UNews - Martha Mathurin-Moe

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers earn Digital Research Alliance grants

caroline.zentner — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 17:51:01 +0000

Four ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge scholars have received $35,000 from the Digital Research Alliance (DRI) of Canada for projects advancing equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility (EDIA) in digital research infrastructure. The funding, announced earlier this year, is part of $2.87 million awarded to EDIA Champions across the country.

From left to right are Toyin Aladejebi, Chiedozie Alumona, Frank Onuh and Dr. Nathan Woods.

“To have four scholars from ULethbridge receive these grants is an indication of the excellence in research, and it is worth celebrating,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, vice-provost of Accessibility, Belonging and Community. “Investing in this type of research is crucial for creating an inclusive, innovative and diverse research ecosystem where students are able to connect deeply, learn from multiple perspectives and address critical research problems. These research projects will continue to strengthen and broaden the research landscape, but also create meaningful opportunities for all our diverse students to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.”

“Digital research infrastructure is transforming the way we conduct and share scholarly work,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, vice-president of research. “By leveraging digital tools and resources, these researchers can overcome traditional barriers, collaborate more effectively and drive innovation across disciplines. Not only did we see strong interest in this inaugural call for proposals, our success rate reinforces the quality of our research environment.”

Toyin Aladejebi, a PhD student in Population Studies in Health, focused her project on empowering graduate women researchers to build networks that enable them to find and share data and collaborate with other researchers in Canada and around the world.

Chiedozie Alumona is a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Health Sciences studying under Dr. Olu Awosoga. Alumona’s project aims to train racialized scholars in the Faculty of Health Science in using digital research infrastructure.

Frank Onuh, a PhD student, conducts research at the intersection of information disorder, decoloniality and artificial intelligence (AI). His doctoral research centres on decolonizing information verification practices in Africa to leverage the insights and findings to develop appropriate intelligent systems for automated fact checking that capture and represent the African experience.

Dr. Nathan Woods, a postdoctoral fellow in the Humanities Innovation Lab, conducted a needs assessment study that looks at barriers and opportunities for humanities researchers to work with the Canadian digital research infrastructure.

Read the full story.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge hosting inaugural International Women’s Day Leadership Conference

trevor.kenney — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 16:33:45 +0000

An impressive roster of leaders will grace the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge campus for its inaugural International Women’s Day Leadership Conference on March 13.

Featuring keynote presentations by Manjit Minhas, CEO of Minhas Breweries, Distillery and Winery and CBC’s Dragons’ Den co-star, and Lori Campbell, Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Engagement at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Regina, the conference aims to bring people together for an afternoon of conversation, networking and inspiration.

“This event is about creating spaces of engagement with phenomenal individuals who have been change makers and have shifted the conversation around leadership and representation,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, Vice-Provost, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

Lori Campbell, Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Engagement at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Regina.

Under the theme — Telling Our Stories: Embracing Excellence — this conference will foster welcoming spaces of belonging for all voices, as well as share in the possibility and celebration of excellence as women/trans/queer or two-spirit individuals. The day promises to be a celebration of success and solidarity, and support and inspiration.

In addition to the keynote speakers, a panel of prominent local leaders will share their insights, formally establishing the ULethbridge Inspiring Leaders Forum. The panel includes:

Cyndi Bester (BMus ’95, MEd ’01), CEO of Lethbridge and District Chamber of Commerce
kii Nitsikainaakii (Sunwoman) Annette Fox-Bruised Head (BSc ’00, BEd ’02, MEd ’10), Indigenous Education Consultant at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge
Adriana Mercader, CEO of Flexahopper Plastics Ltd.
Olutoyin (Toyin) Oyebola (BHSc ’18), co-founder of Genesis Exotic Market

“We have brought together thought leaders and innovators to offer an exceptional professional development experience right here in Lethbridge, and this is just the beginning,” says ULethbridge’s Vice-President (Research) and event co-host, Dr. Dena McMartin.

Manjit Minhas, CEO of Minhas Breweries, Distillery and Winery and CBC’s Dragons’ Den co-star.

This year’s conference will focus on the importance of representation, safety, sponsorship and trust. These renowned speakers will delve into how to become a successful leader in a highly complex and rapidly changing space and share key leadership advice and insights on staying true to one’s values, story and identity.

The opportunity to bring this event to the ULethbridge campus will be pivotal, says event co-host Dr. Michelle Helstein, Provost and Vice-President (Academic).

