alumni | donors | friends BRANDON UNIVERSITY SPRING/SUMMER 2009 ALUMNI N E W S INSIDE THIS ISSUE Renaissance Couple A tribute to Louis & Mary Visentin Honorary Degrees Award Winners Keeping in Touch Alumna Profile Homecoming 2009 REGISTRATION INSIDE! INSIDE THIS ISSUE VOLUME 110 THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS EXECUTIVE EDITORS Carla Eisler – eislerc@brandonu.ca Lisa Thomson – thomsonl@brandonu.ca WRITERS Carla Eisler, Shawna English, Kelly Stifora & Lisa Thomson PHOTOGRAPHY Sandy Black, Ken Frazer, Kelly Stifora & Lisa Thomson ISSUE 01 FEATURES 7 Honorary Degrees 8 Award Winners 9 Feature Story: Renaissance Couple 17 Ciao Visentin!: Memories and Farewells GRAPHIC DESIGN Angela Andrey of Webber Printing PRINTER Leech Printing This magazine was printed on FSC Certified stock at Leech Printing Limited, a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) chain of custody certified printer. For more information go to www.fsc.org. FEEDBACK OR LETTERS TO THE EDITOR communications@brandonu.ca ADVERTISING 204.727.9762 communications@brandonu.ca SEND US YOUR STORIES A personable and friendly place like Brandon University (BU) no doubt harbours a multitude of heart-warming stories. As alumni, you have much to tell about the relationships that you developed while at BU. Was BU the meeting ground for you and your spouse, a business partner, or best friend? Perhaps you developed a lifelong mentorship with a special faculty member. COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS 4 President’s Message 5 BU News and Highlights 19 Alumni Association Greetings 20 Keeping in Touch/In Memoriam 22 Fall Homecoming 2009 24 Alumna Profile: Kimberly Spears 25 Brandon University Foundation 27 In Your Words: Di Brandt If you have any suggestions, or know of an outstanding alumna/alumnus you believe we should feature, please contact the Alumni Office. We look forward to hearing your ideas, suggestions and feedback. Alumni News is published twice a year and reaches more than 13,000 alumni and friends of Brandon University world-wide. To date, thousands of alumni have supported the Brandon University Alumni Association (BUAA) through participation in alumni programs and affinity product and service offerings. If you do not wish to be provided with such product or service offers, or do not wish to receive Alumni News in the future, please contact us. BRANDON UNIVERSITY 270 – 18th Street Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6A9 Phone: 204.727.9697 Fax: 204.727.4674 Email: alumni@brandonu.ca www.alumni.brandonu.ca Publications Mail Agreement #40064061 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to BRANDON UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION 270 – 18th Street Brandon, Manitoba, Canada R7A 6A9 ALUMNI WEAR ALUMNI WEAR & MEMENTOS Clothing • Rings • Watches • Degree Frames Available from the BRANDON UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Lower Level of Clark Hall, Brandon University 204.727.9697 alumni@brandonu.ca SPRING/SUMMER 2009 3 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Presidents of universities serve a number of important functions, not the least of which is fundraising. If done properly, fundraising can benefit the institution in many ways. The prelude to good fundraising is good friendraising, which takes an enormous amount of energy and time. It helps, of course, if you are surrounded by a team of people who know how to do both. In that context, I have been blessed. Part of my Scope 20/20 plan for the University included fundraising initiatives which ultimately resulted in money being raised for programs, scholarships, buildings and general campus beautification. Most interesting for me was meeting the people behind the dollars. These included alumni and friends of the University with incredibly generous hearts and fond memories of their years here. Indeed, I spent a lot of time persuading, arguing, defending, signing, smiling, shaking hands and eating rubber chicken. It was a joy to do it because I love the University and I loved my time in Brandon. Now it is time to say “Ciao”. For those of you who are not familiar with the term, it is a Venetian word that can mean hello, goodbye and various other sundry things. It was derived from the Venetian phrase “s-ciáo vostro” meaning I am your slave. This was not meant to be literal, but rather a promise of goodwill among friends, like, “count on me”. It is still used in Venice by my relatives and it is probably the best way to end my final message to you as BU’s President. Ciao! Louis P. Visentin, Ph.D. President & Vice-Chancellor 4 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 BU NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS Brandon University appoints Dr. Deborah Brandon University welcomes Dr. G. Bruce Poff as 16th President and Vice-Chancellor Strang as Dean of the Faculty of Arts The Brandon University Board of Governors is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Deborah Poff as the 16th President and Vice-Chancellor of Brandon University. Dr. Poff, a Professor of Philosophy, comes to Brandon University from the University of Northern British Columbia, where she was the founding Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science and served for 10 years as the Vice-President Academic and Provost. Dr. Poff’s appointment at BU will become effective on August 1, 2009 for a five-year term. Dr. Poff has a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Guelph, an M.A. from Carleton University, a B.A. (Hons.) from Queen’s University and a B.A. (Hons.) in Psychology from the Dr. Deborah Poff will University of Guelph. During her career, Dr. Poff cobecome BU’s founded and continues to edit two international peernew President & reviewed academic journals, the Journal of Business Vice-Chancellor effective August 1, 2009. Ethics and the Journal of Academic Ethics. Her areas of research are leadership, business and professional ethics and healthcare ethics. Dr. Poff is currently the President-elect of the National Council on Ethics in Human Research. As well, she is currently the VicePresident of Development with the Canadian Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences. Dr. Poff will be Brandon University’s first female President and ViceChancellor. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Poff and her husband Dr. Alex Michalos to Brandon! Dany Charlery, Ashley Creighton and Joel Small named BU Athletes of the Year Nancy Stanley (right) presents Ashley Creighton (left) with the Female Athlete of the Year Award. BU President Dr. Louis Visentin (left) speaks at the announcement of TD Canada Trust’s $100,000 contribution. Fourth-year Men’s Basketball player Dany Charlery, fifthyear Women’s Volleyball player Ashley Creighton and fourth-year Men’s Volleyball player Joel Small were named athletes of the year at the Brandon University Athletic Awards Banquet held at the Great Western Roadhouse on April 6. Charlery and Small were cowinners of the R.J. McCarthy Award for Outstanding Male Athlete, while Creighton won the Nancy Stanley Award for Outstanding Female Athlete for the third straight year. The annual celebration of athletic and academic excellence at BU was attended by faculty, coaches, supporters, players and family members who saw awards handed out in a variety of team-specific and overall categories. Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees! $100,000 contribution creates TD Canada Trust Plant Science Greenhouse at BU Brandon University is pleased to announce a gift of $100,000 from TD Bank Financial Group to provide financial support for environmental education of students through the Faculty of Science’s greenhouse project and Environmental Science program. The funds have been used to make renovations to BU’s greenhouse and to create a $20,000 endowment to support the TD Canada Trust Environmental Science Bursary. Improvements to the greenhouse will focus on environmental responsibility and will play a vital role in the research undertaken by students. The entire greenhouse covering has been replaced with a triple pane material specifically designed to pass only the portion of solar radiation that is beneficial, while improving insulation from winter cold. The ventilation and heating systems have been improved to produce year round constant temperature. A temperature monitoring system will also be installed and new curtains will be implemented to control summer heating. Brandon University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. G. Bruce Strang as Dean of the Faculty of Arts. Dr. Strang comes to BU from Lakehead University, where he is a member of the history department. Dr. Strang has served Lakehead as Acting Dean of Social Sciences & Humanities and as the Chair of the Department of History. Dr. Strang holds a Ph.D. in History and an M.A. in History from McMaster University and a B.A. (Honours) in History from the University of Winnipeg. A recipient of the Distinguished Instructor Award (2008), the Contributions to Teaching Award (2008) and the Contributions to Research Award (2004) at Lakehead University, Dr. Strang brings a strong and demonstrated commitment to teaching and research to this appointment. With a specialization in modern European history, Dr. Strang teaches modern Italian and twentiethcentury European history. His publications include articles on British and Italian foreign policy and he is currently working on a new monograph dealing with Italian international relations and economic reconstruction during the De Gasperi era. He is also the author of the book On the Fiery March: Mussolini Prepares for War (2003). Please join us in welcoming Dr. Strang to Brandon! Dr. G. Bruce Strang was appointed Dean of the Faculty of Arts in March, effective August 1, 2009. Brandon University hosts its first-ever Senior Colloquium On April 9 Brandon University hosted its first annual Senior Colloquium, which gave BU Arts and Science students the opportunity to present their research projects to colleagues, friends, family members and the BU and Brandon community. Some of the presentation topics included: “Management recommendation for the reintroduction of bison to Spruce Woods Provincial Park”; “A proposed human remains policy for Brandon University”; “Provocation: Rural justifications of domestic violence”; “Red Dusk: Communism in Brandon during the Great Depression”; and “‘I Have a Dream, Too’: The demise of the Black Panther Party”. BU congratulates all the presenters on their great work! BU’s Senior Colloquium was April 9, 2009. BU and ACC sign historic agreement Assiniboine Community College (ACC) and Brandon University signed the Connect 20/20 Memorandum of Understanding on March 19, an agreement that breaks down past stereotypes associated with universities and colleges working together. In the spirit of collaboration, the two institutions vowed to work together to provide more opportunities for students for credit transfer, increase access for staff and faculty to college and university resources and to foster a partnership that recognizes the related mandates of community colleges and universities. The agreement encourages collaboration in research, teaching and learning, facilities, articulation agreements, programming, housing, student recruitment and government relations. This new agreement builds on two successful 2+2 articulation pathways in Environmental Science and Geography introduced two years ago. Next, BU and ACC will partner on a joint degree in early childhood education, which will allow students in ACC’s Early Childhood Education program to study for two years at the college and finish with two years at Brandon University. We look forward to many more joint ventures in the future. BU President Dr. Louis P. Visentin (right) and ACC President Joel Ward (left) sign the Connect 20/20 MOU on March 19, 2009. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 5 BU NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS BU's Shannon Gadbois receives $207,000 research grant BU's Shannon Gadbois received a $207,000 research grant from Sport Canada and SSHRC. Brandon University Psychology Professor Dr. Shannon Gadbois has been awarded a grant of $207,000 over three years by Sport Canada through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) for the research program titled “Extracurricular Activity Involvement in Canada: Relationships with Youth Development and Variations by Age, Gender and Context.” This project will examine the nature of extracurricular activities (ECA) in Canadian youth from middle childhood to adolescence. While it is generally believed that ECA involvement has beneficial effects for children and youth, relatively little is known about the nature of ECA in a Canadian population with regard to the types of activities and level, frequency and years of involvement. Through this grant, Sport Canada (through the Sport Participation Research Initiative) has provided Gadbois, her co-applicant Dr. Anne Bowker (Carleton University) and their research team with an opportunity to attain important information on what Canadian youth are doing in their leisure time and to explore the implications for what communities might be doing to facilitate the needs, interests, and development of youth. Dr. Kathryn Hyndman receives CTCRI Research Award BU’s Dr. Kathryn Hyndman received $14,500 from the Canadian Tobacco Control Research Initiative. Brandon University Nursing Professor Dr. Kathryn Hyndman has been awarded a grant of $14,500 by the Canadian Tobacco Control Research Initiative (CTCRI) for the research project titled “Research Planning Grant: A Survey of Health Professional Student Training in Tobacco Reduction Counselling on the Canadian Prairies”. Dr. Hyndman and a new network of multi-disciplinary researchers will design a study to examine capacity in tobacco control among health professional students in the Prairie provinces. Students’ basic preparation in tobacco control is of fundamental importance in understanding health professional capacity in treating tobacco use and dependence. First, the researchers will describe where and how health practitioner students in the Prairies are educated to embrace their important role in treating tobacco use and dependence. Second, the research team will document what factors contribute to curriculum decisions regarding content relating to tobacco control and cessation counselling among postsecondary educational institutions in the Prairies. This project will offer a benchmark regarding educational programming and factors that influence educational institutions' ability to offer students education in tobacco reduction and cessation counselling. This information, once collected, will allow for greater opportunity for sharing and promotion of tobacco reduction education among all health professional training programs. Prior to establishing any type of collaborative work around health professional education, it is imperative to know the current scope of activity in this area as well as identify the key people who currently implement or would implement this education. This is an important study because findings will be relevant to an under-studied area of health professional basic education and tobacco control. Bobcats Men's Volleyball team wins Canadian Interuniversity Sport Bronze Medal and Awards The Bobcats Men’s Volleyball team won the bronze medal at the Canadian Interuniversity Sport Championship (CIS) on March 1. The ’Cats secured the win by defeating the McMaster University Marauders 3-1 at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. This marks the first CIS medal as well as the first CIS Championship appearance for Brandon University’s four-year-old varsity volleyball program. Two Bobcats players, fourth-year middle Joel Small and fifth-year setter Andrew Korol, were named CIS Championship All-Stars. Additionally, the Bobcats Men’s Volleyball team was awarded the R.W. Pugh Fair Play Award for sportsmanship and fair play during this year’s national tournament. Congratulations to the Bobcats for another great season! Premier Doer announces $11 million in investments to expand and improve Brandon University Premier Gary Doer announced expansions and campus improvements totalling $11.2 million at Brandon University on February 12. The announcement signaled provincial support for the construction of a new physical plant at Brandon University. Construction of a new $3.9 million physical plant clears the way for a $4 million, 12,000-square-foot expansion and renovation of the student-owned and operated Knowles Douglas Commission building, which will provide essential additional student common space, room for commercial tenants, expanded space for student clubs and organizations and will allow for the relocation of the Students’ Union office. Additionally, Brandon University received $3.3 million from the province for campus improvements announced in January 2009. The physical plant serves as the hub for many campus operations and provides services from security and technical support to building maintenance, project management, groundskeeping, deliveries and housekeeping. Construction of the 13,600-square-foot physical plant building is expected to begin as soon as spring 2009. The new facility will be adjacent to the steam plant on campus to allow for more efficient use of space, equipment and tools for the site. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 Premier Gary Doer (far right) announces $11 million in investments in BU as (l-r) BU Physical Plant Director Bill Myers, BU VP Academic & Research Scott Grills, BUSU President Stephen Montague and Brandon East MLA Drew Caldwell look on. BU Visual and Aboriginal Arts introduces new Drawing Major & Minor and Art & Visual Culture Minor Brandon University is pleased to announce that the Manitoba Council on Post-Secondary Education has approved Brandon University’s request to offer a FourYear Drawing Major, Three-Year Drawing Minor and ThreeYear Art and Visual Culture Minor through its Visual and Aboriginal Arts Department, effective beginning in January 2009. The first intake of students for the new major and minors will take place in the fall of 2009. With this expansion, the BU Aboriginal and Visual Arts Department expands its degree options to five majors that students can choose from: Drawing, Painting, Aboriginal Art, Ceramics and Digital Media. This is just a sample of the wealth of new and exciting things that have happened at BU in the past few months. For more information on any of these stories, or on what is happening at BU right now, please visit www.brandonu.ca/news. To stay up-to-date, sign up for the BU News & Highlights email by sending a message to communications@brandonu.ca. 6 The Bobcats Men’s Volleyball team won the bronze medal in their first national tournament this March. BU’s Visual and Aboriginal Arts Department now offers five majors for students to choose from. 2009 HONORARY DEGREE RECIPIENTS Marlene Fitzsimmons is a visionary leader who has dedicated her life and career to improving quality of life for people living with mental illness. In 1962, Marlene graduated with her Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing and worked as a registered psychiatric nurse for nearly 50 years. Over that time she has been a central part of the evolution of mental health services in Western Manitoba – from her years working at the Brandon Mental Health Centre (BMHC) to her role in the BMHC closing and the development of community-based services to meet the needs of the client population. Marlene has served as President of the Registered Psychiatric Nurses Association of Manitoba and of the Psychiatric Nurses Association of Canada. The College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Manitoba awarded her a lifetime membership – an honour they have bestowed on only three individuals. Marlene is also affiliated with the Registered Psychiatric Nurses Foundation and provided the keynote speech at the 2004 World Congress for Psychiatric Nurses. In addition to her work with professional associations, Marlene has had a profound impact on psychiatric nursing education in Brandon. She worked diligently to help establish post-diploma programs at Brandon University in nursing and mental health, and once they were established, she served for nine years on the Advisory Committee to the Department of Nursing. Marlene is actively engaged in the delivery of psychiatric nursing programs, teaching content on psychiatric rehabilitation and providing clinical learning opportunities. In 2006 Marlene retired, but she has continued to be an active member of her community – volunteering with the Acquired Brain Injury Support Group, the Brandon Community Welcome Clubhouse and with the redevelopment of the Selkirk Mental Health Centre. Elizabeth Grant holds an Associateship (Piano Performance) Diploma from both the Royal Conservatory of Music and the Maritime Conservatory. She has had a long-standing connection with Brandon University from which she holds a Bachelor of Music (Voice Performance), a Kodaly Music Education Specialist Certificate and a Master of Music (Music Education). She has adjudicated extensively from Vancouver to Halifax and is a popular clinician at local, provincial and national events. Elizabeth has also conducted the Brandon Choral Society for 25 years, coordinated the Kodaly Summer Programme and taught a variety of graduate and undergraduate music education courses at Brandon University. Additionally, she maintains a piano studio through the BU Conservatory and has been Musical Director of First Presbyterian Church for the past 37 years. She is the founding and artistic director of the Brandon University Conservatory Chorale (1981), which includes Apprentice, Boys’, Concert and Chamber Choirs. The Chamber Choir has represented Canada at numerous international events, including Carnegie Hall, 1991 and 1995; England, 1998; France, 2003; and Italy, 2007. Since 2006 Elizabeth has been the conductor of the Mecca Community Choir and she took a 70 voice adult choir to China for the pre-Olympic Cultural Celebrations in 2008. Elizabeth has received several awards for her community service including the YWCA’s “Woman of Distinction Award” for the Arts (1995), the Paul Harris Fellowship (1995) from the International Rotary Club, the Manitoba Choral Association Peace Garden Award (1999), and the Governor General’s Queen’s Jubilee Commemorative Medal (2003). She also received the Brandon University Excellence in Teaching Award in 2000. Basil Johnston is a highly respected author, storyteller and preserver of the Anishinaubae language. He has written 22 books in English and Ojibway as well as numerous articles that have been published in newspapers, anthologies and periodicals. He is a strong proponent that the key to understanding culture is language and has been tireless in his efforts to promote the Anishinaubae language and culture. So tireless, that he developed audio language programs on cassette and CD and continues to teach Anishinaubae language classes to youth and adults. At a time when indigenous languages stand in jeopardy, Basil’s meticulous work to retrieve, maintain and document the Ojibway language has helped to stem the threat of extinction. In addition to his prolific writing career, Basil worked at the Royal Ontario Museum from 1970 to 1994 in the Department of Ethnology. He was a history teacher at Earl Haig Secondary School in North York, ON and a lecturer at various universities and colleges, including Trent and the University of Saskatchewan. He is a renowned storyteller, possessed with the oratorical gift of the ancestors, who can enthrall his audience by telling a great legend. His best known book, Indian School Days (University of Oklahoma Press, 1989), utilizes humour and poignancy to provide an account of his experience in the residential school system. Basil has received many awards and honours for his work, including the Order of Ontario, the 125th Anniversary Medal and honorary doctorates from the University of Toronto and Laurentian University. His books have served as ambassadors for Aboriginal people and his language tapes and CDs as tonics for the Ojibway mother tongue. Brian Keating has been making a name for himself in conservation and zoology ever since graduating from Brandon University with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science in 1980. Brian is the Head of Conservation Outreach for the Calgary Zoological Society, where his job is to raise money and then to spend it on environmental projects around the world. He is also a part-time Adjunct Assistant Professor of anthropology at the University of Calgary. For over 20 years, he has run the Calgary Zoo’s nature-based Zoofari travel program, leading over 80 expeditions to the best wildlife areas on the Planet. He has also hosted a weekly nature column since 1983 on CBC Radio, and for many years was featured on a bi-weekly national wildlife segment on the Discovery Channel, utilizing his own wilderness adventure and wildlife filming. In 1998 Brian helped to establish the Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary in Ghana, West Africa. This self-sustaining initiative did not simply save animals, but also brought clean water, electricity and eco-employment to the people of the region. Brian is in high demand as an international speaker, presenting at some 60 events a year. He authored the children's book series Amazing Animal Adventures, which celebrates nature; became an honorary chief in 2003 during a powerful West African ceremony; and has won numerous awards including the 2006 distinguished “Canadian Hero of the Year” award from Readers Digest Magazine for his global environmental efforts. His wife, Dee, is a physician and keen naturalist who always joins him on his adventures. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 7 2009 AWARD WINNERS Distinguished Teaching Award Jim Ferguson (B.A. ’75, B.Ed. ’81) Neelin High School, Brandon, MB Jim Ferguson received his Bachelor of Arts (1975) and Bachelor of Education (1981) degrees from Brandon University. Since then, he has had the privilege of working in the education field as a teacher and counsellor (Grades 6 through 12) for 30 years. During this long career, Jim has relished being part of the exciting tutoring program offered at Crocus Plains school and spending the past two years as a teacher in Brandon’s Off Campus program. The latter allowed him to help students get a second (or sometimes third or fourth) chance at graduating from high school. Jim has also coached a variety of sports throughout his career both within the school system and in the Brandon community each year since 1984. Working and making contact with amazing people, both adults and students has been a true highlight that his career as a teacher has brought him. Jim has been married to his wife Shelley for 32 years and they have two sons: Ryan (30) and Josh (28). Distinguished Teaching Award Peter Plante (B.Ed. ’92) West Valley School, Manitou, MB Peter Plante was born and raised in Brandon, where he lived for 29 years. Peter graduated from Brandon University in 1992 with a Bachelor of Education. Soon after, he began his career, substitute teaching in the Brandon School Division. This was followed by brief stints at Rivers Collegiate and Sanford Collegiate, before settling into teaching in the Prairie Spirit School Division, where he has been for the last eight years. The local Manitoba Teachers’ Society teachers’ association has had Peter as a regular executive member chairing the Workplace Safety and Health Committee. He aspires to have his own school one day as a Principal and/or Physical Education Teacher. Peter enjoys spending time with his wife Lia and their son and daughter and helping out with coaching their various activities. He also volunteers his time at Nellie McClung Collegiate as a Volleyball and Badminton coach and helps organize and run hockey body contact clinics, goalie clinics and is an assistant coach for the 14-year-old Bantam “AAA” Director’s Cup team in the Pembina Valley Minor Hockey. Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Community Service Dr. Renee Will Professor, Department of Nursing Dr. Renee Will is Associate Professor and Norma Wylie Professor of Palliative Care in the Department of Nursing, Brandon University School of Health Studies. She has been involved in palliative care for most of her 35 year nursing career beginning as a general duty nurse on the palliative care unit at the Winnipeg Municipal Hospitals (now Riverview Health Centre). Dr. Will graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Nursing in 1975, followed by a Master of Business Administration in 1986. She then received a Doctor of Education from the University of Toronto in 2001. Dr. Will continues to be involved in palliative care primarily through teaching and support of students in palliative care settings. She has recently been accepted to present on an innovative teaching strategy at the Canadian Hospice and Palliative Care Association conference in the fall of 2009. Dr. Will also teaches hospice volunteers through her volunteer work with Westman Hospice. Senate Award for Reasearch Dr. Simon A. J. Pattison (B.Sc. ’85) Professor, Department of Geology Dr. Simon A.J. Pattison completed his undergraduate degree at Brandon University in 1985. Following that, he received his M.Sc. (1987) and Ph.D. (1991) degrees in Geology from McMaster University. He was then hired as an exploration geologist by Imperial Oil Resources Limited, where he worked until 1992, when he was recruited into a Senior Research Fellowship based at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. In 1998, Dr. Pattison joined the Department of Geology at BU where he has developed and taught ten undergraduate courses. Dr. Pattison has received both the BU Alumni Association Excellence in Teaching Award (2001) and the BU Senate Award for Excellence in Teaching (2004). Dr. Pattison specializes in reconstructing ancient environments, studying sedimentary rocks in order to unravel the physical and biological characteristics of ancient depositional environments. This leads to a better understanding of environmental change through time. Dr. Pattison continues to actively research shallow- to marginal-marine siliciclastic environments as demonstrated by peer-reviewed journal articles and numerous presentations at international conferences. He has received diverse support for his research, including over $400,000 of individual research awards (NSERC, ConocoPhillips, Shell International, Tundra Oil and Gas), and over $1.1 million of collaborative group research awards (WAVE Consortium, CFI). 