Alumni News Winter 2013 4
New Brand Launched
10
Top 40 Under 40
18
Night of Theatre
Don Caron, 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient
7
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT the last year has been extraordinary
ranked in national polls as one of Canada’s
those who have studied with us have taken on
for macewan university.
outstanding undergraduate universities.
increased value. While still young, MacEwan
There is much in which we can all be proud.
University’s Alumni Advisory Council has taken
The institution
was admitted to the Association of Univer-
on an increasingly important role in the univer-
sities and Colleges of Canada, received an outstanding review by the Alberta Quality
This should be especially so for MacEwan
Assessment Council, became a member of
University’s alumni. Now over 50,000
Canada West, developed and released a new
strong, MacEwan’s graduates have made
There is, though, much yet to be done. We are
set of institutional values, launched a new
a singular contribution to Edmonton, to
in the midst of developing a strategic plan for
brand that once and for all affirms MacEwan’s
Alberta, and even beyond. As the university’s
the university that will map out its direc-
status as a university, and continued to be
reputation has grown, the credentials of
tion for the next five years. While MacEwan
sity, and this is something I especially welcome.
M 2
IT’S EASY BEING GREEN!
MACEWAN ALUMNI NEWS
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TRACI TOSHACK Senior Manager, Alumni Relations and Services toshackt@macewan.ca 780-497-4273
FRONT COVER
MAILING ADDRESS: Alumni Relations and Services MacEwan University City Centre Campus P.O. Box 1796 Edmonton, AB, Canada T5J 2P2
Don Caron, 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient
CONNECT WITH US ON LINKEDIN:
MacEwan University Alumni We are committed to environmental responsibility. Call us at 780 497 4273 or send us an email at alumni@macewan.ca and we’ll make sure that your record is updated
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has developed plans before, this is the first
regrettable on any number of levels, it is a
network. I urge all our alumni to stay in touch
time it will have developed a comprehen-
testament to the university that it was able to
with an institution in which you should be
sive integrated plan that will bring together
deal with these reductions without eliminat-
immensely proud.
all elements of the university—academic,
ing any programs or deducing access. At the
financial, facilities, human resources, student
same time, we need to be frank in saying that
affairs, etc.
the university, especially during this important transitional time, could have well used
The strategic planning process is well under-
the funding it lost in creative and constructive
way, and there have been 22 consultations
ways. MacEwan is currently experiencing
across our campuses on the draft Strategic
its largest enrolment ever, notwithstanding
Directions document. Work has begun on the
reduced circumstances, and we must argue
foundation plans which are intended to grow
vociferously against any further reductions
out of the strategic directions (although I real-
that would negatively impact the university.
david atkinson, President
MacEwan University
ize they have not been finalized or approved). As MacEwan University matures, its alumni The last year has been challenging for
voice will be increasingly heard. I am com-
MacEwan, as it experienced, along with other
mitted to working with the Alumni Advisory
Alberta post-secondary institutions very
Council and our Alumni Relations and Services
serious budget reductions. While this was
office to ensure a strong and vital alumni
EXCLUSIVE ALUMNI OFFER
$349 /ticket*
Please join us to help support students as they pursue their academic and career aspirations. Take advantage of this special alumni rate. *Excludes corporate table purchases. Tickets are non-refundable. Don’t wait to buy. Limited tickets available.
To purchase tickets go to:
MacEwan.ca/Alumni For more information contact: alumni@macewan.ca or 780.497.4273
Regular ticket price $500 A portion of your ticket purchase is eligible for a charitable tax receipt.
SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2014
SHAW CONFERENCE CENTRE
MONTE CARLO
see o t e p o H e! r e h t u o y
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
M 3
MACEWAN UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES NEW BRAND M 4
DEFINING OUR IDENTITY
The task of rebranding an organization is sel-
We debated back and forth on what words
dom a simple one, but it can be done quickly
and phrases best expressed our identity and
if you’re prepared to cut corners. In an insti-
what makes us distinctive. In the end we
tution as large as MacEwan University, it was
crafted our University Pillars - eight big ideas
vital to provide everyone an opportunity to be
that define our core commitments as a uni-
a part of the process.
versity. The pillars lay the foundation for who
it was extensive in consultation. it involved passionate discussion.
we are and provide a framework for all future And it
Over the last year-and-a-half, more than
strategic and academic planning.
went well beyond its original scope – which
700 people took the time to provide valuable
is exactly what it should have done.
insight into who we are as an institution.
The importance of the University Pillars
We discussed our roots, our defining char-
cannot be overstated. We also produced a
As director of communications and market-
acteristics, where we’ve been and where we
positioning statement, a short paragraph that
ing, I had the privilege of seeing an amazing
think we are going. It became clear early on
defines our distinctive brand profile, purpose
rebranding process unfold. What began as a
that people were engaged and wanted to see
and benefit as a university.
simple exercise to update our logo with the
this done right. That meant four rounds of
word “university,” went on to become some-
consultation where, after gathering input, we
With the establishment of the brand we then
thing much greater, something much more
came back and asked: “Is this what you were
looked to create a logo and a visual identity
important. What we did was define our iden-
saying? Do these words best express the ideas
that defines our proud name and our image.
tity and provide a framework for our future.
we discussed? How can we make this better?”
Although it is not the most important thing
The ‘tower symbol’ represents our sense of place, and celebrates the distinctive heritage of the MacEwan University architecture, locale, and our future as a consolidated downtown campus at the heart of the city. And, in a more cultural way, it represents our sense of community… where people and ideas have come together to achieve extraordinary things. Read more about our brand story and join the conversation at MacEwan.ca/Connect.
that came out of the rebranding process, it is
communication purposes and along with our
good things that make up MacEwan Univer-
the most visual and needed to represent us
new campaign that says, “With the right
sity’s world and form it into a new brand.
well. Several rounds of consultation were held
preparation, extraordinary happens,”
with both internal and external stakeholders
MacEwan University has begun to rebrand
It is a brand that clearly identifies that we are
as the specifics of the new logo were devel-
itself in the marketplace.
indeed a university; a university that is connected, engaged and inspired.
oped and then approved. Rebranding is not something that happens With the pillars and positioning statement
overnight – it happens over time. Even though
complete, and logo development well
surveys in 2011 said there was confusion as to
underway, we then worked hard to create a
whether we were a university, a college, or some-
ken schwanke, Director
tagline that summarizes our positioning and
thing else, those same surveys said that we
Office of Communications and Marketing
our brand promise; hence “Connected
have a glowing reputation in the post-second-
– Engaged – Inspired” was born. The tagline
ary world. It is this reputation that we have
is now being used for marketing and
built upon and that has helped us take all the
M 5
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC • Free fitness and aquatic classes • Squash court bookings • Highly qualified trainers • Complimentary parking
Watch for our winter program registration opening in November! MacEwan.ca/SportandWellness alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
2013 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARDS One of MacEwan University’s highly regarded awards, the Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to graduates who exhibit outstanding achievements or make significant contributions in one or more of the following areas: service to the community, business, the arts, human development, the environment, lifelong learning, post-secondary education, and/or government. Congratulations to the following recipients on receiving this honour.
