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theU N I V E R S I T Y O F L E T H B R I D G E

By TREVOR KENNEy

Only once did Priscilla Patel look over her shoulder and wonder if she’d done the

right thing. It was then that she relied upon her father’s reassurance to settle her fears.

Now, one semester later, Patel still looks to her father for guidance but fear has given way to excite-ment, and trepidation has been replaced by a confidence that helps support an entire family.

“Priscilla has really grown up,” her mother Malti says. “I see a lot of difference in her since coming down here, she has totally matured.”

The Patel family members have all come a long way. A year ago the entire family was in its home country of Malaysia, Priscilla set to graduate from high school, excited about a future she hoped would lead her to the United States and a dream job with animation studio Pixar.

That’s when Trish Jackson of the University of Lethbridge’s International Centre for Students happened upon Malti at a Study in Canada event.

“When we met Miss Trish,

everything changed,” Malti says. “We found that this university was what we were looking for, it had a lot to offer her.”

Jackson, an international recruitment officer, extolled the virtues of the University and the burgeoning new media program being offered in the Faculty of Fine Arts. Little did she know that she was recruiting Malti as much as she was wooing Priscilla, because there was no way the Patels were sending Priscilla to Lethbridge on her own.

“It’s not very often we find a student who has a parent and sib-lings who are relocating with them, so this was a little bit of a special situation for us,” says Jackson.

Along with Priscilla and Malti came her three brothers and sisters, 12-year old Natasha, nine-year old Nashania and seven-year old Dar-ren. Only Ashok, the father, stayed behind.

Suddenly, Jackson was more of a resource than she’d ever been before.

“I think my biggest role was trying to answer questions before they actually arrived,” Jackson says.

“Beyond student support, it’s

really difficult for our office to pro-vide a lot of support to the family. Aside from trying to answer ques-tions and providing some contacts in the local school division for the younger children, most of the sup-port the family ended up needing came from the Immigrant Services Department of Lethbridge Family Services.”

Malti gives Jackson a little more credit.

“Miss Trish was constantly in touch with us, whatever questions we had she was always willing to answer,” she says. “What we wanted to know about the University, the city, even the education for our other children, she guided us in every way.”

It was a bold decision to come to Canada but one that sent a strong message to Malti and Ashok’s children. They seem to understand that the risk their parents have made is for their best interests and have embraced the transition from Malaysia to Canada. Leading the way is Priscilla.

cONTiNuEd ON pg. 4

The U of L Legend is published monthly during the academic year by the communications unit within University Advancement. Submissions, comments and story ideas are always welcome. The Legend reserves the right to refuse any submitted advertisement. The Legend can be found online at www.uleth.ca/unews/legend. Next content deadline is Mar. 19, 2010.

ADVERTIS INGFor ad rates or other information, contact:legend@uleth.ca

CREDITSEditor: Trevor KenneyDesigner: Stephenie Karsten

CoNTRIbuToRS:Abby Allen, Amanda Berg, Diane Britton, Bob Cooney, Jane Edmundson, Jana McFarland, Suzanne McIntosh, Kali McKay, Stacy Seguin, Katherine Wasiak and Ben Young

u of L degree has Mass Effect on brad Kinley

Lavorato gets the most out of his talents

Judy Jaeger feels need to give back

Digital Audio Arts studio taking shape

University of Lethbridge4401 University DriveLethbridge, AB T1K 3M4www.ulethbridge.ca

A family of support

The technology that powers the switching systems in the university Hall elevators will take a big leap forward beginning in late March. The 1960s vintage switches that control elevator movements will be replaced with electronic circuit boards.Here, Rick Peter, manager, operation and controls, looks over a large panel of switches soon to be replaced with a circuit board the size of a small toaster oven. The change over takes at least 10 weeks per elevator, beginning with the b block elevator, which will be out of service, March 22 to June 4.

Switching out

The u of L’s International Centre for Students has assisted the entire Patel family in adjusting to a new life in Canada.

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Tickets are on sale until the end of the semester, at different functions, and from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm weekdays at the Students’ Union office (SU180), the Advancement Office in University Hall (A735) and theSU Service Center in the SU Building.

One of the things I have always enjoyed about the University is the

unique and fun way in which we accomplish very significant tasks.

The Michael Nolan cam-paign is a perfect example of this innovative spirit. I have enjoyed thoroughly every aspect of this exercise, from the creation of the concept to the making of the video and then last week’s launch/reveal event. The most important factor in all this is that the end result will be the establishment of a scholarship that will benefit our students.

Of course, the winner of the Michael Nolan car is also acquir-ing a fine automobile. I’ve heard from a number of people who really want this car, and I hope

that whoever wins the raffle understands the meaning of tender loving care.

There are a number of excellent events on campus this month, beginning this week with the annual Native Awareness Week. I urge everyone to find a way to take part in the many events that are scheduled. We truly have a rich and vibrant ab-original culture here in southern Alberta and it is well represented at the University through our Native American Studies Department and many areas of campus.

Later this month, the annual Brain Awareness Week, Mar. 15 to 20, showcases the exciting and groundbreaking research proj-ects being undertaken in the Canadian Centre for Behav-

ioural Neuroscience. The Open House event on Mar. 20 is a won-derful opportunity to step inside the CCBN and get a glimpse of some amazing research being conducted by the people in neu-roscience.

The U of L is continually ahead of the curve when it comes to programming and innova-tion. We have made a commit-ment through our Strategic Plan to keep looking forward and that is evident throughout our faculties. The new Digital Audio Arts program has been a huge success in just its first semester, while Health Sciences continues to prosper from its Public Health programming. In Education, the new Masters of Education in Neuroscience program is a fine example of

our expanded graduate pro-gramming, while the Faculty of Management is now offering its CA Bridging Program at our Calgary and Edmonton cam-puses. This program will allow students with non-busi-ness degrees to obtain the neces-sary business and accounting prerequisites for admission to the CA School of Business.

As this publication went to press, our Pronghorns athletic

teams were engaged in a number of key contests. Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams were involved in the first round of Canada West playoffs while the men’s hockey team was finishing off an excellent second half to the season and trying to clinch a playoff berth.

Congratulations to all our athletes who represented the University so well throughout the year.

THE BILLboardUniversity of Lethbridge President Dr. Bill Cade chatsabout what’s happening in the University community

Marian Godfrey, James Wade, Henry Heavy Shield and Dave bryant took home Plays and Prose prizes.

Audiences are invited to enjoy the winning play and short story from the U of L Plays and Prose Competition on Thursday, Mar. 18 at 8 p.m. in the David Spinks Theatre. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

The first prize winner in the play category was James Wade for Muse Control. The short story that took first place was Takeoff by Marian Godfrey. Both prize-winning works will enjoy their first public reading. Runners up in the prose cat-egory were Henry Heavy Shield for The Art of Fasting, which placed second, and Dave Bryant

for Out of Sight on Barstool Row, which placed third.

Generously supported by U of L alumnus Terry White-head, the competition aims to encourage excellence and development in student writing. As first prize winners, Wade and Godfrey each receive a $1,500 award. Second and third prize winners receive awards of $750 and $250 respectively.

The juries in both cat-egories had numerous positive comments about the winning entries. Godfrey’s short story Takeoff is a disturbing tale about someone suffering from an

eating disorder whose world is simultaneously fantastic and ultra-realistic. It is a story about both poverty and art. Jurors reviewed it as a compelling story that challenges both social and narrative conventions.

Jurors reviewing the play entries indicated that James Wade’s entry Muse Control had the potential for future produc-tions. They said Muse Con-trol did not overextend itself and pegged it a truly enjoyable play. There is a clear idea that is suc-cinct and carried through, lead-ing audiences on a very fun-ny journey.

PLAYS AND PROSE WINNERS TO DEBUT THEIR WORKS

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University of Lethbridge President Dr. Bill Cade chatsabout what’s happening in the University community

UNIVERSITY SCHOLARS PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS

A trio of diverse educa-tors from the University of Lethbridge will participate in the 2010 University Scholars Public Presentations series beginning in March.

Dr. Claudia Malacrida, Dr. Brian Titley and Lisa Doolittle will present free admis-sion lectures Mar. 9, Mar. 16 and Mar. 23 respectively, covering topics from the treatment of people with intellectual disabili-ties to the attempted reformation of female public sinners by the Catholic Church to an exami-nation of the role that dancing and spectacle helped define the identity of the Blackfoot people of southern Alberta.

The Board of Governors established the University

Scholars Program in 2007 to recognize the excellence of faculty members in the areas of research, scholarship and cre-ative performance. Each Univer-sity Scholar must give a public lecture or performance as part of the University Scholars Series at the University of Lethbridge during the two-year term of their designation as a University Scholar.

The presentations will highlight the ongoing research interests of U of L faculty and how they contribute to their course teachings. All lectures offer free admission, are open to anyone and take place at 4 p.m. in AH100.

– Dehumanization as a Way of Life: Alberta’s History of ‘Treating’ People with Intel-lectual Disabilities, Mar. 9

In 1928, with hopes of improving services for people deemed in the language of the time to be “mental defectives,” the province of Alberta opened the Provincial Training School

(eventually renamed The Mi-chener Centre) outside Red Deer. At one time housing over 2,300 inmates, the school operated hand in glove with the province’s Eugenics Board.

Residents of Michener were the largest single group of Alber-tans to experience involuntary sterilization. Based on interviews and archival materials, Malac-rida (sociology) describes daily life in the institution and the ways that space, time and care were organized to dehumanize and devalue the people who lived there.

“Understanding the history of places like Michener Centre is important,” says Malacrida. “Institutionalization is not dead, and Michener survivors can tell us why this approach is one we should not continue.”

– Penance, Prayers, and a Happy Death: Convents and Moral Rehabilitation of ‘Way-ward’ Women, Mar. 16

Late in the Middle Ages the Catholic Church established

convents to reform female ‘public sinners’ who were mainly, though not exclusively, prosti-tutes. The institutions, known as refuges or asylums, were usually named after Mary Magdalen.

In this presentation, Titley (education) provides a general history of Magdalen asylums as representations of the Catholic Church’s assumed authority in sexual morality. He exam-ines types of discipline in the institutions; the role of surveil-lance and isolation in preventing sinful relapses; and the practices of self-mortification that could lead to semi-religious status for the penitents and ultimately a happy death. He also looks at the transformation in North America of the asylums into private reformatories for ‘incor-rigible’ adolescent girls.

– Performing Negotiations: Blackfoot Dance/Spectacle, the Colony, and Multicultural Canada 1870-2010, Mar. 23

The Blackfoot people of southern Alberta use dancing/

spectacle to express identity and their ongoing negotiations with settler populations. In the late 19th Century, dancing among aboriginal peoples was banned. Beginning in the early 20th Century, aboriginal dance was showcased in corporate sponsored ‘white’ events like the Calgary Stampede and Banff ‘Indian Days’. Near the end of the 20th Century, the Canadian government passed the Multicul-turalism Act, “to recognize all Canadians as full and equal par-ticipants in Canadian society.”

Promoting culture-specific dance was fundamental to the multicultural agenda. Doolittle (theatre and dramatic arts) describes how representations of culture as performed in dance uncover the shifting policies concerning national identity and destabilize notions about the role of dance performances in Canadian multiculturalism.

By TREVOR KENNEy

Brad Kinley’s (BFA ’04) career path came down to a couple key decisions

– one that was well researched and another that was off the cuff. Now, the U of L alumnus is one of the key cogs behind the mass appeal of Mass Effect 2, one of the most popular and highly rated games ever made for the Xbox platform.

“I had an interest in games forever. It started with an Atari 2600 when I was a kid, and from then on I was hooked,” he says. “I’ve always been a gamer so to be able to develop games now as a character animator is amazing.”

Kinley, 27, works for the Canadian-based company Bio-Ware, a subsidiary of Electronic Arts, one of the world’s largest developers and distributors of video games. His path to Bio-Ware began in the U of L’s new media program.

Calgary born, Kinley visited the University before applying. He spoke with profes-sors, sat in on a few classes and was impressed. While friends of his opted to pursue certificates or diplomas from schools and colleges, Kinley liked the secu-rity promised by a university degree.

“It was a very new program, and I guess I was taking a bit of a chance, but the U of L is a well recognized institution,” he says. “It was much less risky than going with a lot of the other schools at that time that are now closed. I had friends going into one-year programs for highly technical things, but I thought the BFA would always be useful and applicable regardless of what I ended up doing.”

That decision was well thought out, while the one that really set his path was more of an after-thought.

“The University brings in really great guest speakers and John Carr from Pixar came in to talk and I remember telling a friend who’d missed the talk that it was life-changing,” says Kin-ley. “Seeing what he does and his approach to the whole process of character animation kind of crystallized what I wanted to do. It might sound cheesy but that’s exactly what I wanted to do.”

With a goal in mind, Kinley worked with the new media professors to specialize his interests. He retook an anima-

tion class he’d enjoyed and focused his studies on applica-tions that would relate to anima-tion.

“All my other classes I would work to relate it back to anima-tion because that was my key interest,” he says. “I received a lot of support once I decided what I wanted to do. James Graham, Dr. Will Smith and all the profes-sors that were here worked really hard to make sure I had access to opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”

Before long, the work he was doing in class was translating into the real world. He worked one summer at WhiteIron Digital, a leading visual effect and design

company for the broadcast com-munity, eventually completing his U of L internship there.

“All the graphics and designs they were working with at the time were all 2D and I came with a 3D background, and I knew how to render and com-posite and animate,” Kinley says.

He made his way into Bio-Ware after completing post-grad-uate work at Sheridan College in Ontario. It brought him back to his native Alberta and gave Kinley the opportunity for which he’d been preparing.

“There are things you learn in University that you think are not applicable at all, until you go out working and you realize

they are,” he says. “It can hap-pen on that first day or even two years later when you say, ‘I’m sure glad I took that sculpture class because all of a sudden it’s hugely applicable, and I now have a basis for moving on and learning more about it’.”

Kinley returned to the University in January and gave a presentation to another genera-tion of new media students.

“I know how influential my exposure was to somebody actu-ally working in the business,” he says. “If I can lend a little knowl-edge or inspiration to someone else, hopefully it will help them the way it helped me.”

New media program has Mass Effect on KinleyG E T T H E FAC T S

• Kinley is currently working on the development of Mass Effect 3.

• Mass Effect 2 was given a 96 per cent approval rating by the website Metacritic, tied for second all-time. Only Grand Theft Auto IV, at 98 per cent, rates higher.

• Kinley admits he rarely gets a chance to play games. “A lot of it is a time thing, but I still like to see what other games look like. The unfortunate thing is I get critical with them when I try and play, I’m always looking at what I would change or think I could do better.”

• One of Kinley’s earliest jobs was with Nintendo, as a game promoter.

brad Kinley made the most of his lab time while enrolled in the new media program.

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By KALI MCKAy

You might not recognize Judy Jaeger’s name but it’s quite likely you’d

recognize her smile, and there’s an even greater chance you appreciate the work she does.

As the manager of care-taking, Jaeger is responsible for ensuring a clean, safe and attractive campus for students, faculty, staff and our com-munity.

“I came to work at the U of L after 25 years in the cleaning business,” recalls Jaeger. “I’ve been here for two years now and really feel a strong sense of community on this campus. That’s something that’s always been important to me, so I feel very lucky to be a part of that.”

Believing that being part

of a community comes with certain responsibilities, Jaeger has always tried to give back.

“I think it’s important to give because I have the ability,” explains Jaeger. “Being in care-taking, I was always trying to make things better for others by maintaining a healthy and clean environment. I wanted to keep giving but was looking for another way to do it.”

Jaeger recently estab-lished the Judy Jaeger Bursary, an award aimed at helping students in financial need. The award demonstrates Jaeger’s deep appreciation for the sense of belonging she feels at the U of L, and her strong com-mitment to ensuring contin-ued opportunities for students.

“We have a lot of students who work casually or even part and full time,” explains Jaeger. “I see how they struggle and

how hard they have to work to make ends meet. It’s nice to be able to help students because without them, none of us would be here.”

