UNews - Heather Davis-Fisch

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Fine Arts’ Vibe Fest partners with Stringam Law

trevor.kenney — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 23:16:22 +0000

It’s a non-traditional pairing — exactly what Vibe Fest and Stringam Law aim to bring to the southern Alberta community in their respective missions.

In a move that celebrates Stringam Law’s strong community commitment, Stringam Law has entered a multi-year partnership with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Faculty of Fine Arts, becoming the presenting sponsor for the Faculty’s innovative Vibe Fest event.

Lawyers at the Stringam Law Lethbridge office.

Vibe Fest is a contemporary, immersive celebration of artistic excellence at ULethbridge. Showcasing the creative work of students, alumni and faculty, Vibe Fest transforms fine arts spaces into vibrant, interactive art experiences that are open, inclusive and free to the public.

“Vibe Fest made a significant impression on our students and in the southern Alberta community and highlighted the importance of arts-based education,” says Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts. “We’re thrilled to have Stringam Law affirm this, and with their support, ensure Vibe Fest remains an accessible, innovative and impactful event.”

Last year’s inaugural event saw more than 1,500 people visit the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Centre for the Arts (UCA), wandering through art-filled hallways, taking in creative showcases and exploring all the spaces, places and technology that make the Faculty of Fine Arts a leading place for arts-based education.

Stringam Law is a regional law firm driven to provide a competitive edge in the increasingly complex and interconnected provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Stringam’s pillars of community engagement include post-secondary schools and the arts, a perfect match for their commitment to supporting community culture and students.

“This is a key priority for Stringam, as many of our lawyers are graduates of ULethbridge and we have a deep connection with the institution,” says Holt Humphrey, vice-president of business development with Stringam Law.

“The arts in general are under-supported, but they provide immense value to communities. Seeing and experiencing the thriving arts community in Lethbridge affirms our commitment to the arts and makes me proud of the direction we take with our community engagement.”

Humphrey says he learned about Vibe Fest from friends, who noted that the exhilarating event matched Stringam Law’s philanthropic philosophy.

More than an event, Vibe Fest builds community connections, celebrates creative innovation and advocates for the value of arts education by bringing people directly into the world of contemporary artmaking.

From engaging performances to experimental installations, audiences can explore the full spectrum of emerging art practices across disciplines through Vibe Fest. With the support of Stringam, Vibe Fest will continue to ignite curiosity in young artists, families and first-time arts visitors for years to come.

“We’re very much looking forward to supporting and attending such a unique cultural event. I’m thrilled to see what’s being created and to join in the energy that comes from Vibe Fest. It’s great for us to come onboard at such an early stage — watching new events grow and gain success is exceptionally exciting,” adds Humphrey.

Next year’s Vibe Fest will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 3 to 10 p.m. in the UCA.

ULethbridge invites business leaders and community members to join Stringam Law in supporting Vibe Fest. Connect with James Phelan, philanthropy advisor, External Relations, to explore sponsorship opportunities and ways to get involved. Sponsorship information is available at go.uleth.ca/vibe.

Vibe Fest returning in 2026, planning underway for popular event

trevor.kenney — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 21:15:11 +0000

After an extraordinary community response to Vibe Fest 2025, the Faculty of Fine Arts at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is pleased to announce that Vibe Fest will be returning April 18, 2026. Community members will once again be invited to enjoy an all-access, premiere showcase of student, faculty, staff and alumni talent and creativity.

Vibe Fest 2025 was a hit with the southern Alberta community.

The 2025 event was a resounding success, where 1,600 community members, friends and family made their way through the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Centre for the Arts building, wandering through art-filled hallways, touring scarcely-seen spaces and immersing themselves in live music and soundscapes. Next year, Vibe Fest hours will be extended to give attendees a chance to take in all the sights, sounds, bites and activities.