BETTY L. CORNELIUS
Business Administration, 1976 Betty Cornelius is the founder and president
York in 2007, and at the American Association
of CANGRANDS National Kinship Support,
of Retired Persons (AARP) in Washington,
a grassroots organization dedicated to provid-
D.C. in 2008, as well as at the United Nations
ing information and support to 62,500 kinship
Youth round table in Ottawa.
children being raised by grandparents and After her mother’s murder in 1980, Betty has
other kinship family members.
also taken to speaking out on issues affecting Since being denied access to one grandchild
victims of violence. She is also driven to con-
and rescuing another from an abusive living
tinue learning about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum
situation, Betty has advocated for kin-children
Disorder, Radical Attachment Disorders and
and kin-headed households. She works tire-
behaviour modification. With a background
lessly to provide moral and emotional support
in business, addictions and social psychology,
to kinship families.
Betty thrives on making things happen.
Since 1997, Betty has fought to get Ontario
On top of all she does, Betty works part-time
grandparents rights and was instrumental in
as a mental health support worker and has
getting Bill 210 passed – commonly known
fostered 32 children over the past 30 years.
as the kinship bill. She spoke at the First International Kinship Conference, held in New
DON CARON
Accounting, 1991 Lifelong entrepreneur Don Caron grew up in
he led a multimillion-dollar transaction to
a family of entrepreneurs. Rather than follow
purchase the company and took it public.
in his family members’ footsteps, Don chose
Today, Don is chairman, president and CEO
to enrol in accounting at MacEwan.
of Bri-Chem, North America’s largest drilling fluids distributor operating from 25 national
After graduating, he worked for a number of
warehouse locations.
national accounting firms and relished the variety of working with a diverse group of
Don actively volunteers as an instructor and
businesses. The family entrepreneurial spirit
mentor for various youth sports groups and
emerged when he and his brother co-founded
raises funds for community sport associa-
a private equity group. The company special-
tions and select charities. He was a former
ized in taking an active interest in the man-
director of the Edmonton Petroleum Club and
agement and growth of public and private
for numerous private and public companies.
diversified companies, but Don wasn’t ready
He was also the recipient of Ernst & Young’s
to stop there.
Entrepreneur of the Year award last year.
In 2007, after searching for a “highly-scalable business and finding one in Bri-Chem Corp.,
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
M 7
MARK HOLOWAYCHUK
International Business and Supply Chain Management, 2005 As the founder of Vitamart.ca, Mark Holoway-
reports, attending presentations and providing
chuk grew his company from $1,000 in sales to
guidance and feedback throughout the process.
a multimillion-dollar corporation in five short
He readily uses his personal experiences to help
years. Today, Vitamart.ca is one of Canada’s
mentor and educate students.
largest online health supplement stores. Originally starting out in his basement, Mark now
Mark also launched SupplementReviewer.com,
carries over 5,000 products and runs his busi-
a website dedicated to providing feedback
ness out of a 5,000-square-foot warehouse.
and reviews on health products. He founded the Edmonton Internet Millions Mastermind
Mark regularly returns to MacEwan University
Group, a monthly get-together for local Inter-
to mentor students in the School of Business.
net entrepreneur. Mark was also named one of
During his visits, he discusses the benefits
Edmonton’s “Sizzlers” in 2010.
and the challenges of owning and running an e-business and participates in the e-business challenge, which involves reading student
DR. JARED TABLER
Arts and Cultural Management, 2003 Dr. Jared Tabler is the vice-president of
Avenue magazine, for which he is the former
operations for ICOM Productions, created the
fashion editor, named Jared one of Edmon-
Style Guy fashion blog and founded market-
ton’s “Top 40 Under 40” in 2009. The follow-
ing firm McQueen Creative.
ing year he was nominated for the Caldwell Partner’s national “Top 40 Under 40” award.
Jared’s early enthusiasm for theatre and volunteerism played a significant role in his deci-
In 2009, he received a Horizon Interactive
sion to enrol in the Arts and Cultural Manage-
Gold Award with ICOM Productions, an
ment program. After graduating, Jared
e-learning company that creates online train-
became a consultant, working with numerous
ing solutions. Alberta Venture named ICOM,
clients in the areas of marketing, strategic
under Jared’s leadership, one of the Fast
planning, organizational development and
Growth 50 companies for 2013. Jared embod-
branding. Jared believes in building strong
ies many MacEwan University values includ-
communities and as such has volunteered his
ing lifelong learning, excellence, community,
time to many arts, culture and human service
collaboration, diversity and individuality,
organizations including Big Brothers & Big
innovation, and leadership.
Sisters, HIV Edmonton, Exposure Festival, United Way of the Alberta Capital Region, Theatre Alberta and the Alberta Ballet.
BEN WEINLICK
Disability Studies: Leadership and Community, 2007 Ben is passionate about helping people and
He also regularly writes for the Creativity Post,
organizations enhance their creative capac-
gives keynotes, curates content for Think Jar
ity in order to come up with better quality
Collective and consults across Canada.
solutions and services. In addition to being the founder of Think Jar Collective, Ben is the
Ben has had a tremendous impact on the lives
Senior Leader of Research and Organizational
of people with developmental disabilities in
Learning at a large NGO called SKILLS Society
Edmonton. He is a true community builder
in Canada. In this role, he regularly facili-
and embodies the belief that strong com-
tates a think tank lab using design thinking
munities have the capacity to recognize and
and creative processes he developed with a
appreciate the gifts of all citizens.
research group during his graduate studies.
An educational and enlightening feature sharing the facts and figures about MacEwan University
MacEwan is 41 years old and has had six logos since its inception
M 9
60ft
16 exterior building signs and 51 directional signs were changed in the first phase
30ft 0ft
new official colours: Nine alumni were involved in the rebranding creative development (including video, music and photography)
The banner on the side of the Robbins Health Learning Centre is 60 feet high
since MacEwan’s last rebrand
x 100 More than 700 participants were involved in four rounds of consultations
new logo concepts were reviewed
new banners were installed
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
ALUMNI AND FRIENDS HONOURED AS TOP 40 UNDER 40 Each year, Avenue Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” recognizes individuals who are leaders in their field, and whose passions and professions have helped raise the city’s profile through growth and change. Congratulations to the following alumni and friends of MacEwan University who were honoured.
,
JANELLE AKER Journalism, 2005
DON BERNER, Friend of MacEwan University
IRFAN CHAUDHRY, Bachelor of Arts, 2003
When Janelle was a student in MacEwan’s jour-
Don has been called one of Canada’s fastest
Irfan holds a masters degree in Criminal
nalism program, she had dreams of writing for
rising saxophone stars. In addition to appear-
Justice and is an instructor in the Depart-
Transworld or Thrasher magazine, as she loved
ing alongside such notable jazz luminaries
ment of Sociology at MacEwan University.
skateboarding most of her life. Over time, her
as Juno Award winner P.J. Perry, Bobby
He was awarded the Royal Commonwealth
writing inspirations changed, but her passion to
Shew, and Hugh Fraser, he has performed
Youth Service Award for his work with the
share people’s stories hasn’t.
at Edmonton’s Jazz City Festival, Yardbird
Youth Restorative Action Project and won the
Suite, Calgary’s “Beatniq”, Saskatoon’s “The
Centre for Race and Culture anti-racism ini-
She has worked in Edmonton’s not-for-profit
Bassment”, and Vancouver’s “The Cellar”.
tiative for his work with the Mosquers Mus-
sector for nearly 10 years, most of which were
Don has also been a featured artist at the
lim Youth Amateur Film Festival, which he
in the homeless community with a focus on
Montreal Jazz Festival.
helped co-found. He is currently completing
housing. It was her journalism education that
his PhD, researching which parts of Canada Don can be heard on numerous CDs includ-
have the largest number of racist tweets and
ing his own debut CD, “Sextet,” his second
how this, if at all, relates to the amount of
Her personal life has also transformed into
album, “Fortress of Solitude,” and his brand
reported hate crimes in those same cities.
a “labour of love” career, as she cofounded
new album “The Don Berner Sextet Invades
a website with her partner, Terah Jans.
Calgary,” which has been charting all over
“I Dig Your Girlfriend” was created to share
Canada and is the subject of a recent CBC
stories, information and to support Edmon-
recording. He has performed on CBC’s
ton’s LGBT*Q community. The website’s
Hockey Night in Canada and numerous
success has been built on the honest voices
radio and TV specials.
made it all possible.
M 11
of their friends and writers who have shared their personal experiences of being in a mar-
He has also been nominated for the TD
ginalized community and how equality issues
Canada Trust Jazz award, the Galaxie Rising
affect Edmonton as a whole.
Star Award, and several Mayoral Arts Awards.
ELLEN CHORLEY, Theatre Arts, 2004
Audiences and Outstanding Independent Production. She is also the recipient of the
Ellen is an Edmonton-based playwright,
Nextfest Emerging Artist Award and has been
producer, performer and theatre instructor.
nominated for the Mayor Celebration of the
She is the founder/artistic director and
Arts awards on two occasions.
festival producer of Promise Productions, a theatre for young audiences that produces
As an actor, Ellen has performed on stages all
the Snow Globe Festival of Children’s Theatre
over Alberta and Western Canada. Ellen serves
every December. Ellen has written and
as artistic associate for Edmonton’s Northern
produced a number of plays including
Light Theatre, and works as a drama group
Murielle, which received the 2013 Sterling
leader at the Autism Society of Edmonton.
Award for Outstanding Production for Young
RONA FRASER, Arts Administration, 2000
After graduating, Rona started her dream
Daughter Ball.Over the years, the company
career in event management and fund
has evolved into specializing with working for
development. Working with SJ Event Man-
non-profit organizations, with over a million
agement, she learned how to produce and
dollars being raised for worthwhile causes
promote world-class events. In 2001 she
including The Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospi-
and her husband started their own event
tal Foundation, The Canadian Cancer Society
management company, Event Energy,
and Ronald McDonald House. Ten years
which has become a full-service event com-
ago, she did the grand opening for the Nina
pany serving all of Western Canada. Rona
Haggerty Centre for the Arts and continued to
has worked on a variety of events including
work for the centre on a contract basis which
the Alberta Music Awards, Edmonton’s May-
led to her current part-time position as their
or’s Celebration for the Arts and the Daddy
director of Development.
JESSICA KLUTHE, Friend of
MacEwan University After receiving her Master of Fine Arts in
migrant story based on Jessica’s great-great
Writing from the University of Victoria,
grandmother who stayed behind in Calabria,
Jessica returned to Edmonton in the hopes of
Italy while the rest of her family migrated to
finding meaningful, relevant employment. In
Canada during the 1950s.
just a few months, she was hired at MacEwan University as an instructor in the Bachelor
Two chapters of her book received recogni-
of Communication Studies program.
tion before publication: “Scattered” won the 2012 Other Voices Creative Non-Fiction
During her first year of teaching she edited
contest and “Traces” was shortlisted for the
and completed her first book, Rosina, the
Writers Guild of Alberta’s James H. Gray
Midwife, which was released this past March
Alberta Literary Award in the summer of
and was on The Edmonton Journal’s list
2011. Jessica is currently working on another
of best sellers for ten weeks. The book is a
book project which is a novel set in Alberta.
SORIN MIHAILOVICI, Design Studies, 2008
Sorin wears many hats throughout the day,
exposes the world’s most notorious scams and
keeping busy with production work at OMNI
educates the consumer on how to avoid them.
Television and City, as well as running a mobile app and producing his own TV series.
Sorin is also the producer of his own TV
At OMNI Television, Sorin is responsible
series called Travel by Dart. Every episode,
for the development and implementation of
Sorin and his friend Matt Cook throw a dart
diversity-related programming. He is also
at the world’s map and travel wherever it
the producer of the ‘DiverseCity’ segment on
lands, with the purpose of helping the land
Breakfast Television.
or the people. Whether it’s about building a school in Uganda or a library in the West
Sorin is also the founder of the world’s largest
Indies, Sorin and Matt are always ready to
fraud prevention mobile app, Scam Detector,
roll up their sleeves.
accessible on iPhones and Android. The app
CAROL NEUMAN, Executive Leadership in the
Non-Profit Sector, 2012 Carol is executive director of the Alberta Stu-
She is also an active community builder,
dents Executive Council - an advocacy group
serving as a member of the Winter City strat-
representing 175,000 students from across
egy think tank, Edmonton Economic Develop-
the province. Her organization has worked to
ment Corporation’s Downtown Vibrancy Task
develop solutions for students ranging from
Force, a board member at LitFest: Edmonton’s
the Serving Communities Internship Pro-
Non-Fiction Festival, and community co-chair
gram, to the Alberta Campus Mental Health
for Edmonton NextGen. Earlier this year,
Innovation fund, to advocating for new
Carol also founded the 10 Mile Meal project,
strategies to expand access to post-secondary
a new initiative that celebrates vernacular
programs for rural and northern students.
prairie cuisine.