“As a destination university, we continue to uphold our commitment to building bridges to the Lethbridge community and this year’s conference provides us with the opportunity to connect across our alumni networks, campuses and communities.”

Tickets are limited and on sale now. Sponsorships are also available. For more information, please email edi.office@uleth.ca or visit go.uleth.ca/IWD-conference.

Respect at ULethbridge program launches important initiative

trevor.kenney — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 17:47:44 +0000

An important journey is beginning for ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge employees with the launch of the Respect at ULethbridge program.

As part of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging, as well as an ongoing investment in the value everyone brings to campus, Respect at ULethbridge is the first foundational step in a series of many steps ULethbridge is taking to foster a better place to work, learn and come together as a campus community.

“We have heard your perspectives, and we want to respond in a meaningful way,” says Dr. Digvir Jayas, ULethbridge President & Vice-Chancellor. “We welcome everyone on this journey, one we will take together to further our learning, foster empathy and better understand each of our roles in supporting a campus community that is welcoming to all.”

People have long been considered ULethbridge’s greatest asset, and it is imperative the institution and the campus community as a whole continues to put the work in to maintain and grow that strength. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ is not immune to issues of workplace conflict and the recent Employee Diversity Census indicated that work needs to be done to ensure employees are coming to a safe and respectful environment.

“Experiences of bullying, abuse, harassment, and discrimination have a significant negative impact on employees — in their performance and engagement with their work, as well as their physical and mental health,” says Heather Takahashi (BA ’04), Associate Vice-President, Human Resources. “The census showed us that workplace conflicts, bullying and microaggressions are an ongoing concern here at ULethbridge and we must work together to address them.”

All employees will be expected to complete a virtual course that addresses these issues and how to recognize and respond to instances of bullying, abuse, harassment and discrimination. With engaging and thought-provoking lessons, questions and scenarios, the course provides information on anti-racism, unconscious bias and microaggressions, and shows how to model positive change and promote physical and psychological health.

“At the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, equity, diversity, inclusion (EDI) and belonging is a collective responsibility that we must all work towards. To do so, we must be clear on our values, and respect is a key value that allows us to work together in a good way,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, ULethbridge’s Vice-Provost, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

“We want a campus that is representative of the communities we serve. One that is built on the values of inclusive excellence that is demonstrated in work, teaching, research, school and our interactions with each other.”

The Respect at ULethbridge program is supported by a website (employee access only) that contains resources, supports and toolkits for leaders and employees to help foster a respectful campus environment and support each other in the process of reporting experiences of harassment and discrimination. Jayas says this will be an ongoing focus for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community and become a cornerstone upon which an enduring environment of respect will be built.

“This is just the first of many steps we here at ULethbridge plan to take on this journey to fostering a better place to work, study and thrive,” he says. “There will be future opportunities for learning, sharing experiences and perspectives, and actively engaging in the collaborative work of ensuring a respectful campus culture.”

Dr. Michelle Helstein, ULethbridge Provost and Vice-President (Academic), adds that everyone will prosper in a supportive environment.

“We are excited to be on this journey with you and are committed to lead by example in fostering a safe, inclusive and respectful campus for all.”

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge to raise Progress Pride flag on June 19

caroline.zentner — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 17:26:12 +0000

Everyone is welcome to attend as the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge raises the Progress Pride flag on Monday, June 19 at 11 a.m. outside the Student Union Building by the Aperture Drive bus loop.

The theme for this year’s Pride Month is Solidarity, Strength and Community. Join the ULethbridge community as we celebrate the diversity of 2SLGBTQ+ communities, acknowledge 2SLGBTQ+ history and recognize the achievements of queer and trans individuals and groups. ULethbridge is proud to celebrate Pride Month, especially in these times with continued polarization on gender and social justice issues.

As part of our celebration of Pride Month, ULethbridge will also make a significant announcement in support of student scholarships as part of the flag-raising ceremony. We invite everyone in attendance to a community barbecue that will follow the formal portion of the event.

“Celebrating Pride Month gives us the opportunity to recognize the importance of having a safe, inclusive and equitable campus,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, ULethbridge vice-provost, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. “We want to ensure, not just during Pride Month but all year long, that 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, faculty and community members feel welcome, included and safe on campus and that their voices are heard on the issues that impact them.”

Lions Club donation aiming to break down barriers for visually impaired students

caroline.zentner — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 20:59:11 +0000

Lions Club groups around the world have been focused on helping people with disabilities for decades. Now, thanks to a $50,000 gift to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, the Picture Butte chapter will be making a difference for students with visual impairments.