“The success of Vibe Fest highlights how the Faculty of Fine Arts contributes to the arts ecosystem of Lethbridge and southern Alberta, and how much our community supports our students and alumni,” says Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts. “We are excited to continue growing Vibe Fest as an outstanding celebration that connects students and alumni to the arts communities and affirms the important role that arts education plays in society.”

Vibe Fest 2026 will showcase exhibits, performances and works from all areas of the fine arts, including the Departments of Art, Drama, Music and New Media. Vibe Fest 2026 will again feature the local artisan market, which connects local makers and attendees, as well as activities for participants of all ages, snacks and refreshments.

Applications for the artisan market and project proposals from ULethbridge artists are now being accepted on the Faculty of Fine Arts website at go.uleth.ca/vibe.

Also making a return in 2026 is the Faculty’s signature fundraising dinner, Abbondànza. A beloved celebration of artistic excellence and community generosity, Abbondànza broke fundraising records this year to raise $120,000, thanks to matching support from the ULethbridge Board of Governors. The funds raised will create several new awards for experiential and work-integrated learning opportunities for students. In 2026, Abbondànza will be held on the evening of April 17 to allow attendees to fully participate in both Abbondànza and Vibe Fest.

Sponsorships are available at all levels for community organizations and philanthropists to support these events. Contact ULethbridge External Relations for more information.

ULethbridge PhD student Michelle Sylvestre named Trudeau Foundation Scholar for groundbreaking AI and equity research

trevor.kenney — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 20:18:46 +0000

Michelle Sylvestre (BFA – Art ’17, MFA – New Media ’21), a PhD student in the cultural, social and political thought program, has been selected as a Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholar — the first doctoral student from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge to receive this prestigious recognition.

Sylvestre’s research, Intersecting Biases: Exploring Gender and Indigenous Representation in Artificial Intelligence to Promote Equity and Inclusion for Historically Underrepresented Communities in Canada, examines how AI systems reflect and reproduce systemic inequities. Drawing on a research-creation framework, she blends critical inquiry with artistic practice to explore the social impacts of emerging technologies and envisions more inclusive digital futures grounded in care, accountability and community engagement.

Michelle Sylvestre’s creative work spans traditional and digital media.

“This scholarship is an amazing opportunity for advancing inclusive technologies through creative, community-engaged research, guided by my work as a Researcher-in-Residence with the Niitsitapi Pod at CIART (Centre for Indigenous Art, Research, and Technology),” says Sylvestre.

Sylvestre is one of only 16 graduate students from a national pool of 686 applicants to receive the award, which provides up to $210,000 over three years, supporting tuition and research-related expenses, as well as access to a national network of interdisciplinary scholars and mentors.

A multidisciplinary artist and sessional instructor in the Faculty of Fine Arts Department of New Media at ULethbridge, Sylvestre’s creative work spans traditional and digital media, with a focus on the intersection of technology, craft and identity.

“My project examines the colonial and patriarchal biases within artificial intelligence (AI) large language models. Using a research-creation framework, I aim to critique AI while imagining futures built on a foundation of care, inclusion and accountability,” she says.

“This is an exceptional achievement for Michelle and the Faculty of Fine Arts,” says Heather Davis-Fisch, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts. “Michelle has demonstrated excellence throughout her academic career — as an undergraduate, a master’s student, and now as a doctoral candidate. Her work exemplifies how rigorous research and creative practice can come together to address some of the most urgent social questions of our time.”

Dr. Jackie Rice, Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, emphasizes that Sylvestre’s selection reflects both the strength of her research and the high level of support she is receiving as a doctoral student at ULethbridge.

“With more than 680 highly qualified applicants to this program and a rigorous selection process including in-person interviews, we are extremely proud that the Foundation recognized the excellent work that Michelle is carrying out and is providing funding that will help amplify the impact of her work,” says Rice. “We look forward to continuing to support her in her doctoral studies and are excited to see where this work takes her.”

As a Pierre Elliot Trudeau Foundation Scholar, Sylvestre joins a national network of outstanding researchers committed to advancing equity and social justice through their work. The Foundation, established in 2001 as a tribute to the former prime minister, supports the advancement of outstanding, cutting-edge doctoral research that will have meaningful impacts in our communities, institutions and beyond.

“Becoming a Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation scholar is an exciting opportunity to collaborate across disciplines and to build lasting relationships with changemakers across Canada,” says Sylvestre.

Abbondànza returns, generating record fundraising effort in support of student endowment

trevor.kenney — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 17:57:12 +0000

A record-setting fundraising effort that will shape the creative and career development of the next generation of artists is the legacy of the Abbondànza endowment and the return of the long-running fundraising dinner for 2025.

This year, Abbondànza (Italian for abundance) took on a fresh approach and tied its celebrations to the inaugural Vibe Fest, an all-access community event that opened the doors of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Centre for the Arts to the public to showcase the creative talents of Fine Arts students, alumni and employees. The result was a record $70,000 raised for the endowment, with attendees and sponsors contributing before and during the festivities. The Board of Governors will match all net proceeds of the event, doubling the funds dedicated to supporting experiential and work-integrated learning opportunities for Fine Arts students.

Drama students captivated the audience with an electric, David Bowie-inspired performance.

“Abbondànza unites those who believe in the arts and in arts education, and this year, we’re continuing that legacy by creating new awards in the endowment for experiential learning — such as internships, artist residencies and practicums — offering our students hands-on, real-world experiences,” says Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, Faculty of Fine Arts dean.

“These experiences help our students gain confidence, build professional networks and transition from the classroom to careers in the cultural sector, further shaping their futures and engaging our communities through creative partnerships.”

The Faculty’s long-running fundraising dinner, Abbondànza has raised more than $1.75 million to create 155 scholarships for new and continuing Fine Arts students. For over 20 years, Abbondànza has brought conga lines, sing-alongs, serenading chefs, performances, auctions and more in a celebration of creativity, community and generosity.

For former students like Nicole Wilkinson (BFA - Art ’18), receiving an Abbondànza Award allowed her to explore her studies deeper and put herself on the right educational path.

“The Abbondànza Award made me feel recognized and seen for my hard work and it gave me the chance to pursue an internship at the Galt Museum & Archives. That internship turned out to be a turning point in my life. It wasn’t just an opportunity to learn — it was where I found my calling,” says Wilkinson.

“Supporting Fine Arts students creates possibilities far beyond the classroom. It fosters creativity, critical thinking and passion — qualities that shape our communities. Today, I’m fortunate to be working as a Curatorial Assistant with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta Museums, continuing the work I started at the Galt Museum. Everything I learned there has been foundational to what I do now, and I carry it with me every day.”

Performances at Abbondànza included a curated showcase of works from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Art Collection, a fashion show with student-designed and created costumes for Mainstage productions and a performance from renowned members of the Music department.

“Having Abbondànza nested within Vibe Fest allows us to bring world-class talent to the forefront,” adds Davis-Fisch. “Vibe Fest highlights the diverse talents of our students, employees and alumni, and strengthens the bond between the Faculty and the broader community. It’s an event that connects us all in celebration of the transformative power of the arts.”

To contribute to the Abbondànza endowment, visit the giving web page.

The Abbondànza fundraising dinner and Vibe Fest are an example of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Strategic Plan in action under the strategic direction to Engage Communities. We proudly engage as a vibrant and present partner as we aim to generate knowledge and build capacity, foster mutual growth, address shared challenges and create pathways for communities to thrive.

Faculty of Fine Arts launches Vibe Fest, inviting community support and participation

trevor.kenney — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 20:20:10 +0000

Vibe Festival to showcase Faculty of Fine Arts programming and student, alumni and faculty talent in free, community event

For one night only, the doors of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Centre for the Arts will open to the community for a showcase of the talent and artistry of fine arts students, alumni and faculty — highlighting the Centre for the Arts as a hub of creative talent in Lethbridge and southern Alberta.