MICHELLE PONICH, Journalism, 2006
Since graduating, Michelle has gone on to
During her time with the EDSS, Michelle has
establish herself as one of Edmonton’s vision-
established the organization on an equal play-
aries in the not-for-profit sector, an area that
ing field with other like-sized charities in
she has great passion for. For over three years
Edmonton. Her deep-rooted belief in people
she worked in the area of development with
born with Down Syndrome has provided her
the Alberta Cancer Foundation forwarding
the drive and passion to not only bring vision
their mission and raising funds to support
to the society, but change perceptions in our
research and cancer care in Alberta. In 2010,
communities. Michelle also dedicates her
Michelle accepted the position of executive
personal time as a board member with CTV’s
director with the Edmonton Down Syndrome
Good Neighbour Fund, the Motorcycle Ride
Society (EDSS), becoming the first paid staff
for Dad and Bryan’s Angels.
person in the organization’s 24 year history.
photo credit : claudine lavoie photogr aphy
M 13 BEN WEINLICK, Disability Studies: Leader-
ship and Community, 2007 Ben is passionate about helping people and
He also regularly writes for the Creativity
organizations enhance their creative capacity
Post, gives keynotes, curates content for
in order to come up with better quality solu-
Think Jar Collective and consults
tions and services. In addition to being the
across Canada.
founder of Think Jar Collective, Ben is the Senior Leader of Research and Organizational
Ben has had a tremendous impact on the lives
Learning at a large NGO called SKILLS Soci-
of people with developmental disabilities in
ety in Canada. In this role, he regularly facili-
Edmonton. He is a true community builder
tates a think tank lab using design thinking
and embodies the belief that strong com-
and creative processes he developed with a
munities have the capacity to recognize and
research group during his graduate studies.
appreciate the gifts of all citizens.
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
CULTURE OF SUCCESS MAKING CHANGE IN THE LIVES OF ABORIGINAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Lafferty’s journey into the world of supporting
the resource centre within each participating
students began at MacEwan University, where
school. Dubbed the Braided Journeys room,
she was initially focused on getting into the
it serves as a home base for students seeking
field of nursing. While enrolled at MacEwan,
information on post-secondary schooling,
she became heavily involved with the school’s
scholarships, events, volunteer opportuni-
Aboriginal Education Centre. “I would do
ties, or simply a place to hang out and feel as
things like go to high schools and speak to
though they belong. “This is a place where
aboriginal students about my experiences in
students feel comfortable. I’m here to support
post-secondary,” she says. “The Aboriginal
them, while other staff may come in and do
Education Centre got me volunteering with
teachings. It is a piece of the school that these
Edmonton Public Schools, and all sorts of
students can call their own.”
other things involved with youth. That’s what
Within every child lies a potential that can often surprise us.
M 14
really helped change my mind and led me to
When asked what the most rewarding aspect of
get involved in teaching.”
her job is, Lafferty responds without hesitation.
This is a fact that for-
“Graduation day is by far the most rewarding
mer MacEwan student Anita Lafferty witnesses
It was at this time when Lafferty met her cur-
thing,” she states. “The excitement, the hype,
on a daily basis. In her role as graduation coach
rent boss Pamela Sparklingeyes, who was work-
seeing the parents so happy, it’s just the most
at St Joseph’s Catholic High School in Edmon-
ing in the Aboriginal Education Centre and who
magical day.” Additionally, the Aboriginal
ton, Lafferty works directly with First Nations,
encouraged Lafferty to get involved with youth.
Learning Services department of Edmonton
Metis, and Inuit students (FNMI), helping
“I would basically volunteer and tutor students
Catholic Schools puts on an honouring ceremo-
them overcome obstacles that may prevent
whenever Pam asked,” she says. Such passion
ny for all FNMI graduates each year. “It gets
the realization of their full capacity.
and work ethic clearly didn’t go unnoticed.
bigger and bigger each year, to the point where
“When I finished my degree, I contacted Pam to
we have to start looking at bigger venues.”
Edmonton Catholic Schools established the
let her know and to ask if she knew of any avail-
FNMI Graduation Coach Program in 2009 in
able positions. She replied immediately, and a
Having been working at St. Joseph’s for three
response to the unacceptably low number of
week later I was in an interview.”
years now, Lafferty has seen many students
FNMI students completing high school. In the
graduate and go on to post-secondary educa-
short time that the program has been in effect, it
Reflecting upon her educational journey,
tion, with some still keeping in touch. “It’s
has been a resounding success, bringing gradua-
Lafferty speaks very highly of her experience
always so nice to hear from them,” she says.
tion rates amongst FNMI students at St. Joseph’s
at MacEwan. “It is a fantastic, dynamic place.
“It’s great to see how well they are doing, and
from 14 percent to an impressive 60 percent.
The Aboriginal Centre was like my family, and
I will probably get some of them to volunteer,
it allowed me to really get involved in a lot of
keeping the circle going the way it did for
The success of the Graduation Coach Program is
other things.” Lafferty even went on to become
me.” With such a passion for helping others
a combination of the support given by coaches
president of MacEwan’s Aboriginal Student
succeed, Lafferty will undoubtedly inspire nu-
such as Lafferty with a more personal, self-
Club, hosting events such as Cultural Days as
merous students to find that potential within
directed style of learning for the students. “It’s
well as developing relationships with faculty
themselves to truly shine.
a lot like university,” says Lafferty. “They attend
that continue to this day.
seminars once or twice a week, then largely work on their own. My job is to make sure they are on
Cultural awareness is an important compo-
track, check their progress, and make sure they
nent of the Graduation Coach Program, the
meet the requirements to graduate.”
success of which Lafferty credits largely to
Our heroes don’t wear capes. They wear gowns. WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2014 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARDS. Do you know of a MacEwan University alumnus that has made a significant contribution to our community or who has achieved inspiring success? Each year at Convocation, MacEwan University recognizes the achievements of Distinguished Alumni and their contribution to the university and our community.
Distinguished Alumni awards are open to all MacEwan University graduates. To be considered, a good candidate will have exhibited an outstanding achievement or made an outstanding contribution in one or more of the following areas: • Service to the community • Business • The arts • The environment • Lifelong learning • Government • MacEwan through various channels Anyone may nominate an alumnus, or themselves and there is no limit to the number of times a candidate may be nominated. The deadline for nomination is: December 31, 2013 Nomination forms are available online: www.MacEwan.ca/alumni alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
M 15
and nerve-racking experiences”, she states. “School really helped me feel more comfortable with being a manager, as well as making decisions on all aspects of my business.” Leclair first heard of the Arts and Cultural
STEPPING IT UP
Management Program after deciding to transition away from a career as a performer. “I originally didn’t have much intention on going to school,” she says. “When I wanted to stop performing, I realized I should get some kind of professional training if I wanted to still be involved in the arts. MacEwan really sounded appealing.” Leclair is very enthusiastic when speaking of her time in the program. “It was very unique,”
ARTS AND CULTURAL MANAGEMENT ALUMNA OPENS DANCE STUDIO FOR ADULTS
M 16
a few. However, Pique stands out by focusing
she says. “I got a lot of opportunities that
exclusively on adult students, providing a ser-
changed my perspective on the Edmonton
vice previously unavailable to Edmontonians.
arts scene. Getting a behind-the-scenes look at the Edmonton Opera, the Alberta Ballet,
The idea for the studio first came to Leclair
and touring a variety of facilities lets you see a
while she was attending MacEwan. Having
side of things you just don’t understand when
danced since she was a young girl, she was
you are part of the audience.”
able to earn a living after high school by performing professionally, working on a cruise
In particular, Leclair identifies the field
ship and as a cheerleader for the Winnipeg
placement element of the program as being
Blue Bombers. Wanting to maintain her skills
of great value in preparing her for entry
while in post-secondary, she quickly became
into the working world. “You actually get to
frustrated while trying to find appropriate
work while also being mentored,” she states.
instruction. “It can be uncomfortable in
“During our two-month placement, all of the
For many young artists, it can be difficult to decide between following one’s
classes where you are the only person older
students would get together periodically for
than 16. Then one day it hit me; I should
workshops, and share our experiences.”
passion or to choose a more stable
open a studio just for adults!”
career direction.
With Pique Dance Centre now open for busi-
For Jeanelle Leclair,
choosing was simply not an option. The gradu-
Transforming the idea into reality didn’t hap-
ness, the base of happy customers continues to
ate of MacEwan’s Arts and Cultural Manage-
pen overnight, nor was it a process without
grow. In fact, a graduate of MacEwan’s Theatre
ment program instead decided to pave her own
significant challenges. “Nothing goes as you’d
Arts Program who had been cast in the musi-
road, incorporating both her love of dance with
expect it to, and everything that does happen
cal Mary Poppins, yet had no previous dance
a strong entrepreneurial spirit.As a result of
is totally unexpected,” Leclair says with a
training recently approached Leclair. “I love
both hard work and true passion, Leclair now
laugh. Yet she is quick to credit her education
working with these customers,” says Leclair.
owns and operates her very own dance studio
with equipping her to deal with many of the
“I almost feel like a consultant.”
in downtown Edmonton.
difficulties associated with starting a business in the arts industry. “My program really
Having successfully made the transition from
Pique Dance Centre opened its doors in
helped prepare me, particularly in regards
performance to business ownership, working
August of 2013, offering instruction to students
to marketing, market research, managing
within the art form she so loves is very re-
from beginners to advanced dancers looking
finances, and finding funding,” she says.
warding for Leclair. “I know that I’m making a lot of people happy. They aren’t worried
to refine their skills. The studio offers an incredibly diverse range of classes, cover-
Dealing with commercial realtors, bankers,
about it being uncomfortable for them to
ing staple genres such as jazz and tap while
and finding the perfect location for the studio
learn, and that makes me feel like I’m really
additionally providing expert guidance in
stand out to Leclair as the most arduous parts
contributing to the dance community.”
Afro-Cuban, African, and soca styles to name
of the process. “Those were really challenging
M 17
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
ALUMNI NIGHT OF THEATRE 2013 M 18
this year marked the seventh annual alumni night of theatre
event held at the
John L. Haar Theatre, Faculty of Fine Arts and Communications campus. Over 250 alumni had the opportunity to catch up with old friends while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and wine before heading into the theatre to watch the performance of Carrie: The Musical. Carrie: The Musical tells the tale of an awkward ugly duckling who transforms into an avenging swan. After years of struggling at home with a domineering mother and harassed at school by vindictive bullies, Carrie White is awakened to her telekinetic powers. The musical explores outsiders, being misunderstood and struggling to make human connections.
As in previous years, the Theatre Arts students and staff put on an amazing show and a great time was had by all.
Carrie: The Musical Photos provided by Epic Photography
I wanted to pass on a big thank you! My guest and I had a great time at the show. The performance was fantastic and the food was amazing. This was my first time attending and I’m happy to say that the evening was very enjoyable. I am very grateful to be a MacEwan alumni! carmen krysa,
Office Assistant, 2006
M 19
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
IN GOOD HANDS M 20
MASSAGE THERAPY GRADUATE BECOMES SPECIALIST IN ADVANCING TREATMENT OF LYMPHEDEMA
the move proved to be the right one, marking
being home roughly 4 or 5 days a month.
the beginning of a most rewarding journey
“When my two-and-a-half year old daughter
into the world of patient care.
asked me, ‘Are you going to visit me again today Daddy’ I knew I had to make a change.”
At present, Soles is the president and lead therapist of Salutaris Centre, a leading-edge
While contemplating his next move, Soles
therapeutic clinic specializing in the treatment of
glanced over the notes of a friend who hap-
lymphedema. This condition is the result of an
pened to be a massage therapist. “I sat and
improperly functioning lymphatic system that
read her notes and realized that this is what I
can result in chronically swollen regions of the
want to do. I came back and told my business
body, with many sufferers finding limited relief
associate that I was leaving the firm to become
through standard medical avenues. Interestingly,
a massage therapist.” Within 4 months, Soles
the three other therapists who work at Salutaris,
had wrapped up his commitments and was
Lee Saunders, Leila Power and Shaunna Leclair
enrolled at MacEwan University.
are all MacEwan graduates. In speaking of his experience at MacEwan, sometimes, it is the unexpected decisions
Prior to delving into massage therapy, Soles’s
Soles is very complimentary of the school’s
that truly define our lives.
consulting career was already well-estab-
focus on working with each student to sup-
deciding at age 38 to abandon a successful
lished and prosperous, yet not without sacri-
port their learning. “As a 38 year-old business
career as a management consultant to enroll
fice. “My career was going better and better,
guy, they really helped put together a pro-
in MacEwan’s Massage Therapy program may
but my life was getting worse and worse,”
gram that met my particular needs, enabling
have seemed crazy to some. However,
says Soles, describing long work weeks and
me to enter this field. They worked with my
For Ian Soles,
knowledge and experience to help me become
I could learn a technique to save a child’s leg,
the University of Calgary. Soles is extremely
a better therapist.”
I would really have done something worth-
optimistic about this venture, “We hope this
while in this world.” Consequently, one of
research will help us understand how the lym-
Upon graduation in 1994, Soles was of-
Soles later patients would be only the second
phatic system actually functions, and hopefully
fered the opportunity to purchase Elements
person in Canada to have a lymphatic vessel
find a cure for lymphedema.” With this area of
Wholistic Centre, a business owned by one
transplant, with the Vodder technique being
anatomy very poorly understood, Soles hopes
of his instructors. “Of greatest importance to
critical to their rehabilitation.
that this program will help establish a whole
my success early on was the seriousness with
new area of medical specialization.
which the instructors taught the hands-on
After several years of practice, Soles was
work,” Soles says. “Good technical skills are
approached by Edmonton philanthropists
It has been a long and winding road for Soles,
imperative, and the instructors at MacEwan
Dianne and Irving Kipnes, regarding treat-
one that was truly guided by a passion for
really understood this.” As a result, not one of
ment of Dianne’s chronic lymphedema. Their
people. “This line of work is not like an office
the 25 clients/week left as a result of the prac-
discussions evolved into their partnering in
job, its really about touching people’s lives.”
tice changing ownership, firmly establishing
the establishment of Salutaris Centre in 2010,
With such an enduring enthusiasm for helping
Soles within his new field.
with the goal of helping advance the treat-
others, it is clear that Soles choice to follow his
ment of this poorly understood disease for the
heart and completely change careers wasn’t
benefit of the wider population.
quite so crazy after all.
Shortly after starting his practice, Soles attended a demonstration of the Vodder Method of Manual Lymph Drainage; a technique that
Furthering this commitment, the Dianne &
had a proven track record of reducing lymph-
Irving Kipnes Foundation donated $5 mil-
edema. Soles reveals being truly inspired to
lion in September of 2013 to fund a Lymph-
learn the Vodder Method, stating, “I felt that if
edema Research and Education program at
M 21
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
NO MORE EXCUSES MY EXPERIENCE AS A MACEWAN EDUCATION ABROAD STUDENT M 22
With an endless amount of help and support
your perspective of the world diversifies and
from MacEwan International, I found myself
you look at things differently, which is exactly
in the United Kingdom studying Fashion
what some employers are looking for.
Journalism at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA). After finishing her term in London, Taylor I chose UCA for a number of reasons.
Blades returned to MacEwan where she is
The Fashion Journalism campus is located in
currently finishing her diploma in Public
Epsom, which is an hour away from London,
Relations. She also received her Bachelor
and how could I say no to London? I also
of Applied Communications in Professional
wanted a program that would challenge my
Writing this past November. She hopes to
i always promised myself that i would
skills as a communicator and introduce me
return to the UK in the future to pursue a
travel the world one day.
to new ideas and concepts.
career in fashion journalism.
It’s much easier
said than done. Why? Because one minute you’re ready to explore the world and the next
I’ve had people ask me if the Education
minute you’re using excuses like, “but it is so
Abroad Program was worth it. My answer is
The most important lesson I learned from
far away” and “I’ll just travel next year.” I was
always yes. Taking part in the program was
my exchange was that anything is possible if
caught in this cycle for quite some time, until
one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
you set your mind to it. I never realized how
one day I had a moment of bravery. And in
I experienced so much in the UK and I would
capable or determined I was until I found my-
this resolve, I told myself that I was going to
do it all over again without a second thought.
self in a different country away from everyone
travel, no more excuses.
and everything that I knew. MacEwan’s I had the opportunity to learn from some of the
Education Abroad Program helped me realize
The challenge was, I was still enrolled in
industry professionals who influence the Lon-
how captivating the world is and how study-
the Bachelor of Applied Communications
don fashion scene, and I ended up going there
ing abroad can truly change your life.
program and I wasn’t about to drop out of the
at least once a week to experience it firsthand.
program, but I knew that my desire to travel wasn’t going anywhere. So I began to look for
In a professional sense, I believe that my
options and came across MacEwan’s
study abroad term helped to set me apart
Education Abroad Program.
from other graduates. When you go abroad,
GRAD SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT DESI MCEWAN, BACHELOR OF ARTS, 2010
time at McMaster, Desi received multiple
Doctoral Supplement from the Social Sciences &
awards, including a Joseph Bombardier
Humanities Research Council and Sport Canada
Canadian Graduate Scholarship from the
for his PhD.
Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council and numerous internal university awards.
Additionally, as the majority of Canada’s population is insufficiently physically active, he is in-
While working on his masters’ degree, one of
volved in research that assesses how individuals
his studies was published in The Journal of
can improve their physical activity behaviours.
Psychology of Sport & Exercise, and the
At the same time, he works with multiple sports
Huffington Post wrote about his findings
teams from Edmonton and the Lower Mainland
who, after hearing about his interests
leading up to the 2012 London Olympics.
as a sport psychology consultant.
and passions, suggested he pursue a doc-
In 2012, his assistance as a sport psychology
torate in sports psychology.
consultant with a local women’s curling team
Desi’s long-term goals include completing
turned into a ‘light bulb’ moment for Desi and
was acknowledged by the team’s skip at the
a doctoral dissertation followed by a one-or
thus began his educational journey. He says
provincials for Alberta in articles in the
two-year post-doctorate degree, and eventu-
that this type of support from staff and faculty
Edmonton Journal and Edmonton Sun.
ally work as a professor in sport and exercise
when desi mcewan first stepped on campus in
2005, he met with an advisor
This advice
psychology. He plans to continue to work as a
members, including Dr. Rodney Schmaltz and Dr. Lynne Honey, distinguishes MacEwan
This fall, after completing his master’s degree
sport psychology consultant and hopes to one
from other universities.
at McMaster, Desi packed up again and moved
day work as a consultant at the Olympics.
out west to pursue his PhD at the University of When he was nearing the end of his fourth
British Columbia where his focus is on teamwork
year, Desi began his cross-Canada application
in sport. He is interested in learning how sports
process for graduate school. After receiving
teams achieve their goals and what maximizes
acceptance offers at all three of the schools he
their effectiveness. He has again received a Joseph
applied to, he ended up choosing McMaster
Bombardier Canadian Graduate Scholarship as
University in Hamilton, Ontario. During his
well as a Sport Participation Research Initiative alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
M 23
THE ONLY CONSTANT IS CHANGE UPDATES FROM THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
M 24
the definition of the PRME within a Canadian
Graduates will have met the academic require-
context,” said Elsie Elford, Dean of the School
ments for the Certified in Management (C.I.M.)
of Business.
and Professional Manager (P.Mgr.) designations.
Former Deputy Prime Minister, the Honour-
The Bachelor of Commerce program will be
able A. Anne McLellan, delivered a keynote
graduating its first cohort of Marketing and
address. In her presentation “From Board-
Human Resources Management majors in
room to Classroom: Fostering Sustainable
spring of 2014.