8 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 RENAISSANCE COUPLE A TRIBUTE TO LOUIS & MARY VISENTIN Last Christmas, one of the gifts Dr. Louis P. Visentin gave his granddaughters was a professionally printed and bound book of amusing poems about monsters. This, however was not just another book: it was one he had created – poems and illustrations – with the help of his wife Mary. The final product was sleek, inviting and is just one example of Brandon University’s President and Vice-Chancellor’s many talents – talents that he brought to his work, his collaborations and his professional and personal connections. In mid-June, Brandon University will say ciao to Dr. Visentin and his wife Mary, as they retire to Niagara Falls, where Dr. Visentin grew up, to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Though they might be moving away, their contributions will not soon be forgotten. In fact, Dr. Visentin leaves behind a legacy of change, through landmarks (courtyard signage for new students and visitors to find their way, a sculpture garden, a new fine arts building, three new art galleries) additions such as the Visual and Aboriginal Arts, Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies and Jazz Studies degree programs, and projects like the life sciences department’s reorganization, the proposed Healthy Living Centre and the newly announced Connect 20/20 partnership with Assiniboine Community College. “But the best thing that happened was that I tried to improve all the publications of the University,” says Dr. Visentin, who also introduced the online magazine Eccletica, a showcase of writing by faculty, staff, politicians, artists and students of all disciplines. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 9 Dr. Visentin and his wife Mary pose for photographs at his installation as BU President & Vice-Chancellor in 2000. Dr. Visentin adds blue and gold signage across campus upon his arrival at BU in 2000. A radically overhauled Launch ceremony welcomes students to BU starting in 2001. Dr. Visentin develops a strong relationship with BU’s Hutterian partners of the BUHEP program from the start of his term. The Visentin Era (by academic year) 2000 – 2001 A Campus Beautification Committee is created. Dr. Visentin creates three new scholarships: the President’s Leadership Scholarship; the President’s Brandon Festival of the Arts Inc. Scholarship; and the President’s Jazz Festival Scholarship. 2001 – 2002 June, July, August BU finalizes its strategic research plan, focusing recruitment efforts for the University’s Canada Research Chairs. The Felis Rufus Award is established to recognize employees who demonstrate exceptional service to BU. September The Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies program is launched. October Faculty and staff profiles appear on BU’s web site. The SCOPE 20/20 (Scholarship, Communications, Outreach, Performance/People, and Environment) Strategic Plan is unveiled. BU establishes a state-of the-art digital resource centre with a $500,000 grant from Western Economic Diversification. January The BU Alumni Association creates its Wall of Fame, inducting Dr. C. Dennis Anderson, The Hon. Ronald D. Bell LLD, Mr. Tommy Douglas and Dr. Stanley Knowles. A statement of ethics entitled “The Principles by Which We Live” is created. February BU launches the online journal Ecclectica, which features poetry, short stories and articles. Coach Jerry Hemmings records his 700th career win with the Bobcats Men’s Basketball team. May Dr. May Yoh receives the first-ever President’s Medal, recognizing excellence in teaching, research and service. BU’s School of Music produces it’s first-ever CD: Music at Brandon University – Volume 1. BU Physics prof. Dr. Ronald Dong receives over $1 million from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and the Province of Manitoba to develop a new lab. Health Studies prof. Ann Bowman receives $22,300 in funding for diabetes research from the Canadian Diabetes Association. 10 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 The changes that came about during his nine years in Brandon have enhanced the University, and will continue to do so. Without a doubt, Brandon’s community at large has benefitted from Dr. Visentin’s presence as well. In fact, his contributions in this province include being involved in the Spirited Energy Committee as well as the Manitoba Electoral Boundaries Commission. “Basically, I came here with a vision and I got things done. I made a difference,” says Dr. Visentin. “One of the things that I said during my interview was that I didn’t come here to retire or with the idea that I was just going to coast. I’ve never coasted anywhere.” One of his aims was to differentiate Brandon University from all other Canadian universities. “I call [BU] the jewel of the mid-West. It’s the smallest place and I thought it should be better,” he says. “I like to build. I look at the University as an organic whole – what’s going on inside, what it looks like, and since I’ve been here, I’ve seen it change and I’ve seen how people look at it.” One of the means he used to meet his goals was to propose the motto Something Special, which he came up with even before his arrival and which has been very effective. “He wanted to raise the bar and he wanted people here to realize that they were special,” says Mary Visentin of her husband. “This is a special place.” Another goal was to mobilize the people around him – at the University and in the city. He explained that he has always felt that a university should be part of the community. “So, [I wanted to] change the attitude within and without about the University. I’ve always been attracted to university towns because they’re really interesting places, with interesting people. This University belongs to the people of Brandon and they should appreciate it,” he says, adding that as the son of Italian immigrants, he was taught to give back to the community and those who helped him. “Whatever community [Mary and I] are in, we work for the community.” In the fall of 2000, Dr. Visentin took over the helm at BU and for the next nine years, he guided staff, faculty and students through challenges and successes, helping to move the University forward in the 21st century. A respected molecular biologist, a broadminded intellectual, a considerate administrator, an imaginative poet and writer, an inquisitive artist, a gracious host. Dr. Visentin shared the many facets of his personality during his tenure. The embodiment of the Renaissance Man’s spirit, Dr. Visentin embraces the arts, the humanities and the sciences, and he is known not only for his wealth of knowledge, but for his ability to share his thoughts and ideas with others. The Right Honourable Edward R. Schreyer is installed as BU’s fifth Chancellor in November 2002. Chair of Visual & Aboriginal Arts Colleen Cutschall designs the Spirit Warrior Sculpture at the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in 2003. Dr. Visentin travels across Canada to visit with BU’s alumni at various events throughout his term. Brandon University opens its doors in 2004 and welcomes the community to learn about the various faculties. 2002 – 2003 “The first time I met him the thing that struck me immediately was how easily Lou conversed on a wide variety of very interesting topics. It was obvious from the beginning that he was an intellectual in the best sense of the word, that he thought deeply about things,” says Dr. Glen Carruthers, who was on the Presidential Search Committee in 2000 and was the Dean of Music until 2008 – one of the group of BU Deans whom Dr. Visentin describes as some of the best in the country. “One of the defining features of Lou is that he’s a very balanced individual who has great expertise and has interests in the sciences, in the arts and in other areas as well,” continues Carruthers. “There’s a kind of humanitarianism that defines both the scientific and artistic [interests]. In other words, it’s all about people. It’s not about abstract concepts or about formulas or theorem, it’s about people.” One of the attributes that served this president well is his ability to listen and hear what others are saying – something he learned from one of his own professors. “He said: ‘You learn more from listening to others than to yourself.’ And I feel the same way. One of the benefits you derive from any leadership position is that you’re going to meet a lot of people. So, whenever I meet somebody who can do something, I listen very carefully because there’s a chance for a partnership – they’re important for a small school,” Dr. Visentin says. “I’ve always been attracted to university towns because they’re really interesting places, with interesting people.” While at BU, Dr. Visentin not only generated hundreds of ideas, but saw many to fruition. “I compiled over 70 pages of items related to his SCOPE vision, however, I believe his studentcentered Presidency will be remembered,” says Kate Gross, Director of the Office of the President. She adds that Dr. Visentin worked very closely with student leaders to accomplish goals regarding various issues including scholarships, the BUSU Work Study Program and the proposed expansion of the KnowlesDouglas building. “He created more than ten new President’s Scholarships to reward student excellence in a variety of areas,” Gross continues. To show his support of extra-curricular activities on campus, he regularly attended Bobcat games, student concerts and debating society events. “He always had an open door policy for students and students took advantage of that. To them, he is Dr. Lou!” says Gross. During their years of working together, she was truly able to see him in a light that few have. September Michael Chernoff and BU establish a $1 million scholarship endowment. October BU’s Chorale performs in Brazil as part of the Festival Unicanto de Corais in Londrina. November Rural Development prof. Dr. Doug Ramsey collaborates on the $3 million research project “Building Capacity in the New Economy.” January Prof. Westley Wong becomes BU’s first Dean Emeritus. Dr. Margaret Carrington becomes BU’s first Canada Research Chair. The BU Men’s Curling team wins Gold at the World University Games. March The Debating Club holds its first President’s Cup invitational. 2003 – 2004 June BU music prof. T. Patrick Carrabré places in the top ten at the 50th International Rostrum of Composers for Inuit Games, a Concerto for Throat Singers. July The Bachelor of Nursing program (University of Manitoba) relocates to the BU campus’ new Health Studies Complex. August The new B.Sc. in Environmental Science is introduced at BU. September BU launches a new 4-Year Creative Arts degree program. BU launches a new Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, the first integrated Western and Aboriginal arts program in Canada. October The John E. Robbins Library goes wireless. The Government of Canada and the Province of Manitoba sign a memorandum of understanding enabling BU’s international students to work off-campus. January BU partners with Nanjing Xiaozhuang University in China to exchange faculty members, students, administration, artwork and researchers between the two universities. The John E. Robbins Library journal collection tops 15,000. March BU, ACC, The Art Gallery of South Western MB, the Brandon School Division No. 40 and the City of Brandon sign an Agreement of Cooperation to form Brandonartworks.net. April Business Administration students take top honours at the International Business Plan Competition hosted by Minot State University. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 11 Dr. Visentin helps to unveil the BUAA funded Gathering Space in the Library in 2004. BU alumnus Tommy Douglas, ’30 is named CBC’s Greatest Canadian in 2004. BU links to Canda’s Research and Education Network CA*Net4 in April 2004. May Dr. John Everitt and Dr. Austin Gulliver are awarded BU’s first two named professorships. BUNTEP celebrates its 30th anniversary. BU launches the three-year BU & YOU Campaign, setting out to raise $8 million. “These are the times when I got to see that Louis Visentin is one of the most intelligent, genuine and caring people I know,” she says. “He is truly a scholar and a gentleman.” 2004 – 2005 June An energy audit is conducted. BU Geology student Trevor Hoffman is awarded a Canada Graduate Scholarship by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). July The Board of Directors for the College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba (CRNM) grant full approval for the new BU Bachelor of Nursing Program. Four Science Faculty members receive over $297,000 in NSERC Funding. August World renowned pianist and BU prof. Alexander Tselyakov releases CD recorded live at the Lorne Watson Recital Hall. September Manitoba Public Insurance and BU host the inaugural “Crash Course”. Internationally acclaimed violinist James Ehnes gives master class at BU. October Alumna Adele Eslinger ’87 returns to BU to work with senior voice students as a way to thank BU for all that she learned. November BU profs. Dr. Ronald Dong and Dr. John Rice are honoured by BU and NSERC for their continuous 25+ years of NSERC-sponsored research funding. December Darrell Racine and Dale Lakevold are named winners of the 16th Annual Canadian National Playwriting Competition for Stretching Hide. 2005 – 2006 June BU adds varsity volleyball to its athletic programming. BU receives its first Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) grant to facilitate community dialogue in northern communities in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. July Twelve BU science faculty members receive a total of $311,129 in research grants from NSERC. August BU hosts the Gender and Canadian Values in the 21st Century Conference. BU web polls are launched. 12 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 As in any relationship, Dr. Visentin not only gave, but received. “This gave me an opportunity to develop as an individual and to implement some of the ideas that I had about how to run organizations. Being a president is a very lonely position. When you’re making decisions, you’re it and you’re responsible for some of the things that happen. So, picking good people is very important,” he says. “I look at the University and say that it’s well managed and it’s in good hands for the next president.” His management style was appreciated by many, including Dr. Carruthers, who during the time he was responsible for the School of Music, felt he had Dr. Visentin’s trust. “I had a very good relationship with Lou from the beginning and he left me pretty much to my own devices. The fact was that I think – and I don’t mean this immodestly – he trusted my judgement. So he wasn’t an interventionist president in any way. He was there when I needed him, which was very important for me and I knew I could talk to him about anything. But in terms of the day to day operations of the School of Music, he was very uninvolved because he left it to me, which was great,” says Dr. Carruthers. “The University developed a new interesting and exciting identity under Dr. Visentin attends the Headlines of History event, an exhibit in remembrance of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Lou’s leadership that in no small part reflected Lou himself.” Along with faculty and staff, Dr. Visentin dealt with the Board of Governors. The former chair of that board, Jacob Janzen first met him during the presidential interview process in early 2000. “I found Lou to be a person with ideas exploding from him” “I found Lou to be a person with ideas exploding from him. He’s always intelligent, compassionate, empathetic,” says Janzen. “One of the nice things about Lou’s presidency was that University House always seemed to be part of the university experience. He and Mary made a point of hosting University functions in their home.” One of the many guest lecturers and visiting professors to come to Brandon University during Dr. Visentin’s tenure included world famous jazz musician, Bob Brookmeyer. “I recall being at a concert of Bob Brookmeyer’s and he said what a wonderful University this was. You could actually walk into the president’s office and have a conversation with him about a particular issue or problem,” says Janzen. “He thought there were few academic institutions where you could actually do that.” Tsunami expert, Dr. Tad Murty comes to BU and visits with Dr. Visentin in 2005. Dr. Visentin scoops ice cream cones each Spring to give BU’s exam-weary students a break from studying. One of many segments of the population in this region with which Dr. Visentin connected were the many Hutterite colonies. “One of the first things I did here was give a talk to the 60 Hutterite leaders about giving us a scholarship. I can remember one of the men stood up and said: ‘Dr. Visentin, where do we sign the cheque?’ We got to know the Hutterite people and we started the BUHEP (Brandon University Hutterian Education Program) while I was here,” he says. “And all these relationships have helped.” Other people he met in Brandon include the former chief of police, Richard Bruce. The two share a love of art, of cooking and of discussing everything from science to politics to happenings in Brandon. “In terms of education, Lou put us on the map. I used to tease him – his last name should be Visiontin rather than Visentin,” says Bruce. “He did a lot to promote the University and also did a lot to bring the community into [it]. The University is part of the fabric of the community and he did a lot to make sure that people knew that.” “Lou’s extremely down to earth. He’s an amazing person. He can walk with kings and beggars...” Dr. Visentin visits with 2005 honorary degree recipients (l-r) Tom Cochrane, James Ehnes and Henry Champ. Another means to draw the public’s attention to the University were the various successful fundraising campaigns that were undertaken during his presidency and of which Dr. Visentin was an integral part. The President of the Brandon University Foundation, Dr. Jeff Bales has found Dr. Visentin’s contributions in this area invaluable. “He’s very outgoing and personable and talks to people easily,” says Dr. Bales. “I think that he took the position with [the thinking that] the University was like his child and did everything he could to make it better. I think he’s been very positive for the University as its promoter and brought the profile of Brandon University up higher.” Dr. Visentin will be retiring from public work when he leaves Brandon, joining Mary, who retired from her federal government career several years ago. While the Visentin’s departure will sadden many in Brandon, it is a prospect that is bittersweet for the couple. They will be embarking on a new chapter in their lives, surrounding themselves with family, art and music, but they will be leaving behind friends of all walks of life. “I’ll never forget George and Mary Gooden. To me, they are the soul of Brandon, those kind of people,” says Mary Visentin of the two alumni and staunch supporters of the University. “They quietly do what they have to do. They’re there for you. They and a lot of people like them at the BU welcoms Prof. Xiren Qian from Nanjing Xiaozhuang University in China in October 2005 – he generously shares his art with Dr. Visentin. October The BU Debating Society attends the Western Canadian Fall Open Pro-Am Tournament at the University of Calgary winning an award and two distinctions. November BU plans to expand its Rural and Community Studies Program to offer four-year honours, four-year major and four-year minor Bachelor of Arts degrees. CFI invests $396,316 in research funding, supporting the work of BU researchers Dr. David Greenwood (Environmental Science) and Dr. Terence McGonigle (Botany). December BU hosts the Second Annual Churchill Research Symposium. MB Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Rosann Wowchuk announces $250,000 for support of scholarship and research in Rural Development, Agriculture and Rural Studies. January Plant science researchers at BU receive $125,000 in funding from Manitoba Agriculture and Agriculture Canada to purchase and install a Walk-In Plant Growth Chamber. February BU’s Tourism Research Centre hosts Rural Tourism Week on campus. A new student ID system is created. Student ID cards now act as food, residence and library cards. May BU Business Administration student Matt Berg places second in the CIBC Student Entrepreneur of the Year Award competition. 2006 – 2007 June Campus Manitoba’s Writing and Math Online receives two national awards for excellence. BU launches online, open access Journal of Rural and Community Development. BU wins a second consecutive Prix D’Excellence Gold Medal for Best Fundraising Case Statement and Campaign from the Canadian Council for the Advancement of Education (CCAE) August BU honours Canada Research Chairs Dr. Di Brandt (Literature and Creative Writing) and Dr. Sterling Evans (History). BU opens downtown Winnipeg Psychiatric Nursing program site. September Dr. Visentin establishes the Order of Merit award for alumni, staff and faculty, bestowing the first one upon Professor Emeritus Dr. David B. Stewart. BU holds the grand opening of the Glen P. Sutherland Gallery of Art on campus. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 13 Dr. Visentin congratulates BU researchers Dr. David Greenwood and Dr. Terence McGonigle on their CFI research grants in 2005. The BU courtyard is named in honour of Chancellor Emeritus Dr. Kevin Kavanagh and his wife Els Kavanagh. October Elizabeth Dawson becomes the first graduate of BU’s Environmental Sciences program. BU opens the Convergys Learning Centre, located in the John E. Robbins Library. BU alumni Matthew McDonald and Kristopher Keen are awarded SSHRC Canada Graduate Scholarships. November BU launches the Standing Ovation fundraising campaign celebrating the School of Music's centennial. Student blogs are introduced. New hypertext lab opens in the Faculty of Arts. January The Bobcats Men’s Basketball team is ranked #1 in CIS Men’s Basketball. The BU Alumni Association announces $10,000 in new scholarships for BU students. March BU Bobcats Men’s Basketball team brings home Silver Medal from CIS Finals. April Nine BU students are awarded NSERC Undergraduate Research Awards. BU’s Dr. Pamela Rutherford receives Species Recovery Grant worth $15,600 from World Wildlife Fund Canada to research prairie skinks. May BU celebrates the conclusion of the BU & YOU Campaign, announcing a final total of $9,363,677, exceeding the original goal by over $1 million. 2007 – 2008 June Twelve BU science faculty members are awarded $252,973 in research grants from NSERC. July Dr. Scott Grills is appointed Vice-President (Academic and Research) at BU. BU researchers Dr. Bernadette Ardelli (Zoology) and Dr. Margaret Carrington (Physics and Astronomy) receive more than $350,000 in NSERC funding. August The Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies program establishes the New Zealand Emergency Management Field course, which offers students an opportunity to study in New Zealand. BU’s Mini University has its best summer yet with 1009 campers. 14 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 MB Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk announces funding of Rural Development April 2005. Tomson Highway is appointed Stanley Knowles Distinguished Visiting Professor in 2006. University made us feel very, very welcome. We were treated like a king and queen. I was just shocked when I came here and was presented with flowers and this and that, and a big ceremony. I thought: ‘Wow! I’d better measure up in turn.’” According to the friends, acquaintances and connections she made in Brandon, Mary did indeed measure up. For example, she contributed time and energy to the board of the Women’s Resource Centre and worked with the local chapter of Save the Children Canada. “She’s a wonderful lady. She has done many things in Brandon and has helped people in need,” says Gloria Gulliver, the spouse of BU’s Dean of Science Dr. Austin Gulliver. “I’m sad that she’s leaving.” Dr. Visentin and Mary welcome Presidents’ Circle members into their home for numerous events. Along with being part of the happenings on campus whenever possible, Mary jumped right into the community by joining two book clubs, becoming a member of St. Matthew’s Cathedral and taking regular exercise and dance classes at the Brandon School of Dance. “Between that and walking the dogs three times a day and the few things that I helped out with at the University, I had a really full life here,” Mary says. “It’s been wonderful for me. There are a lot of really good memories I take from here. I have no regrets and I’ll be sad to leave all my new friends. So next year, I’ll have quite a few new names on my Christmas card list.” Her dance instructor, Barbara Ehnes has found her to be a very down to earth, warm, caring, generous, approachable and genuine woman, with a great sense of humour. “She always wanted to study dance as a youngster and never had the opportunity. She has been a very faithful student in my adult exercise class,” says Ehnes, whose friendship with Mary went beyond the dance studio. “I feel that she’s somebody I can really talk to. She’s very smart and not judgmental and I really trust her. I’ll really miss her.” The quality of the music-making at Brandon University – by its students, professors and visiting musicians – is something that the couple appreciated a great deal. “I’d sit there and think: ‘Am I really in the middle of the Prairies?’ I’m listening and it could be the Dr. Visentin celebrates the conclusion of the BU & YOU Campaign in 2007 with BUF Past-President Doug Adams and Campaign Chair Dr. Tom Breneman. Dr. Visentin helps launch the BU/NOW system in cooperation with the Brandon University Students’ Union in 2007. Metropolitan or someplace like that. They should be bursting the doors in Brandon to get to these concerts because they’re so wonderful,” Mary says. “The music was just the best.” Another great friend Mary leaves behind is Lana Myers, who has long been involved in the Brandon University Alumni Association. Both dog owners, she and Mary got to know each other very well on the many walks they took and through their volunteering in the community, among the many activities they have enjoyed together. “I think she’s brought a very down-to-earth, welcoming atmosphere to University House. Mary loves to cook and she’s very good, and she has dinners in her home when visitors come [to the University]. I found both Lou and Mary open and friendly with the whole community. And for new faculty, she always made them feel welcome and she connected well with a lot of faculty wives, and she tried to stay out of university politics,” says Myers, who is also in a book club with Mary. “She was always supportive of Lou. She took really good care of him – with meals, ironing, getting his suits ready – and is a good listener. He was her number one priority.” One of the community activities in which the couple both participated was the reading of A Christmas Carol and one highlight for Dr. Visentin was playing the triangle in “The Picasso Suite” with the Brandon Chamber Players. Dr. Visentin and former BU Chancellor Edward Schreyer welcome the first two Schreyer International Student Bursary recipients in 2007. “He brags about that,” says Mary, with a chuckle. According to Gross, the Visentins truly made Brandon their home: “They are the type of couple who take an hour to grocery shop, because they are stopping to talk to people in every aisle.” While Mary was finally able to fulfill a childhood dream to dance, Dr. Visentin found some worthy competition on the squash court. One of Dr. Visentin’s squash-playing friends, Jon Turabian will miss their 6:30 a.m. matches, long bike rides and even longer conversations. “Lou’s extremely down to earth. He’s an amazing person. He can walk with kings and beggars,” says Turabian. “I think the University is a better place now than when he first came and the Maclean’s Magazine [rankings] show that. Also, his friendliness has made the University, has made the president, much more accessible than it had been.” Though there was little spare time in his busy schedule, Dr. Visentin made time for fun. He and Mary are fans of the word game Upwords and of the New York Times crossword which they do almost daily. As well, there are Gino and Bianca to exercise. “We walked along the Assiniboine with the dogs. Those are some of our most tranquil times, just walking along, through the trees or on the walking paths,” says Mary. Dr. Visentin helps to open the CFI-funded Environmental Science Laboratory in 2007. September BU Faculty of Science researchers Dr. Bernadette Ardelli and Dr. Mark D. Berry receive $429,000 for lab development from CFI, the Manitoba Research and Innovation Fund (MRIF) and BU. BUSU and BU launch the BU/NOW communications system to alert students of news and safety items via 25 television screens across campus. October BU hosts the inaugural three-day Brandon Aboriginal Literary Festival. The CGA Conference Centre at BU opens thanks to a $60,000 gift from CGA Manitoba. BU scores A’s for student satisfaction, class size, student/faculty interaction, quality of teaching, libraries and ease of course registration in the Globe & Mail University Report Card. November BU holds the grand opening of the Environmental Science Laboratory thanks to over $800,000 in funding from CFI, MRIF and BU. BU’s Dr. Simon A. J. Pattison (Geology) receives $92,700 in funding from Shell International Exploration and Production Incorporated. Consortium including BU researchers Dr. John Everitt (Geography) and Dr. Fran Racher (Health Studies) receives $1 million grant for Active Aging research. January BU receives $1 million donation to Healthy Living Centre from alumnus Dr. James Brown. The BU Private Dining Room is renamed the Louis Riel Room in recognition of continued support from the Manitoba Métis Federation and Louis Riel Institute. The Botany and Zoology Departments are amalgamated to form the Department of Biology. April The Province of Manitoba announces $450,000 in support of science and clinical lab equipment. 2008 – 2009 June The Kevin and Els Kavanagh Courtyard Sculpture Garden is created with the installation of three sculptures. September The new School of Health Studies newsletter Caring Connections is created. BU installs Emergency Blue Phones on campus, which can connect directly to a 911 operator. Manitoba Fisheries Enhancement Fund gives $25,000 to support the research of Dr. Chris Malcolm. BU Religion researcher Dr. Alison R. Marshall is awarded $62,348 for research into history and customs of rural Chinese immigrants in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 15 Dr. Visentin unveils the third sculpture in the Kavanagh Courtyard – The Lookout (Bobcat) by Peter Sawatzky. October CFB Shilo awards $25,000 to BU Biology Chair Dr. Terence McGonigle’s research into leafy spurge at Shilo. November Nine BU students receive Business Council of Manitoba 2008-09 Aboriginal Education Awards. BU’s Faculty of Education launches the BU Centre for Aboriginal and Rural Education Studies (BU C.A.R.E.S.). Bobcat Athletes for Action team up with the Brandon Police Service for an anti-bullying program targeted at Brandon’s schools. December Dr. Di Brandt, Dr. Margaret Carrington and Dr. Frances Racher receive BU President’s Medals. TD Canada Trust contributes $100,000 to support greenhouse improvements at BU. The torch is passed from Edward Schreyer to Henry Champ as Champ takes on the role of BU’s Chancellor in December 2008. Dr. Visentin opens the Lewis D. Whitehead Atrium in 2009, a new space for members of the BU community to gather and relax. Dr. Visentin and ACC President Joel Ward sign the Connect 20/20 MOU, establishing a mutually beneficial relationship between their two institutions. Dr. Visentin collaborated with his son Patrick, a professional artist, on some science and art projects in addition to pursuing his own artistic undertakings – something he had put on hold, but which was rekindled when the fine arts department became a reality. Negative images of trains and stations of Manitoba, as well as elements that had figured so prominently in his earlier career were transformed by his talented hands and his ease with computer programs like Adobe Photoshop. computer and how to be crafty and artistic about it. I’m going to continue doing that and marry it with my writing.” When all is said and done, Dr. Visentin hopes that he is remembered for having made a difference. “I said to myself: ‘I would love to have everything in my lab look like art. So I took graphs and equations and turned them into graphics, then I’d take the graphics and transform them until they were a piece of art,” he says. “I’d never done that before Brandon. That I learned here – the subtleties of the “I didn’t come looking for prizes. I didn’t come looking for pats on the back,” he says. “I came to do a job and I did it as effectively as I could. I threw all my energy into it. I tried to be innovative. I know I gave the University a different profile. I feel good about it. But who am I to judge? I was just doing a job.” “In terms of education, Lou put us on the map.” Henry Champ, LL.D. is installed as the sixth Chancellor of BU. January BU prof. Reinhold Kramer’s book Mordecai Richler: Leaving St. Urbain is chosen as one of CBC.ca’s Top 100: Our favourite pop culture mementoes of 2008. BU’s Environmental Science program Chair Dr. David Greenwood speaks at an international conference on ancient climate change. BU’s Visual and Aboriginal Arts program introduces a new Drawing Major and Minor and Art and Visual Culture Minor. February Manitoba Premier Gary Doer announces $11 million in investments to construct a new physical plant at BU. March Bobcats Men’s Volleyball team earns Canadian Interuniversity Sport Bronze Medal in their first national tournament. BU School of Music Faculty member T. Patrick Carrabré is nominated for a 2009 Juno for Classical Composition of the Year for The Dark Reaches. Dr. Kathryn Hyndman receives a research grant of $14,500 from the Canadian Tobacco Control Research Initiative. BU Faculty of Science researcher Shannon Gadbois receives a $207,000 research grant from Sport Canada and SSHRC. April BU School of Music faculty member Megumi Masaki receives $10,000 in research grants and a Banff Centre Winter Residency. BU holds the inaugural Senior Colloquium, allowing senior Arts and Science students the opportunity to present their research projects. May BU hosts Juno Nominees at the 2009 E-Gré Strings Competition. BU confers Honorary Degrees upon Ms Marlene Fitzsimmons, Ms Elizabeth Grant, Mr. Basil Johnston and Mr. Brian Keating. 16 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 Ciaoisentin! V Lou Visentin has mentored my professional growth, particularly with advice when we were writing our SSHRC/CURA proposal and with on-going support once the grant was received. I have appreciated that my university president has taken time to meet with me, as an individual faculty member, to encourage me in my research. Helen D. Armstrong, Ph.D. Professor, Faculty of Education Lou, as it is with most things in life, you close one door only to open several others. Leaving Brandon University will provide you and Mary with the opportunity to spend more time doing the things that are important to you and your family. Doreen and I wish both of you a very long, healthy, active and rewarding retirement; quiet time to read all the unread books; free time to move art from the mind’s eye to three dimensional reality; time to write the unwritten articles and more importantly to spend lazy summers at the cottage “High & Dry” with your children and grandchildren. On a personal note I will miss our lunches and the array of eclectic topics that had nothing to do with work and everything to do with art, science, politics, books and travel. MEMORIES and FAREWELLS Dear Lou: As you know, I have heard you speak on many occasions – every Launch ceremony, every convocation and several other annual events per year since I arrived in Brandon. I look forward to hearing you speak, having become an admirer of your thinking the very first time I heard you. This was during my 'new faculty orientation’ seven years ago and your address has meant more to me than I can express. It involved your expression of how you understand ‘professional’. Your phrasing indicated expectation rather than suggestion and I strive to never forget your words. I greatly admire your commitment to this expectation and appreciate that as a faculty member I could look up to my president and find a dedicated and worthy role model. I have great fondness for you and your time at the University and will miss you and Mary very much. I thrived under your leadership and will remember you with gratitude and respect. You have my very best wishes for a long, happy and healthy retirement and I hope the two of you will return often. Your friend, Greg Gatien Assistant Professor, Brandon University School of Music F. Richard, ’82, ’91 & Doreen Bruce Mary and Louis, Lou is smarter than I am. It may be that I set the bar low, but I could always count on Lou to bring fresh perspectives to any situation. He knows a lot about many things. Music’s not one of them and this worked out well. There’s not much more you could ask of a president – a smart person who's there when you need help, but otherwise leaves you to your own devices. Heather, my wife, and I are deeply grateful for all you and Mary have done to move our institution and community forward. Best wishes to you both – you’ll be missed very much. Glen Carruthers Professor, Brandon University School of Music Dear Luigi, During your time as President you have given birth to fine arts and so we shall remember you as the Father of Fine Arts at BU. Before your arrival there were no art galleries on campus and now there are three. Before, there was one faculty in fine arts and now there are five. Before, there was no public sculpture on campus and now there are three with another soon to arrive. Before, there was a minor in Aboriginal Art and now there is a B.F.A. with five majors and four minors. Before, there was one multi-purpose studio and now there is an entire department with studios still expanding. While the program is new for some, it has given me a golden age that I thought I would never see. Now, with many blessings, you can leave and enjoy your golden years. Ciao! Colleen Cutschall Chair, Visual & Aboriginal Arts It's been a blast! It’s been a great era – you are originals, exceptional, one of a kind! Nine years of positive thinking and steady advancement at Brandon University. May you leave your footprints in the future as you have in the past nine years. Sincerely, Mary, ’42 & George, ’64, ’93 Gooden Dr. Visentin and I arrived at our new positions at BU on the same day in 2000. On that August 1, delivery trucks used pedestrians as pylons between Clark Hall and the Library, the Health Studies Complex was a drawing, and the Canada Research Chairs program was not fully implemented on our campus. As Lou and Mary leave us for the sunny vineyards of Niagara, students study in the Kavanagh Courtyard, patients are cared for by nursing alumni of Brandon University and a lively research climate welcomes a new generation of scholars. Welcome change indeed. You are both wished the greatest pleasures of grandchildren and retirement. Scott Grills Vice-President, Academic & Research Lou, Brandon University has benefited enormously from your experience, your remarkable energy and your wonderful enthusiasm for the academic enterprise. Clearly, as a SPRING/SUMMER 2009 17 Ciaoisentin! V thoughtful and learned person you will be missed and remembered with great respect by the post-secondary community in Manitoba. I wish you well in the leisure of a stimulating retirement. Kevin Kavanagh, C.M. LLD Chancellor Emeritus, Brandon University Dr. Louis P. Visentin came to Brandon University to be a first among equals. His interests range from science to art, poetry and anything in books. He feels the world and speaks to it with passion. He is less interested by what has been than what can be. I thank him and wish Mary and Lou freedom and peace. Scott Lamont Vice-President, Finance & Registration As Dr. Visentin’s tenure as Brandon University’s President and Vice-Chancellor comes to a close, it is easy to say that BU is a much better place than it was a decade ago. On behalf of the students past, present and future, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Visentin for his vision, dedication and commitment to Brandon University. Though we may not have always agreed on issues, there was always a mutual respect and understanding. I will miss our debates when you are gone. I wish you and your wonderful wife Mary good health and happiness in retirement. I hope you will be back to visit soon. All the best! Ciao! Stephen Montague President, Brandon University Students’ Union Louis Visentin has had a wonderfully positive impact on not only the University, but also on the community of Brandon, with his progressive vision. Signage, grounds, fundraising – and the list goes on – stem from his “yes we can do it” attitude. Mary was Lou’s anchor – always encouraging and a wonderful hostess for the myriad of events taking place at University House. She will be sorely missed by her Book Club, St. Matthews Cathedral volunteer group and Barbara Ehnes’ dance class on Thursday mornings. We all loved her bubbly, uplifting personality. We wish them well in Niagara, home for Lou and in close proximity to both family and cottage. They will be hard to replace as an “awesome team” for BU. Bill, ’68 and Lana, ’68 Myers I was on the Presidential Selection Committee when Dr. Visentin was hired and have worked with him since that time on a number 18 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 MEMORIES and FAREWELLS of committees including Senate, Senate Executive, Board of Governors and Board of Governors Executive. I was a new faculty member at the time of his arrival and have benefited over the years from his approachability and willingness to provide support. I wish him all the best as he transitions to a new and more tranquil chapter in life. J. Renée Robinson Associate Professor, School of Health Studies, Board of Governers “Life well spent is long” – Leonardo da Vinci And so shall yours be Lou. All the best, Scott Stewart, ’85 Board of Governers Leadership and Dr. Lou Visentin: The first time I met Lou Visentin was in Killarney, MB. He apparently had the audacity to believe that Brandon University was special – in part – because of who the University represented. He had come to show the flag and meet with BU Alumni from the rural south, something I found both welcome and unusual. Here was a President who actually wanted to come to small-town Manitoba for a reception – to meet with people more accustomed to hockey tournaments than colloquia. That says something about the man. When, some five years later, he asked me whether I would join BU as the Acting Dean of Education, I was equally surprised. I knew I wasn’t a traditional choice – but as I have come to discover, doing the traditional thing isn’t part of Lou’s make up. Lou isn’t conventional. I have appreciated his vision, openness, creativity, commitment to our small university and his willingness to challenge convention. I will miss him and his crazy ideas. Jerry Storie Dean of Education On behalf of the School of Music and the Piano Department, I would like to thank Dr. Louis Visentin for his excellent work and leadership as President and Vice-Chancellor of Brandon University. During his term, Brandon University became a well respected, highly recognized and very prestigious university internationally and nationally. I was happy to work under the guidance of such a great administrator, scientist, artist, sportsman and human being. Thank you and have a happy and healthy retirement! Alexander Tselyakov Professor, Brandon University School of Music ALUMNI ASSOCIATION GREETINGS I would like to start my message by saying good-bye to a great friend of the Brandon University Alumni Association: Dr. Louis Visentin, President and Vice-Chancellor of Brandon University. Dr. Visentin departs after nine years of distinguished service and the Alumni Association would like to thank him for his contributions to BU. We wish Dr. Visentin and his wife Mary Visentin all the best in the future. I would like to extend a big welcome to all new Brandon University graduates. You have automatically become an Alumni Association member and will receive a free subscription to the Alumni News magazine, invitations to alumni events, and other discounts and services. All of our new members can also expect to receive an alumni card in the mail shortly after graduation. Plans are in the works to host a special Alumni Association event for recent graduates and current students this fall and I look forward to the opportunity to meet some of the newest members of the Alumni Association at that time. The Alumni Association continues to host events for our members throughout the year. This past fall, the Alumni Association hosted an evening with former Washington CBC News Correspondent and Brandon University Chancellor Mr. Henry Champ. Over 300 people came to listen to Mr. Champ share his perspective on the US Presidential election. This spring, BUAA board members had a lot of fun scooping ice cream for BU students prior to final exams. Our annual exam relief ice cream shop was open on a sunny day in April and members of the Alumni Association board along with Dr. Visentin handed out free cones to exam weary students. This is always a fun event and it was great to get to chat with future Alumni members. Our current members are sure to have a great time at Fall Homecoming 2009. This year we will be celebrating the class years of 1939, 1949, 1950 to 1959 and 1969. This year we will be hosting Homecoming 50s style with entertainment by The Retreads (featuring alumni members) and Elvis Tribute Artist Corny Rempel. There are many activities planned, including a bridge tournament, class reunions, a tour of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum and a Homecoming banquet. (You can read all the details on pages 22 and 23.) Everyone is invited to attend the Homecoming celebrations and I hope to see you there! Mrs. Amanda McGregor, BUAA President BRANDON UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION (BUAA) OUR MISSION The BUAA is dedicated to building and serving the community of present and future alumni by celebrating the traditions of Brandon University, inspiring pride in Brandon University and enhancing student life at Brandon University. BOARD OF DIRECTORS President, Mrs Amanda McGregor ‘03 Past-President, Mr. John Scott ‘74 Mrs. Debra Carnegie ’76 Mr. Bryan Cesmystruk, ’89 Ms Teresa Flannery ’92, ’06 Mrs. Louise Lamont ’94, ’04 Mr. Ed Mazer ’69 Mrs. Elizabeth McLeod ’77 Mrs. Lana Myers ’68 EX OFFICIO - VOTING Amanda McGregor, B.B.A. ’03 President BU Faculty Association Rep., Dr. Noreen Ek BU Students’ Union Rep., Mr. Stephen Montague BU President & Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Louis P. Visentin ALUMNI MEMBER CARD The Brandon University Alumni Member Card is FREE! Take advantage of savings offered through your Alumni Association’s programs and services. Contact the Alumni Office at 204.727.9697 or email: alumni@brandonu.ca Watch for upcoming events in: Calgary • Toronto • Victoria • Vancouver PRIVACY IS The Brandon University Alumni Association collects information about its alumni and friends and is committed to the protection and privacy of this information. We make every effort to comply with applicable laws such as the Manitoba Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and the Federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). PIPEDA: Protecting Your Information In order for us to offer you affinity programs and services and to strengthen relationships between YOUR IMPORTANT TO US EX OFFICIO - NON VOTING Alumni Relations Officer, Institutional Advancement, Mrs. Carla Eisler Director, graduates and BU, personal information such as your name, address, phone number and other relevant data is used for the purpose of sending you the Alumni News magazine, information about alumni events, affinity programs and services, alumni surveys and fundraising initiatives. Except for the purposes set out above, we will not sell, barter or lease our alumni database information to any external agencies. Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act SPRING/SUMMER 2009 19 KEEPING IN TOUCH Margaret (née Gerow) Davison, B.Sc. ’50 – What has brought us from the hallowed halls of Brandon College to where and what we are today? “Carpe Diem” has been the motto of my life. From Souris, MB to Calgary, AB to Regina, SK to the Edmonton, AB area; from geology, to marriage and family, to teaching and a practice in Psychology – this is my track record! Ian Dickson (Ph.D.), B.Sc. ’58 & Donna (née McDonald) Dickson B.A. ’60 – Ian and Donna continue to reside in Winnipeg, MB. Ian is semi-retired and continues with some on-going consulting work involving hydro-electric development in Manitoba. The remainder of his retirement involves golf, travel, the Kinsmen Re-fit Center and piping with the Winnipeg Police Pipe Band. Ian and Donna have three sons located in Abbotsford, BC, Brandon, MB and Red Deer, AB. Husband Ewart (Al) has been in sporting goods sales, from “on the road”, to his own business, small business counselling and a great contributor to various boards. His office is a mini museum of experiences – pictures of friends who were hockey greats, personal sailing competitions, mountain hiking, family, politics and travel. Paul Antrobus, B.A. ’59 & Kay (née Pue) Antrobus, B.Sc. ’59 – Paul received his Ph.D. in Psychology at the University of Waterloo in 1973. Now a quadrapalegic, Paul continues to teach Psychology at the University of Regina. Kay enjoyed a career of teaching high school Physics and retired in 1996. Paul and Kay have three children and five grandchildren. In Brandon we were also shown that having good fun is an integral part of an enriched life. Family, music, friends, church involvement, sports, leadership opportunities and extensive travel have all unfolded in our extra-curricular panorama. Betty (née Birch) Dempsey, TTC ’59 – Betty retired in 1995 having taught elementary grades for 37 years. She now enjoys coffee with friends, gardening, casino trips, music festivals, watching Kerry Burtnyk curl and visiting her 98-year-old motherin-law. Margaret Davison Fortunately, our children are quite independent. Horticulture, computer technology, and interior design have been their individual fortés. Our eldest daughter’s children are business-oriented and their mother has become a wonderful grandma of three. As well as teaching at the college level, our son plays guitars and composes music; his son (also a musician) is at University of Alberta and may yet make it into the legal profession. The other daughter (also enterprising) lives between Calgary, AB and Victoria, BC and is married to a wonderful “nice” lawyer (and geologist!) who takes on out-of-country challenges. Thank you Brandon College for helping to instill in us the value of education, enduring friendships, strong work ethics and high moral standards. May we humbly try to live up to these expectations! Ernest Criddle, B.Sc. ’52 – After 35 years as a research chemist with the Department of National Defence, Ernest is now retired and living with Parkinson’s Disease. Murray MacDonald, B.Sc. ’52 – Murray worked as a petroleum geologist in Western Canada for 43 years, retiring in 1995. Murray and his wife Betty have lived in Calgary since 1972. They have four children and five grandchildren. One grandchild lives in Amsterdam while the others are all in the Calgary area. Murray’s hobbies are hiking, biking and skiing, which he plans to continue Murray MacDonald (as long as his joints last). Lorne Day, B.Sc. ’56, Pre B.Ed. ’57 – Lorne taught school for several years and served as Principal of McAuley and Deloraine Schools. He also taught for two years in Victoria, Australia. Lorne worked for the Manitoba Department of Education for approximately 30 years. He is now retired and lives with his wife Dorothy in Dauphin, MB. They have two grown children. Garth Kidd, B.Sc. ’56 – Garth married Edna Engen, B.Sc. ’56. They lived in London, England for four years while Garth earned a Ph.D. at University College London. They enjoyed a fabulous time in this very special city and returned as often as possible. Garth later joined the Chemistry Department at the University of Western Ontario. Garth and Edna raised three sons in London, Garth & Anne Kidd ON: a computer engineer in Parry Sound; a press officer for the EU in Brussels; and an international development worker with CIDA in Ottawa. Garth retired in 2002, the same year Edna died of cancer. He later married a friend of Edna’s who also has three children. Together they have 11 grandchildren; two of whom speak only Flemish. Garth tends to a garden in the summer, curls in the winter, sings baritone in the Metroplitan United Church choir and with Orchestra London’s Philharmonic Choir. Michael Czuboka, B.A. ’57, B.Ed. ’67 – Michael attended Grade 12 at Brandon College in 1949-50. He served with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in the Korean War from 1950-54. He later obtained a B.A. in 1957 and a B.Ed in 1967 from Brandon College. Michael went on to receive his M.A. and M.Ed. from the University of Manitoba. He taught high school in Brandon and was a sessional history lecturer at Brandon College from 1960-65. Michael was Principal of Neelin High School in Michael Czuboka Brandon from 1965-69 and later became superindendent of schools from 1969-90. He was also a periodic sessional lecturer at the University of Manitoba from 1969-1996 and a visiting lecturer at universities in the Ukraine from 1996-97. Michael publishes books and articles as a hobby. His first wife Carole died in 1992 and he later married Helena. He has three children and two grandchildren from his first marriage. He also has two intelligent, beautiful and affectionate cats. 20 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 Betty Dempsey Myrna (née Black) Hall, TTC ’59 – Myrna taught school for nine years and retired to raise her children. One of her children is now a teacher and the other child is an accountant. Myrna is a very proud grandmother! Colin Mailer, TTC ’59, B.A. ’65, B.Ed. ’68 – Now retired, Colin remains enthusiastic about environmental issues. He enjoys varied arts performances, especially those involving young people, both locally and provincially. He also enjoys attending movies in theatres and longs to do some more travel. Al Doerksen, B.Sc. ’69 – Al is currently CEO of International Development Enterprises (IDE) an international social enterprise based in Denver, Colorado. Its mission is to create income opportunities for poor rural households in developing countries. Colin Mailer David McInnes, B.Sc. ’69 & Sharon (née Garbutt) McInnes, B.Sc. ’69, Cert. of Ed. ’70 – Sharon taught general science at a school in St. JamesAssiniboia in Winnipeg, MB and was head of the department for two years. She took a few years off to raise her two sons who later started school in French Immersion. Sharon changed languages and became bilingual and started teaching again, in French. She continued until last year when she retired. She is now enjoying her time reading, sewing things for her grandchildren and learning more French. Her husband David McInnes, completed a Wildlife Biology Certificate in 1970 and worked at museums such as the Manitoba Museum and the Royal Saskatchewan Museum before spending time as Manager of Historic Resources for the Manitoba Government. He is now retired and doing contract work on websites and museum plans. Their two children have now graduated from the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Winnipeg, respectively. Dennis Bailey, B.Sc. ’79 – After graduating from Brandon University, Dennis worked in the Oil and Gas Industry until 1989. He enrolled in Athabasca University and obtained a B.Admin. in 1991. He later obtained an M.Sc. in Engineering from the University of Regina in 1994. Dennis now works as an Oil and Gas consultant and recently worked on the east coast of Canada at Sable Island for Exxon Mobil and Shell. He obtained a Ph.D. in Geology from Bircham International University in 2008 and is now working on a Ph.D. in Theology at Cochin University in India. He is also head of Clan Bailey Canada Society, a historical and genealogical society in Canada. Dennis also enjoys doing research in Celtic history and Celtic theological ideas. Philip Southam, B.Sc. ’87 – Since graduation, Philip has put his geology degree to good use working as an exploration geologist based out of Vancouver, BC (Go, Canucks, Go). While much of his earlier project work took him to remote parts of BC and the Yukon (and northern Manitoba in January), his current travels take him to Copiapo, Chile in the Atacama Desert, where it may rain once every five to seven years. Philip resides in Langley, BC with his wife Wendy, and their three sons. Timothy Cullen, B.A. ’89 – After graduating from BU, Timothy continued his education obtaining an M.A. in 1993 from Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, ON. He relocated to British Columbia shortly thereafter and started employment with the Province of British Columbia in a management position. He met his wife, Sharon Danard, in Victoria, BC while she was teaching Spanish at Camosun Community College. Sharon is currently working on short-term contract for the American Defense Language Institute in Monterey, CA, teaching Spanish to American military personnel. Timothy may be contacted at: timtcullen@hotmail.com. Suzanne (née Lillie) Swanton, B.A. ’89 – While attending Brandon University, Suzanne met her husband, Dan Swanton. They were married in 1990 and have two children. Suzanne continued her education at the University of Manitoba graduating with a Bachelor of Social Work in 1993. After a few moves Suzanne and her family have settled in Winnipeg. She has been working as a social worker with SEND US YOUR UPDATES! Alumni Highlight: various organizations with a focus on people with disabilities. Suzanne is currently the Executive Director of Continuity Care, a non-profit organization in Winnipeg. Suzanne says, “It is with fondness and wonderful memories that I look back on my days at BU.” Melanie (née Kollmar) Hughes, B.G.S. ’95 – Since attending Brandon University, Melanie has done a lot of work with adults with disabilities, both in Manitoba and in British Columbia. She met and married her husband while living in BC. They moved to the USA and now have a five-year-old son and three-yearold twins (a boy and a girl). Melanie says, “We miss life in Canada and will head back one day soon!” Hugh Russell, B.Mus. ’95 & Robert Fraser, B.Mus.Ed. ’90 This photo was taken backstage at the Royal Theatre in April 2009, during the performance run of Pacific Opera Victoria’s (POV) production of Mozart’s opera, The Magic Flute. Hugh Russell was in the role of Papageno, and Robert Fraser was the bass trombonist with the Victoria Symphony, the pit orchestra for all POV productions. Both are also alumni of the Westman Youth Choir under the direction of Dr. Earl Davey, formerly of the BU School of Music. Dagny Gravert, B.Sc. ’97 – Dagny is currently practicing as a Registered Acupuncturist in Portage la Prairie and Winnipeg after five inspiring years of study at the Academy of Classical Oriental Sciences in Nelson, BC and a three month stay in Beijing, China. She recently decided to enhance her practice and will soon be a Registered Massage Therapist. Dagny says, “Thank you BU for the opportunity of greater knowledge and discovery. The learning never ends!” Mandy (née Gensorek) Lee, B.A. ’97 – Mandy graduated as a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1999 and has been working in rural Manitoba for the last 10 years. She lives in Birtle, MB with her husband and two children. Heather Duncan, M.Ed. ’00 – After graduating from Brandon University, Heather obtained a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from the University of Saskatchewan in 2004. She is in her fourth year in the educational leadership faculty at the University of Wyoming. Nicole (née Lewis) Baxter, B.A. ’05 – Since graduating from Brandon University, Nicole has gone on a whirlwind trip through Europe and is working for Service Canada in Dryden, ON. In an effort to reduce costs and save our natural resources, we encourage you to sign up to receive a notice when our newest edition of the Alumni News magazine is available online. Signing up for this service means that we will no longer send you a paper copy of the magazine in the mail. Instead, you will receive an email notice that the latest issue of the magazine is available electronically. To sign up, please email us at alumni@brandonu.ca with the subject line: Alumni News Online. Be sure to provide us with the email address to Going which you would like your notice sent. Green Sign Up Now! Email Collection Would you like to receive information from the Alumni Association via email? If so, please send us your email address to be included in our emailouts for upcoming alumni events, news and offers. Send your email addresses to: alumni@brandonu.ca. IN MEMORIAM Florence A. (Simpson) MacKenzie, B.A. ’33 March 27, 2009 Monica K.(Gwyer) Gordon, TTC ’61 2009 Marilyn Harry, Associate ’78 November 5, 2008 James S. Brown, B.Sc. ’44 May 1, 2009 Anne M. Yanuszewski, TTC '62 January 24, 2009 Henry Duckworth, Honorary Degree ’82 December 18, 2008 R. R. Jones, Associate ’44 December 2, 2008 Donald C. McLaren, B.A. ’65 December 25, 2008 Peter Hendry, B.A. ’49 January 25, 2009 Joan B. (Barron) Burgess, Pre B.Ed. ’72 March 18, 2009 Gordon E. Clancy, Associate ’55 November 17, 2008 Johannes F. Graf, B.A. ’73 November 19, 2008 Beth (Wadham) Smith, TTC ’58 November 23, 2008 Jane Kraus, Associate ’76 November 20, 2008 Lorraine (Couch) Andrews, TTC ’59 2009 Mervin A. Styba, B.A.’72, B.Ed. ’76 December 31, 2008 STAFF/FACULTY: William Bruce Taggart Physical Plant 1966-1988 November 21, 2008 Frances Davidson Clerk - Financial & Registration Services 1979-1999 November 28, 2008. David McLeod Director of Enrolment and International Services 1998-2006 January 30, 2009 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 21 REGISTER NOW! Don’t Miss Out! Join us for a weekend full of activities as we celebrate the milestone anniversary years of 1939, 1949, 1959 and 1969. As a special “Salute to the ’50s” we are also celebrating the entire decade: 1950-59! All classes of the 1950s are encouraged to join in the fun and meet up with fellow graduates for a weekend to remember. We hope you can make it! Call your friends and classmates and encourage them to attend! Contact the Alumni Association to find out who your class representative is. With the help of our alumni we can ensure that each class member will be notified of the upcoming celebrations. Fall Homecoming Brandon University 50’s Style Special thanks to Mr. Michael Czuboka, ’57 for initiating the ’50s celebration and for contacting many alumni from the 1950s. If you graduated within the decade of the 1950s, Mr. Czuboka would like to hear from you! To receive his regular Homecoming email bulletins, contact him at: czuboka@mts.net. Also, Dr. Garth Kidd, ’56 is creating a 1950s Super Sickle so send in your updates and photos to be included in this special edition to Dr. Kidd at: kidd@primus.ca. Alumni from the classes of 1939, 1949 & 1969, send in your updates and photos to be included in your class booklet, to the Alumni Association at: 270 – 18th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 6A9 or email: alumni@brandonu.ca. Thanks to all of the class representatives and everyone who is assisting with organizing this reunion. Book your hotel rooms early! A block of rooms have been reserved at: Homecoming Events: We have a selection of events lined up for the weekend! We encourage you to take in as many as you can! HOMECOMING CHECK-IN: Let us know you have arrived! A check-in table will be set-up at each event where you may pick up your name tag and your weekend itinerary. Take this opportunity to see who else has arrived! Friday October 23 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. The Victoria Inn (Main Venue) 3550 Victoria Avenue West Brandon, MB Ph: 1.877.842.4667 or 204.725.1532 Group Booking #: 129692 The Royal Oak Inn & Suites 3130 Victoria Avenue Brandon, MB Ph: 1.800.852.2709 or 204.728.5775 Group Booking #: 142213 Canad Inns 1125 – 18th Street Brandon, MB Ph: 1.888.332.2623 or 204.727.1422 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Campus Tour – No Cost Room 104 – Clark Hall Your guided tour will begin in the old Chapel Room in Clark Hall. Take a journey into the past as you walk through the halls of campus buildings old and new. 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Class Dinners – Individual costs Various Locations Informal dinners are being organized through class representatives. If you would like to find out if there is a special dinner planned for your class or would like to organize a dinner, please contact the Alumni Association office at 204.727.9697 for assistance. A special dinner for the decade of the 1950s is scheduled at the Victoria Inn. 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Welcome Reception – Cost: $12.00 – Cash Bar Victoria Inn – Imperial Ballroom Gather with your fellow graduates as we welcome back alumni from all years! Enjoy hot hors d’oeuvres and fresh fruit as you mix and mingle, and be sure to dip into the chocolate fountain as the festivities progress. 8:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Enjoy the music of The Retreads featuring alumni members Brian Thorkelson ’58 and Bill Fraser ’51. Flight Bookings: WestJet is offering a discounted rate to our Homecoming participants. Call WestJet at: 1.888.493.7853 Booking #: QC5931 Class Gifts 22 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 Bridge Tournament – Cost: $5.00 Victoria Inn – Imperial Ballroom Graduates from all years are invited to join other alumni for an afternoon of bridge (just like old times). You do not need to be an expert to play. Players and cards will be mixed at random. Prizes will be awarded. This is meant to be a social gathering and a place for people to meet, rather than a serious competition. Warning! If you played bridge in the old canteen or in one of the residences while at Brandon College, this event may provoke nostalgia. If you are interested in joining fellow classmates in creating a legacy for your class through a class gift, please contact the Department of Institutional Advancement at 204.727.7374 or email development@brandonu.ca REGISTER NOW! Saturday October 24 Class Reunions – No Cost Classes of 1939, 1949, 1950 – 1959, 1969 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. The Gathering Space – John E. Robbins Library Bring your old photographs, Sickles and memorabilia and enjoy a cup of coffee as you walk down memory lane with classmates from your anniversary year and view a slideshow of the past. Tour the S.J. McKee Archives, find your class flag and read the headlines from past issues of The Quill. 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Alumni Luncheon – “Salute to the 50s” For All Class Years – Cost: $12.00 Kinsmen Hall – School of Music Enjoy a light lunch and join in the story-telling during the open microphone session. This is an opportunity to socialize and share your memorable or funny experiences about Brandon College/University. 10:00 a.m. Name: Graduation Year(s): Degree Type(s): Spouse/Guest(s): Address: Province: Country: Postal/Zip Code: Phone (Home): (Work): Fax: Email: Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum Tour & City of Brandon Tour r Please check here if we can include your name and class year on our website as an attendee of this year’s Homecoming. Reception – Cash Bar Homecoming Banquet & Awards Presentation Cost: $30.00 Main Dining Hall – Brandon University Enjoy a full-course buffet meal and join in the celebrations as we recognize the accomplishments of the 2009 Alumni Award recipients. Following this, you will have the pleasure of listening to guest speaker – fellow alumnus and Brandon University Chancellor Mr. Henry Champ. In keeping with the 50s theme, we will wrap up the evening with the entertainment, music and fun of Elvis Tribute Artist Corney Rempel. Sunday October 25 r Dr. r Mr. r Mrs. r Ms r Miss. City: Main Dining Hall – Brandon University Enjoy refreshments as you prepare for a relaxing evening among friends. 6:30 p.m. REGISTRATION Please fill in the registration form below (please print clearly): Campus Tour – No Cost Room 104 – Clark Hall If you missed the Friday tour, you can get in on this one! Your guided tour will begin in the old Chapel Room in Clark Hall. Take a journey into the past as you walk down the halls of campus buildings old and new. Cost: $10.00 Board the bus for a guided tour of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum located at the Brandon Municipal Airport. Following the tour, experience Brandon as we show you the city’s highlights. 6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. There are four ways to register or receive further information: 1. Online: alumni.brandonu.ca/homecoming 2. Call: 1.877.282.4483 or 204.727.9697 3. Email: alumni@brandonu.ca 4. Mail: Brandon University Alumni Association, 270 – 18th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 6A9 Farewell Brunch – Cost: $15.00 Private Dining Room – Brandon University Tell the last of your stories and say your final farewells over a hot breakfast as you prepare to head home. Post a message on the Homecoming Message Board on our website at alumni.brandonu.ca/homecoming I want to register for: Friday, October 23 Bridge Tournament: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. # Brandon University Campus Tour: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. # at no charge = at $5.00 = Informal Class Dinners: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. I am interested in a dinner for the Class of: Welcome Reception: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Including entertainment by The Retreads # at $12.00 = Saturday, October 24 Class Reunions: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 1939, 1949, 1950 – 1959 & 1969 # at no charge = Alumni Luncheon: Salute to the ’50s 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. For all Class Years I wish to be seated with the Class of: # Brandon University Campus Tour: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. at $12.00 = # at no charge = Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & City of Brandon Tour: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Homecoming Reception, Banquet Awards & Entertainment: 6:00 p.m. I wish to be seated with the Class of: Sunday, October 25 Farewell Brunch: 10:00 a.m. # at $10.00 = # at $30.00 = # at $15.00 = PAID BY: r Cheque r Visa r Mastercard r American Express Please make cheques payable to Brandon University Credit Card #: TOTAL Expiry Date (MM/YY): Signature: Send to: Brandon University Alumni Association 270 – 18th Street, Brandon, Manitoba, CANADA R7A 6A9 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 23 Kimberly Spears (B.Mus. ’97) has loved music since she was a sixyear-old begging for singing lessons. She has followed her dream of being a singer/songwriter ever since, going on to record four albums, open for Three Dog Night and earn three Manitoba Country Music Association Award nominations. “I was and am so moved when I hear music that I just always knew that music was my calling,” she says. Spears began her post-secondary education in music at the University of Victoria, but came home for the summer break dissatisfied. That was when she heard of BU’s world-class music program and its excellent vocal teacher Sylvia Richardson. “I immediately wanted to audition for Brandon University,” says Spears, who was soon accepted to BU on a scholarship and transferred from the University of Victoria to complete her Bachelor of Music degree. “It was the best decision by far that I have made throughout my musical training.” One of the best parts of Spears’ BU experience was the feeling of becoming a family with her fellow music students. “We encouraged one another to work hard and excel, and of course we supported each other’s social sides that were not so school oriented,” she says. She also valued the expertise of Sylvia Richardson, who had a great impact on Spears’ love for music, work ethic and ability. “In addition to being excellent in her field, Sylvia was kind and nurturing but also tough and motivating,” says Spears. “Her passion was evident in every lesson, every performance and in her dedication to her students.” ALUMNA PROFILE: BY: LISA THOMSON KIMBERLY SPEARS , B.Mus. ’97 Following her graduation in 1997 Kimberly moved to Winnipeg to make her first record. She began writing songs and teamed up with producers Brandon Friesen and Craig Fotheringham to complete the album Don’t Hesitate in 1998. This lead to a personal management contract with Paul Mascioli of the Mascioli Entertainment Corporation. Education,” explains Kimberly. “I was exploring other avenues for my future, but the fact is that I kept coming back to music. So I started writing, not for a record, not for any specific genre or reason, but just to be creative. After writing 30-plus tunes I knew what to do – make another record.” Paul was based in Orlando, Florida and encouraged Spears to move south of the border. “Upon settling in Orlando,” she says, “I began performing three to five nights per week at various resorts and events (Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and throughout the southern States) all the while making frequent trips to Nashville to work on a CD.” She met with and researched several record studios in Edmonton, eventually ending up at Homestead Recorders. Producer Barry Allen listened to her sing and play her songs on guitar and, she says, “he immediately saw my vision of where I wanted to take this record.” Then, in 1999, after failing to land the record deal she hoped for following a Nashville showcase, Kimberly decided that after three years of performing, writing and recording in the south, it was time to go home and do some soul searching. “Upon returning to Canada I moved to Red Deer, AB and enrolled in an after degree program where I completed my Bachelor of 14 2 0 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 8 They worked hard for over a year, and in January 2009 her latest album Losing A Layer was finished. Currently Kimberly is rehearsing a new band, booking gigs and doing shows, promoting the record and preparing for a radio release. She has followed her passion and loves to be able to do what she does: creating and sharing music and entertaining. BRANDON UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION As we head into Convocation and our Annual General Meeting, the BU Foundation has had a busy and very productive year. Our Fundraising and Stewardship sub-committees are well under way and we are looking forward to recruiting more members from across Canada. The Standing Ovation Campaign for the School of Music has now raised over $704,000 and the total continues to grow. Thank you to all the alumni, donors and corporate friends who have supported us on this important initiative. Our Annual Fund Campaign was also very successful, with an increase in average gift size and $52,000 raised – a true testament to the value that our alumni place on supporting the highest quality education. Early this spring, we had the opportunity to dedicate a new gathering space on campus with the unveiling of the Lewis D. Whitehead Atrium. This beautiful space is located in front of the CGA Conference Centre on the second floor of Clark Hall and features a couch, chairs and tables, which were generously donated by Ashley Furniture Homestore. Completing this are four impressive arches designed by Dr. Louis Visentin and a variety of plants, which were contributed by the BU Beautification Committee. On May 29, the Foundation held the Presidents’ Circle NEWorks Art Auction and Exhibition. This event featured art of all types by students and faculty within the Visual and Aboriginal Arts Program. It was an exciting evening of art, food and surprises! Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Visentin as he retires from BU for his strong commitment to the Foundation and his ongoing support of our fundraising initiatives throughout his term. It has been a pleasure working with Dr. Visentin. On behalf of the Foundation, I wish him and his wife Mary all the best as he completes his term as President and Vice-Chancellor at Brandon University. Sincerely, Dr. Jeff Bales, BU Foundation President BRANDON UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION The Brandon University Foundation was incorporated in 1980 with a mission to promote the advancement of higher education at Brandon University and to improve the quality of its facilities and activities. Since then, the Foundation has helped to raise and continues to steward over $30 million. Executive President, Dr. Jeff Bales Vice-President, Ms Pat Britton Past-President, Mr. Doug Adams Treasurer, Mr. Shawn de Delley Dr. Jeff Bales President, Brandon University Foundation As we celebrate 100 years of music excellence in training and performance at BU, the Standing Ovation Campaign continues to raise funds to help ensure that our School of Music continues to be one of Canada's most illustrious music schools. We thank the many supporters who together have enabled us to raise more than $704,000 for new musical instruments, scholarships and bursaries, teaching support, and outreach. For information on giving options including the Lorne Watson Recital Hall Seat Sale, please call 204.727.7374 or toll-free 1.877.282.4483. Phil Cotterill (right) presents a cheque to Dr. Michael Kim, Dean of the School of Music to establish the Connor, Clark & Lunn Financial Group Bursary in Music. This gift, matched dollar-for-dollar by the Manitoba Scholarships and Bursaries Initiative, will generate an award valued at approximately $3,000 per year for students in financial need. Members Ms Kristal Bayes Mr. Shawn Chambers Mr. Jeff Fawcett Mr. Jagdish Malik Mr. Edward Mazer Mr. Garry T. Miller Mr. Stephen Montague Mr. Brian Pallister, M.P. Mrs. Diane Peters Mr. Tom Rice Mr. Ernie Shaw Mr. Scott Stewart Ex-Officio BU President & Vice-Chancellor Dr. Louis P. Visentin Vice-President, Administration & Finance Mr. Scott Lamont Director, Institutional Advancement Ms Cindy Yacyshen His Worship Mayor Dave Burgess BRANDON UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION Kent and Naomi Forman present a Joseph Guarnerius fecit Cremona anno 1718 violin to Dean of Music Dr. Michael Kim (centre). 270 – 18th Street, Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6A9 Phone: 204.727.7374 Fax: 204.727.4674 Email: foundation@brandonu.ca Healthy Living Centre will support BU's elite athletics The Healthy Living Centre at BU will be home to the Bobcat varsity teams. By creating a national-class basketball and volleyball court as well as vastly increasing practice space, the centre will greatly enhance Brandon University’s athletic programs. “The new Healthy Living Centre will give a major boost to the Bobcat programs and allow BU to be competitive in recruiting the finest student-athletes to attend Brandon University,” says BU Athletic Director Kirk De Fazio. You can be a part of BU’s Healthy Living Centre. To learn about ways to contribute, contact the Department of Institutional Advancement at: 204.727.7374 or 1.877.282.4483. De Fazio displays the Bobcats Men’s Volleyball team’s CIS Bronze Medal; evidence of the athletic excellence already present at BU. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 25 ANNUAL FUND DONORS BY CLASS YEAR Thanks to alumni across Canada and beyond, the 2008-09 Annual Fund has raised more than $52,000. This generous support helps to provide a high quality education for our students. Funds raised will be designated to each of our five faculties, increase scholarship and bursary support, provide new library acquisitions and much more. A portion of these funds has been designated to the Standing Ovation Campaign for our School of Music, and to the Healthy Living Centre. Thank you BU alumni! 1933 Dorothy F. McDowell Grace D. O’Brien 1935 Helen A. Toms 1936 Wendell H. Hewitt-White 1937 Einar Egilsson Jean L. Varcoe 1938 Catherine F. Ackland Margaret A. MacKenzie 1939 Clifford H. Bowes 1941 Margaret L. Eggleton 1942 Dorothy C. Tinline 1945 Margaret E. Watt 1946 Dr. James G. Lindsay 1947 Anne R. Fahrig Evelyn B. Salt 1948 Harlaine I. Armstrong Lois M. Daly Olive J. Fleming Francis J. Humphries Norman W. MacLeod Leon L. Price Doreen P. Shanks 1949 Edna M. Crane Dr. Clayton T. Elston Tena I. Gough Peter Hendry Marian E. Rutt 1950 Margaret L. Davison Donald S. Sumner Marjorie E. Trott Ida M. Wyllie 1951 The Honourable Ronald D. Bell Barton C. Bruce Doreen Smillie 1952 Donna J. Agnew John M. Andrews Ernest E. Criddle Neil K. McKellar Garfield W. McMahon Dr. Kenneth H. McNeely 1953 Patricia A. Gaye James McKibbon 1954 Donald N. Adams Winnifred Campbell Albert Gogol Margaret I. Tjaden 1955 Shirley J. Clancy Dr. William G. Graham Barrie T. McLeod Helen E. Mitchell Marjorie R. Pringle Dr. Gordon D. Williams 1956 Allen E. Hattie Elizabeth M. Hinch Norma M. Shepherd 1957 Dr. Garth M. Bray Mina J. Dyck A Generous Person Jean Mitchell 1958 James L. Callander William J. Friesen Myrna Hall Elizabeth Hammond Norman C. Hedison Leone Hillier Jean E. Paton Jean E. Rust 1959 Cameron B. Davreux James B. Donaghy Gary C. Martin Herbert R. Murray Wayne Pettapiece 1960 Kathleen Antrobus Nancy Birch Darlene Bright Alfred R. Brooks Sandra G. Donin John C. Easter 1961 Donna J. Adrian Nona J. Chlan Elsie M. Dickenson Hugh A. Halliday Brian J. McKenzie Shirley M. Moore Gladwyn L. Scott Agnes M. Stephenson Averill M. Whitfield 1962 Ian D. Barnes Martha E. Fair William H. McRuer Lelonie M. Whitmore 1963 Eric A. Hillman Marjorie Leach Nola M. McBurney Daniel C. J. Warnez 1964 Garry R. Atchison Faye Baron Frances M. Clayton Carole E. Dence A. B. Miller Dr. Isabelle M. Mills James M. Simmons Elizabeth J. Sprott Patricia C. Thorn Eleanor E. Tilton 1965 Christina E. Cassels Jeannette M. Dawes Margaret Hannah David J. McDowell Treva C. Ricou Norrine P. Shobrooke 1966 Bruce Duncan J. Batt Clair Davies Donna R. Gamache Henry P. Klassen Roland P. North Carol M. Popplewell John W. Russell Edith A. Treller 1967 Prema Bursa Michael P. Czuboka Adriaan C. de Hoog A Generous Person Rita Howell Cheryl Johnston Morna Paterson Linda S. Schrader 1968 Brenda J. Birks Barry C. Danard Patricia J. Forsythe Dennis V. Holmlund Mary Kalberg James E. Leptick Colin Mailer Dr. Brian D. Manns Norman V. Peterson Allen E. Snart Harry Van Mulligen Margaret A. Yorke 1969 Elizabeth J. Armstrong Lon F. Brandon Nancy E. Cornish A Generous Person John B. Irvine Stuart T. Johnson Katherine M. Kaye Paul A. Laval Joyce E. Logan Edward J. Mazer David E. McInnes Juliet M. McLachlan Sharon Nylen Brian E. O’Donnell John A. Yeboah Donna Young 1970 Brian H. Bailey Sally Bender Angela Brawn Marguerite L. Campbell Paul J. Curtis Ralph J. Gardiner Homer W. Gill Edward N. Gorchynski Esther Hansen Barry O. Minish Thelma Peregrino -Solomon Marion A. Robinsong Sandra M. Schepp James D. Wheeler Margaret L. Wilkie 1971 Gerald L. Cowie Dr. Emmett J. Elves Dorothy E. Kilburn Mark E. Litowitz Marjorie E. McCamis Larry E. McCrady Margaret A. McPherson Eldon M. Montgomery Sharon Moore Jane G. Walton 1972 Barry F. Anderson Dean R. Boyd Laura Crookshanks Norman Koe D. G. McIntyre Jill E. Witcher Dr. Wo K. Yuen 1973 David P. August Donald L. Berry Harvey A. Bridgeman Vona E. Cochrane David R. Fairlie Danny C. Ferg Diane F. Howell James D. Jardine Frances E. MacDougall Murray MacMillan Swaroop Reddi Donna L. Reid Edward D. Sklar Morris J. Stefaniuk Margaret Taylor David Toderian Donald E. Tully 1974 Robert D. Campbell Robert G. Deveson Margo F. Foxford Melvin R. Ham Colleen R. Jury Dona M. Keys Richard S. Marshall Lawrence Peterson Harold J. Pullaw Carol Ross-Harms John E. Stonehouse Carol Wilkie 1975 Robert A. Bell Brian G. Colli Joy R. Dell Leonard Derkach Robert R. McLennan Alfreda W. Mostoway Robert L. Neumann Allistair G. Scott Dr. Paul H. Sharpe Catherine A. Wark 1976 Irene E. Bauman Elaine A. Bollman Debra Carnegie Colin G. Cassidy Ronald R. Cockerill Bruce A. Craig Dennis F. Gluska Colin S. Goldstone Ann H. Hanks Dale Harvey Jean C. Heath Christoper W. Kennedy Beverly J. Leadbeater Jean H. MacKinnon Dr. Henry A. Schellenberg Judith Seafoot Agnes E. Smith Elizabeth M. Stewart Donna M. Vrooman Ellen J. Young 1977 Kenneth D. Bosiak Lorna J. Coe Terrance M. DeRoo Patrick J. Donahoe Lorraine Griffiths Dr. D. G. Jackson Audrey M. Keeler Linda C. Muzyka Mildred B. Racine David Wilken 1978 Faye E. Arthurson William M. Bolley Ellen Carter William J. Chester Josephine V. Chudzik Barbara J. Hamilton Eric J. Hemmerling Jacqueline P. Hurton Clifford C. Mackie Anne Matiation Karen Lucille S. Robbins Mark E. Wolfe 1979 George Antoniadis Gay V. Boese Helen Christoffersen Lydia L. Comty Gordon K. Goldsmith Jeffrey D. Harder Sherry L. Helwer Jean M. Kustra Robert David J. Lamont Douglas G. Pedden Linda Sanderson Lynne Shier Metro Solomon David Tesarowski Barbara D. Wolfe 1980 Dr. Leslie C. Carrothers Jim E. Durnin Patricia M. Ghazouly Violet L. Joss Patricia G. McKenzie Elizabeth J. McLeod Margaret McNutt -Reichelt Melva M. Milne G. B. Muirhead Dr. John L. Murdoch Aurellia Obradovic George Reimer Dorothy M. Sadler Alma E. Toms Helen Woychyshyn 1981 Debbie A. Clevett Evelyn R. Currie Anne L. Dickson Rolanda J. Eirikson David C. Hanly Annette D. Logeot Suzanne A. McIntosh Mavis I. Smith Gerald P. Stitt 1982 John B. Berry Crystal M. Cockerill Owen J. Cory Alicia N. Dzisiak Alvin Friesen Gladys Kerr Joel M. Salaysay John Tropin 1983 Poppy Cumming Vivian F. Ellis Timothy M. Goater Greg A. Lawson Debbie Phythian Barry L. Rambold Helen L. Stewart Alexander D. Tolton 1984 Richard N. Cotton Janet E. Lumsden Elizabeth A. Mitchell Bernice M. Robb Janet Sirski Catherine V. Snitka 1985 Heather D. Hart James S. Martin James McNeely Dr. Kathleen M. Moquin Kelvin G. Nachtigall Inderjit S. Panesar Dr. Len J. Rust Dr. Robert K. Springer Kimberley Stovel Edna I. Wells 1986 Elsie E. Beavis Glenn R. Carradice Dr. Thomas S. Colina Edna M. Cookson Jean Corriveau John A. Courchene Helen L. Deacon Greg V. Dyck Norman J. Finlay Willa B. Fowles Lorie D. Garcia Perri L. Gardner Michelle R. Gervin Jane L. Keeling-Ribbel Shelly J. Mortensen Tracy D. Wheeler-Anderson 1987 John K. Fox Sara A. Gillis Diane E. Gordon Eva M. Griemann Linda L. Grossart Lisa H. Kohlmeier Joan MacKay Linda R. Munro Wah S. Tan 1988 Richard W. Nagorski Dr. Norma E. Walmsley Jona V. Weitzel Monica J. Woods 1989 Linda M. Kennedy Karen L. Labahn Patricia E. MacDonald Lori S. McBeth Margaret A. Menzies Philip P. M. O’Brien -Moran Kevin L. Paramor 1990 Sheila Monica G. Connon Jo-Anne L. Lewis Melanie H. Martens Shauna L. McQuarrie 1991 David Appleby Barbara L. Jones Alison G. Murray Alma A. Spence 1992 William S. Lamont David Rehaluk Debbie D. Rocan 1993 Gregory J. Bryant Kathleen M. Depass Ian O. Hamberg Arlette D. Knelsen Kerry K. McQuarrie- Smith 1994 Lori D. Carlson-Judson Joann I. Sauvé Catherine A. Websdale 1995 Paul A. Barre Amelia S. Reid Nancy E. Smith Martin Blaine C. Steen Cheryl A. Winger Weiming Zhao 1996 Barbara D. Engel Deanna F. Henderson Heather J. Hutton Rolande F. Lemoing Daniel W. Wharf 1997 Ryan B. Hehn Sandra M. Loeppky Tyler A. Maksymchuk Lily O’Driscoll Chadwin K. Peters Sophie Sarah M. Spence 1998 Kevin S. Binda Linda E. Friesen 1999 Margaret Hanulik Nicole E. Russell A Generous Person 2000 Matthew M. Houle Jennifer L. Rice R. B. White 2001 Dawna J. Deroy Caroline A. Harvey Carolyn B. Kobylka Liesel S. Krahn Douglas A. VanDamme 2002 Gloria J. Campbell David M. Ginsberg 2003 Wendy J. Ardron Joanne Hurley 2004 Dianne K. Bauman Larry D. Eagle Joanne M. Kyle Moira L. Woods 2005 Michael G. Abbey 2006 Noreen G. Bailey Heather D. Grobb Michelle J. Mcmillan 2007 Albert K. Seekings Non-Alumni A Pet Lover’s Warehouse Catherine W. Brockway Joyce Cawston Dr. Gerald W. Coueslan Norma Farquharson Tim Grieve Donna M. Leech Dr. Morris K. Mott Elsie A. Strain Dr. Cameron C. Symons Maria Szivos Russell Thompson Dr. Paul H. Westdal Every effort has been made to ensure that this listing is accurate and complete. Please report any errors or omissions to the Department of Institutional Advancement at 204.727.7374 or toll free 1.877.282.4483. Donors of $1,000 or more are listed in our Order of the Sheaf in the Brandon University Foundation Annual Report. To request a copy, please call one of the numbers listed above. 26 SPRING/SUMMER 2009 Riding the Falls for Louis Visentin on the occasion of his retirement from a distinguished nine year presidency at Brandon University IN YOUR WORDS SUBMITTED BY: DI BRANDT Canada Research Chair in Creative Writing He was three years old then, too old to be carried. Jack up the beanstock, climbed clumsily back over the metal crying their mournful gull's cry. What about glancing ever so lightly There were other babies now. It was hard to keep up fence, puffing, onto dry ground. Whew. Where's that daddy's on the tips of the waves, like sunlight, like diamonds, sparkling, with adults sometimes, their big steps, big words, big ideas. safe warm hand, quick, there. His mommy and auntie, bobbing up, bobbing down. He was only three. But he saw But standing there, on the edge of the grand falls, clasping snuggling their new babies, reached out busy mother hands the world flash its heart to him then, opening, to let him in. his father's strong hand tightly, he had a big idea of his own. and patted him on the back. O, but then the water called him He saw the Graces, draped in rainbow-coloured gowns, reaching He let his silvery soul waft out over the electric white rush again, Louie, Louie, here, here, come here, here, here, come here. down through the blue and gold air, to touch him through the mist, of the water, ferociously greeting the air as it danced This time he made himself small, like an ant, small enough to fit with treasures in their hands, a wand of fire, a sceptre, a lyre. its grand way down, down. He experimented a little, in the tiny boat sailing in circles under the falls, and crawled down Here, they said, here, these are for you, little Lou, let himself fall with it, bruised, flung, mindless, straight on the curling mist, craftily, to hang out with the tiny ant people there. they are big, they are small, they are what you make of them, to the far rocks, mist-shrouded, below. No. He clambered What about hovering over the canal, like the gulls, swooping in for as you become who you are, creative, adventurous, daring, back up the roaring sheets of foam anti-gravitationally, fish, veering so close to the precipice without ever missing their mark, as someday everyone will see, distinguished, silverwinged, tall. IN YOUR WORDS If you have some wonderful stories to tell, we invite you to submit articles to In Your Words for consideration for this section of the Alumni News magazine. Please send articles and photos to: communications@brandonu.ca or call 204.727.9762 for more information. Articles should be no longer than 500 words. We look forward to hearing from you. SPRING/SUMMER 2009 27 DISPLAY YOUR SUCCESS! A lifelong academic achievement deserves a frame for a lifetime. G A B C D E F A lifelong academic achievement deserves a frame for a lifetime. Don’t relegate your diploma to the bottom of a drawer. Frame it in a distinctive, high quality frame and present it with pride. Make your selection from: A – Gold Metal – Classic gold frame with single mat. B – Black Vogue – Black metal frame with a wider contemporary moulding. C – Traditional Wood – Walnut coloured wood with double mat. D – Briarwood – Contemporary-looking with a wide, flat profile and a satin mahogany coloured finish. E – Diplomat – Highly lacquered mahogany coloured wood with triple mat. H I F – Diplomat Plus – Top of the line, highly lacquered mahogany coloured moulding, suede mat and gold wood fillet in the mat opening. G – Emblematic Mirror – 7.5 x 7.5 mirror, comes in gold, silver or black. H – Vanguard Black Emblematic Album – holds 200 3.5 x 5 or 4 x 6 photos in easy slip in pockets along with slide-in memo writing strips under each. I – Kingsley Sewn Emblematic Album – holds 100 3.5 x 5 or 4 x 6 photos in easy slip in pockets with black background. Comes in assorted colours - green with tan spine; navy with grey spine; or maroon with green spine. ORDER FORM DESCRIPTION A: GOLD METAL B: BLACK VOGUE C: TRAD. WOOD D: F: E: BRIAR- DIPLOMAT DIPLOMAT WOOD PLUS Diploma 45.00 55.00 65.00 90.00 110.00 130.00 Portrait 11x14 fits 8x10 35.00 40.00 45.00 55.00 65.00 75.00 Portrait 8x10 fits 5x7 25.00 30.00 35.00 45.00 55.00 65.00 QTY Name Telephone Address QTY G: EMBLEMATIC MIRROR City Province r Visa r Mastercard Postal Code r American Express r Cheque payable to Brandon University Alumni Association Gold 20.00 Silver Black H: VANGUARD EMBLEMATIC ALBUM I: KINGSLEY EMBLEMATIC ALBUM Green 15.00 20.00 Navy 15.00 20.00 Maroon 15.00 Black Only 20.00 Prices include all applicable taxes. Shipping and Handling ($8.50) Card Number Expiry Date Total Signature GST Registration #106806789RT Brandon University Alumni Association, 270 – 18th Street, Brandon, MB, CANADA R7A 6A9 Email: alumni@brandonu.ca Tel: 204.727.9697 Fax: 204.727.4674 www.alumni.brandonu.ca Brandon University Alumni Association, 270 – 18th Street, Brandon, MB, CANADA R7A 6A9 If this issue is addressed to someone no longer a permanent resident of your home, please notify us so we can properly forward future issues. If any readers have comments or questions about this publication (or would like to submit story ideas), call 204.727.9697 or email alumni@brandonu.ca, or write us at the above address. Thank you. PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40064061