The Vibe Festival (Vibe Fest) promises a playful, immersive celebration of contemporary art, performance and creative technologies. Running from 7 to 11 p.m. on Apr. 12, 2025, the Faculty of Fine Arts Vibe Fest will feature a free, all-access community arts celebration.

“Vibe Fest is an opportunity to celebrate the innovative work our students, alumni and faculty create,” says Faculty of Fine Arts Dean, Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch. “Attendees will experience the full scope of emerging contemporary art practice in southern Alberta and can immerse themselves in interactive and participatory experiences including installations, performances, live music, soundscapes, film and digital media.”

In addition to celebrating student achievement, Vibe Fest attendees can explore the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Centre for the Arts’ outstanding learning and creative facilities that are often hidden from public view: studios, exhibition spaces, digital cinema suites, workshops, recording studios and more.

The Faculty of Fine Arts seeks to inspire imaginative, intellectual culture among students, employees and communities. It offers students a comprehensive education with world-class instruction and positions its graduates as change-makers and future leaders in the local, national and global arts communities.

With an anticipated audience of more than 800 people, Vibe Fest will be Fine Arts’ highlight event of the year, spotlighting the Faculty’s artistry and contributions to the wider community, cultivating community support and building advocacy for arts-based education and programming. Adding to the excitement of Vibe Fest, the Faculty of Fine Arts is pleased to announce the much-anticipated revival of Abbondànza. The ticketed fundraising dinner will take place the same night.

“The Faculty of Fine Arts is a central part of the arts ecosystem in southern Alberta, giving students outstanding learning experiences and transferable skills, and providing the community with arts educators, creative practitioners and cultural sector workers,” says Davis-Fisch. “Our hope is for the community to partner with us to celebrate fine arts students’ achievements and the contributions our graduates make to the community.”

Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce CEO and ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association President, Cyndi Crane (BMus ’95, MEd ’01), says Vibe Fest will celebrate the established and emerging creative talent that exists in Lethbridge and southern Alberta and affirm the importance of arts education and programming.

“The arts have played a significant role in my own life, and I know I’m not alone,” says Crane, a trained pianist and alumna of ULethbridge’s music program. “Vibe Fest presents an incredible opportunity for individuals and local businesses who value the arts to get involved, either as sponsors or participants, to support the innovative, cultural programming taking place right here in southern Alberta.”

The Faculty of Fine Arts is seeking corporate sponsors, individual philanthropists and community partners for Vibe Fest 2025 and Abbondànza. Individuals and businesses who want to support the arts and ensure access to this festival for all are invited to contact External Relations (external.relations@uleth.ca or call 403-329-2582) to discuss sponsorship opportunities.

Learn more about sponsorship opportunities available for Vibe Fest and Abbondànza: ulethbridge.ca/fine-arts/vibe

Fine Arts researchers part of collaborative cross-country project awarded $2.5 million SSHRC Partnership Grant

trevor.kenney — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:08:47 +0000

A unique cross-country partnership between 10 Canadian post-secondary institutions involving three ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts researchers has been awarded a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Partnership Grant of $2.5 million.

Gatherings: Archival and Oral Histories of Performance, is a multi-institutional project that focuses on archival and oral histories of performance in Canada, emphasizing the ephemeral and immaterial nature of performance and its ability to enrich understandings of the myriad of cultures within Canada. The funding is over seven years.

Department of Drama researchers Drs. Gabrielle Houle and Justin Blum.

Department of Drama researchers Drs. Justin Blum and Gabrielle Houle are co-investigators on the project, while Faculty of Fine Arts Dean Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch is a collaborator. Davis-Fisch says the partnership allows for researchers to study the nuances and complexities of performance history and uncover the contributions of groups who have been left out of the conversation altogether.

“Because performance is an embodied practice, it often leaves few documents; often histories of performance exist in oral histories, objects and artifacts, and cultural practices,” says Davis-Fisch. “This is particularly the case for performances like dance, non-theatrical performances, and physical practices, and is exacerbated in the case of performances created and remembered by historically marginalized groups, such as Black, racialized and Indigenous communities, LGBTQ2S+ communities and people with disabilities.”