Left to right are Kathy Greenwood, Doug Jackson, John Koenen, Don Vincent and Martha Mathurin-Moe

“The original mandate of the Lions group is to help the visually impaired,” says Doug Jackson, Picture Butte Lions Club board member. That mandate goes back to the early 1980s, when the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides began providing trained guide dogs to Canadians with disabilities.

Jackson says the donation is also about honouring the legacy of long-time member Ron LeClaire, who passed away in 2011. “He left $250,000 to our group and it was designated for a blind organization, but that organization no longer exists. To honour his wishes, we really wanted to use the funds to help the visually impaired.”

The Lions Club is hoping the donation will provide a new opportunity for students who dream of pursuing an education, but might have more barriers to knock down than others.

“��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge students are here because they want to get ahead in their lives,” Jackson says. “The scholarship is to help give them a step up; people who want to get ahead but might be held back because of disabilities.”

Each year, the Picture Butte Lions Club Award for Visually Impaired Students will go to a continuing or entering undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in any degree program with a documented disability. The award will be given based on academic achievement, with preference given for financial need.

The award is an important step toward making ULethbridge an even more inclusive place.

“This award is significant for our ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. We want to ensure that all our students no matter their background get access and opportunity to inclusive, affordable and quality education,” says Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Executive Director Martha Mathurin-Moe.

“This is only the beginning, and we look forward to working with our community to continue to remove barriers to education,” says Mathurin-Moe.

The donation is the first to be matched by the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, following an announcement in October that the Board of Governors is pledging $10 million in match funds for the establishment of new endowed student scholarships.

“The difference a donation like this can make is truly significant,” says ULethbridge Vice-President, External Relations Kathy Greenwood. “The ultimate goal of the matching initiative is to provide permanent and sustainable support for students by rewarding creative, athletic and academic excellence, removing barriers to education and reducing student financial insecurity.”

Greenwood says the gift will allow more students the opportunity to pursue their passions at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.

“We thank the Picture Butte Lions Club for this generous donation, and we hope it will inspire more philanthropic support from the community in support of student awards and scholarships. Endowed funding like this will lay the foundation for future generations of students by ensuring a university education remains financially accessible.”

The first award will be given out in the 2023/2024 academic year.

For more information on how you can support student scholarships visit /giving.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge names the 2022-2023 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Scholar

caroline.zentner — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 16:11:51 +0000

Dr. Laura Keffer-Wilkes (MSc ’12, PhD ’16) an instructor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, has been selected as the 2022-2023 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Scholar.

“We are pleased to announce that Laura will be the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s EDI scholar for this year,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, executive director of equity, diversity and inclusion. “Her project is broad based and not only seeks to remove barriers that women in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) face, but also encourage younger women to consider STEM careers.”

As EDI Scholar, Keffer-Wilkes, who’s also recently been named as the director of Synbridge, will work on a project titled Women in STEM – Support Our Sisters.

“I’m very honoured to be named this year’s EDI Scholar,” says Keffer-Wilkes. “Women in Canada are still under-represented in STEM fields. While many women study STEM subjects as undergraduates, there’s a disconnect once they finish graduate school. They’re just not being hired as instructors or professors. This isn’t a Lethbridge-only issue; it happens across North America.

“The goal of my project is to use a cooperative model to reach out to women who are already at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and work together to create a strong, safe environment and remove the isolation between departments. We also want to partner with young women and gender-diverse individuals to create safe spaces to learn.”

The project includes establishing a coordinator position and creating a Women-in-Stem organizing committee to identify ways to remove barriers, such as inclusive language and mentorship programs.

In addition, the project aims to connect with the Alberta Women’s Science Network and participate in Operation Minerva, which provides half-day workshops and half-day job shadowing to Grade 8 students who identify as girls or gender diverse.

Keffer-Wilkes also hopes to promote STEM to the broader community through public lectures and to provide focused learning opportunities for high school students. Coding and synthetic biology workshops could be offered through Agility, while lunch-and-learn sessions on STEM careers could be used to promote research and form bonds between colleagues. Networking with various groups on campus could increase awareness of STEM-focused events and educate faculty on the inherent biases and barriers women face in STEM.

The first initiative — I am a Scientist — is well underway and consists of a series of posters of women in STEM at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in conjunction with Science Literacy Week from Sept. 19 to 25. These posters will be circulated on campus, shared on social media and posted at local libraries.

