’s Council, the Blackfoot Women’s Empowerment project, the Education Committee of CANDO and Blackfoot Family Lodge Society. Crow’s commitment to quality work has built stronger communities on campus and beyond.

Christine Dagenais (BMgt ‘04)

Christine Dagenais is the Founder and CEO of Bright Wire, Alberta’s premier leadership development and professional coaching firm. Leading a team of highly skilled executive coaches, she has worked with organizations, including Fortune 500 from across the globe, to drive leadership strategies and accelerate cultures of performance. She’s developed proprietary coaching and leadership development assessments and curriculum and taught at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business for the Executive MBA Leadership Development Program, enabling future generations of powerful leaders. Christine volunteers with numerous charitable organizations and served on the Board of Directors for Green Calgary and Light Up the World (LUTW), an Alberta-based international NGO bringing solar electricity to developing nations. Christine authored, The Intentional MBA: A Guide to Maximizing Your Decision, Experience and Investment.

Raeleen Manjak (BA/BEd ‘92)

Dr. Raeleen Manjak is a published author, dedicated educator and recognized human resources professional. As the director of human resources for the City of Vernon, she balances the needs of her team with the long-term strategic goals of the region. Manjak brings groups together in meaningful ways, and over her career she has spearheaded initiatives around diversity and inclusion, strategic capacity building and leadership, cultural competency and anti-oppression, as well as health and wellness. Building strong relationships is at Manjak's core, and she is never more fulfilled in her work than when the people around her are successful. Her people-centered approach is bolstered by her personal philosophy that “together, we are better,” an idea she embodies in all she does.

Robert Mein (BA ‘96)

Robert Mein is a commanding officer with the Canadian Armed Forces as well as the head of interpretation at the Remington Carriage Museum in Cardston, Alberta. As an officer, Mein is a leader with a commitment to developing physically, emotionally and mentally balanced soldiers. Through determination and a high level of care, Mein has built a career as a trusted military leader, and has coordinated relief operations for floods, forest fires and, most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. His work as an interpreter allows him to preserve the stories of the past while building meaningful connections with his community. For Mein, a learning culture is most important, and is something he emphasizes both in leading through the challenges of the army and unpacking the stories that shape our history.

Robert Tanguay (BSc ‘08)

Dr. Robert Tanguay is a psychiatrist trained in the areas of addiction medicine and pain medicine, making him one of very few nationwide with both specialties. Tanguay brings his expertise to many roles, from lecturing in addiction studies at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary, to commitments with numerous clinics, boards and professional associations. Between practicing medicine, teaching and researching, Tanguay educates primary care colleagues and allied health professionals so they can better understand chronic pain and addiction. Most recently, Tanguay helped found and is the chief medical officer/vice-president of The Newly Institute. This project aims to revolutionize how people access treatment and move forward from addiction. Addressing trauma and making it OK for people to get help is key to Tanguay’s vision of recovery.

Amy Whipple (BA ‘07)

Amy Whipple initially launched Sugar Bakeshop, a home-based commercial bakery, to juggle raising a family while pursuing her passions. Trial and error taught Whipple the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, and after years of baking specialty cakes she founded WHIPS Caramels, an artisan caramel shop. Despite her candies reaching worldwide distribution, Whipple’s motivations have always been community minded. In 2015, she started “Sugar Gives,” providing cakes to local families impacted by the illness of a child. Additionally, Whipple launched the “Share Love” campaign, where proceeds from heart-shaped caramels go towards purchasing essential winter items for kids in need. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Amy has supported other small businesses in their transition to the e-commerce space and provided guidance to working moms who found themselves at home full-time.

Health care visionary Cheryl Andres named ULAA 2020 Alumna of the Year

trevor.kenney — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 20:05:02 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association (ULAA) is excited to announce Cheryl Andres (BN ‘87) as the 2020 Alumna of the Year.

“Cheryl’s legacy has left its mark on the way health care is approached province-wide, and we are thrilled to acknowledge and celebrate her lasting impact,” says Jason Elliott, President of the ULAA. “In a time where so many of us are faced with uncertainty, it’s powerful to know that there are leaders like Cheryl fighting for public health and well-being. She is an exemplar of the great work our alumni community can achieve and the lasting contributions that they can have.”

Alumna of the Year — Cheryl Andres

In a career spanning more than 3 decades, Cheryl Andres (BN ‘87) has established herself as a visionary and leader in the health care sector. As the Director of Chronic Disease Management and Public & Primary Health Care with Alberta Health Services in the South Zone, Cheryl manages health programs, teams and supports for the region. Time and time again, her efforts have revolutionized the way health care is imagined and made a substantial impact on the lives of many.

She notably led the integration of chronic disease programming in southern Alberta based on her vision that many of the elements of education, support and messaging were similar across multiple chronic conditions. She took the lead in applying for an ultimately successful $2.4 million grant from Alberta Health that led to the formation of the Chronic Disease Network — a system of greater consistency, effectiveness and clarity for the community she serves. The system improved care, reduced duplication in services, enabled smoother transitions for patients throughout the network and served as a model for the rest of the province. Her evidence-informed approach to system reform positions interdisciplinary teams of health-care providers for success and amply meets the needs of those facing chronic health conditions.

From leading the development of the South Zone Opioid and Harm Reduction Coordinated Response Team to the implementation of the South Zone Primary Care Network Community Service integration plan, Andres leads with admirable compassion and integrity. This has remained true in her recent efforts to tackle challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Working closely with provincial health officials, Andres has managed response efforts within the South Zone and actively worked to mitigate further spread of the disease. She has supported her teams as they test, contact trace and assuage anxieties surrounding the pandemic. Her guidance during this time of uncertainty is an invaluable asset to the region, and a testament to the impact nurses can have on the community.

Her mentorship and leadership extend far beyond her patients and colleagues. A founding member of the Lethbridge Legacy of Nursing Committee, Andres and local RNs have raised thousands of dollars in funds for uLethbridge graduate nursing scholarships over the last five years. As future nursing students embark on their journeys through the nursing program, Andres’ impressive legacy will undoubtedly light their way.

Associate attorney Julian SpearChief-Morris named 2020 ULAA Young Alumnus of the Year

trevor.kenney — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 19:14:00 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association (ULAA) is thrilled to honour Julian SpearChief-Morris (BA ‘13) with the 2020 Young Alumnus of the Year award.

“So early into his career, Julian has made incredible strides towards building more equitable and just communities,” says Jason Elliott, president of the ULAA. “Julian’s impact stretches far beyond the reaches of southern Alberta, and he always makes a point to connect with his roots here. We’re so honoured to celebrate Julian and we can’t wait to see what’s next for him.”

Young Alumnus of the Year — Julian SpearChief-Morris

Throughout his burgeoning career, Julian SpearChief-Morris (BA ‘13) has demonstrated the heights a sharp mind and strong work ethic can achieve. An associate attorney with the law firm Jenner & Block in Washington, D.C., SpearChief-Morris represents businesses, tribal governments and individuals navigating complex and interconnected legal, political and policy challenges. His work includes involvement in all aspects of litigation on matters ranging from corporate finance to human rights law, as well as providing strategic advice on government relations and policy issues. Most recently, his efforts have been focused on helping clients navigate the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During his time as a uLethbridge student, SpearChief-Morris was a standout on the Pronghorns Men’s Basketball Team as well as an accomplished student. Upon graduation, he had demonstrated academic excellence that saw him achieve the highest cumulative GPA of his program’s graduating class, earning him the Urban and Regional Studies prize. His dedication to ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ continued, and in 2015 he was accepted to Harvard Law School. In his second year at Harvard, SpearChief-Morris became the first-ever Indigenous President of the Harvard Legal Aid Bureau, a highly selective honour society that helps low-income clients on legal matters such as eviction defense, domestic violence and employment discrimination cases. In his time as president, SpearChief-Morris pushed the organization to redefine its mission and see itself as an engine of social change in the greater Boston community. Ultimately, SpearChief-Morris logged over 1,200 hours of pro bono work as a law student, managing the bureau, representing low-income individuals in court, and attending community meetings throughout the greater Boston area.