The project brings together researchers from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Victoria, Dalhousie ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, MacEwan ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, Toronto Metropolitan ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, Sheridan College Institute of Technology, ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Toronto, Trent ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, Queen's ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, Memorial ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Newfoundland and ULethbridge.

In addition to the academic researchers, the project also involves artists, galleries, libraries, archives, museums and community partners, through support from Canada’s Theatre Museum, Playwrights Canada Press and Dance Collection Danse.

Davis-Fisch says the partnership’s goals are threefold: promote access to archival performance history research, implement ethical practices in oral history collection and preservation and advance digital humanities scholarship to enhance public access to diverse performance histories.

“The impact of this grant will be significant for the Drama department and the Faculty of Fine Arts, not only for how it will support faculty researchers, but also for the opportunities it creates to involve graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and undergraduate students in research. The project will also support relationships and partnerships with community-based organizations and across disciplines within the university.”

Manifesting Beauty: ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts receives Blackfoot name

trevor.kenney — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 20:28:05 +0000

Bearing a commitment to further the work being done to advance reconciliation and Indigenization at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, the Faculty of Fine Arts has been gifted a Blackfoot name – Piiksinaasin – by Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Dr. Leroy Little Bear (BASc (BA) ’72, DASc ’04).

The name was gifted as part of the opening ceremony for the 2024 Indigenous Awareness Week at ULethbridge on March 11.

The name Piiksinaasin was gifted as part of the opening ceremony for the 2024 Indigenous Awareness Week. Faculty of Fine Arts Dean Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, left, and Elder Francis First Charger participate in the naming ceremony.

Piiksinaasin, which means Manifesting Beauty, represents the Faculty of Fine Arts as a place where students create, explore and research, transforming the world around them through creative practice and critical thinking. The name reflects the Faculty’s long-standing support of Indigenous arts and creative initiatives and exemplifies the work done to advance reconciliation and decolonization.

Little Bear was joined by Ninnaisipistoo (Owl Chief) Elder Francis First Charger during the ceremony to gift the name, who spoke on the importance of fine arts for Indigenous Peoples.

“In many Indigenous communities, art is very much a part of our ways. It’s on the rocks, it’s on our tipis, each one with their own meaning. Each one of those arts has a name, there’s a story behind it.”

Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, says receiving a Blackfoot name gives the Faculty the important and ongoing responsibility of serving Indigenous students and the Blackfoot community, and allows the Faculty of Fine Arts to reflect on the work that has been done to support Indigenization.

“I am grateful to my colleagues and predecessors for beginning this important work and to our Elders and Advisors for teaching us how to do the work in a good way. Being gifted a Blackfoot name by Dr. Little Bear also comes with the responsibilities of promoting truth and reconciliation, incorporating decolonial practices in our teaching and learning and actively creating space for Indigenous resurgence and cultural revitalization.”

Fine Arts has been an integral part of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge since the institution’s beginnings in 1967, with fervent faculty and student engagement that worked to improve the quality of the fine arts in Lethbridge and throughout the southern Alberta area. The Faculty of Fine Arts houses departments in art, drama, music and new media. With a focus on creative innovation, professional excellence and liberal education, it aims to inspire an imaginative, intellectual culture at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and in the community.

Dedicated to reconciliation and Indigenization, the Faculty offers unique degree programs in Indigenous Art Studio and Art History/Museum Studies and supports research in Indigenous creative arts, including a Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Music, Culture and Politics, and a previous Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Arts and Technology.

Notably, the Department of Drama recently collaborated with the Making Treaty 7 Cultural Society on Yisstsiiyi, a historic production for both Fine Arts and ULethbridge, as it was the first Indigenous-led, created and directed Mainstage production, which featured alum Marshall Vielle (BFA - Dramatic Arts ’17) at the helm.

