UNews - Charles Weaselhead

ULethbridge community members given King Charles III Coronation Medal recognition

trevor.kenney — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 16:08:44 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge proudly congratulates multiple individuals who have been honoured for their significant contributions to bettering our communities with King Charles III Coronation Medals.

Members of the ULethbridge community who were recognized in 2024-25 include: Rick Casson (LLD '13), Paige Crozon, Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Dr. Leroy Little Bear (BASc (BA) ’72, DASc ’04), Ninnaa Piiksii (Chief Bird) Dr. Mike Bruised Head (BASc ’80, BEd ’98, PhD ’22), Ikkayiinnii (Fast Buffalo) Dr. Digvir Jayas, Dr. Trushar Patel, Ron Sakamoto (LLD '03), Taatsiikiipoyii (Talks in the Middle) Charles Weaselhead, Ksikkihkíni (Bald Eagle) Terry Whitehead (BA ’94) have all been presented with medals at various ceremonies over the past six months.

The Coronation Medal was created to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, which took place on May 6, 2023. It is the first Canadian commemorative medal to mark a coronation. Recipients have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region of, or community in, Canada, or attained an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.

Nominations for King Charles III Coronation Medals were only accepted from partner organizations list created by the Government of Canada.

Following is a list of those associated with ULethbridge who have received King Charles III Coronation Medals, and their presenters.

Rick Casson, Acting Chair, ULethbridge Board of Governors — Presented at Royal Canadian Legion, Feb. 15, 2025

Paige Crozon, Assistant Coach, Pronghorn Women’s Basketball— Presented by YMCA, Mar. 20, 2025

Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Dr. Leroy Little Bear (BASc (BA) ’72, DASc ’04), Vice-Provost, Iniskim Indigenous Relations – Presented by Universities Canada, Mar. 21, 2025

Ninnaa Piiksii, (Chief Bird) Dr. Mike Bruised Head (BASc ’80, BEd ’98, PhD ’22), ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association Director – Presented by Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, Feb. 20, 2025

Ikkayiinnii (Fast Buffalo) Dr. Digvir Jayas, President and Vice-Chancellor – Presented by Minister of Advanced Education, Rajan Sawhney, Mar. 21, 2025

Dr. Trushar Patel, Associate Dean, Faculty of Arts & Science – Presented by Honourable Rachel Thomas, Member of Parliament, Mar. 13, 2025

Ron Sakamoto, honorary degree recipient — Presented by Premier Danielle Smith, Feb. 28, 2025

Taatsiikiipoyii (Talks in the Middle) Charles Weaselhead, former Chancellor – Presented by Senator Patti Laboucane-Benson, Oct. 2024

Ksikkihkíni (Bald Eagle) Terry Whitehead (BA ’94), Chancellor – Presented by Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, Feb. 20, 2025

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s first Indigenous chancellor, Charles Weaselhead, to receive honorary degree

trevor.kenney — Thu, 15 May 2025 15:22:53 +0000

He made history in 2019 when he was the first Indigenous person appointed as chancellor at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, and throughout his tenure, Charles Weaselhead advanced the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s path towards truth and reconciliation. ULethbridge will recognize Weaselhead with an honorary degree at Spring 2025 Convocation, Ceremony II, Thursday, May 29, 2:30 p.m. in the Centre for Sport and Wellness gymnasium.

“I was truly honoured to succeed chancellor Weaselhead following a term where he made some very positive and progressive changes in furthering Indigenous inclusivity on campus and incorporating ways of knowing into ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ culture,” says Chancellor Terry Whitehead (BA '94). “Charles is a leader whose vision and commitment led to important and substantive changes in education and health care within the southern Alberta Indigenous community. He has long been a steadfast proponent of bringing cultures together and creating pathways for youth to access post-secondary education and I’m thrilled to recognize his contributions with an honorary degree.”

Charles Weaselhead

When Taatsiikiipoyii (Talks in the Middle) Charles Weaselhead was named the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s 14th Chancellor on March 15, 2019, it marked the first time in the institution’s then 52-year history that an Indigenous person had been appointed to the Chancellor position. A significant moment that continued to advance the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s path towards truth and reconciliation, Weaselhead’s tenure invoked lasting change and played an instrumental role in securing one of the largest contributions in institutional history.

Weaselhead was born on the Blood Indian Reserve and spent his formative years in the residential school system. He survived the experience, falling back on youth sports as an escape from the conditions into which he was thrust. He also recognized at a young age the value in education, a theme he would champion as he became older.

Having grown up confronted by the challenges facing his community, he sought solutions and became interested in invoking change. In the early 1980s, Weaselhead turned his focus to health issues, advancing initiatives designed to improve health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. He took on important administrative roles as director of treatment centres Napi Lodge and Poundmaker’s Lodge, director of the Blood Indian Hospital and chief executive officer for the Blood Tribe Department of Health.

In 2004, Weaselhead was elected Chief of the Blood Tribe, a post he would hold for 12 years. During his tenure, he was appointed Treaty 7 Grand Chief and held the Health and Education portfolio for the Treaty 7 Chiefs. At the heart of advocating for his community was a belief in fostering relationships that would support his goals to better the lives of his people. He was a signatory to the Alberta Protocol Agreement on Government-to-Government Relations (2008) and the Memorandum of Understanding on First Nations Education (2010).

One of Weaselhead’s greatest strengths is his collaborative approach that galvanizes community participation and support. By exploring new and innovative partnerships, all while protecting and advancing the sovereignty of First Nations, he is able to tackle dire issues of housing, poverty, community violence and other social and health concerns.

Weaselhead’s appointment as ULethbridge Chancellor afforded the opportunity to build bridges between cultures and create even more pathways for Indigenous youth to access post-secondary education. Taught by his grandfather to walk in both cultures to better understand perspectives, Weaselhead enacted positive change by incorporating traditional Indigenous ceremonial aspects and protocols to ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ events, and integrating Indigenous perspectives into all aspects of ULethbridge life. He was also at the forefront of helping secure the $15 million MasterCard Foundation contribution to ULethbridge aimed at dismantling education barriers and supporting employment opportunities for Blackfoot youth.

Canadian comic icon Brent Butt among ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge 2025 honorary degree recipients

trevor.kenney — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 17:03:44 +0000

Corner Gas creator will headline comedy show fundraiser in support of Food For Thought, student food security program

He created a Canadian landmark television program, has traversed the globe performing live stand-up shows and continues to mentor and support the growth and health of the Canadian comedy community. Brent Butt is a true Canadian comic icon and one of six people who will be awarded ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge honorary degrees during Spring and Fall 2025 Convocation ceremonies.

Brent Butt's comedic career has spanned more than 35 years.

Butt, who will be recognized at one of the four spring ceremonies, joins acclaimed writer David Robertson, former ULethbridge Chancellor Charlie Weaselhead, conductor Kirk Muspratt and community advocates Bernadine (BEd ’88) and Toby Boulet (BEd ’89, MEd ’04)(fall ceremony), as distinguished honourees.

“We’re thrilled to announce this tremendous group of honorary degree recipients who represent all the best attributes of the ULethbridge experience and its graduating students,” says Terry Whitehead, current ULethbridge Chancellor. “These are people who have achieved great success in their fields and done so in the right way, as engaged citizens in their communities, as educators, as mentors and leaders.”

Butt, who is known primarily for being the creator, writer and star of the iconic Canadian comedy series Corner Gas, has fashioned a comedic career spanning more than 35 years. Successful as a live performer as well as on the big and small screen, he is now an active screenwriter and author, always with deference to his small-town Canadian roots.

“To be able to recognize Brent for all the joy he has brought Canadians over the years is exciting and a recognition he richly deserves,” adds Whitehead. “Laughter is incredibly important in our lives, and I think we are realizing that more every day. Brent’s devotion to his comedic craft, willingness to share with others in the comedy community and unwavering commitment to his rural roots and Canadian culture says a lot about the kind of person he is.

“His willingness to perform for a Lethbridge audience and raise money in support of food security initiatives at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is heartfelt, and I can’t wait to enjoy a great evening of entertainment with him and his guest.”

The comedy show fundraiser to benefit the Food For Thought student program takes place Sunday, May 25, 7 p.m., at the Yates Memorial Theatre and features Brent Butt as the headliner with special guest Charlie Demers. Tickets, priced at $65 each, will be available through the City of Lethbridge Ticket Centre.

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will present Butt with an honorary Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, at Spring 2025 Convocation, Ceremony IV, on Friday, May 30, 2:30 p.m., in the Centre for Sport and Wellness.

Brent Butt

For Brent Butt, there really was no other career path than comedy, something he’d decided before his teenage years. While he briefly attended Ontario’s Sheridan College after graduating high school in his hometown of Tisdale, Saskatchewan, formal schooling quickly took a back seat to his entrepreneurial tendencies. Leaving school, he and a friend developed their own publishing company, and they created two issues of their comic book, Existing Earth, in which Butt drew the illustrations.

He approached comedy not on a whim, but rather as a vocation, studying the intricacies of the craft. By the time he took the stage for his first stand-up performance at the age of 21, he was ready and his meteoric rise in the comedy industry was testament to his work ethic and preparation. A year after his first appearance on an amateur night at a Saskatoon comedy club, Butt was touring Central and Eastern Canada. Before long he was headlining Toronto’s downtown Yuk Yuks Comedy Club and doors began to open for him internationally.

Once established as a live entertainer, Butt began realizing the next phase of his career, and in 2004 created, wrote and starred in the hit television show Corner Gas. Set in the fictional town of Dog River, Saskatchewan, the show reflected Butt’s smalltown upbringing and shone a new light on rural Canada, one that resonated with small communities across the country and struck a chord with populations in larger urban centres.

Corner Gas ran for six seasons, averaging a remarkable 1.2 million viewers per episode and reaping numerous awards, including four Canadian Comedy Awards and five Gemini Awards. The show has now aired in 60 countries and continues to run on streaming platforms, boasting large fan bases in Germany, the United States, Australia and beyond. A Canadian Armed Forces soldier once wrote the show about his unit watching episodes of Corner Gas to take the edge off during particularly dangerous deployments, reminding them of home and that laughter and simpler times still existed.

The success of Corner Gas garnered remarkable attention and in 2008, Butt was awarded the Peter Ustinov Award for outstanding body of comedic work at the Banff World Media Festival. He joined the likes of past recipients John Cleese, Bob Newhart, John Candy and Eugene Levy.

With a platform as a leader in the industry, Butt has used his profile to call attention to the work of other comedians and to mentor and promote the growth and health of the comedy community.

Eager to continue to expand his creative knowledge, Butt is an active screenwriter and now author, having released his first novel, Huge, a #1 national best seller and one of Indigo’s 2023 Best Books of the Year.

Former ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Chancellor, Charles Weaselhead, appointed to Order of Canada

trevor.kenney — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 20:50:36 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s first Indigenous Chancellor, Taatsiikiipoyii (Talks in the Middle) Charles Weaselhead, has been appointed a member of the Order of Canada.

Charles Weaselhead, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's 14th Chancellor.

Today, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, announced 83 new appointments to the Order of Canada, including one Companion, 16 Officers, two Honorary Officers and 64 Members. Two appointments are promotions within the Order.

Established in 1967, the Order of Canada celebrates outstanding achievements and extraordinary contributions. Over the years, its members have been honoured for inspiring innovation, for shaping the Canadian identity, and for enriching Canada's fabric.

Weaselhead was named the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s 14th Chancellor in February 2019 and served four years in the role. The former chief of the Blood Tribe and Treaty 7 grand chief, he is a survivor of residential schooling and devoted his life to promoting health, education and economic development issues for Indigenous people.

During his tenure, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ launched its ELeV initiative, a unique and innovative partnership between the Blackfoot Confederacy, ULethbridge and the Mastercard Foundation to support and enable Indigenous youth to achieve their goals and become leaders in their communities.

For more on Weaselhead’s appointment to the Order of Canada, see the announcement.