Additional plans include establishing a women-in-STEM speaker series and a organizing a women-in-STEM conference in February to coincide with International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Feb. 11. Activities are also being planned for Women in STEM Week in Alberta from Oct. 9 to 15.

“I’ve always been a really big advocate for women in STEM,” says Keffer-Wilkes. “As I was moving through undergraduate and graduate school, and then moving on to become an instructor here, I’ve seen a lot of peers not continue in STEM. I want to know why and what can be done to improve retention of women in STEM fields.”

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge student earns national work-integrated learning award

trevor.kenney — Thu, 24 Mar 2022 18:02:54 +0000

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge student Lionel Migrino has won a national work-integrated learning award after his efforts through a co-operative education work placement led to tangible change at a major Alberta employer.

Lionel Migrino is a 2021 Co-operative Education and Work Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada) Student of the Year Award winner.

Migrino, an undergraduate student studying Human Resources Management and Labour Relations in the Dhillon School of Business, entered Pembina Pipeline Corporation dividing his time between multiple teams — Compliance and Technical Training, Integrated Talent Management and Talent Acquisition, and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. His passion for equity, diversity and inclusion drove change and inspired action among employees, as he became a sought-after speaker joining business strategy sessions to bring awareness and issue a call to action for leaders to see the ability in disability.

For Migrino, who has cerebral palsy, the work was personal. He says it hasn’t been uncommon to be made fun of for the way he talks, the way he walks, or to be the target of microaggressions, even on the job. At one job interview, Migrino says he was even told his disability was a liability.

“I want people to address how they can help people reach their full potential,” says Migrino. “How can they empower ability? All I want is for people to see that ability in disability because we’re all capable, it’s just if people will give us an opportunity.”

Migrino, who attends the ULethbridge Calgary campus, is one of four students recognized nationally for their commitment to work-integrated learning (WIL) and their determination to contribute positively to their workplaces. He’s been recognized as a 2021 Co-operative Education and Work Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada) Student of the Year Award winner.

He learned a valuable lesson on the first day of his co-op term, taking the advice of a colleague to heart.

“She said ‘Make sure that you stay visible.’ With that she meant make sure you are heard, make sure you are valued, make sure your talents are recognized, make sure you are seen, and you have a voice,” says Migrino.

Shortly after beginning his placement, he had an idea for disability training that would include the consequences of inaccessibility and some of his personal experiences with exclusion. He got the support to do the training with his immediate team initially, and before long he was asked to speak to different business units, then to different leadership groups. Most recently, Migrino created a series of Disability Awareness Training workshops that will be available to Pembina employees this year.

“I created the disability awareness training in hopes that people, personally and professionally, will take action on accessibility and inclusion,” says Migrino. “This training will increase participants' awareness of accessibility, the disability models, ableism, microaggressions, and communication.”

In his disability awareness training, Migrino encourages leaders to get uncomfortable in conversations because therein lies the possibility for change.

“I’m always uncomfortable living in this ableist world because I know the systems that are put in place are not made for people like me,” he says. “I always ask people to embrace uncomfortableness for 15 minutes, for however long I am facilitating the training, because if you’re not uncomfortable, then how can you learn? I ask them to look at themselves and consider how can they make the world more accessible for people with different kinds of disabilities.”

Martha Mathurin-Moe, executive director of equity, diversity and inclusion at ULethbridge, says Migrino is a deserving recipient of the national award having had the chance to work alongside him to further EDI initiatives on campus.

“Lionel is a true example of an EDI champion for change,” says Mathurin-Moe. “His continued commitment to advocate and centre the voices and experiences of persons with disabilities is a key part of the work we must continue to do in order to create equitable, safe, accessible and inclusive spaces for all students.”

The co-op experience has proven to be a win-win for all involved — so much so that Migrino recently accepted a permanent job with Pembina.

“I really want to continue in that EDI space and become a leader and strong advocate for empowering others’ voices,” he says.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ planning multiple events to recognize Black History Month

trevor.kenney — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 18:38:06 +0000

On November 18, 2021, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge joined 40 universities from across Canada to endorse the Scarborough Charter — a commitment to eliminating anti-Black racism and advancing Black inclusion in Canadian higher education. In endorsing the charter, the U of L took a step forward in addressing social injustices of historically excluding marginalized voices and creating a safe space for all.