Born and raised in Lethbridge, SpearChief-Morris pursued a career in law with the hope of being able to work on behalf of his community, and others like it, to make them stronger, more sustainable and more inclusive. He now uses his education to advocate for important change around the globe. Additionally, SpearChief-Morris has mentored students in southern Alberta who also aspire to make a positive difference in their communities, connecting them with resources to aid them on their journeys. For SpearChief-Morris, it is important to use his voice and platform to help others as they work to build a brighter future. Already a leader in the early stages of his career, his work has set the stage for a lifetime of positive change.

NOTE: SpearChief-Morris is one of the panel members for the Pronghorn Athletics BIPOC Speaker Series event Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 7 p.m.

Alumni Profile - Jason Elliott

trevor.kenney — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 16:40:30 +0000

Alumni have always played an important role in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community and the U of L Alumni Association (ULAA) has been key in that process. Whether at ULAA executive meetings, or board and senate meetings, this diverse group represents U of L alumni around the world.

But just who are they? Get to know your ULAA council members through this series of profiles.

The Human Resources Manager at the City of Lethbridge, alumnus Jason Elliott was one of the first to go through the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's Co-op program.

Meet Jason

His interests span from community involvement to sailing on the prairies. Learn more about Jason Elliott (BMgt ’95), the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association Secretary.

Major: Human Resources Management and one of the first students to participate in the Co-op program

Student Clubs/Activities: Vice President of the Management Students' Society

Current Job: Human Resources Manager at the City of Lethbridge

Favourite U of L Memory: I remember looking forward to a delicious sandwich made with love by Pearl at the Fresh Express in the main hall. She was like a mother to many students and the length of the sandwich line every day reflected how good she was!

What is the first thing you want people to know about you?: I love our community and am passionate about public service. I am so proud to be living in Lethbridge and thrilled to be raising my family here.

What is an unusual habit or an absurd thing you love?: Sailing on the prairies. For some unknown reason I became interested in sailing at a young age. I took courses and learned how to do it and in my university days bought my first boat from former Faculty of Management Dean, Dr. George Lermer. I still have that boat and while I don’t get out on the water as much as I would like, it is still a passion that I hope to pass along to my kids.

What is your favourite fail (A time when an apparent failure was for the best): When I graduated from university in the mid-1990s, job prospects were difficult to come by. I worked hard on a long shot connection to a business owner in the British Virgin Islands. After some time, it was starting to line up and I was planning to go there to work on one of his two wooden sailboat charters. Right near the end of that process an opportunity presented itself here in Lethbridge in my chosen field of human resources. I interviewed and was offered the job on the same day that I was to decide on the BVI opportunity. I opted for the HR job and called the business owner from the interview room to decline the sailing gig. About a month later a hurricane went through the islands and destroyed both of his boats…

What is the best investment you've ever made? (Can be money, time, energy, etc.): My best investment has been buying an engagement ring for my girlfriend. I was actually working at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Development Office at the time I purchased the ring. It has continued to pay dividends for the past 23 years.

What purchase of $100 or less has most positively impacted your life in the last six months?: A few weeks ago, I was in Fernie, BC with my 13-year-old daughter. The two of us went for a wonderful breakfast and enjoyed some special time together in conversation.

What belief, behaviour or habit has most improved your life since graduation?: Stay committed to what you want and/or what you believe in. The trip down the road will have all kinds of obstacles but stay focused on your objective and keep moving!

UNews - Jason Elliott

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