Business is about constantly reacting, adapting and prospering; and business at
Management,” McLellan advocated that promoting sustainable thinking is more than
Lastly, the annual Student Business Confer-
MacEwan University is good.
just talk, it is also about integrating ideas into
ence (SBC), will take place on Wednesday
our core values.
March 5, 2014 at the Shaw Conference Centre. The conference will welcome students
Earlier this year, the School of Business, welcomed more than 80 academics, students
Attitudes in business have long been shaped
from across the university, as well as business
and businesspeople from across Canada to
by a focus on profit and financial return on
leaders from in and around the Edmonton
e3 = Earth, Education, Economics — the first
investment. A growing number of business
area. This year, SBC will feature a business
Principles for Responsible Management
leaders are demanding change and embracing
mixer which will provide students and busi-
Education (PRME) Canada Regional Meeting.
sustainability as not just an idea, but also as a
ness professionals with a great networking
necessity. Changing attitudes throughout the
opportunity. For more information on the
PRME is a United Nations Global Compact
business community starts with the percep-
conference and how you can get involved
initiative. The principles serve as a frame-
tions impressed upon students on their road
visit MacEwan.ca/SBC.
work for management and business educa-
to becoming the business leaders of tomorrow.
tion schools to develop future thought and business leaders in terms of sustainable and
In other news……
responsible management. The Business Management program, “In hosting the first PRME regional meeting
(formerly Management Studies), received
within Canada, we hope this nationwide
national accreditation from the Canadian
discussion will continue towards establishing
Institute of Management this past August.
CAREER TIPS, TRICKS AND TRENDS from Karly Gerlach, employer relations specialist at MacEwan University Career Services.
how often do you hear the word networking and think of an awkward business mixer?
In reality, we are actually
networking every day; building and maintaining relationships by sharing information and resources. We generally do this inside and outside the office, but if you see others being promoted over you or are never asked to lead new projects, the reason could be a lack of internal networking. Internal networking is as simple as engaging in daily conversation with your colleagues to build rapport, learn ways to collaborate and share ideas. It can allow you to uncover information that inspires new initiatives or ways to contribute to the team. Managers tend to value someone who is involved, trusted by others and invested in the success of the organization. A few simple ways to become an expert internal networker are:
TICKETS for all Griffins court sports home games:
ADULTS $ 5 STUDENTS/SENIORS $ 2 Season passes are also available.
MacEwan.ca/Griffins
•
Get involved in training, orientation or
mentoring new hires
•
Organize an office fundraising event,
new program or sports team
•
Attend office functions
•
Ask a colleague to lunch who you have
never connected with before and try not
to eat lunch alone
•
Find ways to help a colleague
•
Internal networking is not for “suck-
ups” or gossips. It is building valuable
connections with colleagues and
receiving recognition from management.
You might even have fun along the way!
If you have questions regarding this topic or any career related questions you would like answered, please email alumni@macewan.ca with “Career Corner” as the subject line.
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
M 25
NO DIETERS ALLOWED! M 26
CATCHING UP WITH FOOD MARKETEER AND WRITER LESLIE HORNE
Q. Why did you choose to attend
A. I volunteered at the Rainbow Society,
MacEwan University?
a children’s charity granting wishes to chronically ill children. Through helping the charity
A. I’ve always been interested in Marketing,
develop their fundraising materials, I met
and MacEwan had an excellent reputation for
people in the industry and eventually landed
its Advertising and Public Relations program.
my first job at Capital Raceway managing
I remember reading the course outline and
their media relations. I didn’t know the first
saying, “yep, this is for me!”
thing about cars, racing or motor sports, but I was delighted to take on the challenge.
Q. What are your most vivid memories of
I even managed to drive a sprint car, which
your time at MacEwan?
was pretty neat, and got to experience million-dollar sponsorship activation in action.
Leslie Horne, a 1994 Advertising and Public Relations graduate, has a pretty sweet life. She lives in Edinburgh,
studied together, socialized together and
Q. How did your MacEwan University
Scotland – surely one of the most magical,
really supported one another throughout the
education prepare you?
romantic cities on earth. She works in her
entire journey. Many of these friends are still
dream job, as a global marketing manager for
in my life today and we continue to support
A. Although I majored in public relations,
Genius Gluten-Free Foods, and spends her
one another personally and professionally.
most of my career has been spent as a mar-
A. The friends I met along the way. We all
spare time enjoying a number of food-related
keteer. The Advertising and Public Relations
interests. We caught up with her to talk about
Q. How did you land your first job
program provided enough diversity to allow
her career, her life and the role that MacEwan
after graduating?
me to move into various marketing and PR
University has played in her success.
roles, which in turn enabled me to fine tune
Q. What’s your current job?
the direction that was best suited for my
Working in the UK has also been very reward-
skills, talents and aspirations. However, the
ing. I’ve been blessed to work with some
writing skills I developed while at MacEwan
globally-recognized agencies and brands. The
A. I am a global marketing manager for Genius
have been invaluable. Not only have I had to
caliber of work and energy that comes out
Gluten Free Foods, an amazing growing com-
manage PR firms and write countless market-
of London is phenomenal and I would never
pany based out of Edinburgh. It’s my dream job
ing briefs, the skills enabled me to pursue my
have had some of the career and life-changing
as it’s in gluten-free food, which is my passion,
passion as a food writer and blogger.
experiences had I stayed in Canada. It’s been
and I get to work around the world.
tough, but amazing at the same time.
Q. What do you do for fun?
Q. How is living/working in the UK different than in Canada?
A. Nothing really prepared me for working in
Q. What would you advise a student who was interested in working within the food &
A. I eat. I cruise around grocery stores and
drink industry?
markets looking at packaging and for new and interesting products. I started my own web-
the UK. The first couple of years were pretty tough, especially coming into a new country
A. Start working in the industry at any
site, www.glutenfreeforall.tv, where I create
in the depths of a recession. Finding work
capacity. That could mean working as a
gluten-free versions of my all time favourite
had its challenges, many of which I attribute
server in a restaurant or at the local grocer,
recipes. I’m big into recipe development,
to cultural attitudes, lack of connections and
or starting a food blog and getting familiar
food photography, food writing (restaurant
understanding of my work experience. Also,
with social media. People who work in this
reviews) and entertaining. I also love travel-
they use different marketing terms and over-
industry are very passionate, outgoing and
ling and trying new cuisines. Living in Europe
all language than we do in Canada so trying to
sometimes downright crazy. But it’s amazing
lends itself well to this!
understand a conversation can be challeng-
how much fun working in an industry that is
ing. What worked to my advantage was my
fuelled by passion can be. You have to love
North American experience, which many
food, love people and love to eat and drink.
companies saw as beneficial in developing
No dieters allowed!
their export strategies.
Angela Miniaci
M 27
PUBLIC RELATIONS, 2005 If I could dine alone with anyone from any period in history, it would be: princess diana
If I could be one age for the rest of my life it would be: 29
One book everyone should read:
Cats or dogs?
pride and prejudice by jane austen
dogs
One movie everyone should see:
Greatest accomplishment since graduating from MacEwan University:
the breakfast club
One song that would be on the soundtrack of my life:
travel
over the rainbow by israel
If I could eliminate one insect from the earth, it would be:
kamakawiwo’ole
mosquitos
Favourite place on campus:
My favorite childhood television show:
library
full house
Favourite place traveled:
My MacEwan experience in one word:
london, england
relevant
One thing I never leave home without: iphone
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
FITNESS FEATURE M 28
TIPS TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE GOALS
take it outdoors
take it indoors
Embracing winter can be fun and great for
If the thought of getting outside to exercise
your health too. Cross-country skiing, downhill
makes you shiver, take your workout indoors.
skiing/snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice
Join a gym, this will allow you a variety of
skating are major calorie burners and a great
physical activities to choose from every week.
workout for your legs and core muscles, as well
Sign up for a class: whether it’s Zumba, kick-
as your heart. Skating for 30 minutes burns
boxing, weight lifting, swimming or Pilates,
approximately the same calories as jogging for
a scheduled activity will help you commit to
the same amount of time. If you don’t know
staying physically active. If you like to bike,
how, take a lesson or rent the equipment to try
try a spin class. Group classes are motivating
it out. It will challenge you and keep you fit.
and can keep you in cycling shape over the winter. To make it easier, ask a friend to join
staying active during the winter months
Go out and play! Make it a family activity and
you. Having someone to work out with will
Do you find that when the temperature drops,
go sledding, build a snowman and make snow
hold you accountable so when it’s so cold and
so does your motivation to exercise?
angels. In fact, sled pulling is an exercise fit-
you don’t want to leave your house — you will!
ness trainers recommend to improve cardio,
It may also give you a chance to learn new
Exercising during winter is just as important
but instead of doing it at the gym, you can get
skills and maintain or improve your fitness
as exercise during summer. The Canadian
some fresh air and have fun at the same time.
for your summer activities.
minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per
Of course you can simply enjoy the outdoors
For those days when you don’t feel like ven-
week and two strength-building sessions to
by walking or jogging. Use caution in extreme
turing out into the snow, try a fitness DVD.
maintain good health and reduce the risk of
temperature and always dress for the occa-
There are so many to choose from and you
disease. Instead of hibernating with a cup of
sion. Layer up with lots of long sleeves, good
can do it in the privacy of your own home.
hot chocolate and an endless TV marathon
pants, multiple socks and heavy coats. And
Or, you can always set up a home gym com-
this winter, read on and find out how you can
don’t forget, in winter months, proper foot-
plete with light dumbbells, resistance bands,
stay fit this season.
wear is a must.
an exercise ball and a jump rope and do
Physical Activity Guideline’s recommend 150
circuit-style workouts. Use the stairs: as little as 20 minutes climbing up and down provides a very intense and efficient workout. If all else fails, bang out some sit-ups and lunges while you are watching your favourite TV show. Whatever the weather brings, find something you love to do and make it part of your everyday life. Don’t let winter slow you down, get up and be active! Anita De Boer is a Bachelor of Physical Education graduate and is certified with the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology as a Certified Exercise Physiologist. She specializes in working with people with specific health conditions, those recovering from injury, as well as beginners just starting out.
Mental health is on everyone’s lips.
M 29
Millions of Canadians are affected by issues related to mental health. Let’s continue the conversation and, together, we can erase the stigma associated with mental illness.
bell.ca/letstalk
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
Let your classmates know what you have been
High resolution photos are welcome and
up to by sharing your stories and successes
will be used when space permits. We reserve
in the CLASSifieds. Submissions can be sent
the right to edit submissions for content,
by e-mail to alumni@macewan.ca
length and clarity.
or by mail to: Alumni Relations & Services, Macewan University, PO Box 1726,
have news to share?
1986 bert auger
Edmonton, AB t5j 2p2
2008
1996 (Social Services Worker)
glenn melnychuk
(Police and Security)
tess jorgensen
(Bachelor of Arts) Tess is
Bert has recently moved to Edmonton from
After six years as the Director of Corporate
excited to be part of a 12-month Municipal
Grande Prairie, and is currently working with
Security, Safety and Regulatory Affairs,
Internship Program through Municipal Affairs.
the Human Services Ministry of Alberta in
Glenn has moved to Purolator to be closer to
their Human Resources department. Ben has
home, and work with a large Canadian owned
rehana meghani
over 18 years of experience working with the
company. In May of 2013 he obtained his CPP
Rehana completed her Masters Degree in Psy-
Government including working with First
(Certified Protection Professional) designa-
chology (Clinical Track) at the New School for
Nations. He is honoured to be a MacEwan
tion from ASIS International.
Social Research in New York. She is currently
(Bachelor of Arts)
working towards her PhD in Applied Organi-
University alumnus.
zational Psychology from Hofstra University lynn sibbons
(Social Services Worker)
Lynn is proud to share that she is a grand-
in Hempstead, New York. She is expected to
2006
graduate in May 2014.
mother to a beautiful little boy. jacinda adams
(Police and Security) After
graduating Jacinda worked at ETS Protective
M 30
Services as well as Macewan Security. In 2008
1989
she was hired with the Canadian Forces Military Police. After serving four years in Edmon-
perri besserer
(Advertising and Public
ton as a patrol member including deploying to
Relations) With over 25 years in the ad-
Afghanistan Jacinda has transferred to Ottawa
vertising industry as a Creative Director/
as part of the National Investigative Service.
Consultant, Perri spent many years qualifying (Music) Bradley, recently
clients and coming up with creative ways to
bradley grieve
shine their personal and professional brands.
released his debut album, The Heart That
Currently, she is a professional life and suc-
Loves Is Always Young, with the Bradley
cess coach with her company NuYU Life Skills
Grieve Jazz Orchestra. The album features all
Co. Â She looks forward to connecting with
original compositions and is now available on
other graduates.
CD Baby.com, iTunes, and Amazon.com.
“Alberta Trees�
Do you have a talent for photography? The alumnus who submits the published photo will receive a
Cher Hoffman
$100 gift certificate for any campus mstore. Photographs can be submitted to alumni@macewan.ca.
Visual Communication Design, 1990
For more details visit MacEwan.ca/Alumni
alumni news fall / winter
2013
macewan . ca / alumni
M 31
If undeliverable, please return to: Alumni Relations and Services, MacEwan University, City Centre Campus , P.O. Box 1796, Edmonton, AB, Canada T5J 2P2
PUBLICATION AGREEMENT #40063489