Creating a safe space consists of providing our students, staff and faculty the opportunity to celebrate and honour a key part of our history.

On February 1, 2022, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will begin celebrating Black History Month under the themes — Black Excellence and Black Flourishing — two key principles embedded in the Scarborough Charter. The month of February marks a historical moment of celebration for all Black people from Canadian, Caribbean and African Diaspora who have enriched our societies culturally, socially, politically and economically. By celebrating Black history, our university is creating another opportunity for brave conversations.

“By celebrating Black History Month, we live our commitment to recognize the contributions that have been made by our Black students, staff and faculty at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge,” says Dr. Mike Mahon, president and vice-chancellor. “Thank you to everyone who has participated in putting this month’s events together.”

Executive Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Martha Mathurin-Moe, adds the month of February presents one opportunity to learn more about Black history and opens the door to further growth and understanding.

“Black History Month is more than the celebration of Black people one month out of the year. It is merely a starting point in recognizing the numerous contributions Black people continue to make to our communities, countries, and the world,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe. “For this Black History month, I encourage everyone, even after the month is over, to continue learning about the many scholars, innovators, cultural icons and activists who are pillars of Black Excellence and Flourishing in Canada and throughout the world. A great first step toward understanding the monumental positive impact of Black people on our society will be to join us online for the opening ceremony of Black History Month on February 1, 2022, at 10 a.m.”

For more information about Black History Month at the U of L, visit ulethbridge.ca/equity-diversity-inclusion/black-history.

Featured Events

Tuesday, February 1 (10 to 11 a.m.) — Opening Ceremony
• Dr. Sandra Dixon will share her story as a Black scholar who navigates an intersecting identity focusing on the importance of creating brave spaces for conversation.

Thursday, February 3 (11 a.m. to 12 p.m.) — Addressing anti-Black racism in the workplace - Fireside chat
• The Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) sits down with thought leaders to discuss what organizations can do continue the hard work of dismantling anti-Black racism and continue to build concrete ways to sustain these efforts.

Thursday, February 10 (2 to 3 p.m.) — ULSU Academic Panel: Understanding systemic racialization in post-secondary institutions
• Join Dr. Jerome Cranston and Professor Collins Ifeonu as they speak to continuous systemic racialization within post-secondary institutions in Canada.

Thursday, February 17 (11 a.m. to 12 p.m.) — History of race and racism in Canada

• In revisiting historic events that have influenced race relations, we will trace how these ideological constructions created the inequalities prevalent in our society today.

U of L names its first Equity, Diversity and Inclusion scholars

caroline.zentner — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 21:10:30 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is proud to announce the first recipients of its Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Scholars program, Drs. Glenda Bonifacio, Sandra Dixon and Roy Golsteyn (BASc (BSc) '84).

The program was established in 2021 and is designed to acknowledge and support individuals involved in EDI work at the scholarly level. The scholars will be engaging in projects that advance the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s EDI priorities and, when completed, share the information with the broader campus community.

“We are so pleased to recognize these exceptional scholars and assist them in their EDI work,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, the U of L’s EDI executive director. “The projects they will undertake demonstrate a breadth of EDI work that will benefit the entire campus community.”

Bonifacio (women and gender studies) plans to examine equity in international graduate students’ education and training at the U of L. She will analyze current policies, practices and training to determine the gaps that may exist for international graduate students from different faculties. In addition, her project will explore the outcomes of these gaps in policy and practice and recommend strategies to create a more integrated equity framework for international graduate students.

“Equity in international graduate education and training at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is a critical point of enquiry as a comprehensive university,” says Bonifacio. “I seek to examine equity towards international graduate students as a thrust in governance, administration, support and programming. In addition, I will explore gaps in policy and practice across faculties, perceived outcomes through student consultations and create a pilot EDI training module. I will also offer recommendations for a more integrated equity framework.”

Dixon’s (education) project is designed to support the presence of new voices on campus and beyond and to link the U of L’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion within academic work of all kinds.

“As an EDI scholar, the project I am undertaking aims to shed light on the lived experiences of women in the academy who self-identify as Black, Indigenous and Women of Colour (BIWOC),” says Dixon. “Given our current national and international socio-political milieu, I strongly believe this work is warranted and timely. This award will afford me the opportunity to create a culturally safe space for racialized women — who are often silenced, dismissed, excluded, underrepresented, misrepresented, and/or misunderstood in the academic discourse — to share their stories.”

