UNews - advocate

2013 Alumni Honour Society inductees

trevor.kenney — Thu, 16 May 2013 17:54:29 +0000

Introduced in celebration of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's 35th anniversary in 2002, the Alumni Honour Society recognizes the achievement of successful alumni within the global community. The alumni inducted into this prestigious group have served as role models to our students and the broader ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community through success in their vocation, outstanding community service or superior accomplishment in their avocation.

Sarah Amies (BASc '88)

A vigorous and compassionate human rights advocate, Sarah Amies has more than 20 years of experience in the not-for-profit and education sectors. Since becoming the program director of Lethbridge Family Services – Immigrant Services in 2001, Amies has had a positive impact on new immigrants in the Lethbridge community. Under her leadership, Lethbridge Family Services has grown in programming and services, and expanded its resources. She has worked closely with many volunteer boards, such as the Alberta Association of Immigrant Services Agencies, the Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination, Family Violence and Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention Committee and Social Housing in Action. The YWCA recognized her in 2012.

Sylvia Campbell (BEd '79)

Through her many years as an educator and mentor, Sylvia Campbell has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to environmental issues and human rights. She has served on numerous committees and boards, including the Lethbridge branch of the Canadian Federation of ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Women, the Southern Alberta Group for Environment and the Lethbridge Network for Peace. Campbell was a longtime member of the Raging Grannies, a group through which she worked to raise awareness of social justice issues related to peace, the environment, gender, human rights, world equality, Canadian unity and social programs. In 2003, she was recognized by the YWCA.

Frank Gnandt (BASc '74, BEd '79)

Frank Gnandt has been an exceptional educator in Lethbridge School District No. 51 for more than 30 years and has instilled a passion for the arts in many students. Gnandt, currently the choir director for Chinook High School in Lethbridge, is recognized by his peers as an accomplished adjudicator, instructor and conductor. His influence and passion for music have spread to students and audiences locally, provincially, nationally and abroad. Gnandt has been a guest conductor and performed at numerous prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall and at the Vatican. Gnandt is a recipient of both the Governor General's Award for Community Service and the ATA Teacher of Excellence Award.

Michelle Hogue (MEd '04)

An assistant professor and co-ordinator of the First Nations Transition Program at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, Dr. Michelle Hogue has helped ensure the success of many students at university, particularly in science-related programs. Hogue's research blends required curricular and institutional demands with narrative and arts practices that, with holistic knowledge, have the potential to change science education for Aboriginal learners. In addition to her research, Hogue develops new and innovative teaching practices with high school students, educators and administrators on the Blackfoot (Kainai) Reserve in southern Alberta. Hogue has been the recipient of many awards and scholarships, including most recently the Canadian Education Association Pat Clifford Award.

Douglas McArthur (Certificate in Mgt '90)

Douglas McArthur is well known for his enthusiastic support of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and particularly the U of L Alumni Association (ULAA). An investment advisor by profession, McArthur served as ULAA president from 2003 to 2005. His leadership played a key role in advancing the ULAA, strengthening its affinity with alumni and establishing a foundation that the association has continued to build upon. McArthur remains an active member of the ULAA and is currently serving on the U of L Board of Governors. McArthur has invested in his community by volunteering his time with organizations such as Rotary, Crime Stoppers and the Lethbridge Symphony Association.

Diane Randell (BN '91)

Throughout her career, Diane Randell has worked diligently to make a difference in her community. Since beginning her career in nursing in the 1970s, Randell's care and compassion for others has expanded from individual patients to entire communities. Currently the manager of the community and social development group at the City of Lethbridge, Randell's work addresses large-scale issues such as social policy, homelessness, poverty and racism. Randell is a founding member of the Abreast of Bridge Dragon Boat Team, a founding board member and past Chair of the Lethbridge Dragon Boat Festival and a member of the U of L Senate. She has been recognized by Rotary International, the YWCA and is a recipient of the Queen's Jubilee Medal.

This story first appeared in the May 2013 edition of the Legend. For a look at the full issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Penner's dedication recognized with honour

trevor.kenney — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 22:32:57 +0000

To say Jennifer Penner wears many hats would be an understatement.

She's the team lead and nurse clinician at Lethbridge's Heart Function Clinic/Heart Failure Network, a regular guest lecturer in ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge nursing classes and an advocate for more connected and patient-centric health care. Yet, at heart, her professional scope is unified by a very personal philosophy.

"The thing that has inspired me is the connection with patients and families, and the ability to deliver excellent care in such a way that it will empower people to live better lives," says Penner.

Penner relishes the opportunity to work collaboratively with the u of L's Faculty of Health Sciences.

Clearly Penner has passed that inspiration along to others. This year, her longstanding contributions are being recognized with the 2012 Friends of Health Sciences Award, an annual honour from the Faculty of Health Sciences that recognizes an individual or agency that has made a significant contribution to health education and research at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.

Originally from Bow Island, Alta., Penner completed her initial nursing education at Medicine Hat College and her bachelor of science in nursing degree at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta. She has spent most of her 25-year career in southern Alberta. Today, Penner supervises five nurses at the Heart Failure Clinic, as well as leads the relatively new and forward-thinking Heart Failure Network, which she helped to create in 2008.

By encouraging greater collaboration between diverse roles such as case managers, acute care workers and even family doctors, the network integrates health services among these practitioners and increases their awareness of their roles relative to their colleagues, and even more significantly, to the patient.

"When we understand what everyone's role is, the patient in the middle gets better benefits and outcomes," says Penner.

With an estimated 500,000 heart failure patients in Canada and more than 80,000 in Alberta alone, the significance of this work becomes even more apparent. At 10,000 admissions per year, heart failure is one of the most common diagnoses for medical admission to hospital, says Penner.

"It's a huge chronic disease. That's why we need an approach that's far reaching to promote better care, better outcomes and wise utilization of health-care resources."

She adds that greater integration tends to increase patient stability, which cuts costs by reducing the burden on busy emergency rooms and contributes to fewer admissions to acute care facilities.

On top of her leadership in the Heart Failure Network, Penner also shares her expertise with the next generation of nurses, a commitment that began in 2003. Today, she lectures for several faculty members in both nursing and research courses, grounding her talks about heart failure in actual case studies that the young nurses-in-training are likely to encounter early in their careers.

"Lecturing is near and dear to my heart," says Penner. "I love having an influence on promoting clinical excellence and building the future of nursing."

She also helps students gain experience by connecting them with practical work experiences in clinics, and helping with other real-world skills such as cardiac assessment.

While Penner is clearly motivated by factors beyond awards and accolades, she says she is "deeply honoured" to be recognized by the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, noting that her work in the academic setting has helped her realize her own personal potential.

"It is so rewarding to be collaborative, to work with the esteemed professionals at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and to experience the infectious vitality of new nurses. It motivates me and inspires me to be better."

The Friends of Health Sciences Award reception is Saturday, Oct. 13 at 2 p.m. in the Markin Hall Atrium.

This story first appeared in the October 2012 issue of the Legend. To read the full issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Where there's a will there's a way

trevor.kenney — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 21:34:22 +0000

Family lawyer Kathleen Wells (BA '98) acts as an advocate for her clients on a daily basis. She is also an active advocate for planned giving.

"Making a planned gift was simple - anybody can do it," she says. "It's important to think about the future. You have to plan for your death, just like you plan for your life, and you need to think about what kind of legacy you want to leave."

Alumnus Kathleen Wells is planning to help future generations of U of L students.

It's personal advice that Kathleen knows only too well - several years ago her late husband, Mike Peterson, passed away after a battle with cancer. Before he died, Kathleen and Mike discussed their mutual desire to support education. Today Kathleen is fulfilling this goal and has made an allowance for the U of L in her will.

"Establishing a bequest was an easy way to support my commitment to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. It brings me happiness to know that our lives - both Mike's and mine - will benefit U of L students in the future."

Outstanding in her field

trevor.kenney — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:58:51 +0000

In a career that has spanned almost four decades, Dr. Shirley McClellan (LLD '10) says that there hasn't been a single day that she didn't want to go to work.

"There have been a few days when I got to work I wanted to turn right back around," says McClellan with a laugh, "but there's never been a morning when I wasn't looking forward to going in."

McClellan is best known for her 20-year service as an Alberta MLA, but her curriculum vitae gained another important accolade earlier this year when she was appointed the 12th chancellor of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. McClellan's ties to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ go back many years, but she was an advocate for education long before the U of L was on her personal or professional radar.

A huge baseball fan, Shirley McClellan helped establish the Prairie Baseball Academy.

Born in Hanna, Alta., in 1942, McClellan grew up in a politically and educationally active family. Her father was mayor and chairman of the town's school board for many years.

"I was raised with the belief that, as citizens, we should be interested and involved in our communities," says McClellan. "Contributing and making your town a better place to live wasn't anything unusual or extraordinary, it was just what you did."

McClellan has been a proponent of higher education for many years. Her first foray into the field of educational advancement took place while living on a farm in the New Brigden area, just west of the Saskatchewan border. McClellan had volunteered in the community in a variety of ways for years, and eventually was asked to be the co-ordinator of further education for the area.

"I was told it would be a six-month commitment, but I ended up doing the job for 12 years," says McClellan. "Rural areas were struggling to keep professionals because of a lack of opportunities to upgrade their credentials. The thinking was that if we offered programming in these areas, professionals wouldn't leave communities that needed them."

During her time as the further-education co-ordinator, McClellan was invited to sit on the board of directors of the Big Country Education Consortium headquartered in Drumheller, as well as serving on the Minister's Advisory Committees for Further Education and College Affairs. This work led to the creation of distance-delivery credit programs available to rural residents and professionals through Olds College, SAIT, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary, Lethbridge College, Medicine Hat College, as well as the U of L.

"That was when I developed a keen interest in further education," says McClellan. "It became clear to me that the key to Alberta's success was a well-rounded and well-educated workforce. Lifelong learning isn't just a buzzword for me. People should never stop learning. Young people today may have three or four careers in their lifetime. We need an education system that accommodates that."

McClellan's political career officially began in 1987 when she was elected to the Alberta legislature. She served six consecutive terms for the Drumheller-Stettler constituency, holding a diverse portfolio of ministerial offices including associate minister of agriculture, minister of rural development, minister of health, and minister of community development, to name just a few. She also served as deputy premier and finance minister during her tenure. Ironically, McClellan took over the riding somewhat by happenstance. She was an active member of the constituency when the existing MLA unexpectedly passed away. Having served as president, campaign manager and regional director for the party, McClellan was selected as a possible successor.

"A lot of people came to me and said that I'd be a good choice to take over, so I let my name stand in the byelection," says McClellan.

"I never imagined that decision would lead to 20 years in office, but I don't regret a minute of it. Serving as an MLA was a great honour and a fantastic experience. I'd been involved in political circles for years, but this was something much larger. I remember the day I was sworn in; the realization hit me that I had a heavy responsibility bestowed upon me."

McClellan accomplished much during her two decades in office, but is particularly proud of her involvement with the Prairie Baseball Academy program at Lethbridge College and the U of L. Founded in 1995, the Academy met a need that McClellan and many other Albertans identified in the education system.

"There wasn't an academic baseball program anywhere in the country at the time," says McClellan. "If our young people wanted a career in baseball, they had to go to a U.S. college. We wanted to offer kids a way to pursue their dreams in Canada."

As a huge baseball fan, and a parent and grandparent of very involved players, McClellan was 100 per cent behind the development of the Academy, and worked closely with former Lethbridge MLA Clint Dunford to get it off the ground. McClellan opened a baseball game in July 1995 between the Canadian national team and the Oyen Pronghorns with a cheque for the newly established Prairie Baseball Academy in the amount of $25,000, donated by the Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation.

With politics behind her, McClellan is now focused on her role as chancellor at the U of L, which she will hold for four years. Education is one passion that she continues to pursue, but McClellan is also involved in a second interest she holds close to her heart: she became the CEO of Horse Racing Alberta on June 1.

"I love everything to do with horses," confesses McClellan. "Aside from the fact that they're beautiful animals, horses are a big part of the Alberta economy. We have the most complete horsing industry in Canada. It's a great part of our provincial heritage, and I just admire the people in the industry a great deal."

McClellan participated in developing legislation for the Horse Racing Alberta Renewal Initiative as minister of agriculture while in government.

True to her rural roots, McClellan lives and farms near New Brigden with her husband Lloyd, their son Mick, daughter Tami (BEd '89) and her husband Jeff, and four energetic grandchildren. Ask her the secret to achieving lifelong career satisfaction, and McClellan responds in signature style – shooting straight from the hip.

"I've made a living doing a bunch of things that I love to do," she says. "Isn't that the best way to live? You should believe in what you do, and feel good about it. If you do, everyday is a good day and you do a much better job overall."

This story first appeared in the Fall 2011 edition of SAM. For a full look at SAM in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Researchers Advocate for Positive Approach to Rural, Community Health

trevor.kenney — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 16:08:20 +0000

A noted expert in rural nursing and community health issues will deliver a province wide teleconference and in-person seminar about rural and community health issues on Monday, July 25.

Alberta Health Services, Community & Rural Department and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, Faculty of Health Sciences are jointly presenting a talk by Dr. Jeri L. Bigbee, who is currently serving as the Faculty of Health Sciences first visiting Fulbright Scholar at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.

Bigbee is a leader in rural nursing whose research focuses on public health nursing in rural and frontier communities in the United States. Bigbee's talk takes place on Monday, July 25, beginning at 10 a.m. in County Hall at Chinook Regional Hospital. It will also be broadcast to healthcare workers province-wide via the Telehealth network.

"We are extremely lucky to have Dr. Bigbee here in Alberta. Her expertise in rural health is a wonderful resource for Alberta Health Services and our partner organizations," said Rosalie Case, AHS Executive Director, Rural & Suburban Hospital Services & Supports.

"Her knowledge and research will help us better understand the unique needs in rural health and how to plan services according to those needs."

Case added that Dr. Bigbee's in depth understanding and emphasis on population health needs is in-line with the current direction of rural health planning in Alberta.

A Nurse Practitioner and Jody DeMeyer Endowed Chair at Boise State ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in Boise, Idaho, Bigbee earned her doctorate from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Texas in Austin and has been a nurse educator since 1980 in Wyoming, Nevada and California.

"One of the goals for Dr. Bigbee's visit is to forge collaborative research relationships with individuals here who are involved in rural nursing," said Dr. Judith Kulig, a U of L Health Sciences rural nursing expert.

"Jointly-conducted research would provide an opportunity to determine the differences and similarities between our countries in terms of the number of rural nurses providing care and the impacts they have on population health."

Kulig said that while Bigbee is in the community, she will meet with faculty and graduate students to share her expertise in rural nursing and in nursing education in general. "We are really hopeful that Jeri's visit will lead to future collaborations including visits by our faculty to Boise State ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ."

Event details:

Date: Monday, July 25, 2011
Time: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Location: Chinook Regional Hospital County Hall (Telehealth available)
RSVP: Romina Senneker (403-388-6013 or romina.senneker@albertahealthservices.ca)

Ensuring a promising future

trevor.kenney — Wed, 18 May 2011 21:43:14 +0000

For professor emeritus J-P Christopher Jackson, it was the notes on a page of sheet music that awakened a lifelong love of music, motivated a successful career at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and inspired a gift that will leave a legacy.

Growing up playing woodwinds in Oklahoma City, Jackson attended his hometown university with the intention of becoming an orchestral musician.

"However, during my undergraduate studies I did work in theory and music history and discovered my interest in music went beyond a performance level."

He began considering musicology, a more scholarly study of music, which looks at the historical, cultural and sociological implications of the composition.

Pictured with J-P Christopher Jackson (front, middle) are Glenn Klassen, conductor and music director of the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra, John Reid, director of the Canadian Music Centre - Prairie Division and Dawn Leite, manager of the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra.

"Suddenly I was looking at more of an academic career rather than a performance career," says Jackson, who started investigating graduate opportunities and eventually secured a prestigious fellowship to Washington ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in St. Louis, where he would complete both a masters and a PhD.

It was here that Jackson was first introduced to performance practice.

"Performance practice is the attempt to get at how the music of a certain period would have been performed at the time it was written," explains Jackson. "I thought it made music make more sense when it was played on the instruments for which it was intended."

Being interested in the history and development of instruments and music compositions didn't mean that Jackson wasn't still a performer at heart.

"I began setting up performance ensembles," says Jackson, who took it on himself to learn many of the instruments needed in various pieces. "I co-ordinated the players, chose the music and decided the direction, but we all worked together on the performance."

Described by one professor as entrepreneurial, Jackson headed up performance ensembles throughout his graduate studies, working with a diverse array of music ranging from the middle ages to contemporary pieces. The experience allowed him to further develop his skills in performance, composition and musicology. When he began looking for work after graduation, he knew he wanted a position that would grant him the flexibility and freedom to continue exploring.

"It was always my dream to teach in a smaller liberal arts university in order to be able to pursue my multidisciplinary interests. The position at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge was a dream come true," says Jackson, who was hired in the music department in 1975 and from that point on made Canada his home.

During his time at the U of L, Jackson taught a variety of courses and was also involved in administration. His research included the study of the classical music of Indonesia and other world cultures, offering a whole new program of study within the department of music. Learning the languages, cultures and arts of distant lands enriched Jackson's life immensely.

Originally attracted by the U of L's liberal arts philosophy, Jackson continued to be an advocate for a multidisciplinary approach to learning, and took full advantage of the opportunity to work with colleagues in other disciplines.

"How could I work in the music department and write vocal music and not use the poetry written by faculty in the English department?" asks Jackson, whose compositions often used the work of others as a starting point.

Jackson wrote many pieces for the artists around him and worked with a variety of professionals including playwrights, poets and paleontologists. He believes the diverse influences on his work made him a better artist.

"My time at the U of L was truly a gift," says Jackson, who retired in 2000 due to health reasons.

Considering himself lucky, Jackson wanted to return the favour and make a gift to the U of L that demonstrated his appreciation for a successful 25-year career. With no living relatives, Jackson and his partner, Ray Robertson, decided to make an allowance in their will for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.

"A gift like this allows me to continue the type of work I think is important," explains Jackson, whose estate will create an endowment to provide scholarships for music students. "It is a gift repaid in perpetuity with all my gratitude."

For more information on making a legacy gift, visit www.ulethbridge.ca/advancement/dev/plannedgiving or call 403-329-2582.

This story first appeared in the Legend. For a look at the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Dr. Shirley McClellan is the U of L's 12th Chancellor

trevor.kenney — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:24:05 +0000

Dr. Shirley McClellan, an advocate for education, veteran Alberta politician and former deputy premier of the Province of Alberta, was selected on Feb. 5 by the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Senate to serve as the institution's 12th Chancellor.

Chancellor-elect McClellan succeeds current Chancellor Richard Davidson, QC, whose four-year term will conclude on Mar. 15, 2011.

"On behalf of the U of L, I look forward to welcoming Shirley into our community in the same way I was welcomed when I began my term," says U of L President Mike Mahon. "As she settles into her new role, I am confident that she will bring a new perspective to the role of Chancellor."

Dr. Shirley McClellan is the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's 12th Chancellor.

Since leaving the Government of Alberta in 2007 after a 20-year career as a member of the Alberta Legislature, McClellan has matched her interests in farming and education with a long tradition of community service, most recently as a Distinguished Scholar in Residence at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta's Rural Economy/ALES Faculty Office and The School of Business.

She is also a member of the Olds College Board of Governors, and is active in the governance of Horse Racing Alberta.

Mahon says that her time in government, and her work since leaving government, has focused strongly on education issues and supporting rural and regional interests.

"Our students come from all over the country to attend the U of L, and many of them are from smaller communities," says Mahon. "As a parent of a ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge graduate, Shirley understands and appreciates the challenges they face and the interests they have. She is also a strong ambassador for Alberta and the Campus Alberta program, so we are fortunate to have her on our team."

Louella Cronkhite, a member of Senate and Chair of the Chancellor Selection Committee of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, says that as the U of L moves forward as an institution and grows its programs and services across the province, finding a person with a broad view of what the U of L stands for was a key selection criteria.

"Shirley is well known and well respected both locally and provincially. We believe her enthusiasm for education and her commitment to our goals will be helpful in taking the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge forward in many different ways."

McClellan served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for the Drumheller-Stettler constituency from 1987 to 2007. During her six terms in office she held such diverse ministerial portfolios as health, community development, agriculture, food and rural development, international and intergovernmental relations. Additionally, she served as deputy premier and finance minister.

"I am very honoured to be selected to serve as the U of L's Chancellor," says McClellan. "I've a had a strong affinity for the U of L, which dates back to my days not only as a parent of a U of L student, but in the continuing education field, where we worked with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and the college to develop credit programming for rural communities."

McClellan says that over the years, she has followed the development of the U of L's water research programming and other programs and services with keen interest.

"In my area of the province, water and irrigation issues are critical to the success of the agriculture industry, and the U of L is a real leader in that area, and many more," she says. "I am looking forward to participating in as many activities as possible to help tell the U of L story."

McClellan has been involved in bringing further education to rural areas, serving on the board of directors for the Alberta Association of Continuing Education and the Canadian Association for Continuing Education. She also served as co-ordinator of the Big Country Further Education Council for 12 years, among other volunteer roles.

She retired as an MLA in 2007 and now farms near New Brigden, Alta., with her family, which includes husband Lloyd, son Mick and daughter and U of L graduate Tami (BEd 89) who, with her spouse Jeff, have four children ages 10 to 14. New Bridgen is approximately 250 km north of Medicine Hat, Alta. near the Saskatchewan border.

She shares a notable connection with members of the internationally famous musical group Nickelback – her hometown is also Hanna, Alta., where she was born in 1942.

Several community organizations have named facilities in her honour, in particular Olds College, which unveiled the Shirley McClellan Riding arena in 2009, and the Town of Oyen, which dedicated their aquatic centre to her. In 2010, McClellan received an Honorary Degree from the
U of L.

Hunter receives prestigious FCMA designation

trevor.kenney — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 22:13:21 +0000

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Faculty of Management professor Dr. M. Gordon (Gord) Hunter was recently designated a Fellow of the Society of Management Accountants of Canada (FCMA).

The FCMA, presented to Hunter and five other Albertans, is a prestigious national honorary designation that is awarded to CMAs who, through their own outstanding achievements, bring distinction to the management accounting profession and serve as role models for others.

Hunter is the fourth
U of L faculty member to achieve this designation. Past recipients of the FCMA in the Faculty of Management include
Dr. Murray Lindsay, as well as instructors Bruce Thurston (Lethbridge campus) and Tim Spielman (Calgary campus).

Faculty of Management Dean, Dr. Robert Ellis, says that Hunter's dedication to research, teaching, and his association with CMA Alberta, allow him to continue providing relevant and student-centred learning opportunities.

"Gord has made exemplary contributions to scholarship, teaching and to the professional community," says Ellis. "I speak for all our faculty members when I say that we are very proud of Gord for being honoured by his peers in the Society of Management Accountants."

In his current role as a professor of information systems at the U of L, Hunter teaches several courses and, in 2009, developed a new accounting information systems course. He has been an advocate for the CMA designation in several capacities, including acting as a coach in the CMA Alberta Board Governance and JDC West Case competitions. He has also been a CMA
ambassador in the post-secondary community at CMA Alberta events.

Hunter has continually shown a commitment to enhancing the profession and designation through written publications; developing, delivering and overseeing a variety of post-secondary courses; and sitting on international conference committees.

For a look at the full issue of the December Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Dinner helps bridge gap

trevor.kenney — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 21:22:18 +0000

Christmas, like many other holidays, can be a difficult time for international students to be away from family and friends. With events like the annual International Christmas Dinner, the International Centre for Students (ICS) helps ease that feeling of isolation, all the while introducing international students to Canadian customs and traditions.

Charlene Janes, the international liaison officer at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, plays a major role in assisting international students as they adapt to campus life socially, academically and culturally.

"I represent international student interests at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, act as an advocate on behalf of international students on both academic and welfare issues, and provide advice, support and referral to students," says Janes.

Janes and the ICS encourage students to participate in the social and recreational activities the office provides. These include the monthly International Café gatherings, where birthdays are celebrated, stories are shared, games are played and students are presented an opportunity to build friendships. Potluck dinners and the annual Christmas gathering are also popular events.

Eddie Sottie, an international student from Ghana and PhD candidate in biomolecular science, has been studying at the U of L for the last 15 months. He says he makes an effort to attend all the events planned by the International Centre.

"The events they organize for us have really helped me to learn so many things about the way Canadians relate to people and treat foreigners," says Sottie. "International students are treated with so much respect, and I am so impressed with the way Charlene pays attention to our needs."

The traditional Christmas dinner was held on Dec. 3 in the Students' Union Ballroom. Students were invited to bring a Canadian guest as well as any family members to the event. In addition, four international alumni also attended.

"My kids were showered with Christmas presents," laughs Sottie. "The event and the dinner mean a lot to us as a family because it helps us feel at home."

The tradition of the International Christmas Dinner started three years ago, and serves as the last major international student event for the fall semester. Its rise in popularity, over the past three years, has been remarkable. The first dinner had just 35 attendees, while the second ballooned to 72. This year, the number doubled once again, with 150 people taking part.

"Many of our students go home or travel at Christmas so this has provided a wonderful opportunity for us all to connect prior to the Christmas break," explains Janes.

"We had two very special guests this year as Dr. Mike Mahon and his wife Maureen attended. They talked with each student and barely had time to eat. It seemed every student wanted their picture taken with the new president and his wife."

For a look at the full issue of the December Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Fond memories & farewells

trevor.kenney — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 17:32:37 +0000

One of my first meetings with Bill Cade came within weeks of taking office as mayor when he called on me to live up to a campaign promise. Throughout the 2001 mayoralty campaign I had promoted the concept of a community-driven economic development model. Bill and several of his friends made it clear that it was not only a good idea, it was one they expected me to implement forthwith. And with Bill's guidance and support, Economic Development Lethbridge moved from vision to reality.

I was deeply moved at the time that a U of L president should be so engaged in his community. As I was to learn, this was just the first of a series of partnerships between the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and the city that Bill had a hand in creating.

What kind of president has Bill been? Energetic, charismatic, passionate, considerate and above all, focused on the needs of students. Bill and Elsa have played important parts in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge story over the last 10 years, but they have also earned the respect and love of people they have come in contact with throughout the community. Good luck, my friend!

Robert Tarleck, Ako-taosi
Mayor, City of Lethbridge

What I appreciate most about Bill was that he was a great and enthusiastic supporter of the community and local projects. He considered the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ to be a partner with the Lethbridge community at large, and was always prepared to step up and get involved.

Paul Pharo
President 2009/2010, Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce;
U of L Senate Member

I have watched the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association (ULAA) grow into a significant contributor to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. I recognize and thank you for your support, encouragement and participation in the ULAA endeavours to grow within its own parameters and to participate to make the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ better and stronger. Thank you for allowing me to be a friend. Good health as you proceed into the next stage of your active life.

Bob Hironaka (Dsc '02)
Chancellor emeritus

My first meeting with Bill was in my office. He insisted on coming to me. How about that! To me, it was a generous thing to do and indicated his strong character personified by a professional humbleness.

Bill Cade was a great president of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. I thank him and Elsa and won't ever forget them.

Clint Dunford
Former MLA, Lethbridge West

Bill Cade has the best memory for names! He can walk into a room and address each person by their correct name, and if he is meeting you for the first time, you can bet he will remember it the next time you meet. I was on a shoot at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Theatre and Bill walked by and said, "Hi, Dory…Hi, Ted!" Ted, our cameraperson, was completely floored that Bill would remember his name! That is a real gift!

Dory Rossiter
CTV Lethbridge; former U of L Senate member

I have many reasons to thank Bill Cade, but the one that has meant the most to me is the interest and support he has shown for my mother and her work over the years. My mother is the Yiddish-language writer Chava Rosenfarb. Yiddish and the rich literature and culture associated with it are little known in Alberta. This is not surprising since the language itself is dying, a victim of the Holocaust. Today, there are few speakers and fewer readers. To have someone promote and encourage the work of a Yiddish writer the way Bill has done is truly remarkable and truly praiseworthy. To date, the U of L is the only university in Canada to have given an honorary degree to a Yiddish writer, despite the fact that Canada has been host to a vibrant Yiddish culture for more than a hundred years. I have no words to express how very moving this is to me and how grateful I am.

Dr. Goldie Morgentaler
Professor, Department of English

Bill's attribute of treating everybody with respect has endeared him to friends and business associates alike. When we met with a number of people in Ottawa promoting the U of L he impressed everyone with his passion and demeanour.

The first time I was in his office at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ my questions regarding his collection of crickets quickly led to a lesson on the reproductive machinations of the species.

Bill took great delight in introducing future ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge students to the fascinating world of crickets.

I'm not sure how many people know that Bill is a hot rodder at heart and spent time at the drag strip in his day. I promised to take him for a blast in my 1967 GTX – haven't done that yet but will.

Dr. Cade! Make sure you take the time to reflect on what you have meant to the U of L and to southern Alberta, how much better the institution and all of us are for having you come to town. I hope you and your wonderful bride continue to enjoy peace and happiness.

Rick Casson
MP, Lethbridge; Former U of L employee

I organized a luncheon for a visiting Chinese delegation that Bill attended. Roast beef was served along with a side of horseradish. A dish of horseradish was placed with the starting salad at every seat during the meal. Bill is very charismatic and of course was the focus of our luncheon. As we started the meal, he picked up his dish of horseradish and poured it all over his salad (thinking it was salad dressing). Before we knew it, every visitor from China was doing the same! In the following moments, everyone was digging into their salads and not understanding our instructions of "it's for the beef." Garden salad is not served in China and with the horseradish it must have been an unusual culinary experience for our guests – but a great story for us!

Laurel Corbiere
Manager, International Centre for Students

Bill at convocation is a dynamo.He rises to the occasion and gives a barnburner of a speech. We all feel better about ourselves and stand a little taller.

Dr. John C. Poulsen
Assistant Dean, Faculty of Education

I remember when Bill told the story of the streaker in the new stadium.... After an enthusiastic monologue of the young man's escapade, without cracking a smile, and with his deep Texas accent, he said, "Of course my official stance is I am shocked and appalled." Most of us were nearly in tears laughing by this point.

Mari Daunt
U of L Senate Member

"The thing I appreciated most about Bill was that not only did he understand what his job was and did it well, but he understood what his job wasn't, and he did that well, too. He and Elsa will be missed...."

Richard Davidson
U of L Chancellor

Bill Cade… My heartfelt congratulations on your upcoming retirement from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.
Students, staff and the community of Lethbridge have all benefited greatly from your leadership, ingenuity and success. You can take pride in everything you and this institution have accomplished during your tenure.
Under your leadership, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge's offerings have evolved to include the first-time admission of PhD students to the School of Graduate Studies. Program decisions like these will help the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ to continue to prosper as part of Campus Alberta.

Please accept my best wishes for a fulfilling and healthy retirement. Wherever the road takes you, may happiness follow.

Ed Stelmach
Premier of Alberta

It would be impossible to list all of Bill's accomplishments here. For me, his most enduring legacy will be the passion and joy that were always contagious whenever I spoke with him. I will miss working with him in our official capacities, but I'll always consider Bill a personal friend.

Greg Weadick (Bsc '77)
MLA, Lethbridge WEST

Five years ago, when I was being recruited for the presidency of Lethbridge College, I did lots of research on the institution and the community. When I found out that Dr. Bill Cade was a fellow Longhorn (we're both graduates of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Texas at Austin) I gave him a call to find out his perspective on Lethbridge as well as his impression of the relationship between the U of L and Lethbridge College.

I remember I was between flights and Bill spent 30 or 40 minutes with me on the phone, answering my questions and providing his insights. He also directed me to a U of L student who had transferred over from the College who was very helpful in providing further information.

I have very much enjoyed working with Bill. . . He is a colleague and a friend. I hope we'll still have a chance to catch up as he continues with his teaching and research at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. Conversely, I would be happy to visit him in San Antonio, perhaps we could take in a football game at UT. Hook 'em, Horns!

Dr. Tracy Edwards
President and CEO, Lethbridge College

Bill Cade is one of that rare breed who truly understands all of the roles they're expected to play in their position. He's equal parts academic, administrator, scientist and statesman. And he can express his passion in each of those roles in a way that everyone can understand, appreciate and share. He can even make crickets sound exciting!

Never did I ever imagine I would develop such a strong respect and working relationship with someone whose passion is bugs – or, as Bill would say, the Phylum Arthropoda – however, that is exactly what happened. During Bill's presidency, I have come to respect and admire his knowledge, understanding, passion and commitment to post-secondary education. Bill has been a tireless advocate for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and our province's overall post-secondary system. His contributions to improving both are immeasurable. Best wishes, Bill, in your upcoming professional endeavours, and thank you for your guidance and leadership.

Rob Renner
MLA, Medicine Hat Constituency; Minister of Environment

Bill Cade was the right person at the right time to continue the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge's progression to an elite comprehensive institution. During his term, the alumni base almost doubled in size. With his encouragement and support, it has become an increasingly important component of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community. Indeed, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, city, province and country will miss Bill and Elsa's involvement, enthusiasm and commitment.

Don Chandler (BA '73)
President, ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association

Given all that Bill was responsible for, I admired him for always putting the students first and for his infectious passion for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.

Karen Bartsch
U of L Board of Governors Member

Bill is a very sincere, welcoming man, who converses easily and comfortably with people from all walks of life.
When I mentioned that my daughter had started her first year at U of L , Bill encouraged me to have her give him a call and stop by for a visit sometime. For a few months she procrastinated, thinking he would be too busy and was not really serious. Finally, when she did make an appointment to visit Bill, she found that he was not only the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ president, but moreover he was a friend – a friend from a different walk of life, a friend from a different generation – but someone who made every effort to be a friend.

The world would be a better place if more people were like Bill Cade.

Happy trails, Bill.

Evan Berger
MLA, Livingstone-Macleod

Bill Cade is generous, gracious, kind and clear about his commitment to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and the people involved.

Susan Burrows-Johnson
CEO/Executive Director, Galt Museum and Archives

I extend my warmest congratulations to you on your retirement as president of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.
For a decade, you have served as an exceptional visionary, ambassador and innovator for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. Through your guidance, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge has developed a reputation for teaching and research excellence, and it has become a key part of Campus Alberta.

Doug Horner
Deputy Premier; Minister of Advanced Education and Technology

Southern Albertans pride themselves on their ability to cope with our climate. Imagine my glee when President Cade went above the call of duty to pace his heavy breathing in preparation for a True North polar bear dip! This man can do it all.

Bridget A. Pastoor
MLA, Lethbridge EAST

from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Bookstore Collegiate Dictionary:

1 Bill Cade 'bil 'kad Texas n (1946) 1: President of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge from 2000 to 2010 2: Husband to Elsa Salazar Cade 3: Devoted father 4: Professor of Biological Sciences 5: Expert of acoustic signals in field cricket mating behaviour 6: Dedicated student advocate 7: Possessor of an amazing memory for names 8: Head cheerleader for the U of L Pronghorns 9: Previous owner of Michael Nolan 10: Slinger of beef at free barbecues 11: Charitable polar bear 12: Wristwatch aficionado

Sample Sentence:
The U of L Bookstore staff wishes Bill Cade the best of luck in his future pursuits.

Dear Dr. Cade,

As you step down as the president and vice-chancellor of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, I am pleased to join with your many friends and colleagues in recognizing your distinguished career.

For the past four decades, you have been an esteemed researcher and educator. As a zoologist and entomologist, your work has brought you great praise, and as an academic leader, your dedication has earned you the respect and admiration of your peers. I know that many colleagues and students have benefited greatly from your counsel and guidance.

In addition to your professional work, you have always been active in the community.

This commitment, coupled with your impressive academic work, has won you accolades from many prestigious provincial, national, cultural and educational institutions. I have no doubt that you will continue to make significant contributions as you turn your focus to new ventures.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I commend you for your enduring and successful career in research and education. I wish you continued success in all your future endeavours.

Sincerely,
The Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper
Prime Minister of Canada

To view the entire issue of SAM in a flipbook format, follow this link.

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