UNews - Sandra Cowan

Recognizing the 2024 recipients of the President's Awards for Service Excellence

trevor.kenney — Thu, 02 May 2024 19:07:52 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge President's Office is pleased to announce the 2024 recipients of the President's Awards for Service Excellence.

AUPE recipient – Dr. Govi Veerareddygari

Dr. Govi Veeraddygari

With an immense impact on the essential operations needed for science instruction and research at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, Dr. Govi Veerareddygari is being recognized with the President’s Award for Service Excellence (AUPE).

The Associate Director of Central Stores and Internal Compliance, Veerareddygari joined the Science Operations team in the spring of 2019 and quickly became an essential figure in the creation of the Science Stores unit when the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s state-of-the-art Science Commons opened that year. At the time, the Science Stores concept was a significant change in direction compared to how materials and chemicals had previously been purchased and managed. Veerareddygari’s leadership has been essential in ensuring its success and creating operational efficiencies across various departments.

With a PhD in chemistry, Veerareddygari first came to ULethbridge in 2016 as a postdoctoral fellow. His personal experience in molecular biology and biochemistry has been invaluable in allowing him to facilitate the successful operations of the Science Stores, with a knowledge of how scientists and researchers typically conduct their work that allows him to anticipate what materials they will want and need. His leadership in working with both the internal clients and faculty the Science Stores serves, as well external vendors, has allowed it to become a well-oiled unit with the correct amounts of materials and supplies stocked and available when needed. Veerareddygari’s tireless work and keen eye for organization has ensured efficiency and convenience for faculty and researchers that is widely appreciated, saving them the time and effort of submitting requisitions for common supplies that can regularly be difficult to acquire.

During the COVID-19 pandemic while most in-person work was paused on campus, critical activities and research were allowed to continue and Veerareddygari ensured that Science Stores operations continued in a way that benefited those on campus during an exceptional time. He worked closely with caretaking and facilities to purchase and stock personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies, and he showed immense foresight in getting ahead of global supply chain disruptions.

Veerareddygari’s ability to build relationships and better the reputation of the institution has been evident in the success he’s had working closely with vendors, ensuring that the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ research community is respected and regarded among those companies, and coordinating on-campus trade shows. His impact has also been felt in the considerable savings he’s found for the institution and its researchers. Veerareddygari’s work negotiating bulk purchasing contracts and creating various financial strategies to reduce costs is revered by his colleagues, and the Science Stores has regularly been an exemplar and source of inspiration and ideas for other departments on campus.

A shining ambassador for ULethbridge, Veerareddygari is described by those in the Faculty of Arts & Science as kind, easy to work with and amiable, and his dedication is admired by those fortunate enough to work closely with him.

APO — Angela Rosenau

Angela Rosenau

A key administrative professional in the Office of Research and Innovation Services, Angela Rosenau, Manager of Post-Doctoral Affairs and Immigration Services, is the 2024 recipient of the President’s Award for Service Excellence (APO).

The post-doctoral community at ULethbridge is a small but incredibly important engine for research productivity, teaching, innovation and day-to-day mentorship of graduate students and undergraduate researchers. Rosenau supports post-doctoral fellows working across all Faculties at our university, as well as working with our Human Resources team to support the immigration needs of bringing international colleagues, researchers and faculty members to campus.

A champion for the postdoctoral community at ULethbridge, Rosenau resolves issues as they arise, advocates for post-docs and works diligently to ensure their experience at ULethbridge is of the highest quality. As a result of her dedication to supporting post-doctoral researchers in joining the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, Rosenau is a key figure in recruiting top-tier talent and directly enhances the quality of support that is offered to post-docs which is an important part of maintaining a thriving, vibrant research community.

Rosenau’s wide breadth of knowledge, innovation and adaptability has made her the go-to person at ULethbridge for anything related to post-doctoral affairs, frequently going above and beyond as part of her commitment to supporting excellence.

As post-doctoral fellows are research employees typically engaged in advanced training with an established researcher, many relocate from across Canada or are newcomers to Canada who can face obstacles in obtaining work permits or adjusting to their new surroundings. Continually working hard behind the scenes, Rosenau helps to resolve work permit problems and guides faculty through administrative tasks.

Not stopping there, she helps welcome post-doctoral researchers to campus by proactively incorporating them into the campus culture, hosting networking events and mental health and wellness sessions, and sharing information on new funding opportunities. This support, which directly influences the retention of post-doctoral scholars, enhances the quality of their position and supports their well-being at ULethbridge.

Rosenau’s wide-ranging knowledge of differing research cultures and an understanding of the demands placed on early career researchers has led to a robust post-doctoral program at ULethbridge, one that continues to attract top talent and create significant research contributions.

A vital role in research support, Rosenau has directly enhanced ULethbridge’s reputation as a comprehensive university and leading research institution, and has had a lasting positive impact on many members of the post-doctoral and research community.

Team Award — Community Engagement Team, ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Library

Sandra Cowan, Karli Pansky, Marnie Rogstad, Jessica Davies, Mechelle McCalla, and Jesse Malinsky.

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is proud to present the Library’s Community Engagement Team (CET) with the President’s Award for Service Excellence (Team).

Continuously stepping outside the box to increase student and community engagement, this team is recognized for its exceptional service and innovative approaches to improve the well-being of the campus community.

Team members Jessica Davies (chair), Jesse Malinsky, Marnie Rogstad, Mechelle McCalla, Sandra Cowan and Karli Pansky represent collaboration across all employee groups, working together with a shared purpose — to engage and build the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ network.

While the Library provides exceptional service and access to academic resources for the community, the CET takes it to another level, tending to the holistic well-being of students and campus fellowship. Whether it’s an opportunity for students to unwind, to get free snacks, to spend time with a therapy dog or to play a game, the CET provides reasons for people to stay on campus and to connect. Their work fosters a sense of belonging that has taken on renewed importance particularly as we work to rebuild our community following the pandemic.

From establishing the Stress-Free Zone in the Library at exam times, to organizing games nights, escape rooms, Library scavenger hunts, trivia nights at the Zoo and monthly BYOB (Bring Your Own Book) clubs, the CET devotes countless hours to ensuring a variety of options to forge connections. Working alongside Student Affairs in the campus-wide Rec Room initiative, the CET developed and maintains one in the Library, and hosts booths at campus events such as Open House, Ahead of the Herd and Services Fair to name a few. In addition, the CET curates many thoughtful and engaging displays throughout the year in the Library.

CET also elevates the Library’s external presence, working with community partners such as the Lethbridge Public Library (LPL). Through this partnership, they participate in events like Word on the Street, the Homelessness Service Fair and Community Connections programs, which are valuable opportunities for the public to learn about the benefits the ULethbridge Library can provide. In addition, they collaborate on the LPL@UofL collection, which allows students to access non-academic materials, encouraging socialization and entertainment.

This incredibly dedicated team displays initiative and creativity in everything that it does. So much so, that others look to them for advice on increasing student engagement. Not only does this team’s mission enhance the reputation of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Library but for ULethbridge as a whole. Their work truly exemplifies passion for building community and a desire to make the student experience the best it can possibly be.

ULFA presents Respect and Diversity Week, Mar. 10-14

trevor.kenney — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 18:20:10 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Faculty Association's Gender, Equity and Diversity Caucus is presenting its 4th Annual Respect & Diversity Week, Mar. 10-14.

Initiated in 2011, the week has worked to initiate and stimulate conversations about respect and diversity on campus, with the ultimate goal to promote respect and diversity to enhance the U of L workplace.

The Changing Face of Inclusion is the theme for this year's event. The week's activities will explore how ideas and practices about inclusion have changed through time, and how people from different generations and backgrounds understand and experience inclusivity.

Throughout the week, the goal is to raise awareness about the shifting nature of inclusion, and the various ways people can come to terms with changes in what respect and diversity has meant in the past, means today, and might mean in the future.

Check out the following lineup of events.

Monday, Mar, 10 ~ 12 to 1 p.m., L1170A

Open Doors and Silent Voices: Conducting Oral History Interviews with the Ivy Benson Band

Using material from over 80 oral history interviews, Dr. Jenna Bailey will discuss the lives and careers of musicians in the Ivy Benson Band, the first nationally known and longest running all girl band in British history (1940-1985). Dr. Bailey will address the historical dismissal of female popular musicians based on gender and sexuality and explore how this impacted the process of oral history interviewing. Presented in partnership with the Centre for Oral History and Tradition.

Tuesday, Mar. 11 ~ 12:15- to 1:30 p.m., AH118

Spoken Word: Changing Face/s of Inclusion

Building on last year’s success, we would like to invite faculty, staff, and students to participate in a Spoken Word event again this year. We’re looking for people interested in speaking, performing, acting, reciting, reading, improvising, or ranting a short (3 minutes maximum) piece that is in some way related to any aspect of diversity and inclusion. If you are interested in participating, please contact Sandra Cowan at sandra.cowan@uleth.ca or 403-332-4465.

We welcome submissions by YouTube or mp4 from Calgary and Edmonton campuses. All performers will receive a certificate of participation.

Wednesday, Mar. 12 ~ 7 p.m., Lethbridge Public Library

Movie Night: Amreeka

Presented in partnership with the Lethbridge Public Library, the award-winning Amreeka chronicles the adventures of Muna, a single mother who leaves the West Bank with Fadi, her teenage son, with dreams of an exciting future in the promised land of small-town Illinois. Told with heartfelt humor by writer/director Cherien Dabis, Amreeka is a universal journey into the lives of a family of immigrants and first-‐generation teenagers caught between their heritage, the new world in which they now live and the bittersweet search for a place to call home.

Thursday, Mar. 13 ~ 3:05 to 4:20 p.m., AH116

Workshop: Managing Inclusion in the Classroom: Sexism, Homophobia and Discrimination

This event is intended to help instructors build inclusive classrooms in which all students feel welcome and empowered to learn. The workshop will be discussion based, and focus on prejudicial behaviour generally, with specific attention to dealing with racism, sexism and homophobia. A representative of the Alberta Teachers' Association will facilitate the conversation.