Medical doctor and changemaker, Dr. Esther Tailfeathers, to receive ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge honorary degree

trevor.kenney — Mon, 15 May 2023 15:56:11 +0000

Dr. Esther Tailfeathers (BA ’84), a member of the Kainai First Nation, persevered in her education and became a medical doctor at a time when there were few Indigenous physicians, and throughout her career, she has improved Indigenous health care and inspired other generations of Indigenous doctors. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will recognize Tailfeathers’ substantial contributions to health care by granting her an honorary degree at Spring 2023 Convocation.

Dr. Esther Tailfeathers became a medical doctor at a time when there were few Indigenous physicians.

“It was not an easy path for Esther Tailfeathers to become a medical doctor and that may be one of the reasons her success and her contributions to her community are so inspiring,” says Charles Weaselhead, ULethbridge chancellor. “She has inspired countless young women to enter the medical field because of her perseverance and her ability to break down barriers to achieve her goals. All the while she has made a huge impact on her community and bettered the lives of so many people through her practice and advocacy. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ is proud to recognize these efforts with an honorary degree.”

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will present Dr. Esther Tailfeathers with an honorary Doctor of Science, honoris causa, at Spring 2023 Convocation, Ceremony II, on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. in the 1st Choice Savings Centre gymnasium.

Esther Tailfeathers

Dr. Esther Tailfeathers knew she wanted to pursue a career in medicine after an experience at the Cardston Hospital when she worked as a candy striper. A friend had arrived alone at the hospital ready to give birth and Tailfeathers stayed with her friend as the baby was born. The experience cemented her desire to become a doctor, but the path to becoming a family physician wasn’t easy. A high school guidance counsellor tried to steer her toward teaching or nursing. She came to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge where she completed a bachelor’s in what was then known as Native American Studies.

Tailfeathers married and moved to Norway where she lived amongst the Sami people. Her life changed dramatically when her younger brother, who was a third-year medical student at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta, died in a vehicle collision. Tailfeathers had spoken to him the week before and he encouraged her to go into medicine. She returned to southern Alberta for his funeral and took his words to heart. After earning a medical degree at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of North Dakota, she completed her family medicine residency at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta.

Tailfeathers moved back to her home community in 2000 and works as a family physician in Standoff and Cardston, as well as providing on-call and emergency services at the Cardston Hospital. She serves as the Indigenous Medical Lead with Alberta Health Services’ Indigenous Wellness Core. Previously, Tailfeathers also provided 24-hour medical service for one week per month in Fort Chipewyan.

Tailfeathers was at the forefront of dealing with the opioid crisis on the Blood Reserve. She led the charge to develop a community response which included educating people about naloxone kits and the dangers of fentanyl. Tailfeathers is committed to helping health-care providers understand addiction and the social determinants of health, which include enduring poverty and trauma resulting from the residential school system. Tailfeathers also organized a relief mission to Haiti following the earthquake in 2010 where Blood Tribe paramedics, nurses and health-care workers tended to more than 2,000 patients.

Her work has not gone unnoticed. The Faculty of Health Sciences granted the Friends of Health Sciences Award to Tailfeathers in 2015 for her integral role in the community response to the opioid crisis. In 2019, Tailfeathers was awarded the Dr. Thomas Dignan Indigenous Health Award for her contribution to improved Indigenous health care in Canada.

Fred Bradley, community builder and steward of natural resources, to be granted honorary degree

trevor.kenney — Mon, 08 May 2023 15:24:32 +0000

Former Alberta cabinet minister and long-time MLA Fred Bradley has spent a lifetime serving his community, the province and the country as a community builder, steward of natural resources and champion of democratic ideals. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will recognize Bradley for his outstanding service by granting him an honorary degree at Spring 2023 Convocation.

Former Alberta cabinet minister and long-time MLA Fred Bradley.

Born and raised in the Crowsnest Pass, Bradley is devoted to his community and has long advocated for the recognition and preservation of the area’s vibrant history.

“Looking at Fred Bradley’s career, the one thing that really stands out to me is his unwavering commitment to serving the Crowsnest Pass,” says Charles Weaselhead, ULethbridge Chancellor. “He did great things in his role while serving his province as an MLA, and later he continued to serve the public nationally and internationally, but he always found the time to advocate for his community and the Crowsnest Pass. We are proud to present Fred with an honorary degree and recognize his devotion to making life in Alberta better for all citizens.”

Bradley will be presented with an honorary Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, at Spring 2023 Convocation, Ceremony IV, on Friday, June 2, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. in the 1st Choice Savings Centre gymnasium.

Fred Bradley

Fred Bradley grew up in one of the most scenic and historic alpine landscapes in Canada. The lessons of working in his family’s general store included understanding the value of diversity and the fickle nature of prosperity in a boom-and-bust economy linked to natural resource extraction.

Bradley left home to attend the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta, then returned to assist managing the family business. A central member of the community, he ran for provincial office in 1975 and at age 25 was the youngest MLA elected during that term of the Peter Lougheed government. He served for five terms, until 1993, consistently earning the respect and votes of his constituents.

As Minister of Environment, Bradley developed and implemented policy for the management of Alberta’s air, land and water resources. His input into the Alberta Coal Policy, Eastern Slopes Policy, siting of the Old Man River Dam and the protection of Kananaskis Country stand as testimony to his impactful legislative career. The South West Alberta Renewable Energy Initiative was a result of his advocacy, and he served as Chair of the Alberta Research Council, the Special Places 2000 initiative and an Alberta Election Act Review.

His advocacy on behalf of his home riding included realizing the amalgamation of five communities to form the Municipality of the Crowsnest Pass. His work played a key role in the removal and reclamation of over 600,000 tons of coal slag, the building of York Creek Lodge, two local hospitals, the Allison Creek Brood Trout Station and the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre. As well, the development of Alberta’s first regional landfill near Lundbreck to replace several southern Alberta community landfills was achieved.

After leaving politics, Bradley continued in public service, and from 1995 to 2013 he served as a parliamentary development advisor in Ukraine, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. His efforts to preserve and recognize Alberta’s history are reflected in his work as Chair of the Alberta Historical Resources Foundation. He continues to advocate for the recognition and preservation of the unique history of the Crowsnest Pass, playing a key role in the designation of Frank Slide, Leitch Collieries and Lille as Provincial Historic Sites, and Coleman as a National Historic Site, the restoration of the Alberta Provincial Police Barracks and the development of the Hillcrest Mine Disaster Memorial.

He recently served as a member of the Alberta Coal Policy Review Committee and is currently on the board of several community heritage organizations and Community Futures Crowsnest Pass.

Accomplished researcher, engaging science communicator Tim Caulfield to receive honorary degree

trevor.kenney — Mon, 01 May 2023 17:20:36 +0000

Professor Timothy Allen Caulfield is one of a rare breed of scientist who is equally as adept as an accomplished researcher as he is interpreting his work to engage and inform the public. A key figure at the forefront of communicating relevant, engaging, evidence-based and practical information that has helped protect society and enhance health and well-being, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will present Caulfield with an honorary degree at Spring 2023 Convocation.

Tim Caulfield’s voice has been particularly relevant in stemming the spread of misinformation.

Science misinformation, while always prevalent in society, has taken on new momentum since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Amplified through social media, misinformation and misrepresentations of science have endangered the public and shone a bright light on scientific discovery and communication. Caulfield’s voice has been particularly relevant in stemming the spread of misinformation.

“The pandemic made it hard for everyone to try and make sense of who to trust and what information was the right information. Tim Caulfield has been a source of engaging, relevant, evidence-based information for years and to have him step forward and take on the responsibility of countering the false claims and informing the public was absolutely essential,” says Charles Weaselhead, ULethbridge chancellor. “The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ is proud to present professor Caulfield with an honorary degree in respect of the valuable role he played throughout the pandemic and continues today.”

Caulfield will be presented with an honorary Doctor of Science, honoris causa, at Spring 2023 Convocation, Ceremony I, on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. in the 1st Choice Savings Centre gymnasium.

Timothy Allen Caulfield

A Canada Research Chair in Public Health Law Policy and Research Director of the Health Law Institute at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta, Timothy Allen Caulfield’s research spans disciplinary boundaries such as stem cells, research ethics, the representation of science in the general media, and public health policy. He has authored over 350 academic publications.

Caulfield has also made a concerted effort to reach the public through his work and lead the conversation about public health policy. His outreach efforts have included two national bestselling books that address health misinformation: The Cure for Everything: Untangling the Twisted Messages about Health, Fitness and Happiness and Is Gwyneth Paltrow Wrong About Everything?: When Celebrity Culture and Science Clash. He also hosted and co-produced the popular television program A User’s Guide to Cheating Death, which has been shown in over 60 countries and streamed on Netflix.

Caulfield’s voice has been particularly relevant in the wake of the global pandemic and his expertise has been featured extensively on significant national media platforms discussing issues behind vaccine hesitancy and communicating the science behind the COVID-19 virus. He has taken the lead on two significant initiatives as a result, serving as Chair for the Royal Society of Canada task force on evidence-informed perspectives on major societal challenges in response to and recovery from COVID-19, as well as taking a leadership role in Science Up First, a national collective of scientists, researchers, health-care experts and science communicators who share the best available science in creative ways to stem the spread of misinformation.

Caulfield’s books and articles have greatly helped to blunt the damage of false claims and fallacies and was ranked No. 6 on Maclean’s Magazine’s 2023 Power List of Top 10 Health Care Innovators. As well, he is a Member of the Order of Canada and a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Canada and the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. He also earned the Distinguished Academic Award from the Confederation of Alberta Faculty Associations and the Fleming Medal for Excellence in Science Communication.

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.

��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.

Businesswoman, philanthropist, community supporter Nancy Southern to receive honorary degree

trevor.kenney — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 21:26:03 +0000

One of Canada’s most powerful women in business never wavered from her core values of philanthropy and community spirit — attributes the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will celebrate at Fall 2022 Convocation by presenting Nancy Southern with an honorary degree.

One of Canada’s most powerful women in business, Nancy Southern has never wavered from her core values of philanthropy and community spirit.

As the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of both ATCO and Canadian Utilities, Southern possesses all the qualities that make for a successful leader — courage, collaboration and humility, a passion for diversity and human rights, and an unwavering desire to create a better future for all constituents.

“Nancy Southern is to be admired for her keen business acumen and her ability to lead some of the world’s most successful companies, all while staying true to her roots as a southern Albertan who honours her family and supports her community,” says ULethbridge Chancellor Charles Weaselhead. “She has long advocated for the rights of Indigenous Peoples worldwide and the role of women in business and it is with great respect we are recognizing her with an honorary degree.”

Southern will be presented with an honorary Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, at Fall 2022 Convocation, Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 10 a.m. in the 1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport and Wellness.

Nancy Southern

Nancy Southern is a southern Albertan through and through. She was born and raised in Calgary, studied economics at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary and has established a career that has seen her serve with some of the world’s most influential organizations. She is the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of ATCO Ltd., which was founded by her father, R.D. Southern, in 1947, and Canadian Utilities Limited, an ATCO company. In this position, she is responsible for executing the strategic direction and ongoing operations for both companies and, under her deft leadership, the ATCO group of companies has seen extraordinary growth and demonstrated an enduring commitment to the communities and customers it serves.

Philanthropy and community spirit are core values for Southern. Alongside her business leadership, she has advocated on matters of global importance, including the rights of Indigenous Peoples and the role of women in business. She is an Honorary Chief of the Kainai (Blood Tribe of Alberta) and was given the name Aksistoowa’paakii, or Brave Woman, in 2012. In 2015, at the request of then-German chancellor Angela Merkel, Southern joined 100 other global leaders for the G7 Forum for Dialogue with Women. As a passionate believer in enterprise as a powerful force for good, she has advised domestic and international governments alike. She honours her family and supports her community, embracing her father’s definition of excellence — ‘going far beyond the call of duty, doing more than others expect.’

The accolades Southern has earned during her career are numerous. In 2012, she received the Peter Lougheed Award for Leadership from Canada’s Public Policy Forum. In 2013, she received the T. Patrick Boyle Founder’s Award for Entrepreneurship from the Fraser Institute. She was named to Fortune Magazine’s list of 50 Most Powerful Women in Business in 2016 and inducted as a Companion to the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in 2017.

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