Jaeger hopes her gen-erosity will result in lasting impacts.

“I believe if you help people – especially when they’re young – then they could go on to do anything,” explains Jaeger. “If you give to students they can make their own dreams come true and hopefully make the world bet-ter for the rest of us.”

In addition, Jaeger stresses that in tough times, individual donations – regardless of the size of the gift – make a differ-ence.

“I don’t think that it mat-ters how much you give,” says Jaeger. “If everyone gave a little it would all add up to a lot.”

ContInued froM pg. 1

“I love it here, it really is amazing,” she says. “Getting to know people has been so easy, I really think it’s better than where I’m from in Malaysia. I find people have so much re-spect here, they respect you for who you are and what you do.”

The new media program has been everything she could have imagined.

“I don’t know where to start, I’ve only taken five classes but they’ve all been great,” she says. “Right now I’m not even sure what area I want to pursue. I want to go into animation, but at the same time I feel like I want to do film, I want to do graphics, I want to do everything.”

Priscilla truly lives the cam-pus experience. She’s active with the International Centre, has joined student clubs and taken in everything Canadian.

“I love the snow. Even though a lot of people tell me I’ll hate it soon, I don’t think so, at least not yet,” she says. “After coming here I started involving myself in skating and going to hockey matches, I just wanted to try everything.”

Priscilla’s brothers and sisters have followed her lead. They quickly adapted to their new schools, are active in local choirs and activities and have excelled academically.

Malti rests easier now know-ing that the new life she and Ashok have chosen for their children seems to agree with them. She has also embraced her new surround-ings, first by volunteering for local organizations this past fall and through the Christmas season, and recently by taking a part-time job.

While the family thrives here in Canada, it isn’t without sacrifice as Ashok stays behind to support their new life.

“My dad’s amazing,” Pris-cilla says of Ashok, the managing director of a textile company. Malti finds it tough without her husband but instead looks at the situation from his perspective.

“I have my children with me and Priscilla, she understands what mom is going through and she helps out in every way,” she says. “My husband is alone

there, and he has to take care of it alone, and that is hard.”

The plan is for Ashok to reunite with his family here in Canada in two or three years, just in time for Malti and her children to become Cana-dian citizens and for Priscilla to graduate (she’s planning on tak-ing summer courses to finish her degree earlier).

Now, it’s hard to believe Pris-cilla ever had any doubts about coming to Canada – but there was that one day.

“When I landed in Lethbridge and I looked around and all I saw was prairies and mountains, I wanted to go home,” she says. “I wasn’t sure if I could do it, but my dad told me it’s about change, and I have to learn how to adapt, and it turns out that it’s pretty good now.”

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Jaeger initiates bursaryLEaRNING TO LIVE caNaDIaN

Faculty, staff and retirees have a unique perspective on the issues and challenges facing students. Times are tough, but now more than ever, students need our help.

Supporting Our Students, an annual fundraising campaign to raise money for student awards, shows that U of L faculty, staff and retirees stand behind the University’s students.

Supporting Our Students 2010 will kick off later this month. Please join us and demonstrate your commitment.

Please visit www.ulethbridge.ca/giving/SupportingOurStudents in the coming weeks for more information.

g e t t H e FAC t S

• The Patels are from the Malaysian island of Pen-ang. The average maximum temperature in Penang only varies from 30.4 degrees in September to 32.2 degrees in March.

• Jackson has been to 14 countries since being hired as international recruitment officer in August 2007. She heads out on a seven-country trip through Latin America this month.

• Priscilla and her siblings all attended international schools growing up. Pris-cilla’s final years of study at Taylor’s University College in Kuala Lumpur featured a Canadian-based curriculum developed in Ontario.

• The family pays great rever-ence to their father Ashok as Natasha brought a picture of him to the interview, telling her mother that he was a part of the family and should be part of the experience.

Judy Jaeger’s recently established bursary will aid students in financial need.

M A R C H 2 0 1 0 | U N I V E R S I T Y O F L E T H B R I D G E the Legend

By treVor Kenney

Logan Lavorato has never been afraid of a little hard work. Had he been, he

certainly wouldn’t be completing his fifth year of hockey at the Canada West level, nor would he be a three-time Academic All Canadian preparing to graduate this spring.

“You know what you’re going to get from him,” Univer-sity of Lethbridge Pronghorns men’s hockey coach Greg Gatto says succinctly. “He’s been our first-line centre, our fourth-line centre, he’s played wing and one weekend in Calgary we even put him on (defence) for a couple shifts. You couldn’t ask for anything more than what he gives you.”

That’s pretty much been the story for Lavorato’s entire career – he’ll do what he has to in order to get the job done.

Lavorato, a Lethbridge native and Catholic Central High School grad, is a five-foot-

nine inch grinder who never scored more than 15 goals in junior hockey and has 19 career goals in five years at the Canada West level. While the numbers are not outstanding, testament to the value of his role is the fact he wore the ‘A’ of an assistant captain for two seasons.

“That’s how I got to the junior level and how I got to this level and what’s allowed me to stay here for five years,” Lavorato says. “I don’t think there’s any shame in not being that top scor-ing guy. Everyone’s got a role on the team, and I’ve kind of risen to that hard-working, mucking it up kind of role.”

He takes the same attitude to the classroom, where study habits mimic his on-ice tendencies – he works to achieve his goals.

“I’m a believer that you get out of it what you put into it, so the harder you work at it, the more you’ll get out of your edu-cation,” he says.

Preparing to graduate with a

degree in finance from the Fac-ulty of Management, Lavorato dabbled in a number of areas over his years at the U of L and for a while, looked like he was going to become a teacher.

“I enjoyed my experience in education but decided it wasn’t what I wanted to do forever, and thought that I had a few more options in the management faculty.”

That he managed to main-tain his high academic stand-ing despite the shift in focus is impressive but not unexpected. Lavorato knew all along that when he came to university, his studies were the prime focus.

“I’ve always been a pretty good student, so I’d had those study habits already developed coming in here. With my family, it’s always been an emphasis to perform well in school,” he says, acknowledging the recognition of being named to the Academic All Canadian roster is a point of pride.

“You bet. It shows a lot as far as time management skills. It’s rewarding to know you’ve put in some hard work over the past year, and it’s nice to get that little bit of cash and a plaque to prove you did it.”

As a fifth-year student, Lavorato took a step back from his official leadership duties with the Horns, declining to wear a letter on his sweater this season. Ironically, it may have further cemented his role as a team leader.

“Coming into my last year, I just thought that my priorities and focus might be in a little different place. I really wanted to focus on school and finish that up right and put some extra effort there,” he says. “Not hav-ing a letter doesn’t change who I am, I’m the same person. I thought it was time for some of the younger guys to maybe take the reins.”

Lavorato is already transi-tioning into his post-hockey ca-reer. A representative on Student Athletes Council, Lavorato says the committee has been working hard to establish a stronger con-nection between all the Prong-horn programs.

He also plans to be an active alumnus, supporting the men’s hockey program in any man-ner he can. He sees a program moving forward and with his local roots, wants to continue to see homegrown players donning Pronghorns blue.

“That’s just (Lavorato), anything you ask him to do, he always steps up,” says Gatto.

That’s why, as the next phase of his life begins, the transition will be greeted with a similar work ethic.

“My options are pretty open right now but the tough thing is I’m facing the realization I’m entering the real world in a cou-ple months,” he laughs. “I’d like to stay around southern Alberta but we’ll see where it takes me.”

Likely, wherever he wants to go.

athletics aT T H E U

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A working man’s approachHORNS HOST 16TH aNNUaL DINNER & aUcTION

Pronghorn athletics will host its 16th annual Pronghorns Dinner & auction, Monday, Mar. 8, in the Students’ Union Ballrooms.The dinner and auction has long been an important fundraiser for the Horns, providing valuable support for the various Pronghorn programs.

The evening begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails, followed by a dinner and both live and silent auctions.

Tickets are $50 per person and are available by calling the Pronghorn athletics office (403-329-2681) or from all Pronghorns coaches.

Logan Lavorato is wrapping up a solid five-year career with the Pronghorns men’s hockey team.

“I don’t think there’s any shame in not being that top scoring guy. Everyone’s got a role on the team.”

LOGaN LaVORaTO

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By Ben young

With her outgoing personality, quick smile and an

eagerness to get involved in the community, Dr. Jackie Rice is not your typical computer scientist. Add to that the fact she is a wife and mother of three, it becomes evident that she is the antithesis of your stereotypical “computer geek”.

As an undergraduate student at the University of Victoria, Rice first realized the hurdles she would have to jump as a woman in a field tradition-ally dominated by men.

“When the boys in the class saw me in the classroom, they would double check the room number. They didn’t think they were in the right classroom.”

She remembers, how even once the boys accepted she was in the class, none of them would sit by her.

“I wasn’t part of the Engi-neering Club, so the boys didn’t feel like I belonged in the classes with them. Now I teach the next generation of those boys.”

“Most kids say that math is either boring or scary. We want to change these attitudes.”

DR. JackIE RIcE

The stereotype that “women just don’t do comput-ers” is an obstacle Rice has most certainly overcome. With the help of wonderful mentors, she has been able to successfully pursue her dreams in the high tech world of computer science.

As a professor in the University of Lethbridge’s De-partment of Math and Com-puter Science, Rice’s insatiable curiosity and love of computers keeps her fascinated with her research subject – day in, day out – spreading her passion and enthusiasm along to her students.

While Rice is clearly passionate about her work at the University, she also un-derstands the importance of developing the budding minds

of tomorrow’s computer sci-ence geniuses. When she is not busy working on her research, teaching classes and managing her family life, Rice spends time getting involved in the com-munity with LUMACS (Life, U, Mathematics and Computer Science). Aimed at promoting more awareness and interest in math and computer science at a young age, the program is Rice’s brainchild. She and her colleagues work with children to break down the barriers that prevent kids from becoming interested in these fields. Rice believes that young people need to have a more exciting and fun introduction to mathematics.

“Most kids say that math is either boring or scary. We want to change these attitudes and

get them involved as early in their education as we can,” she says.

Rice’s work does not stop once school is out for the sum-mer. She also helps to organize summer camps through the University and LUMACS, which allow kids to experiment with interactive computers. They even get to build and play with Lego robots.

“It’s always a blast, and the kids have a great time!”

Rice’s current research looks at ways to build computer chips that are faster, smaller and, in particular, more energy efficient. Many of the technologies we rely on in our day-to-day lives could be radically affected and upgrad-ed by this type of investigation – including something as simple as how often we have to recharge our cell phones.

Rice is passionate about teaching and working with both graduate and undergraduate students. She encourages her students to try to figure things out for themselves, believing that if students learn how to solve problems on their own, they are more equipped to face real-world challenges.

Rice inspires her students to live well-balanced lives – not focusing solely on academics alone.

“At the University of Lethbridge I do not have to sac-rifice my family for my career. When professionals have to choose between the two, we (as a community) lose out.”

Rice does not claim that it’s easy to balance both, but hopes her example will inspire other talented young people to contribute to both the world and their own families.

PEER REFERRaL cONNEcTING wITH STUDENTS

If you’re looking for real answers, isn’t it best to ask some-one who’s already been through the situation before you?

Such is the premise of Peer Referral, a service provided by the Arts & Science Advising Office that is run by students for students. Now in its second full year as a mobile cart service that roams throughout the University, Peer Referral reached a new high when it contacted over 1,400 students in the fall semester.

“It’s a great resource for stu-dents,” says third-year psychol-ogy major Avery Popien. “It acts as a sort of database of informa-tion that can be readily accessed at all times.”

Chris Wallace is one of three Peer Referral officers manning

the cart this year and he identi-fies with Popien, not just because it’s part of his role, but also because he’s been where Popien and scores of other students have been before him. University can be an intimidating experience and finding help isn’t always easy, especially from someone who understands exactly what you’re experiencing.

“My academic career started out on rather shaky ground,” says Wallace. “I was a typical ignorant student. I made many mistakes and ventured down many complicated paths that I could have avoided had I simply taken the initiative to do one simple thing: ask questions.”

He eventually received some good advice and it came from a friend, a peer. Wallace went to the Arts & Science Advising office and was able to get back on track, both academically and socially.

“I began to realize that there were so many ways to enrich my

academic experience by creating courses, volunteering, joining and creating clubs, working with co-operative education, and so much more,” says Wallace. “I took control of my education.”

Wallace says it is easy to slip through the cracks in university and it can be difficult for students to find the many resources that are there to help them succeed.

“Many students have com-plications within their program but are too intimidated and overwhelmed to seek answers,” he says. “We’re here with practi-cal solutions for them and it’s given in a relaxed, laid-back manner.”

Peer Referral will be holding an Open House event Wednes-day, Mar. 3 from 12:30 to 5 p.m. in E690. Students, staff and faculty are encouraged to attend, as a variety of representatives from throughout campus will take part.

Rice breaks barriers, proves you can do it all

Dr. Jackie Rice is on a mission to show kids that math and science can be both fun and interesting.

cELEBRaTING a RIcH cULTURE The University of Lethbridge boasts a strong and vibrant aboriginal commu-nity. That is especially evident during the annual Native awareness week, this year running Mar. 1-5.

a variety of events, including drumming and dancing, art shows, lectures, films, videos and panel discussions allows the entire campus community to celebrate this rich culture.

Following is a list of events for Na-tive awareness week.

Wednesday, Mar. 39:30 a.m. to Noon – FNMI Languages, cultures and Identities: Six Special academic-community Lectures, atriumNoon to 1 p.m. – Special Video

Presentation: Qallunaut! why white People are So Funny, atriumNoon to 3 p.m. – Language, culture and Identity Panel, L10603 to 7 p.m. – Participatory Language Teaching Demonstra-tion, Language and culture Videos, L10607 to 9 p.m. – Roy Pogorzelski, Metis Scholar TkaRONTO award-winning Film on Urban aboriginal Identities, L1060

thursday, Mar. 410 a.m. to 3 p.m. – The Identity Dialogues, andy’s Place (aH100)

Friday, Mar. 5Noon – Métis Star Dancers, atrium1 to 2 p.m. – FNMI alumni chap-ter Mix and Mingle, University Theatre foyer2 p.m. – Fine arts presents Static and contemporary Indigenous Performing arts Dialogue, University Theatre

M A R C H 2 0 1 0 | U N I V E R S I T Y O F L E T H B R I D G E the Legend

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By treVor Kenney

The tag line, “If you build it, they will come,” doesn’t exactly work for

the University of Lethbridge’s Digital Audio Arts (DAA) program. They (as in the students) are already here, and they can’t wait for it (the new Digital Audio Arts Studio) to be unveiled.

“It will definitely be the crowning jewel of the program,” says Chris Morris, the technical specialist with digital audio arts. “It will be a state of the art record-ing facility as well as a critical lis-tening and practice facility. It will be a collaborative environment for the Faculty of Fine Arts.”

Digital audio arts is in just its second semester. With a full complement of 32 students and a healthy waiting list of applicants,

the program is off to a rousing start. Dr. Rolf Boon and Dr. Arlan Schultz started the pro-cess six years ago. The program was created with an eye to the future, and students have defi-nitely responded.

“Dr. Boon likes to say, ‘We’re preparing people for careers in music technology that may not even exist yet,’” says Morris. “Right now we’re finding a lot of students are mostly interested in music production and working in a recording studio. But it’s not just a music production program – it’s defining audio research for the future.

“When you really open your mind, the sky’s the limit in terms of what you can do. Media is everywhere and wherever there is media, there’s audio, there’s sound, so there will always be an oppor-tunity with this kind of degree.”

The studio is currently under construction and is scheduled to open in late March or early April. An entirely custom built facility, it has transformed what was once a static, drab, concrete-walled area into a dynamic teaching and recording space complete with hardwood floors, custom speakers and a top shelf audio console.

“Basically the whole place is custom except for the console itself,” says Morris.

California-based studio designer Jay Kaufman, a specialist in working with odd spaces, was brought in to recreate the area. The result is a studio that will allow students the opportunity to learn in a professional setting, and similarly attract outside labels and recording artists.

“In terms of post-secondary education, nobody has what we’ll have. We’re definitely on the cut-

ting edge of everything,” says Morris. “It’ll position us in a way where this is a showpiece that will attract a lot of atten-tion.”

Internally, the studio will benefit the entire faculty. Besides the hands-on learn-ing opportunities for DAA students, new media students will be able to use it for audio work on film, the art depart-ment can utilize it for sonic art studies and music students will walk off campus and into the job market with profes-sionally-mastered portfolios.

Externally, Morris says positioning a recording studio in an educational facility allows recording labels to bring in artists for extended stays, housing them on campus to complete projects quickly. This opens up internship opportu-nities for DAA students.

“Labels always want to bring their own engineers in to work with their artists,” says Morris. “To use the space, it will be mandatory that they take a few of our students as assistant engineers so that they can get experience in the studio with real engineers and real artists.”

Already off to a flying start the new DAA studio promises to set the U of L apart from other music programs in the country.

“The first semester of the program was an absolute suc-cess,” he says. “The feedback from the students has been great, and they love to be able to use the audio research lab we have. Once the new studio is on board, it will be that much better.”

aMNESTY IS TIME TO cOME cLEaN

It must be difficult, walk-ing the halls of the University of Lethbridge with a bounty on your head.

You know who you are. Every evening you return home to see them sitting there on the shelf, staring at you, mocking you. Once, you held them hos-tage, but now, the tables have turned and the price for taking them home is the debt that weighs on your conscience. They are overdue library books and they need to come home.

The University of Lethbridge Library is there to help and from Mar. 15-21, Library Amnesty Week will allow those who have overdue library items to bring them back to the library for the price of a non-perishable food item. For every $5 in library fines, one non-perishable food item,

to be presented to the U of L Students’ Union Food Bank, will be accepted.

The amnesty period, which debuted in November 2007 and produced an impres-sive 10 boxes of donated food, is only in effect Mar. 15-21 during regular library hours of operation. Overdue material must be returned in good con-dition to the library and users must pay the entire balance of outstanding charges through the program. Exceptions to the amnesty are those fines for outstanding replacement charges for long overdue items, as well as lost or damaged items.

This is an opportunity to wipe the slate clean, to return library items to their rightful home and help out the ULSU Food Bank at the same time. Those without library fines are also encouraged to stop by and donate a non-perishable food item to help the food bank.

Creating a space unlike any otherg e t t H e FAC t S

• The DAA studio is described as a room within a room within a room. The centre room is pressure-fitted and the entire facility “floats” on neoprene pucks at all points within the concrete cavity of the space.

• The recording area is designed to be completely soundproof with lead-lined walls that are 18 inches deep and floors made of an extra-thick hardwood.

• All the walls, including the glass and the roof, are angled. “There are no parallel walls in the space,” says Morris. “It’s all about not having any standing waves that would be bounc-ing back and forth. They’ll get scattered in all directions, and therefore create an acoustically sound space.”

• The studio’s console is the lat-est from Solid State Logic. The 48-channel Duality allows stu-dents to work with both analog and digital audio.

• The entire studio will be connected to the University Recital Hall via 16 channels of audio, a CCTV camera and LCD screens. This allows for the recording of concerts and performances or the use of the hall as a larger recording venue for larger groups of artists, such as orchestras.

Chris Morris and Dr. Rolf Boon look over the plans for the unique Digital Audio Arts Studio.

SPELLING THINGS OUT‘Protocol’ was the winning word for Adrienne gomes, a grade eight student at gilbert Paterson school and the winner of the 2010 Canwest Canspell Spelling Bee, which took place at the U of L on Saturday, Feb. 13. Here, gomes (front row, left) and runner-up Willow Hordos-goyer, of St. Michael’s School in Medicine Hat, are pictured (l to r) with judge Dr. Craig Monk, (Associate Dean, Arts and Science) pronouncer Dr. Ian MacLachlan, (geography) judge Dr. Lynn Kennedy (history) and judge elizabeth Hegerat (Lethbridge Public Library).

M A R C H 2 0 1 0 | U N I V E R S I T Y O F L E T H B R I D G Ethe Legend

Inspired by the experiences, travels and success stories of several University of Lethbridge alumni working in Ottawa, as well as the guidance of several University faculty and staff, Melvin Wong (BA ’78), assistant deputy minister of Alberta Advanced Education and Tech-nology, embarked on a lifelong career in civil service.

“Originally, I thought of be-coming a chartered accountant, then I had an ‘a-ha’ moment when I spoke with a counselor. She helped me find out what career opportunities I would have with an economics degree. That’s when I decided to go into public service,” explains Wong.

Wong’s first experience with government began in his third year with the economics club.

“I went to a club meeting and someone nominated me for president. It drew me into the administration of the econom-ics department. I learned about the administration and culture of academia, and how universi-ties run. That helps me in my current job because I deal with the universities and colleges throughout Alberta.”

Wong has been working in government since his gradu-ation in 1978. He worked in Ottawa initially, as well as at the departments of tourism and small business, economic development, innovation and science and advanced education and technology in Alberta. He travels extensively and has years of senior management and busi-ness development experience. He taught economics, international business and marketing, and multinational finance at several post-secondary institutions.

“I chose a life in govern-ment because you can work in so many areas and be exposed to so many things,” says Wong. “It keeps life really interesting. I am pretty happy right now.”

Graduating from high school, Greg Weadick (BASc ’76), Lethbridge West MLA and parliamentary assistant to the minister of advanced educa-tion and technology (PA), spent a year working construction before realizing that he wanted to get an education.

“I started at the University of Lethbridge in pre-med and later decided to complete my degree in biology. The Univer-sity was quite small and every-body knew each other. We often played bridge in the hallway, had coffee with professors and fellow students in the cafeteria or attended cabarets in the eve-nings. It was quite collegial,” remembers Weadick. “I think one of the important things I got from attending the University was that I learned to question everything and come up with answers for myself, not just accept other people’s opinions. Perhaps the most important things I gained from attending the University, however, were the relationships I built, relation-ships with staff, professors and students because those were the people in my community.”

Weadick certainly under-stands community. He is a local businessperson and has spent several years doing environmen-tal work for two local engineer-ing firms. He also served on Lethbridge City Council from 1991-2001, and was the founding president of both Fifth on Fifth Youth Services and the Dragon Boat Festival.

In 2008, Weadick was elect-ed MLA and served as the Chair of the cabinet policy committee on the economy before being appointed to his current position as PA in January this year.

“My goal is to represent the citizens of Lethbridge in Edmonton and make sure that our people are well represented,” says Weadick.

As executive assistant to the Leader of the Alberta Liberal Caucus, Brendan Wade (BA ’10) is on a voyage of self-discovery – a journey he began while work-ing towards his bachelor of arts in political science and history at the University of Lethbridge.

Growing up in Vulcan, Wade spent many hours helping at school and community events and developing an important sense of community. With its smaller campus and close prox-imity to home, the U of L felt like a perfect fit for Wade.

“I can’t say enough good things about my campus experi-ence. I got involved with several clubs. I was the founding presi-dent of the food and beverage club, which is still going strong and helping make the university experience great for other stu-dents,” says Wade. “I found that my professors at the University demanded a fair amount of work and that was a good thing. I still connect with some of my profs because I welcome and value their advice and input. Work-ing in partisan politics like I do, I really appreciate the skills I learned at the University, one of those being the ability to look at issues from all sides.”

Such critical thinking skills are a vital asset to him in his job as he does everything from preparing briefs and face books to chauffeuring and scheduling appointments for the opposition leader.

“This job is a great learning opportunity. It has helped me cement some of my beliefs and call others into question,” says Wade. “As I continue to learn and grow I know I am develop-ing valuable skills that will help me in the future.”

Following his father’s footsteps, Mike Simpson (BA ’00), executive assistant for the solicitor general and minister of public security, intended to become a lawyer when he started a political science degree at the University of Lethbridge. Taking a drama class in his second year changed his mind.

“I knew after that class that I did not want to go into law. I played in a band with my cousin. I acted in plays. I changed to a double major and figured I would go into fine arts after I graduated,” recalls Simpson. “In my third year I got involved in student politics. I was the fine arts representative on the stu-dents’ union. In 1999, I ran for students’ union vice-president internal affairs and won. It was pretty interesting. University was great for preparing me to do work. Learning to write mono-logues helped me write speeches. Learning the theories and processes in political science and learning how to research have all benefited me.”

In 2001, Simpson’s music career was literally leaving him hungry. Simpson began volun-teering for the PC Constitu-ency Association; after all, they had food. With a full stomach, Simpson caught the political bug and soon worked his way up the political ladder from research officer to his current position as executive assistant.

“My job is to help the solici-tor general do his part to keep the government moving in the right direction,” says Simpson. “I am happy doing quiet change. It might be behind the scenes, where nobody else recognizes, but I know that I have made a difference.”

For Warren Chandler (BA ’01), executive assistant to the minister of transportation, attending the University of Lethbridge was more than the next step on his life’s journey; it was an investment in a future he could not wait to begin.

“I always assumed I would go to university, and the U of L was always my number one choice of schools. My dad and uncle went there and I looked forward to going there,” says Chandler. “I enjoyed the small classes, the academic chal-lenges. My professors were always pushing us to think outside the box and think criti-cally. In class one day, Dr. Paul Viminitz declared he was a feminist and I think he offended most of the women in class, but on further analysis, he was able to back up his claim. He taught me to back up what I say and to think critically.”

Critical thinking and the ability to deal with stress and pressure and to write and com-municate clearly are skills that Chandler honed at the Univer-sity – skills that are vital to his success in the political world. He began working in an introducto-ry research role at the legislature in the fall of 2001. Since then, Chandler has steadily moved up the ranks to his current position.

“I do anything and every-thing that the minister needs in order to conduct his daily duties,” explains Chandler. “It can be extremely stressful, but it is very exciting and I am very happy where I am.”

O U R alumni

8

The U of L inside government

M A R C H 2 0 1 0 | U N I V E R S I T Y O F L E T H B R I D G E the Legend

9

By dIAne BrItton

weight loss is complex, but two key factors for successful weight loss strategies are correct portion size and physical activity.Food portions have increased considerably over the past 30 years. couple a portion size increase with a decrease in activity levels and it’s no wonder canadians are struggling to achieve a healthy weight.Examples of proper-sized food portions can be found on canada’s Food Guide for Healthy Eating. For instance, one serving of cooked pasta is just 125 ml – a lot smaller than most people think. Try measuring your food portions for a day and comparing this to the serving sizes on the food guide and you’ll get a clear picture of your personal nutrition plan and how many servings per day you’re eating from each food group. If you’re within the recommended number of servings per day then you’re on track for a healthy weight. Unbalanced food groups usually lead to health or weight management problems.

Ways to ‘eyeball’ food portions

• 5 ml of oil is about the size of a stamp

or a quarter

• One serving of fruit is about the size of

a tennis ball (larger fruits usually equal

two servings)

• 125 ml of pasta, fruit or vegetables is

about the same size as a hockey puck

• 30 ml of peanut butter is about the size

of a golf ball

To track your food intake and physical activity, visit the Dietitians of canada website eat tracker at www.dietitians.ca/eatracker for an interactive tool that provides personal feedback.

For individual nutrition appointments, call the Health centre (SU020) at 403-329-2484. all sessions are $20 for U of L students and employees.

Diane Britton is the registered dietitian for the University of Lethbridge

By SuZAnne MCIntoSH

The University of Lethbridge has recently signed up with Occupational Injury Service (OIS), a new service for staff and faculty who experience a work related injury or illness.

The OIS program aligns with medical clinics that provide timely and appropriate medical care and disability management services specifically for occupational injuries, with an emphasis on immediate (i.e., same day) commu-nication with the employer to facilitate a safe return to work.

This service is specifically for non-emergent injuries/illnesses and provides the following benefits to staff/faculty:

• Same-day access to a physician with a background in occupational medicine and WCB-Alberta training (within 15 to 30 minutes of arrival)

• Same-day completion and submis-sion of reports

• Identification and co-ordination of required medical services

• Earlier access to required medical and diagnostic tests, specifically MRI, CT and bone scans

• Earlier access to specialists and sur-gical procedures

• Completion of disability manage-ment reports that detail physical work capabilities and limitations to

help determine return to work dates and tasks

• Worker and employer injury man-agement education

• Development of a safe return-to-work plan

• Ongoing communication with the employee’s family physician (OIS is a voluntary program). Staff/faculty will be given the option of attending an OIS clinic or other medical care if needed

If you experience a work related injury or illness, follow the incident/ac-cident reporting process as usual. Report any work related injuries or illnesses to your direct supervisor, and complete the online campus incident/accident report form: http://www.uleth.ca/hum/ar-chives/riskandsafetyservices/Services/report_form.html.

If you require first aid, contact Secu-rity Services at 2345 or other appropriate responder in your area. If you require medical treatment, contact the wellness co-ordinator at 403-332-5217 and the OIS clinic of your choice will be contacted for an appointment (same day in most cases).

The OIS clinics are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. If your injury occurs outside of these hours, you would need to access medical services through a walk-in clinic or emergency services at the hospital.

There are currently two service pro-viders for OIS in Lethbridge:

• CBI Health – Dr. Gibb, Bigelow Fowler West; Dr. Ukrainitz, Bigelow Fowler South; Dr. Mellor

• LifeMark Health – Dr. Allen, Pied-mont Clinic west; and/or Dynamic Physiotherapy

For those who work on the Calgary or Edmonton campuses, there are service providers for the program in both cities.

CalGary

• CBI Health – Midpark, Deerpark or Sunridge

• Wellpoint Health Corp

• Life Mark

EdMonton

• Medicentres Canada Inc – West-grove, Ellerslie, Capilano, Castle-downs or Millard Health

A few employees have had the oppor-tunity to use this service already and the feedback has been very positive. Statistics show that the sooner someone is treated for an injury or illness, the sooner they are able to get back to work and participate in the other activities that make life enjoyable!

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Suzanne McIntosh, wellness co-ordinator at 403-332-5217.

Lethbridge-based lawyer, R. Philip (Phil) M. North, Q.C., a principal in the firm North & Company LLP, is the Faculty of Management’s 2010 Scholarship Dinner honoree. The event takes place Friday, March 12, 2010 at the Lethbridge Lodge. Tickets and tables of eight are available by calling (403) 329-5181.

A Lethbridge resident for more than 35 years, Phil North has served the legal pro-

fession extensively at a local, provincial and national level, including roles as Chairman of the Alberta Law Foundation, Chair of the Legal Education Society of Alberta, and Presi-dent of the Lethbridge Bar Association. In recognition of his many contributions, Phil received the Distinguished Service Award from the Law Society of Alberta and the Canadian Bar Association, Alberta Branch.

He has given generously to his community in leader-ship roles as President of the Lethbridge Rotary Club, Chair of the Lions Eye Bank (Alberta) Society, President of the Lethbridge Community Foundation, and Director of the Community Foundations of Canada. He has also been active in the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce, Lethbridge Minor Hockey Association, Lethbridge Easter

Seal Telethon and the Canadi-an Association of Family En-terprise, Lethbridge Chapter.

Aside from frequently attending events in celebration and support of the University of Lethbridge, Phil has served as Chairman of the Board of Governors (1978-1984) and was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 2004.

Phil was born and raised in Deloraine, Manitoba and attended Brandon College (now Brandon University). In 1971 he completed his law de-gree at the University of Mani-toba and moved to Lethbridge in 1973. He assisted in establishing the Blairmore and Pincher Creek branch offices of North and Company and is now the managing partner of the firm.

He and his wife Freda have three children and five grandchildren. His outside interests include hockey and gardening.

a N apple a D aY

H E a LT H & wellnessNew service better addresses health issues

Management Scholarship Dinner to honour North

HEaDING TO GO HERE

Lethbridge-based lawyer Phil North has served the legal profession for more than 35 years.

M A R C H 2 0 1 0 | U N I V E R S I T Y O F L E T H B R I D G Ethe Legend

events C A L EN DA R

Pronghorn AthleticsMar. 8 | 16th Annual Horns Dinner & Auction | SU Ballrooms

LecturesMar. 3 | Art Now: Tanya HarnettNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 5 | Art Now: Stan Denniston (photographer) | Noon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 8 | Art Now: Nana Debois BuhlNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 8 | Architecture & Design Now: Brendan Tang (ceramic artist)6 p.m., C610

Mar. 9 | University Scholars Public Presentations | Dr. Claudia Malacrida presents Dehumanization as a Way of Life: Alberta’s History of ‘Treating’ People with Intellectual Disabilities4 p.m., AH100

Mar. 10 | Art Now: Diane BorsatoNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 10 | Preventing Workplace Violence | Workers’ Compensation Board presents a 90-minute seminar on general staff awareness2:30 p.m., University Theatre (W500)

Mar. 12 | Art Now: Sandra DyckNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 15 | Art Now: Gordon PayneNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 15 | Architecture & Design Now: Julie Nicholson | 6 p.m., C610

Mar. 16 | University Scholars Public Presentations | Dr. Brian Titley presents Penance, Prayers, and a Happy Death: Convents and Moral Rehabilitation of ‘Wayward’ Women4 p.m., AH100

Mar. 17 | Art Now: Eric MetcalfeNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 18 | Discovery Lecture SeriesHumanitarian advocate James Orbinski presents Equity and Global Health | 7 p.m., PE250

Mar. 19 | Art Now: Olga KorperNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 22 | Art Now: Anna Hudson (art historian) | Noon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 22 | Architecture & Design Now: Daniel Heaton | 6 p.m., C610

Mar. 23 | University Scholars Public Presentations | Lisa Doolittle

presents Performing Negotiations: Blackfoot Dance/Spectacle, the Colony, and Multicultural Canada 1870-2010 | 4 p.m., AH100

Mar. 24 | Art Now: Ho TamNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 26 | Art Now: Jennifer FisherNoon, University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 26 | Women Scholars Speaker Series | Dr. Nancy Turner presents Not Just Any Old Place: Ethnoecology in a Changing World12 p.m., Students’ Union Ballroom A

Mar. 29 | Architecture & Design Now: John Shnier | 6 p.m., C610

PerformancesMar. 2 | Music at Noon: Eve Egoyan (piano) | 12:15 p.m., University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 4-6 | TheatreXtra #48 p.m. nightly, David Spinks Theatre; Mar. 6, 2 p.m. matinee

Mar. 6 | Spring Sing | U of L Singers and Women’s Chorus perform | 8 p.m., Southminster Church

Mar. 9 | Music at Noon: Malcolm Lim (percussion) | 12:15 p.m., University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 12 | U of L Collaborative Piano/Guitar: It Takes Two | 7 p.m., Gem of the West Museum (Coaldale)

Mar. 16 | Music at Noon: Dr. Janet Youngdahl (soprano & friends) | 12:15 p.m., University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 19 | Stealing NoiseU of L Electro-Acoustic Ensemble’s inaugural concert | 8 p.m., University Recital Hall

Mar. 23 | Music at Noon: Dr. Jonathan Sokasits (piano) | 12:15 p.m., University Recital Hall (W570)

Mar. 23-27 | Life is a DreamA play exploring illusion and reality as a king imprisons his infant son for fear he will grow up to rebel against him | 8 p.m. nightly, University Theatre

Mar. 26 | Glory and GrandeurU of L Wind Orchestra with special guests Adam Mason, Jodi Bartell and Matt Groenheide | 8 p.m., Southminster Church

Mar. 29 | Hayden’s CreationLethrbidge Symphony Orchestra, Vox Musica, U of L Singers and soloists Janet Youngdahl (soprano), Sandra Stringer (mezzo-soprano), Blaine Hendsbee (tenor), George Evelyn (bass) and John Conlon (baritone)8 p.m., Southminster Church

Mar. 30 | Music at Noon: Dr. Deanna Oye (piano) | 12:15 p.m., University Recital Hall (W570)

MiscellaneousMar. 3 | Avalanche Awareness NightA selection of safety and interesting ski and snowboard videos | 7 p.m., AH100

Mar. 5 | Veterinary Medicine Information Session | Presented by University of Calgary | 9:30 a.m., D631

Mar. 9 | Student Speaker ChallengeHow Education Benefits the World – Final | 7 p.m., AH100

Mar. 11 | The Edible City – How to Grow Food in Urban AreasPresented by Ron Berezan, the Urban Farmer | 7 p.m., Students’ Union Ballroom B

Mar. 12 to Apr. 9 | Works on Paper from the University of Lethbridge Art Collection | Curators: Museum Studies Interns

Mar. 12 to Apr. 9 | Annual Curated Student Exhibition | U of L Main Gallery | Opening Reception: 8 p.m., Mar. 12

Mar. 15 | Research Grant Fundamentals WorkshopThe basics of finding grant information using online and print resources | 1 p.m., L950

Mar. 20 | Culture Vulture SaturdayRecycled Art | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., University Art Gallery

GOVERNANCE PROVES TO BE VALUABLEBy ABBy ALLEN

Different people can take different things out of the same experience.

So it is with members of the 2009-2010 Students’ Union Executive Council, who share what they learned in student governance over the past year and how it has impacted their Univer-sity careers.

Jeremy Girard, University of Lethbridge Students’ Union (ULSU) president, had been involved with the organization for three years prior to deciding to run for executive council.

He recognized the value of the ULSU to the student body and decided that he had the capacity to lead the organization in continued progress, trying to make it more professional,

accountable and valuable to the University community.

“There is no doubt in my mind that I have a sharp ad-vantage, in terms of govern-ing, managerial, professional, financial and communication skills, for getting the career I want, whatever that may be,” says Girard of the experience.

Cole Lehto, vice-president internal affairs, ran for council because he was interested in expanding the activities he took part in during his academic term.

“I felt I had done a lot of things in my life, I wanted to be able to say I’ve been more than a student and this has been a great step in that direction,” says Lehto. “I think the main reason you should get involved in anything during your time as a student is to broaden your scope and perspective.”

Alex Massé, vice-president academic, has a less romantic take on why he pursued public office. He says he ran for council, simply, for something to do.

“I had no big plans or grand ideas. It just seemed like some-thing I’d do ok at,” says Massé.

Calling it a very rewarding position socially, Massé says he was able to meet a variety of fun and motivated people that he oth-erwise would never have crossed paths with.

“I think I’ll gain a lot more from the personal growth I’ve undergone than from the addi-tional point on my résumé,” says Massé.

Allan Hall, vice-president administration, had always been thinking about running for council.

“I wanted to run for office because I wanted to help make the campus a better place for stu-dents,” says Hall.

Hall says he has grown from the experience and become a well-rounded person throughout the last year.

“I have learned a lot about human resources, non-profit governance, public relations and countless other things,” Hall says.

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The University Day Care was officially opened Feb. 25. Located opposite to the Siksika House Townhome Residence complex, in Aperture Park, the $2 million facility has space for 54 children, a large and secure outdoor play area and is located near to the University residences, green space and other campus amenities. The building, which was completed ahead of schedule and on budget, has been occupied since January. The facility is split between children of undergraduate and graduate students, faculty members and University employees.

ALL IN FUN

M A R C H 2 0 1 0 | U N I V E R S I T Y O F L E T H B R I D G E the Legend

EPP PRESENTS LIFE’S A DREAM

The curtain rises on a Daliesque dreamscape; the setting for Pedro Calderon de la Barca’s Life’s a Dream at the University Theatre Mar. 23 to 27 at 8 p.m. nightly. This resplen-dent classic transports the audi-ence back in time to a fictional Poland, unraveling a stunning story of epic proportions.

“Pedro Calderon de la Barca was a prominent playwright of Spain’s Golden Age.” says director Richard Epp. “Written around 1635, Calderon was as well known and respected in Re-naissance Spain as Shakespeare was in England. Life’s a Dream is a great old masterpiece that has entertained audiences the world over for nearly 400 years.”

Translated by Adrian Mitch-ell and John Barton, the play weaves a complex story about the king of Poland, who fears a dark prophecy and hides away his only son for 20 years. As the aging king considers his final successor, he orders his son be brought to the palace in a drug-induced sleep. Upon waking, the prince’s abhorrent behavior returns him to jail upon which the prince presents a poignant soliloquy questioning

whether the events at the palace were merely a dream.

The play’s final act culmi-nates in a courageous battle, as rebels descend upon the king-dom, releasing the prince from his captors to claim the throne. The ending is unexpected and leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.

“This play is so rich in char-acter and action, in imaginative settings and beautiful prose, that actors, directors and design-ers continue to be drawn to it,” remarks Epp. “My own fascina-tion with dramatic characters who face enormous dilemmas, or are altered significantly by their circumstances, attracts me to this play, and my obligation as a director is to share with a contemporary audience, as well as I can, my high regard for this play.”

With grand sets designed by Annette Nieukerk and cap-tivating costumes designed by Leslie Robison-Greene, audi-ences can expect a thrilling and engaging night at the theatre. Don’t miss the final mainstage production of the season.

Tickets for Life’s a Dream are priced at $15 regular and $10 student/senior. Tickets are avail-able at the U of L Box Office or by calling 403-329-2656. The box office is open 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. weekdays.

By AMANDA BERG

Student intern Emily McCormick is trying her hand at curating, creating

the Semiotica exhibition for the Helen Christou Gallery.

“My experience as an Art History/Museum Studies major at the University of Lethbridge has been filled with numerous opportunities,” says McCormick. “I’ve worked at the Southern Alberta Art Gallery and Univer-sity of Lethbridge Art Gallery as a curatorial intern. Both galleries have allowed me to gain an in-valuable amount of work experi-ence for my future career.”

One result of McCormick’s internship at the U of L Art Gal-lery is Semiotica: The Persuasion of Text, an exhibition in the Helen Christou Gallery running from Mar. 12 through Apr. 9.

“Moving away from trad-itional art styles, this exhibition explores conceptual art involv-ing written language,” explains McCormick. “It features works from the U of L Art Collection by Jenny Holzer, Joseph Kosuth, John Baldessari, Vera Gartley and Enn Erisalu.”

According to U of L Art Gallery Director/Curator Dr. Josephine Mills, “Emily pro-posed the idea for this exhibition last semester while working on an internship with me and she came up with a great concept.”

Semiotica was built around one of the key works in the U of L Art Collection – Amer-ican artist Jenny Holzer’s Selec-tions from Truisms. During the 1980s, Holzer attained inter-national recognition for her use of text in public locations with her truisms (short, provoca-tive statements) that appeared on electronic signs and posters, were carved into benches and appeared in many other formats all over the world.

“The work in our collection

includes a bank of many of these phrases running across a screen. When first acquired, it was exhibited widely as part of tour-ing exhibitions, but given this high use, we have not included it in an exhibition for several years,” says Mills. “I am excited to see the work up in the Helen Christou Gallery and to give stu-dents and staff an opportunity to see it alongside other conceptual works from the collection.”

McCormick’s internship included the opportunity to

organize a public perception project, assist with installations, write for a university newspaper as well as curate the exhibition using the gallery’s extensive col-lection.

“The museum studies pro-gram has given me the oppor-tunity to apply the knowledge gained in class and work in my chosen field before I finish my degree. This experience will def-initely help me attain my career goals quicker,” she says with confidence.

F I N E A R T S in focus

GLORY AND GRANDEUR

Celebrate the glory and the grandeur of magnificent wind band music with the U of L Wind Orchestra, Friday, Mar. 26 at 8 p.m. in Southminster United Church.

“Our feature piece pro-vides the title of our concert,” says director Glenn Klassen. “The Glory and the Grandeur by Russell Peck is going to knock everyone’s socks off!”

An exciting composition for percussion trio and wind orchestra, three guest percus-sionists take the stage for this piece – U of L percussion instructor Adam Mason and music majors Jodi Bartel and Matt Groenheide.

“It’s a terribly exciting, upbeat and jazzy piece. It’s also visually stunning to see the percussionists running back and forth on stage,” Klassen says.

The program also fea-tures an H. Owen Reed piece entitled, La Fiesta Mexicana.

“This is a wonderful piece inspired by the com-poser’s visit to Mexico during Carnivale,” Klassen explains. “The piece has both festive and sacred components,

including a Mariachi section. It has some of the typical Mexican sounds and fla-vours.”

Other items on the program include Shostak-ovich’s Festive Overture and another piece called Festivale, which will be conducted by a special guest conductor, to be revealed at the concert.

Audiences outside of Lethbridge also have the opportunity to hear the U of L Wind Orchestra dur-ing their tour in March.

“We leave on Mar. 1 for British Columbia,” Klassen says. “We’ll be playing across the province, from Penticton to Vancouver.”

Among the many per-formances during the tour, a highlight is their appear-ance at the Okanagan Band Festival.

“We are the featured band for the festival,” Klassen says. “This is a big deal for the Wind Orchestra. With over 30 bands performing, it’s a great honour to be named as the feature performer.”

Tickets for the Mar. 26 Lethbridge performance are on sale at the University Box Office (403-329-2616) and at the door. Tickets are priced at $15 regular and $10 for students and seniors.

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McCormick brings Semiotica to Christou

Emily McCormick begins the process of setting up Semiotica: The Persuasion of Text exhibit.

STUDENT EXHIBITION A VALUABLE LEARNING TOOL

The Annual Curated Student Exhibition is on the horizon and, with a revised focus, promises to provide an even greater learning experience for students.

“The U of L Art Gallery provides an exceptional opportunity for the profes-sional development of Art Studio majors as they near the completion of their degree,” says Dr. Josephine Mills, Director/Curator.

“The Annual Curated Student Exhibition gives students realistic experience with the process of applying for exhibitions and receiving feedback from an established curator.”

This exhibition is only open to senior art majors to focus attention on those with the goal of becom-ing professional artists. In applying for this exhibition, students follow the same process and standards for documenting, describing and proposing their work, as they will when applying to public art galleries and artist-run centres or for grants.

Art Gallery staff provides advice on prepar-ing the proposals and share insights into what curators look for when deciding to book a studio visit and choose artwork for an exhib-ition. To further that real life experience, an established curator from outside of Lethbridge is invited to cre-ate the exhibition.

The curator views the proposals and selects a short list of students for follow-up meetings during their time on the U of L campus. From these studio visits, the cur-ator makes the final selec-tion and works with the Art Gallery staff to lay out and install the exhibition.

“The Annual Curated Student Exhibition provides a showcase of excellent work by art studio majors in that year and gives the students a valuable achievement to list on their résumés,” says Mills.

As well, students who are not selected to display their work receive feedback on their proposals, and can learn how to improve as they prepare to begin their careers.

The Annual Curated Student Exhibition is in the U of L Main Gallery, Mar. 12 through Apr. 9, with the opening reception on Friday, Mar. 12 at 8 p.m.

The guest curator this year is Sandra Dyck, the cur-ator at the Carleton Univer-sity Art Gallery in Ottawa.

L A S T I N Gimages

Chris Cran is a well known Calgary artist whose paintings have been

exhibited across Canada and the United States.

Cran studied at the Kootenay School of Art in Nelson, B.C., before attending the Alberta College of Art in Calgary (where

he later became an instructor). Cran’s art practice has always been marked by a tongue-in-cheek sense of humour paired

with extraordinary technical skill.

He is best known for his photo-realistic, self-portrait painting series, created

between 1984 and 1989, and his half-tone stripe paintings of the past 20

years. These later pieces take found images from a variety of print media

and replicate them at a multiplied scale, leading to distortion and optical illusion

on the surface of the canvas.

TOPChris Cran, Yellow German Shepherd, 1990. From the University of Lethbridge Art Collection; acquired in 1991.

BOTTOM Chris Cran, Self-Portrait Accepting a Cheque for the Commission of This Painting, 1988. From the University of Lethbridge Art Collection; Gift of Peter Boyd, 1995.