UNews - Michelle Helstein

Career outcomes the focus as ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge launches Experiential and Career Education Plan

trevor.kenney — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 16:01:31 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s commitment to supporting students as they explore career pathways through experiential and work-integrated learning opportunities is at the heart of the new Experiential and Career Education Plan — Kakó Stamistotsit.

The plan, which will be launched Wednesday, April 9, 11 a.m., in the Markin Hall Atrium, is the result of a year-long comprehensive planning process for career education and experiential learning, with a specialized focus on work-integrated learning (WIL).

Experiential and work-integrated learning opportunities at the heart of new plan.

“One of the key activities in this process was to get a sense of our WIL programs and career education initiatives and how they were perceived and utilized by students, faculty and the broader external community,” says Mark Slomp, executive director, Student Services. “We found some real positives, such as a 95 per cent employment rate within one year for our graduates, with 41 per cent of them having participated in a work placement during their time as ULethbridge students.”

Slomp says there were also areas they needed to improve, including reaching the significant proportion of students (69 per cent) who when surveyed responded they were unaware of Career Bridge services, as well as finding ways to better facilitate faculty involvement and better communicate opportunities to community partners.

“Our faculty have demonstrated a strong interest in integrating WIL opportunities into their courses and we need to find ways to lower barriers to achieve that. As well, our community partners are enthusiastic supporters of applied learning opportunities and it’s important we are able to provide clearer pathways for those collaborations,” says Stacey Gaudette-Sharp, assistant dean, Career Bridge.

The plan is rooted in the Blackfoot direction of Kakó Stamistotsit, which means “Go ahead — Experience it” and reflects the moment when an individual seeks guidance from a trusted loved one, Elder or advisor before embarking on something new. The acronym Kakó reflects the strategic pillars of Knowledge, Actionable Inclusion, Advancing Indigenization, Key Partnerships, and Optimized Outcomes, creating a culturally resonant framework that aligns with institutional values and priorities.

“The Experiential & Career Education Plan is deeply aligned with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s Strategic Plan, which was just recently launched,” says Michelle Helstein, provost and vice-president (academic). “This ensures that career development and experiential learning continue to play a central role in shaping student success, institutional priorities and community impact.”

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

trevor.kenney — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 20:58:45 +0000

* This event is at capacity *

On March 12, an impressive roster of leaders will once again grace the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge campus for its second annual International Women’s Day Leadership Conference.

Featuring keynote presentations by international bestselling author, obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Jen Gunter, and Dr. Ranjana Sharma, NRCan Chief Scientist and senior-most scientific authority in Natural Resources Canada, the conference aims to bring people together for a day of conversation, networking and inspiration.

“This event is about creating spaces of engagement with phenomenal individuals who have been changemakers and have shifted the conversation around leadership and representation,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, vice-provost, Accessibility, Belonging & Community.

Under the theme — Leaders Who Change the Conversation — this conference will foster welcoming spaces of belonging for all voices, as well as share in the possibility and celebration of excellence as women and gender diverse individuals. This annual one-day celebration of success, community and solidarity will bring together a diverse audience to learn from world class leaders in education, arts, athletics and manufacturing who will inspire and uplift the change and thought leaders of tomorrow.

In addition to the keynote speakers, a panel of prominent local leaders will share their insights during the Lethbridge Leaders Forum.

The panel includes:

Kacie Bosch (BA ’20) and Paige Crozon, Canadian 3x3 basketball Olympians
Staahtsisttayaaki Dr. Genevieve Fox (BA/BEd ’03, MEd ’12), Education Director, Blackfoot Confederacy Council
Su Ying Strang, Executive Director, Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin Southern Alberta Art Gallery
Simarjit Bains, Vice-President Manufacturing, Triple M Housing

“Once again, we have brought together thought leaders and innovators to offer an exceptional professional development experience right here in Lethbridge, and we look forward to continuing to provide these exceptional opportunities to our community,” says ULethbridge’s Vice-President (Research) and event co-host, Dr. Dena McMartin.

“Hosting this annual event demonstrates ULethbridge’s commitment to fostering strong connections with the Lethbridge community. This year’s conference offers a valuable platform to engage with our alumni, strengthen ties on and across our campuses, and deepen our community relationships,” says event co-host Dr. Michelle Helstein, provost and vice-president (academic).

Tickets are limited and on sale now. Early Bird pricing is in effect until January 15, 2025. Exclusive sponsorships are also available until January 31, 2025. For more information, please message m.nichol@uleth.ca or visit go.uleth.ca/IWD-conference.

Dr. Matthew Letts appointed to second term

trevor.kenney — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 20:06:01 +0000

Respected academic, researcher, and administrator, Dr. Matthew Letts has been appointed to a second term as Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. Letts, who first assumed the role in 2020, will begin his second term on July 1, 2025.

Dr. Matthew Letts, Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science, is a respected academic, researcher and administrator.

Letts is a professor of geography and environment, and holds a BA and BSc (Honours) from Queen’s ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, a MSc in geography from McGill ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and a PhD from King’s College London. An ecologist with international experience, he served as a lecturer at Trent ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ before joining the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge in 2003.

Prior to taking on the role of dean, Letts was interim dean from July 2019 and had previously served as associate dean since 2012. During this time, he also acted as interim associate vice-president (research) from 2014 to 2015. From 2016 to 2019, Letts served as the academic program director for the Destination Project, playing a key role in the creation of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s Science Commons (Isttaniokaksini).

As dean, Letts applied a collaborative approach to effectively navigating budgetary challenges and the impacts of the pandemic. He champions innovative programs across the humanities, social sciences and sciences, from certificates to post-diploma and dual degree options and new transdisciplinary degree programs and is always keen to support experiential learning. His detailed knowledge of the Science Commons was instrumental in supporting the effective operationalization of the new facility for faculty and students. Looking forward, one of his main priorities will be to work with faculty, students and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community on creating a strategic plan for the Faculty of Arts & Science.

"Dr. Letts has been a key figure in elevating the impact and reputation of the Faculty of Arts & Science and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ," says Dr. Michelle Helstein, Provost and Vice-President (Academic). “He is a collaborative leader who cares deeply and advocates strongly for his Faculty, while also making significant contributions to larger institutional initiatives. I am thrilled to reappoint him for a second term, allowing us to sustain the forward momentum he has generated through his work with his arts and science colleagues."

“I also want to thank the Review Committee for its important work in the reappointment process,” says Helstein. “Today’s reappointment was only made possible through community feedback and committee contributions, and I appreciate all who were a part of the process.”

Rural Medical Education Program Training Centres one step closer with Memorandum of Understanding

trevor.kenney — Fri, 17 May 2024 16:07:31 +0000

The next step in expanding health-care capacity in southern Alberta was formalized today with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary's Penny Werthner, left, and ULethbridge's Michelle Helstein sign the Memorandum of Understanding.

Early last month, the Government of Alberta announced operational and capital funding to establish Rural Medical Education Program Training Centres to enhance physician training across the province. One of two centres will be located on the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge campus. Through this innovative partnership, aspiring medical professionals will have the opportunity to complete the entirety of their ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary medical degree at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge.

“One of the great challenges for families in small- to mid-sized communities in southern Alberta is accessing a family physician. This includes rural and Indigenous communities that struggle with health care capacity,” says Dr. Michelle Helstein, ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Provost and Vice-President (Academic). “Through this partnership we will see local students recruited and trained across southern Alberta, greatly increasing the probability they will continue to practice in these underserved communities for years to come.”

The formalizing of the partnership through the MOU is an important next step in the process of developing the framework that will deliver this crucial programming. The institutions will now work on an agreement to jointly deliver the medical training program.

“Expanding physician training capacity in Alberta post-secondaries can lead to a significantly healthier population. We are excited to work collaboratively with our colleagues at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge with the support of the Government of Alberta as we create the future of health together to better serve the diverse health needs of the people of southern Alberta,” says Dr. Penny Werthner, ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary Interim Provost and Vice-President (Academic).

The Rural Medical Education Program Training Centres will use a distributed medical education model, whereby the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta (in cooperation with Northwestern Polytechnic) and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary (in cooperation with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge) partner with local institutions to develop the regional training campuses. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge training will occupy a major portion of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s Centre for Community Wellbeing facility.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ welcomes Dr. Rebecca Schiff as new Deputy Provost

trevor.kenney — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 17:13:19 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is excited to introduce Dr. Rebecca Schiff, a transdisciplinary scholar and administrator whose research spans the fields of health sciences, social sciences, humanities and environmental sciences, as its new Deputy Provost.

Dr. Rebecca Schiff comes to ULethbridge from an appointment as Dean of the Faculty of Human and Health Sciences at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Northern British Columbia (UNBC).

Schiff comes to ULethbridge from an appointment as Dean of the Faculty of Human and Health Sciences at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Northern British Columbia (UNBC). In that role, she led the Schools of Education, Nursing, Social Work and Health Sciences, as well as the Department of Psychology. Prior to her time at UNBC, she held teaching and administrative positions at Lakehead ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, including Professor of Indigenous, Rural and Remote Health and Chair of the Department of Health Sciences in the Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences.

“Dr. Schiff is a highly respected researcher and administrator whose scholarly work over the course of her career aligns closely with the values of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge,” says Dr. Michelle Helstein, Provost and Vice-President (Academic). “Her research interests have focused on the public good and specifically on rural and northern health and health care, while her administrative work champions themes of equity, inclusivity and collaboration. We see her as an excellent addition to our senior leadership team who will offer a valuable perspective to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.”

Schiff is a graduate of McGill ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, first earning a Bachelor of Music and then earning a Diploma of Environment with a graduate thesis from the McGill School of Environment. She completed her doctorate at the Institute for Sustainability and Technology Policy at Murdoch ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in Australia.

She describes her disciplinary expertise as broad and embracing a liberal education approach to learning.

“My doctoral program was interdisciplinary, with intersections across numerous disciplines,” says Schiff. “Upon returning from Australia, I was based in Western Canada, where I worked extensively with diverse urban, rural and Indigenous communities around issues related to poverty, homelessness, food security, women’s health and social service systems.”

Schiff would go on to work as a faculty member at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Regina, with positions in the Department of Geography and Department of Justice studies. Her career would then take her to Memorial ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ where she worked in Indigenous Health with the Faculty of Medicine, based out of Memorial’s Labrador Institute. In 2014, she began her term at Lakehead ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in the Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences. She has been at UNBC since 2022.

Schiff’s research work has included funding from a wide array of sources, including the Canadian Institute for Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). She has been a principal or co-applicant on 50-plus research projects totaling over $12.5 million in grants and has authored/co-authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications. She has also produced two books, with her most recent — Health and Healthcare in Northern Canada — considered a major contribution to scholarship in this field.

“Her inter- and transdisciplinary approach to scholarship in the field of public health, coupled with a strong record of leadership success in a variety of administrative roles is a great addition to our team,” adds Helstein.

The Deputy Provost supports the Provost in establishing innovative initiatives to further the goals of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, and to provide assistance to the team of vice-presidents, deans and other direct reports to support programming and activities that further strengthen the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s student-first culture. Schiff’s five-year term begins May 1, 2024.

Respect at ULethbridge program launches important initiative

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Dr. Michelle Helstein appointed Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge

caroline.zentner — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 16:22:10 +0000

Accomplished researcher and senior administrator, Dr. Michelle Helstein, has been appointed Provost and Vice-President (Academic) by the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Board of Governors, another significant addition to a leadership core that has seen a dramatic influx of new perspectives in the past six months.

Helstein, who most recently served as ULethbridge’s Interim Deputy Provost, will be a key voice on President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Digvir Jayas’s senior leadership team. Jayas assumed the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s presidency on July 1, 2023, and in addition, four new academic deans began their roles at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.

“Throughout my introduction to ULethbridge and over the first few weeks of my time here, I see how respected Dr. Helstein is by faculty members and others within the senior leadership team,” says Jayas. “I am very impressed with how she is able to articulate the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s mission and am excited to work with her as we look forward and begin to develop, along with our internal and external stakeholders, the next ULethbridge strategic plan.”

Helstein’s role as interim deputy provost offered her the opportunity to work within the senior leadership structure and build on her vast experience as an administrator and academic. Helstein has explored multiple administrative opportunities from her first days at ULethbridge and been eager to lend her voice to the institutional narrative. She has taken on several significant roles characterized by increasing levels of scope, complexity and responsibility. These include oversight of Academic Advising, the Indigenous Student Success Cohort and Cooperative Education, as well as serving as co-Chair in the Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education and as both Associate Dean and Acting Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science.

“You can already see a sense of her leadership tenacity,” says Dr. Olu Awosoga, professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences. “She co-chaired the COVID-19 management team and worked through approving Navitas at the General Faculties Council, amongst others. Her stance on governance is focused on transparency, collaboration and a practical approach to decision-making.”

He adds that Helstein is a respected voice throughout the institution and will provide invaluable support to Jayas in his early days as president.

“Dr. Helstein has promised a more transparent, collaborative and effective governance approach with the ability to carry the students (ULSU, GSA), staff (APO, AUPE), and faculty (ULFA) associations along in the decision-making process,” says Awosoga. “She brings a matchless knowledge and a fantastic understanding of the governance structure of the U of L into the job. This will minimize the transitional hurdles, and she will be able to guide the new president in navigating the system with minimal stress.”

Emma Scott, professional librarian in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Library, says Helstein is sincere in raising those around her.

“Alongside a wealth of institutional knowledge, Dr. Helstein brings a passion for supporting all units across the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and a desire to see students, staff and faculty succeed,” says Scott. “I am excited to see Dr. Helstein bring her servant leadership style to her new role.”

With several new perspectives coming to campus this summer, Helstein is enthused about the opportunity to connect those voices and help shape the future of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.

“It’s an exciting time on campus,” she says. “We have a host of new programs and areas of study, we have great interest in terms of both domestic and international student applications, and we have new faculty members and administrators across the institution who are bringing so much energy with them — it’s an invigorating atmosphere.”

Helstein is confident in the collective strength of the campus community.

“I believe strongly that a university is its people. This role allows me to support the important efforts of faculty, staff, and students and to build contexts that facilitate their teaching, research, and learning so that our university, its people, and the communities we serve, can thrive.”

Jaxon Reiter, president of the Graduate Students’ Association, is excited about the opportunity to work with Helstein.

“I look forward to Dr. Helstein’s initiatives to support undergraduate and graduate students at our ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ,” he says. “I am excited to work with her in creating an environment within which our students, current and future, as well as alumni, can realize success and foster a sense of great pride in our institution.”

Helstein earned a Bachelor of Arts from Augustana ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ College and a PhD in Physical Education and Recreation from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta. She began her ULethbridge academic career in 2003, focusing her research on breaking down the notion of sport and popular culture as simply innocent, playful, and not worthy of study by highlighting the significant impact and use of popular sporting culture within larger social, political and economic processes.

Her research has been recognized through funding support from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, and a number of other internal and external research funds, allowing her to explore questions related to representations of female athletes, the complex intersection of public and private sector funding within Canadian sport, and most recently, perspectives of labour within the concussion crisis in sport. Through her research she has actively supported both undergraduate student research and graduate education at ULethbridge.

Her term as Provost and Vice-President (Academic) commences September 1, 2023.

U of L leadership group bolstered by addition of Dr. Michelle Helstein as interim vice-provost

trevor.kenney — Tue, 26 May 2020 16:48:55 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge has solidified a key position in its senior leadership group by appointing Dr. Michelle Helstein to the role of Interim Vice-Provost for a term of three years.

Dr. Michelle Helstein played a prominent role in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

Helstein, a professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, has been steadily assuming more administrative responsibilities over her tenure at the U of L and is regarded as a strong leadership voice for the institution moving forward.

“Dr. Helstein brings an excellent perspective to our group,” says Dr. Erasmus Okine, provost and vice-president (academic). “Her ability to see the broad picture and articulate the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s vision for the future is exemplary. She is respected greatly by her students and fellow faculty members and has handled deftly any and all administrative responsibilities she has assumed over her years at the U of L, including the recent leadership role as a leader of the Emergency Operations Centre.”

A graduate of Augustana ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ College (BA Physical Education) and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta (PhD Physical Education and Recreation), Helstein began her academic career at the U of L in 2003. She quickly established a reputation as a strong researcher, focusing on breaking down the notion of sport and popular culture as simply ‘innocent’, playful, and not worthy of study by highlighting the significant impact and use of popular sporting culture within larger social, political and economic processes.

She was awarded a ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Research Fund grant in her first year at the U of L for a pilot study on advertising and female athletes, and subsequently secured funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada for a study examining the complex intersections of public and private sector funding within representations of female athletes in the Canadian sport delivery system. Her current research examines representations of athlete suicides at their intersection with labour politics and the concussion crisis in professional sport.

Helstein was also quick to explore administrative opportunities and lend her voice to the institutional narrative. She took on several significant administrative roles characterized by increasing levels of scope, complexity and responsibility. These include oversight of Academic Advising, the Indigenous Student Success Cohort, and Cooperative Education; serving as co-Chair in the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education; and serving as both associate dean and acting dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science.

“I believe strongly that administrative work is about service. Through my many roles on this campus, I have built a set of experiences and skills that position me exceptionally well as interim vice-provost to support the work of my colleagues, our students and this institution in our collective efforts to create meaningful teaching, learning,and research environments,” says Helstein.

Helstein played a prominent role in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic situation, acting as a co-director of the Emergency Operations Centre and helping guide the institution through a rapid pivot to online learning and the closure of its Lethbridge and Calgary campuses.

“While other administrative roles I have held allowed me to work with colleagues across Faculties, my work on EOC has truly highlighted how necessarily interconnected all the segments of our campus are and how it is only through collaboration and coordination across units that we can effectively move through such challenging circumstances,” she says. “This is a recognition and a demonstrated commitment I bring to the role of interim vice-provost, as our campus continues to navigate unprecedented times at the intersections of the Covid-19 pandemic, newly introduced metrics and a difficult provincial budget.”

The interim vice-provost appointment commences July 1, 2020 and is for a term of three years.

UNews - Michelle Helstein

Career outcomes the focus as ��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge launches Experiential and Career Education Plan

Related Topics

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

Related Topics

Dr. Matthew Letts appointed to second term

Related Topics

Rural Medical Education Program Training Centres one step closer with Memorandum of Understanding

Related Topics

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

Related Topics

��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ welcomes Dr. Rebecca Schiff as new Deputy Provost

Related Topics

Respect at ULethbridge program launches important initiative

Related Topics

2023 Highlights

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

Related Content

Related Topics

Dr. Michelle Helstein appointed Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at the ��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge

Related Topics

U of L leadership group bolstered by addition of Dr. Michelle Helstein as interim vice-provost

Related Topics

Career outcomes the focus as ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge launches Experiential and Career Education Plan

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

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

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ welcomes Dr. Rebecca Schiff as new Deputy Provost

Dr. Michelle Helstein appointed Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge