Spring 2024 Alumni Magazine

Spring 2024 Magazine Foothills Alumni

Foothills Alumni

As spring blooms around us, we're excited to invite you to the third edition of the Foothills Academy Alumni Magazine and reconnect with our growing group of accomplished students, staff and alumni families. In case you missed the second edition, where we caught up with Foothills Alumni Dustin and Curtis, you can catch up on it here.

Whether you were at Foothills for a short time or a long time, recently or long ago, we want to ensure that you continue to feel a sense of belonging to our community and are aware of the exciting developments happening here.

This edition highlights achievements and the diverse paths that alumni have taken since their time at Foothills Academy. We'll also provide you with updates on some exciting developments at Foothills over the past few months and details about our upcoming events.

Your support for Foothills continues to help individuals find understanding, build confidence and maximize potential. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, or supporting our various programs, your contribution makes a difference in the lives of the students who follow in your footsteps.

Karen MacMillan Simon Williams

PhD, R. Psych Executive Co-Director Foothills Academy Society

MSEd, LQS Executive Co-Director Foothills Academy Society

A note from Kathleen

Well, spring is finally here to stay. After all, we are in Calgary, so who knows if winter will make one final return before we can enjoy the warmer weather to come.

Welcome back, Falcons, to the third edition of the Alumni Magazine. I am excited to share the stories of two alumni students, Jeremy (‘89) and Mitchell (’13). Since their time at Foothills, these two have been paving a path for a more accessible community for those with Learning Disabilities and ADHD.

With a new season comes new, exciting opportunities and events. As we gear up for our 45th anniversary, we have a lot in store for the Foothills community. My team and I are working hard behind the scenes to ensure we kick off the 45th anniversary year with a BANG!

Take a look at our upcoming events and see how you can get involved and give back to Foothills Academy. We have so much coming, so keep an eye out for all of the action.

Kathleen Gurski

Kathleen Gurski Manager, Community & Alumni Engagement

What’s New At Foothills Academy

Read/Write & Math Intervention Bursary

Makwa7, a leading intelligent information management company and advocate for education empowerment, has teamed up with Foothills Academy Society to foster literacy and numeracy skills among struggling learners.

“At Makwa7, we believe in the transformative power of education and are dedicated to fostering learning opportunities for all."

Jon Harrison, President and founder of Makwa7

The collaboration between Makwa7 and Foothills Academy Society underscores a shared vision of increasing the accessibility of resources so that every student can reach their full potential Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, both organizations are working towards building brighter futures for students and communities. Read the press release here.

Volunteer Appreciation Week

During National Volunteer Appreciation Week, we recognized volunteers' vital roles in Foothills Academy's success. Their generous spirit supports important initiatives, increases the capacity of what Foothills Academy Society can achieve, and creates a community we are all proud to be a part of.

Thank you to all of our incredible volunteers.

Alumni Donation to Maximize Student’s Potential

In support of education and skill development, former Foothills Academy alumni Gord Powers, alongside his father, Ron, recently made a generous donation of tools and supplies to Foothills Academy This thoughtful contribution has been directed towards enhancing the learning experience in our shop class, providing our students with the necessary resources to maximize potential in their elective courses.

Two Wheel View Program for Students

The tools and supplies donated by Gord and Ron will help make a difference in our shop class, allowing students to explore their interests, develop critical skills, and unleash their creativity.

In our Two Wheel View Program, Jr. High Students have earned their own bikes! This program taught our students bike mechanics and bike care.

Through the Two Wheel View Program, our students learnt about the world of bike mechanics and care. They learned how to tune gears, adjust brakes, fix flat tires, and maintain their bikes in top-notch condition.

“The students who participated in Two Wheel View have had such incredible experiences. They've learned how to maintain bikes, made new friends, built resiliency, and even earned a bike as part of the program This has meant that students who haven't ridden a bike in years can now spend hours riding their bikes around their neighbourhoods.”

-Tanya O’Brien, teacher at Foothills Academy Society

Alumni Profile

Jeremy McDonald

1986-1989 Student & Corporate Donor

Jeremy's ties to Foothills run deep, spanning generations and various areas of support.

As a former student during his Junior High years, Jeremy experienced Foothills Academy when it was housed in its original Capitol Hill location a rented space within St. Pius Elementary School. Beyond his personal experience, Jeremy's connection extends to his own child, who attended Foothills Academy.

Professionally, Jeremy serves as the Director of Makwa7, an organization that actively supports Foothills Academy. Makwa7 contributes to the school through a directed bursary program and participates in the Gordon Hoffman Charity Golf Classic, furthering its commitment to Foothills' mission Adding to this collaborative effort, Jeremy's wife, Paige McDonald, is the Manager of Read/Write & Math Intervention programs on the Community Services side of Foothills Academy.

demy in his Junior High years helped him gain a new skills that carried beyond his time in the classroom. When emy, he hated math and thought he was not smart.

However, his time at Foothills shifted things. He found he just learned differently and was actually quite good at math He went on to Geomatics at SAIT, a heavily math based program.

One of the key things that Jeremy found at Foothills that continues through his work today is being courageous. It takes courage to change schools as a child, it takes courage to keep taking on new challenges, and it takes courage to step outside of your box and do something differently.

“It takes courage. Courage to try new things, and not be afraid to step out of your own box.”

Jeremy McDonald

Jeremy’s role at Makwa7 - Director of Customer Success - is to support their clients in projects from the first inception of the idea through completion. Something that Makwa7 and Jeremy believe also takes a lot of courage; to find and analyze the data, to implement new systems, and to change how things are being done. It is a role that Jeremy thrives in, with daily problem-solving and bringing projects from concept to completion. Makwa7 has played a crucial role in enhancing Foothills' Community Services programs by configuring its database system.

Through this work, Jeremy and Makwa7 saw the level of financial need required and provided at Foothills Academy, which supported the creation of the Makwa7 Bursary program for our Read/Write & Math Intervention programs. This is not the only philanthropy that Jeremy is involved in, his love of curling and work with indigenous youth led to leading events in Kenora, On - a bonspiel for Indigenous youth, as well as support for an under 15 hockey team.

Shout Out

Jeremy would like to give a shout out to his teacher Mrs.Wellignton for taking the class for Dim Sum at the Silver Dragon

CALGARY MARATHON You’re Invited!

Join us on Sunday, May 26, for the Calgary Marathon After Party!

After Party Details

What: Family-friendly Calgary Marathon After Party for the Foothills Community

When: Sunday, May 26, from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Where: Foothills Academy Society located at 745 - 37 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4T1

This free event includes the following:

A shuttle to and from the Race Grounds

Indoor and outdoor spaces (not weather dependent)

BBQ

Lunch Activities (mini-putt, petting zoo, face painting, massages, photo booth and more)

Connection to community and an alumni area

Awards and music and MORE!

Alumni Profile

Mitchell Potts

Class of 2013 Current Foothills Staff

Mitch has been busy since graduating from Foothills Academy in 2013, and his excitement only grew when he and his fiancée welcomed a new puppy into their lives.

Since his time as a student at Foothills, he has bought a house and got engaged. On top of that, his passion for sled hockey has taken him and his two competitive teams on thrilling journeys across North America.

Mitch's journey after graduating from Foothills has been a meaningful one, full of growth and dedication. Initially, he decided to upgrade courses and explore open studies at MRU, eager to expand his knowledge and skills. However, his heart led him back to Foothills before long.

Starting his journey at Foothills again, Mitch first lent his support to the facilities team, showcasing his commitment to contributing to Foothills' smooth functioning. Soon after, he transitioned to the Camp Amicus programs, where he played a pivotal role in developing the Horsemanship program This program was designed specifically to aid in the development of social skills in children with Learning Disabilities and/or ADHD, reflecting Mitch's innovative and compassionate approach to education.

For the past six years, Mitch has found his calling as an Educational Assistant in the Phys Ed department at Foothills. Drawing from his own personal experiences, Mitch has been able to connect with and support students who face challenges similar to those he encountered during his own educational journey. His empathy and understanding have allowed him to build meaningful relationships with children and teens, offering them personalized support and guidance.

“The people you meet in life, everyone has a way to help to guide you.” Mitchell Potts

While Mitch's days are busy at Foothills, he also leads an active life travelling and competing with multiple hockey teams the Calgary Flames and the Calgary Sledge Hockey Association. His dedication to the sport has taken him to some of the top-tier tournaments across North America, including the prestigious NHL Sled Classic.

Shout Out

Mitch would like to give a shout out to Jan and Trevor:

Jan Morawski: Mitch's longtime friend and classmate, Jan, is "killin' it" in both his personal and professional life. He has established a successful barber shop and has found fulfillment in various aspects of his life, serving as an inspiration to Mitch. Trevor Anderson: Mitch credits Trevor with an essential lesson about the importance of education. Trevor's guidance helped Mitch understand that while work is valuable, education is the key to unlocking future opportunities. Additionally, Trevor played a pivotal role in providing Mitch with his first role back at Foothills, showcasing his mentorship and belief in Mitch's potential.

How to Register for Your FREE Account

Upcoming Events

May 26

Calgary Marathon After Party at Foothills Academy

Join us on Sunday, May 26, for our Calgary Marathon After Party at Foothills Academy. The event is completely free to participants and includes a BBQ lunch, activities (mini-putt, petting zoo, face painting, massage), awards, music, and MORE!

Did you know?

We are also participating in the Servus Calgary Marathon Charity Challenge. Click HERE to join our team!

July 25

The 14th annual Gordon Hoffman Charity Golf Classic

Join us on Thursday, July 25, for the 14th Annual Gordon Hoffman Charity Golf Classic, as we gather to golf and raise funds in support of children and youth with Learning Disabilities and ADHD. This first-class, private golf course provides a unique opportunity to golf at this exclusive venue.

November 9

The 45th Anniversary Charity Gala of Foothills Academy Society

Join us at the Fairmont Palliser on Saturday, November 9th, for an unforgettable evening at the 'Put it All on Red' Charity Gala, celebrating the 45th Anniversary of Foothills Academy Society! You will have exclusive access to an in-person-only silent auction and live auction, games, activities, and raffles, a seated dinner with expertly paired beverages, and top-notch entertainment, including a live band

Stay tuned for more information about registration, tickets, sponsorships and more!

Pay it Forward to Foothills

It feels good to give back!

As a graduate of Foothills Academy Society, you know better than anyone the impact our school can have on the lives of its students. Your donations today can impact students like yourself for years to come.

We are proud of the work we do, and we know that much of our success is due to the incredible support we receive from our generous donors. Your contributions are important in ensuring that future students have the same opportunities that you did. Whether a one-time donation or a recurring gift, every contribution makes a difference.

Did You Know?

If you donate $20 or more throughout the year, you qualify for a tax receipt.

Visit our website for more details!

How to stay connected!

Follow us on social media to join the conversation, share your stories, and connect with alumni. Submit your updates and achievements for a chance to be featured in the magazine and inspire others.

Get Social With Us!