Golsteyn’s (biological sciences) project, called EDI Pharm, will help students connect scientific and

traditional knowledge into their view of nature. His goals include formalizing a research program for Indigenous students that uses Blackfoot plant names and standard scientific approaches in equal measure. He also plans to build awareness of the program by reaching out to youth in southern Alberta.

“Through our research on the chemicals from plants in the Prairie to Pharmacy Program, we have learned that our classical scientific approach provides an incomplete view,” says Golsteyn. “There are other ways to view our natural world that cannot be taken; they must be offered, earned and shared. My research laboratory embraces this approach of investigating nature and I’m working to ensure it’s sustainable and accessible to all U of L students.”

U of L professor Don McIntyre receives inclusive education award

caroline.zentner — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 20:45:59 +0000

Don McIntyre, this year’s recipient of the Inclusive Education Certificate of Recognition at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, has always worked to ensure his students have positive learning experiences, and he became even more innovative amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The annual award was established by the U of L’s Accommodated Learning Centre to acknowledge professors who foster an inclusive learning environment in their classrooms.

“We are delighted to present this certificate on behalf of students, who nominated Don for his inclusive course design and delivery methods,” says Dawn Vickers, manager of the U of L’s Accommodated Learning Centre. “When students experience a welcoming environment that incorporates universal design, they are more likely to feel belonging, fully engage and experience success.”

Kathleen Massey (right), associate vice-president (students), presents Professor Don McIntyre with the Inclusive Education Certificate of Recognition.

“I am so pleased to present this student-nominated award to Don and I’m very grateful for his outstanding commitment to making learning opportunities accessible to all students,” says Kathleen Massey, U of L associate vice-president (students). “By doing so he is ensuring that all students who want to learn in his courses are able to do so in a fully inclusive manner.”

McIntyre, a professor in the Indigenous Governance and Business Management program in the Dhillon School of Business, was nominated by several students who said his use of technology, including speech-to-text software, allowed them to fully participate in the learning experience. He made class recordings available on Moodle so students could revisit them as often as they wanted. Some of his other solutions are not high-tech at all, like wearing a clear plastic mask when teaching so students can lip read. In addition, students appreciated his use of imagery and stories to help convey course materials.

“He also displayed a genuine willingness to listen and learn from his students, especially whenever course material affected his students personally,” says one student.

“I was extremely moved by the compassion he showed me at this difficult time and I have highly recommended his classes to other students,” says another.

“I was floored when I received the note telling me about the award,” says McIntyre. “This is just what I do; I’m not doing it to have someone acknowledge it, but when the acknowledgement comes, it’s very nice. I’m honoured and delighted to be given the opportunity to be a teacher. If someone has come here to learn, it’s incumbent on all of us to figure out how to make it happen. Students have more than enough roadblocks to being able to have an education. The administration and staff have helped me immensely to provide these supports to students on their journey.”

His philosophy is straightforward — if it’s good for one student, others will benefit, too. Along with creating an inclusive classroom, McIntyre gives students multiple ways to learn course content, something that grew out of his Anishinaabe upbringing. One way is to use stories that demonstrate concepts.

“For some students, that hits the mark,” he says. “Other students want something much more pragmatic like a case study. I incorporate repetition, the use of stories, narrative and illustrations, and group discussions into my classroom.”

Through all these ways of sharing class material, McIntyre ensures students’ different ways of learning and knowing are ignited.

“Creating a space of safety, where everyone feels included and valued is what makes a learning experience truly transformational,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, the U of L’s executive director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. “Learning about the numerous ways in which Professor McIntyre makes his students feel seen, heard and included should be celebrated. This is one of many things we can all do to create an inclusive campus. I congratulate and thank Professor McIntyre for his compassion and innovation in making our U of L campus an amazing place for our students to live and learn.”

The Inclusive Education Award was created to acknowledge professors and instructors who recognize the value of diversity and are responsive, adaptable and collaborative in accommodating learning needs. They demonstrate caring, compassion and empathy by promoting a classroom culture that is welcoming, respectful and inclusive and by adapting their teaching methods and content using universal design principles. Incorporating a universal design for learning framework provides all students, and especially those with disabilities, more opportunity to have a positive and successful post-secondary learning experience.

UNews - Martha Mathurin-Moe

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��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge hosting inaugural International Women’s Day Leadership Conference

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge to raise Progress Pride flag on June 19

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge names the 2022-2023 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Scholar

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge student earns national work-integrated learning award

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ planning multiple events to recognize Black History Month