Faculty and graduate students are invited to participate. Please feel free to spread the word to anyone you think might be interested in attending.

If you are interested in participating, please contact John Sheriff at john.sheriff@uleth.ca or 403-329-2086.

Friday, Mar. 14, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., L1168

Two Decades of Change in Higher Education

Join three ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge professors at differing stages in their careers in a discussion of the changing face of education and the challenges faced by faculty in this changing environment. This workshop is being hosted with the Teaching Centre.

Monday through Friday, Edmonton Campus

Diversity and Culture Breaks: Enjoy food, music and micro-theatre during evening class breaks all week on the Edmonton campus. Brought to you by Jerry Potter and Dr. Robin Derry.

Diversity celebrated, Mar. 11-15

trevor.kenney — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 22:55:50 +0000

Now in its third incarnation, the annual ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Respect and Diversity Awareness Week is an established campus event that brings to light issues related to diversity and respect both in the workplace and beyond.

Presented by the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Faculty Association's Gender, Equity and Diversity Caucus, the week runs Mar. 11-15 and features six events over the span of five days. The goal, of course, is to have the themes that are discussed throughout the week resonate long after the event spotlight has faded.

"I think it's great to highlight the week and to bring in speakers and all the bells and whistles, but this is something that should be infused in our everyday," says caucus member and Chair of Respect and Diversity Awareness Week, Dr. Noella Piquette.

Dr. Noella Piquette is the Chair of Gender Diversity Equity Week.

An associate professor in the Faculty of Education, Piquette says that issues of diversity are becoming a greater part of mainstream conversation but there is much work to be done.

'Diversity Includes All' is the theme to this year's week and is designed to get faculty members to think about their own diversity as well as the student diversity that exists on campus.

"We do a fantastic job at this university talking about students and how we can support them, and while we're not trying to shift the focus, we're broadening the focus to include the fact that we have a huge faculty and staff component on campus, and it's important to think about the diversity that exists within those groups," says Piquette.

The week kicks off with a presentation from assistant professor of neuroscience Dr. Robbin Gibb as she presents Sex Differences in the Brain, Monday, Mar. 11 at noon in TH241.

Gibb will outline some of the factors influencing brain development that are mediated by sex differences. What promises to be a lively question and answer session follows her talk.

On Tuesday, the Spoken Word – Poetry Slam event is at noon in AH176. This gives presenters a platform to speak, read, rhyme or rant their words in a two-minute window as they discuss diversity and inclusion.

"I think this will be so much fun and really puts a new slant on discussing diversity," says Piquette, who notes that the Lethbridge Public Interest Research Group is also supporting the event.

Faculty, staff and students are all welcome to take part. Participants just need to sign up in advance by contacting Piquette at noella.piquette@uleth.ca.

Wednesday's event is a presentation with Jeff Meadows and Brad Reamsbottom of the Teaching Centre. They will discuss Supporting Faculty in Supporting Students with Learning Disabilities, focussing on some of the key issues that students may be experiencing within reading and writing tasks, and specific strategies that can be employed to assist them.

A pair of events takes place Thursday, beginning with a wheelchair basketball demonstration hosted by Dr. Mary Dyck (kinesiology and physical education) and with the Lethbridge Wheelchair Basketball Association (10:45 a.m. in the 1st Choice Savings Centre gym), followed by a special film screening of Shameless: The ART of disability (7 p.m. in PE264).

"It's a heartwarming movie, but at the same time it's also very comical," says Piquette. "They really try and show that disability is not all about being sad and serious, it's a part of life and they do a great job at portraying that message."

The week wraps up with Friday's Strengthening Academic Capacity: Gender Dimensions presentation by Mary Butterfield of the Office of Research and Innovation Services.

Butterfield will speak to gender equality in academic research at 12:15 p.m. in TH277.

Piquette has long been involved with issues related to diversity. She was a special education teacher and guidance counsellor for 14 years at the school level and now as an associate professor, teaches courses in special education at the undergraduate level and in counselling at the graduate level, focusing on a broader picture of diversity and mechanisms to advocate for inclusion within all community systems.

"We've done our best to represent as many different approaches to the discussion of diversity issues as we could with this week's events," she says. "I really do urge everyone to find a topic that might be of interest to them and to engage in the conversation."

For more information on any of these events or any issues related to the Gender and Diversity Caucus, contact the following members: Chair, Dr. Carly Adams (carly.adams@uleth.ca); Sandra Cowan (sandra.cowan@uleth.ca); Dr. Hester Jiskoot (hester.jiskoot@uleth.ca); Dr. Kevin McGeough (mcgekm@uleth.ca); Dr. Luz Ospina (luz.ospina@uleth.ca); Dr. Noella Piquette (noella.piquette@uleth.ca);
Dr. Jennifer Thannhauser (jennifer.thannhauser@uleth.ca); Dr. John Usher (john.usher@uleth.ca); or Ilsa Wong (ilsa.wong@uleth.ca).

UNews - Sandra Cowan

Recognizing the 2024 recipients of the President's Awards for Service Excellence

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ULFA presents Respect and Diversity Week, Mar. 10-14

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Diversity celebrated, Mar. 11-15

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