Now bestowed a Blackfoot name, the Faculty of Fine Arts has a duty to honour the name through continued support for Indigenization in the creative arts and reconciliation. For Davis-Fisch, she sees this as an opportunity to enhance current learning opportunities offered by Fine Arts and purposefully build tenets of Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being into the Faculty’s strategic plan.

“Being gifted the name Piiksinaasin speaks to the Faculty’s long-standing relationships with the Blackfoot community and with Indigenous artists and knowledge keepers,” says Davis-Fisch. “Going forward, I am excited to contribute to the important work of infusing Indigenous ways of knowing and being across our curriculum, programs and activities by working in relationship with Indigenous students and community.”

2023 Highlights

caroline.zentner — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 17:50:00 +0000

An eventful 2023 at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is rapidly coming to a close, and as is tradition here at UNews, we like to take this time to look back at all that took place over the last 12 months.

It always surprises us how much activity our students and employees are involved in and the incredible contributions we collectivaly make to our southern Alberta community and far beyond. From philanthropic and volunteer activities to breaking research boundaries, energizing our cultural and athletic scenes and disseminating new knowledge, ULethbridge makes a tangible difference in the world every single day. And the most exciting thing is, there's always more to come.

Join us over the coming days as we share 10 stories we thought resonated with our communities and highlighted some of the many ways ULethbridge continues to benefit society. Of course, these stories just scratch the surface, and we urge you to browse through UNews as well as our ULethbridge Stories site to read about the amazing people who make the ULethbridge experience truly unique.

Posing with Luxie from left to right are Drs. Harold Jansen, Lisa Starr, Digvir Jayas, Jon Doan, Michelle Helstein and Heather Davis-Fisch.

New President & Vice-Chancellor and new senior leaders at ULethbridge

Announcing and introducing Dr. Digvir Jayas as ULethbridge’s seventh President and Vice-Chancellor, followed by his installation in the fall, was historical for ULethbridge and the broader southern Alberta community. Dr. Jayas’s introduction was also representative of a year of massive change at ULethbridge that saw a significant infusion of new perspectives across the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. Among the new senior leaders introduced this year were Terry Whitehead (BA ’94), Chancellor; Dr. Michelle Helstein, Provost & Vice-President, Academic; Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, Dean, Faculty of Fine Arts; Dr. Jon Doan (PhD ’06), Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences; Dr. Harold Jansen, ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Librarian, Dean, School of Liberal Education; and Dr. Lisa Starr, Dean, Faculty of Education. With new leaders and a new comprehensive strategic plan in progress, the future is bright and full of promise.

ULethbridge joining provincial partners to join Quantum Horizons Alberta research network

In June, a partnership between ULethbridge, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary was announced as we combined to form Quantum Horizons Alberta (QHA). A new $25-million Alberta-wide program, it is an initiative to expand our foundational knowledge of quantum science and pursue transformational research into the potentials of quantum physics. QHA brings together world-class scientists to deepen our understanding and unlock the mysteries of quantum mechanics, where the rules of classical physics do not apply. ULethbridge was already involved in quantum and this announcement further expanded our research capacity — an indication that our university, once again, is home to some of the most advanced research in the world.

Jason VandenHoek, left, and Kurt Schlachter at the ULethbridge Pride Flag Raising Ceremony.

Alumni donors establish first-of-its-kind endowment fund to support 2SLGBTQ+ students

ULethbridge prides itself on having created a welcoming and inclusive campus environment and an early summer announcement epitomized that commitment. A pair of alumni, Kurt Schlachter (BSc ’00) and Jason VandenHoek (BMgt ’05) established the VandenHoek Schlachter Pride Fund. Announced during ULethbridge’s Progress Pride flag raising ceremony, the $200,000 endowment fund supports a suite of awards aimed at reducing barriers for 2SLGBTQ+ students. For VandenHoek and Schlachter, the power of representation is critical to building confidence on the pathway to success, especially for 2SLGBTQ+ students. The first award from the VandenHoek Schlachter Pride Fund will be presented in June 2024.

ULethbridge President & Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mike Mahon signs the historic Buffalo Treaty.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge becomes first post-secondary school to sign on as supporter of Buffalo Treaty

What began as conversations between a ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge graduate student and Blackfoot elders more than a decade ago came full circle in March when the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ became the first post-secondary institution to sign on as a supporter of the historic Buffalo Treaty. A treaty of cooperation, renewal and restoration, it was born out of graduate research work Paulette Fox (MSc ’05) was conducting in environmental science. Her conversations with elders included the issue of the buffalo and its importance in Indigenous culture. The Buffalo Treaty was first signed on September 24, 2014, at the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana, to honour, recognize and revitalize the time immemorial relationship with buffalo. ULethbridge's commitment to continue fostering its relationship with the Blackfoot and all Indigenous Peoples is reflected in its support of this important treaty.

Kacie Bosch, left, and Paige Crozon, second from left, have joined forces with twins Katherine and Michelle Plouffe to form the world's top-ranked 3x3 women's basketball team.

Horns assistants Crozon, Bosch making most of 3x3 opportunity

Pronghorns fans will have a special rooting interest this summer when the Paris Olympics take place as they will likely be cheering on women's basketball assistant coaches Kacie Bosch (BA ’20) and Paige Crozon as they represent Canada in 3x3 women's basketball. Now, the duo still faces a do-or-die Olympic qualifying tournament in February but given the dominance of the Canadian team over the last two years, it seems a certainty they'll be on the courts in Paris this summer. Earlier this year, the duo, along with twins Michelle and Katherine Plouffe, secured their second straight FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series Final title — this time in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. In early December, the group won bronze at another tune-up event, the AmeriCup, in Puerto Rico. Go Canada go!

Marshall Vielle

Yisstsiiyi production a historic first for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge

Marshall Vielle (BFA - Dramatic Arts ’17) made history earlier this year when they joined forces with fellow Making Treaty 7 members Caleigh Crow and Neil Fleming to bring the institution’s first Indigenous-led and created production to the stage — Yisstsiiyi. The production is a collaboration between Marshall, Caleigh and Neil, as well as ULethbridge students and community members, focusing on Blackfoot storytelling and the importance of listening to each other. It ran Nov. 6-10 in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Theatre and told the story of Sky Woman and the creation of Turtle Island. While it may have been the first Indigenous-led creation, it surely will inspire many more in the future.

Gregory Robinson

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge grad student sees a world of possibilities in mushrooms

Innovation in research is found throughout ULethbridge and encompasses a breadth of activity. One research piece that created quite a stir was work being done by Gregory Robinson, a PhD candidate and entrepreneur. Robinson launched his psychedelic pharmaceutical research and development company, Mycos Biotech, a year ago after seeing much promise in developing techniques to make extracts from mushrooms. Working with Dr. Igor Kovalchuk inn the department of Biological Sciences, Robinson says mushroom extracts can be helpful in fighting inflammation, maintaining cardiovascular health, promoting sleep and regulating blood glucose levels. He is looking to develop processes and techniques that provide both consistency and a high quantity of metabolites in mushrooms and then sell those techniques to mushroom producers.

Proactive approach to student mental health at the heart of R.E.C. Room initiative

A student with a healthy and positive state of mind is more likely to be engaged, successful and flourishing. With that in mind, ULethbridge launched a new strategy to enhance student mental health with the introduction of the R.E.C. Room — multi-site campus hubs designed to invite students to step away from the stress of study and research to relax their minds and connect with one another. Launched in January, the "rooms" include everything from a giant chessboard, to Jenga, puzzles and table tennis tables. The R.E.C. Rooms (an acronym for refresh, energize, connect) have proven to be immensely popular and are almost always busy, proving once again that the student-first approach continues to make the ULethbridge experience unique.

The IGBM is the first diploma in the country that focuses on both Indigenous business and governance.

Dhillon School of Business launches new diploma in Indigenous governance and business management

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ continued to forge ahead and lead the post-secondary sector in preparing students for a world where Indigenous perspectives must be incorporated in all levels of business and management. In June, ULethbridge introduced the Indigenous Governance and Business Management (IGBM) diploma, one of only a small few Indigenous business diplomas in Canada, as well as the first diploma in the country that focuses on both Indigenous business and governance. It will give students an Indigenous perspective on business management, community development, governance and entrepreneurship, and was created because of the significant market demand in Canada for graduates with a solid understanding of Indigenous economic and cultural issues who also possess a strong business foundation.

Lindsey Kapitzke was one of many alumni who had a hand in the making of The Last of Us.

Alumna Lindsey Kapitzke helps The Last of Us characters dress the part

An HBO hit series that turned into an Alberta cultural phenomenon had a distinctly ULethbridge presence and we were lucky enough to tell the story of Lindsay Kapitzke's (BFA - Dramatic Arts '15) contributions to the show The Last of Us. Touted as the largest television production in Canadian history, The Last of Us generated $141 million in revenue for the province of Alberta. Kapitzke, who has been working in the film industry since 2019, served as a costume buyer for the massive production, sourcing costume materials and working with costume designers to bring their vision to life. She was one of many ULethbridge alums who worked for the production — just another example of how our students are ready to contribute to any of a thousand industries when they embark on their careers.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge welcomes Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch as dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts

trevor.kenney — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 21:48:49 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge welcomes respected theatre scholar Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch as the incoming dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts.

Davis-Fisch is the founding director of the School of Creative Arts at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of the Fraser Valley. Prior to taking on the role of school director in 2019, she was head of the theatre department and chair of UFV’s Bachelor of Media Arts program.

Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, new dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts.

“I am delighted to be joining the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge to lead its Faculty of Fine Arts as the new dean and am excited about the opportunity to advocate for and champion the creative and scholarly accomplishments of its students, faculty and staff,” says Davis-Fisch.

Davis-Fisch received a PhD in literary and theatre studies, as well as her MA in drama from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Guelph. Prior to that, she earned an undergraduate degree in theatre studies and history from Dalhousie ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.

Her research interests include performance historiography and Indigenous and intercultural performance, particularly in historical paradigms. Davis-Fisch is the author of Loss and Cultural Remains in Performance: The Ghosts of the Franklin Expedition, which was the recipient of the Ann Saddlemyer Award for outstanding monograph from the Canadian Association for Theatre Research.

Her scholarly work has appeared in Theatre Research in Canada, Performing Arts Resources, Cultural Studies/Critical Methodologies and Canadian Theatre Review, as well as several edited collections. Her current SSHRC-funded research project investigates the role of performances in the establishment of settler-colonialism in nineteenth-century Canada and how performance documents and objects can be re-integrated into galleries, archives and museums.

“Dr. Davis-Fisch has shown at every stage of her career that she is a leader who forges ahead and sets new standards, whether it be as a professor, researcher or administrator,” says Dr. Erasmus Okine, ULethbridge provost and vice-president (academic). “The Faculty of Fine Arts plays such a crucial role in developing and supporting the rich artistic culture we enjoy here in southern Alberta and beyond, and I see her addition as a major boost to the outstanding activities led by our faculty and staff.”

Davis-Fisch has a clear and demonstrated commitment to collaboration, community engagement and Indigenization in her academic and administrative work. Additionally, her experience in curriculum development and fostering positive workplace cultures exemplify her preparedness for the role.

“Appreciating the deep and long-standing relationships between the Faculty and the communities the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ serves, I look forward to working closely with community partners to further the cultural and artistic life of Lethbridge and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s work in relation to decolonization and reconciliation,” says Davis-Fisch.

This announcement is one of four new dean appointments that will be filled this year, in addition to the recent announcements of Dr. Digvir Jayas as president and vice-chancellor and alumnus Terry Whitehead as chancellor.

Davis-Fisch will officially begin her role as dean on July 1, 2023.

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��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge welcomes Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch as dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts