Alumni News Spring 2014 4
You’ve Got A Friend In Me
14
Grad School Spotlight
18
Fitness Feature
Playing Out A Dream Music alumnus Jonathan Kawchuk is using his composing skills as a ticket around the world.
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT it really is remarkable how resilient
our identity through a successful rebranding
areas of Academic Affairs, Student Services,
the campus community is at macewan
process, which has given us eight University
University Services, Accountability and Risk,
university.
Pillars – commitments we’ve made for the
Information Technology and Management,
administrative structure is changing, our
kind of university we want to be. This has
and External Relations. These plans will be
academic governance is evolving, and gov-
helped guide our strategic planning process.
integrated into a single plan that will guide
Change is everywhere. Our
the university’s development over the next
ernment funding is making us look at our priorities. We are travelling a very intentional
In December the Board of Governors gave
path to looking and operating like a typical
final approval to the institution’s strategic
university, yet our role in Alberta’s post-
directions. This document charts a course for
Our alumni are valued members of the
secondary landscape is unique. We’ve defined
a number of detailed foundation plans in the
MacEwan University community. During the
five years.
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IT’S EASY BEING GREEN!
MACEWAN ALUMNI NEWS
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We welcome your feedback and comments. All correspondence and inquiries regarding advertisements and story ideas should be directed to:
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
Jonathan Kawchuk, Music, 2012
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strategic planning process, we consulted our
You have great stories to tell, we want to hear
the ongoing part you play in the future of this
Alumni Council because we wanted to hear
them, and we want to be of service to you.
institution. Stay current with the university’s
what its members had to say about where we
Alumni Relations and Services to discover
are going as an institution. We have gradu-
I’m inspired by what has occurred over the
ways to connect and play a part in the future
ates that go back 40 years – back to the days
last three years, and I hope you are too. We
of MacEwan University.
when we weren’t a university but rather a
have an amazing heritage made up of thou-
community college. We produced graduates
sands of graduates, and we have a common
that employers wanted as part of their team;
story: we are all part of something great.
that tradition has not changed. We continue
We are now MacEwan University, and our
to graduate the kind of people who play an
commitment is as strong as ever. Our stu-
important role in our city, our province and in
dents have always been our priority, and we
david atkinson, President
our world. It is through this connection that
appreciate what you, as one of our former stu-
MacEwan University
we want to stay engaged with our graduates.
dents, contributed when you were here and
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SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2014
SHAW CONFERENCE CENTRE
MONTE CARLO
see o t e p o H e! r e h t u o y
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You’ve Got A Friend In Me “We were in the same group entrance interview in 1998!” laughs Barb Rix, who works as a conflict management practitioner for the Canadian Forces. “It was purely by chance that we were all pulled into the room together.”
Graduates of Part-Time Social Work Program Form Lasting Friendship
of their time at the university, with the Social
different, and I very much value the kind
Work program having imparted skills of
of friendship we have had over the years.”
tremendous value to both their present Like Kathleen, Ranka Dundur is also a fam-
careers and their personal development.
ily school liaison, yet she works instead for Kathleen Gauthier, a family school liaison
Edmonton Catholic Schools. When asked her
with Edmonton Public Schools, confirms
opinion of how this friendship endures, she
that the friendship took a while to really take
replies, “One thing we all have in common is
shape, but it was through group projects in
that we are all opinionated women. However,
the final year that they really started to get
we are always respectful and support each
to know each other. “It seemed like we were
other day or night.”
always taking the same classes,” she remarks. post-secondary education is a time of
“We were initially drawn together for group
Jacqui Stanford works as coordinator of the
intensive learning and personal devel-
projects and then meshed really well. After a
Supported Independent Living program at
opment,
while, we would run like little girls to sign up
Bosco Homes and describes how the group
for projects together.”
really makes an effort to keep in contact with
where many people often discover
passions that can direct the course of their
each other. “Whenever we get together, it is
careers. It is also a time where individuals can develop meaningful friendships that can
To this day, these women remain just as
just like old times. We do bounce ideas off each
last a lifetime. Such a special bond exists
excited to spend time with one another, with
other, and tough professional issues can have
between Kathleen Gauthier, Jacqui Stanford,
their annual retreats to Barb’s cabin being
us really looking for support. Luckily, with so
Ranka Dundur, Patti Brady, and Barb Rix.
of particular significance. While a wonder-
many different opinions, you can always just
These five graduates of the part-time Social
ful opportunity to relax and have a good
pick the one you want to listen to most.”
Work diploma, 2002, may have first bonded
time, these gatherings also involve a great
through common educational goals, but it
deal of personal reflection and the sharing of
Kathleen very much agrees, stating, “For me,
was through sharing life’s triumphs and
any professional concerns. Goals are set for
every time we get together is just so rewarding
tragedies that these women forged a friend-
the coming year, with the group supporting
for me. I will do whatever it takes to make it
ship that would last a lifetime.
each other in reaching them. Sometimes that
happen. I think we just have such a rare connec-
support comes in the form of bluntness and
tion, and it gets better and better as the years go
“We were in the same group entrance
tough love. However, they all agree that the
by. We are just so invested in each others’ lives,
interview in 1998!” laughs Barb Rix, who
way they hold each other accountable to these
and they are like sisters to me.”
works as a conflict management practitioner
goals has a tremendously positive impact on
for the Canadian Forces. “It was purely by
each of their lives.
Each one of these women remarks on the amount of fun they have when together.
chance that we were all pulled into the room together. I can still remember what Ranka
Patti Brady serves as deputy executive direc-
“We laugh so much and are just so loud,”
was wearing. Maybe that initial familiarity
tor at Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society
giggles Kathleen. “We used to meet at restau-
is what drew us together later on.”
and notes the diversity within this group.
rants, but we were just too out of control. My
“We are all so different,” says Patti. “Kathleen
husband told me that one restaurant owner
Each of these women remarks on how com-
is a strong Irish Catholic lady and is just as
repeatedly requested that we quiet down, yet
fortable and supportive the environment at
hot tempered as she is fun and hilarious. Ran-
we just couldn’t. From then on, we decided to
the university was and how the evening classes
ka can be very direct and is also a very stylish
stick to getting together at each others’ houses.”
really catered to their needs. With each of
woman. She really grounds us and is very
them working full-time jobs and returning to
wise and supportive. Barb was in the military,
While these women have spent countless
school as mature students, they were able to
yet is tender and accepting of everybody.
hours laughing to their hearts’ content,
find common ground through life experiences,
Jacqui can be so proper, but she can be so off
it is coming together in times of hardship
embarking on a new educational adventure
the wall! As for myself, I am Aboriginal and
that has really solidified their bond. Each
together. All five ladies enthusiastically speak
am the oldest one of the group. We are all so
member of this group cites moments when
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Left to Right: Kathleen Gauthier, Ranka Dundur, Barb Rix, Jacqui Stanford, Patti Brady.
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the support of these trusted friends was of
Barb describes the difficulties she experi-
“What I really admire about these women is
critical importance to their lives. Kathleen
enced with having two babies while working
that they are very strong people,” says Ranka.
describes her own story as follows: “Four
full time and going to school. “I was pregnant
“They can deal with just about anything that
years after I graduated, my brother had a
with my son Adam and had just learned that
comes their way. I think that is why we will
stillborn daughter. Our family held a funeral
he had Down Syndrome. I really almost quit,”
always be friends.”
for her, and although I only told one of the
she says. “I didn’t know how I was going to
ladies, every single one of them showed up.
handle it. Kathaleen Quinn, who at the time
It meant so much, and I really knew at
was chair of the part-time program, listened
that moment that they must really care
to me saying that I should quit. She said she
“I think we need each other ultimately in
about me.”
understood, then asked where my support
the end. Any friend you have built such
was coming from. She felt it was the people
strong experiences with, you begin to trea-
Patti recalls her own moment when this
I went to school with. I realized then that I
sure their beliefs and values and admire
group offered essential support. “I can re-
couldn’t walk away from these people and
how they have come through life’s journey.
member one time when the group was sitting
that I needed them most of all.”
There is a loyalty there. That’s what really
around chatting over coffee,” says Patti.
keeps friends together.” ~ patti brady
“We were talking about the likelihood of one
This group has been through a long list of
of us getting sick, with one of them saying
both high points and hardships, including
that statistically, one of the five of us would
the birth of three babies, five children gradu-
get cancer. As time went on, it turned out to
ating from university, two weddings, three
be me. I am a one-year survivor of breast can-
divorces, funerals, one serious illness, and the
cer. This group respected my space, cared for
raising of a child with special needs. Yet as
me, worried for me, and prayed for me. I still
time moves on since those nights at MacEwan
feel so blessed to have friends like this.”
University, this friendship only strengthens.
ALUMNI RELATIONS AND SERVICES
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FACILITY RENTALS Take advantage of reduced facility rental rates when holding meetings, workshops, seminars, conferences, or social activities at the university. A wide variety of facilities, equipment and services are available through MacEwan University Conference and Event Services.
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The privilege is ours. Services just for you. “M” ALUMNI NEWS Produced three times a year, M showcases MacEwan University alumni and provides articles about the university, programs, and faculty. DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARDS Each year, MacEwan University recognizes the outstanding achievements of alumni for their contribution to our community. If you know of any deserving alumni, please contact us.
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ALUMNI ADVISORY COUNCIL The Alumni Advisory Council provides alumni with the opportunity to offer input and advice
concerning matters related to alumni programming. It plays a vital role in developing the alumni community and contributing to the success of MacEwan University. Interested in becoming a council member? Contact us! VOLUNTEER OR MENTOR Come back to campus to share your experience and expertise with current students, or give back by volunteering at various campus events. FREE EVENTS Take advantage of alumni events and activities throughout the year, including the annual Night of Theatre and a variety of speakers and presentations. LOOKING FOR A JOB? Alumni are welcome to view numerous job opportunities posted by employers seeking MacEwan University graduates. Alumni who graduated within the past two years can make an appointment with the Career Services Coordinator to discuss their job search or to submit resumes and cover letters for a free critique. GOING BACK TO SCHOOL? Educational Advising If you are thinking about returning to school, our educational advisors can help. For alumni who decide on graduate school or professional education, there are free programs and services available through our Graduate School Liaison.
Keep in touch. ALUMNI RELATIONS AND SERVICES (780) 497-4273 Email: alumni@MacEwan.ca MacEwan.ca/Alumni Facebook: MacEwan Alumni LinkedIN: MacEwan University Alumni
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Playing Out a Dream Edmonton native Jonathan Kawchuk was an active teenager, performing in musicals while simultaneously writing songs and performing with his band, Paperplanes and Dragonboats.
Music alumnus set to graduate from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts
After a summer in Iceland, Kawchuk tried
to these people, so the odds are in your favour
to settle into studying at the University of
if you put yourself out there. We are spoiled
British Columbia, but his wanderlust was
with London close by. I’m going bankrupt
potent. Further international experiences
seeing acts that I would never be able to
and a more self-directed learning style were
see in Edmonton!”
calling his name. Kawchuk wrote a letter to the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts
Kawchuk will graduate from LIPA in May
(LIPA), a leading UK conservatoire with a
2014, and thanks to a $10,000 recording
business-minded ethos co-founded by Paul
grant funded by Rawlco Radio, he will be
McCartney, explaining his experiences both
working on his debut album. Kawchuk de-
inside and outside of formal education.
scribes the nascent album as a “mixed media
He became the only student in the school’s
art collective based around musical composi-
history to be admitted directly into the final
tions.” Once complete, he hopes to realize
year of its degree program. He packed his
a live performance of the work, “using body
bags and was off to the Beatles’ hometown.
sensors and movement to control lighting
“It’s been a little hectic bouncing around so
and music on a bare stage rather than having
is using his composing skills as a ticket
much, but it’s made things diverse, and I
DJ equipment.”
around the world,
thrive on that,” he explains.
alumnus jonathan kawchuk, music,
2012,
weaving various melo-
While far from home, Kawchuk still has fond
dies, experiences and lessons into a composiKawchuk’s been in Liverpool since Septem-
memories of his time at MacEwan Univer-
ber, but he hasn’t thrown himself blindly into
sity. “Many of the best teachers of my life
An Edmonton native, Kawchuk was an
the unknown. “Since I already had a friend
were from MacEwan,” he says, “but I think
active teenager, performing in musicals
and collaborator there, I had a pretty realistic
the most influential people there were the
while simultaneously writing songs and
idea of what LIPA would be like. In the last
students around me. MacEwan’s model is a
performing with his band, Paperplanes
year of the program, they basically ask you to
tight-knit community, and I met some of my
and Dragonboats.
go out into the world and do it for real, then
best friends, including both of my current
report back if you have any questions. It’s very
roommates, in the music program.”
tion all his own. And it’s only just beginning.
Kawchuk enrolled in the Music diploma at
self-directed, but there are still hoops to jump
MacEwan University as a composition major
through, as with any program. I think the real
In reflecting upon his favourite class while
and immersed himself in his field. “MacEwan
surprise was English culture itself, but with so
attending the university, Kawchuk states, “It’s
is an incredible place to start,” he says. “They
many international students at LIPA, culture
a tie between composition and music technol-
teach the fundamentals so well. The competi-
shock is the common denominator, so every-
ogy. I could talk the geekiest of shop with my
tion at MacEwan was especially fierce because
one goes with it and excuses little misunder-
instructors and classmates without restraint.”
it was always against yourself. I don’t think
standings here and there,” he says. “It’s kind
anyone walked away without a supercharged
of like a big music hostel.”
With plans for the next year that include time spent living and composing in Denmark,
drive and a lot of good habits.” The way the course operates is quite unique,
the Netherlands, Hong Kong and Australia,
Two years at the university flew by, and his
mirroring real-life practices as much as possi-
Kawchuk is sure to find plenty of upcoming
path forward emerged. “MacEwan got me
ble. Students are asked on Monday morning
opportunities to talk the “geekiest of shop”
warmed up and ready for my own self-
how much money they made from their music
with like-minded musicians.
learning.” Kawchuk grabbed his diploma and
in the past week. “Being a student at LIPA in
jumped on a plane to Iceland for a three-
the final year is more like just being a working
month recording and composition internship
artist in England,” Kawchuk says. “There are
at Reykjavik’s Greenhouse Studios under the
a lot of big league players in this country, and
supervision of esteemed composers Valgeir
all of them are a phone call and a train ride
Sigurðsson, Nico Muhly and Ben Frost.
away. A lot of the teachers have connections
alumni news spring
2014
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SCHOOL OF BUSINESS NAMES 2014 ALLARD CHAIR
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20 years, the school of busi-
In naming this year’s Allard Chair, the School
Foundation, the Alberta Arts Foundation, the
ness at macewan university has named
of Business needed not look far, as Mowat has
United Way of Edmonton and the Edmonton
an outstanding member of the edmonton
been involved with an initiative for MacEwan
Oilers Community Foundation, to name a few.
community as the dr. charles allard
University business students called Mis-
chair in business.
sion Possible. Students in the Business 201
The School of Business will honour Mowat
course are given a modest $5 dollar loan to
as the 28th Allard Chair in Business at a lun-
This year is no different, and the school has
start a new business venture, and within six
cheon at the Westin hotel on April 8th.
proudly announced Dave Mowat, president
short weeks, they must show what profits
and CEO of ATB Financial as the 2014 Allard
and corresponding donation amounts they
Mowat joins past Allard Chairs and distin-
Chair in Business. Mowat takes on the hon-
can produce from their energy and creativ-
guished business leaders such as the 2010
ourary position from the outgoing 2013 chair,
ity. All student business ventures are asked
chair, Liz O’Neill from Big Brothers, Big
Dale Wishewan, founder, president and CEO
to choose a charity to support and dedicate a
Sisters Edmonton; the 2011 chair, Irving Kip-
of Booster Juice.
percentage of their proceeds to those causes.
nes, executive chairman and director, Liquor
The purpose of this campaign is to experience
Stores N.A. Ltd.; and 2012 chair, Bill Comrie,
This honourary teaching position is both a
entrepreneurship and philanthropy firsthand
founder of The Brick.
means for the school to recognize the chair’s
and discuss the relationship between the two.
for the past
accomplishments and contributions to the community and to offer business students at
ATB is the school’s partner in this endeavor,
MacEwan University, the business leaders of
contributing a $5,000 grant for business
Prominent Alberta businessman Dr. Charles
tomorrow, a mentor whose example they can
students to use to support the Mission
Allard established the Chair in Business
follow. Throughout the year, students and
Possible campaign.
in 1984. His vision was to bring successful leaders of the business community in direct
faculty are given the opportunity to interact directly with the chair during lectures and
“Dave has been instrumental for the success
contact with those training to be tomorrow’s
classroom visits.
of the Mission Possible initiative, inspiring
leaders. Thus, an honorary teaching position
students with his entrepreneurial and philan-
was established and offered each year to a
“Giving our students the opportunity to meet
thropic spirit. The decision to name him
respected leader of the business community.
someone who has done so much not only in
as our 2014 Allard Chair in Business was a
business but through contributions back to
no-brainer,” says Elford.
the community is a very special thing,” says Elsie Elford, dean of MacEwan University
Mowat, born and raised in Alberta, has served
School of Business. “Students take away so
on many prominent Canadian boards, includ-
much from meeting the Chair in Business.”
ing that of STARS, the Telus Community
Conference & Event Services
An educational and enlightening feature sharing the facts and figures about MacEwan University.
Busiest Conference Month:
Hotel rooms available year-round
Total number of events held on campus:
(Includes all campus locations)
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Beds available for guests from May – August
events held in the month of November, that’s two a day
Over 50,000 guests attended an event or stayed in Residence at MacEwan University in 2013
alumni news spring
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
macewan news
One Step At A Time Dee-Ann Schwanke’s journey into post-secondary education began in 1988, when she enrolled at the University of Alberta right out of high school.
Bachelor Of Commerce Graduate Finds Strength Through Adversity
a failure,” she says. Shortly after, Schwanke
degree, achieving honours with distinction.
married and started a family. After a difficult
She enrolled in her masters studies shortly
divorce in 1998, she found herself suddenly
afterwards. Additionally, her research into
out of work and raising three children.
barriers women face in achieving positions of leadership was featured in the 2013 Student
Despite these challenges, Schwanke decided
Research Showcase, and this peer-reviewed
to face her fears and enrolled in the acceler-
work in the MacEwan E3 Journal will soon
ated Management Studies program at the
be included in a worldwide database for under-
university in 1999. “I was terrified my first
graduate publications.
day,” she admits. “But this time, I ended up succeeding. Really succeeding. I started to
While Schwanke’s time at university kept her
think that I could do this!”
incredibly busy, she was also volunteering at the Stollery Children’s Hospital. “It took me
Within that already extraordinarily busy year,
forever to get involved,” she says. “Isaiah’s
for dee-ann schwanke, tough circum-
Schwanke remarried and began the process
condition was a very personal and private
stances are never a good reason to
of blending two families together, which now
hardship for our family. It wasn’t until I
give up.
included six children. She became pregnant
saw I could make life better for others that
managed to overcome incredible barriers to
with their seventh, Isaiah, who was born with
I started really opening up.” Presently sit-
achieve her goals of a higher education and
esophageal atresia, a rare birth defect in which
ting as Co-Chair of the Family Centred Care
a rewarding career. As a graduate of both a
a part of his esophagus never developed. While
Council at the Stollery, Schwanke is also
Bachelor of Commerce degree and a diploma
Schwanke amazingly managed to finish 19 of
an active public speaker, educating audi-
of Management Studies from MacEwan
the 20 courses in her program, Isaiah’s dif-
ences of students and medical professionals
University, a current masters degree student
ficulties would keep him hospitalized for nine
about her challenges of raising a child with
at the University of Liverpool, an enthusiastic
months before he could come home.
physical disabilities, including a shared
This self-professed “farm girl” has
volunteer, a children’s healthcare advocate,
presentation scheduled this summer at an
and a mother of a blended family of seven
“That was a dark time in my life,” confesses
international conference on patient- and
children, she shows no sign of slowing down.
Schwanke. “For months, he suffered and we
family-centred care in Vancouver.
often wondered if he would make it. It was Currently, Schwanke is a capital-planning
frightening and lonely.” Upon leaving the
While her list of accomplishments is impres-
analyst for the health department of the
hospital, Isaiah required constant care, which
sive, Schwanke is quick not to take all the
Alberta Government. Her career has her
prevented Schwanke from going back to work.
credit. “I have been gifted with a wonderfully
involved in healthcare infrastructure projects
It wasn’t until 2003 that she was able to fin-
supportive husband and family, and none of
from the time that the need is identified to
ish the final course in her diploma and return
this is an individual achievement.” To those
the point when operations commence. While
to the workforce. The following years had
finding themselves wanting more out of life,
feeling both challenged and confident in her
Schwanke feeling frustrated in various jobs
she offers this advice: “If there is something
role, reaching this stage in her career was far
that did not challenge her or utilize her skills.
you want to do, just patiently and steadily
from easy.
In late 2011, she decided to take the leap back
walk in that direction. You will be amazed
into school and finish her degree.
at what you can accomplish.”
Schwanke’s journey into post-secondary education began in 1988, when she enrolled
Fully embracing her return, Schwanke became
at the University of Alberta right out of high
an active volunteer as a member of the MacE-
school. New to the city and university life,
wan Ambassador Leadership program, while
she was overwhelmed by the course load,
her hard work earned her a MacEwan Board
found her grades dropping, and was advised
of Governors Scholarship for leadership and
to withdraw. “At this point I really considered
academic achievement. In 2013, Schwanke
myself not university material, and I felt like
finally earned her Bachelor of Commerce
alumni news spring
2014
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GRAD SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Stephanie Ibsen, Biological Sciences, 2013
cricket and the other using satellite images
and passionate about the subject matter and
to assess the land changes occurring in
inspired me to succeed,” she says. “My profes-
northern Alberta due to oil sands mining.
sors encouraged me to ask question after
“The opportunity to do independent research
question about their experiences with graduate
in undergraduate studies really helps stu-
school, as well as offered tips and ideas as I
dents prepare as they consider enrolling in
prepared my applications. Even though I have
a masters program,” says Ibsen.
completed my undergraduate degree, they still support me by writing reference letters for
macewan news
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In 2013, Ibsen traveled to Germany and
grants and scholarships that I apply for.”
when stephanie ibsen started her
participated in the Alberta-Saxony Intern-
bachelor ’ s degree at macewan
ship program. She secured a position at the
Her current research fits broadly under the
university ,
Helmholtz Environmental Research Centre in
category of oil sands reclamation, with a focus
she knew that her academic
career would not end after graduating,
Leipzig and worked in the conservation biology
on soil. Her study question is, “Do long-term
as she always dreamed of continuing on
department, assisting in fieldwork and data
nitrogen and sulfur emissions affect vegeta-
to graduate studies.
collection for projects. This experience led her
tion growth, microbial community, and soil
to return to Edmonton and start her graduate
nitrogen saturation in the oil sands region in
Ibsen’s curiosity about the oil sands was
studies, knowing that cutting edge and current
northern Alberta?”
sparked during her undergraduate studies,
research was coming out of the University of
and she took every opportunity she had to
Alberta’s Department of Renewable Resources.
for her classes.
Ibsen’s goal is to continue on to a PhD program. She is interested in becoming a uni-
focus on the topic in projects and papers A consistently high GPA is important when
versity professor and continuing in oil sands
applying for graduate school, and Ibsen credits
reclamation research.
During her final semester, she applied to do
the support she received from her instructors
two independent research projects, one study-
at MacEwan University as being one reason
ing sexual selection in an original species of
her GPA remained strong. “They are genuine
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Anthony Falls Human Resources Management, 2008 If I could dine alone with anyone from any period in history, it would be:
If I could be one age for the rest of my life it would be:
ellen degeneres
24
One book everyone should read:
Cats or dogs?
the casual vacancy, j.k. rowling
cats
One movie everyone should see:
Greatest accomplishment since graduating from MacEwan University:
titanic
- it’s a classic
One song that would be on the soundtrack of my life: leaving on a jet plane
Favourite place on campus: the atrium in the robbins health learning centre
Favourite place traveled: panama city, panama
One thing I never leave home without: iphone
obtaining my cmp
(certified meeting planner designation) If I could eliminate one insect from the earth, it would be: mosquitos
My favorite childhood television show: mr. dressup
My MacEwan University experience in one word: exhilarating
alumni news spring
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 15
Paying it Forward
macewan news
M 16
Accounting Student Overcomes Severe Accident, extends helping hand to others for some, the path travelled is far from
claim his life. Rather than let that stop him, the
to make a change. “I didn’t want to be ‘red
determined Athabascan forged ahead to achieve
circled’ and have no opportunity to progress
his educational and career goals, with his focus
in an unsatisfying job, so I wanted to upgrade
now on helping others do the same.
my skills to be adaptable to anything.”
In 2006, Mountford created the Michael
In 1997, Mountford decided to take the big
Mountford Bursary, offering financial assistance
step of enrolling at MacEwan University full
to accounting students in Northeast Alberta.
time to finally achieve his goal of becoming a
Presently, there are four bursaries of $1,000
CMA. “I had so much fun the year I took off
available annually for students attending MacE-
from working,” he recalls. “It was such a great
wan University or the University of Alberta, and
experiencee to leave a bad workplace and to
Mountford is determined to give more money
go learn from quality instructors.”
each year. “The time I spent at MacEwan was really critical for me,” he says. “I just felt com-
Just as he was settling into his new role as a
pelled to help those in my area get the education
student, Mountford’s life took a drastic turn.
and experience they need to go forward.”
After having left the university to pick up
smooth, full of sharp turns, obstacles
Chinese food on his way home, his car was
and unpredictable detours. For Certi-
Mountford’s story at the university starts
hit by a speeding driver. While lucky to have
fied Management Accountant (CMA) Michael
back in 1988, when he began taking part-time
survived, the damage included fractured ribs,
Mountford, this was most certainly the case.
accounting courses to meet the prerequisites
a broken pelvis, a broken jaw, and most sig-
While undertaking the great challenge of chang-
to write the CMA exam. Having previously
nificantly an injury to his brain. In the initial
ing careers and returning to post-secondary
earned both a Bachelor of Arts and an Educa-
stages of recovery, even simple arithmetic
education at MacEwan University as both a
tion degree from the University of Alberta,
proved impossible, placing doubt on his
husband and father, Mountford was involved
Mountford was becoming frustrated with
dream of a career in accounting.
in a serious car accident that would nearly
his job at the City of Edmonton and wanted
“I lived a different kind of life for a few years,
with him successfully achieving the professional
like education or driving are all in question.
and it was a very confusing timeframe,” says
designation he had sought for so long.
I probably have a really good understanding
Mountford, who states that one of the most
of what these people have to live with day
difficult aspects of recovery was the ignorance
At present, Mountford works for the Alberta
people have about brain injuries.
Government as the director of finance and
after day, which helps me do my job better.”
monitoring for the Northeast Regional Board
Despite the obstacles he has faced, Mount-
After many months of recovery and reha-
for Persons with Developmental Disabili-
ford feels very fortunate. “I have a good
bilitation, Mountford was finally given the
ties. Although he still feels the effects of his
life,” he says. “I enjoy being a CMA, and I
go ahead to return to school. “The ability to
injuries, his personal skills and tenacity allow
enjoy the work I do. Now I just want to do
think clearly for long periods and even write
him to thrive in a rewarding career. In fact,
something to help others succeed.” Although
was difficult at first,” he says. “The Services to
Mountford’s experience has given him greater
his path may have been more arduous than
Students with Disabilities (SSD) department
insight into the challenges faced by those his
most, his strength of character and desire to
at MacEwan recognized my specific needs and
department represents.
give back to his community has allowed him
understood what I needed to be able to write
to journey farther than most can imagine.
the CMA exam.” After a great deal of personal
“People don’t really have an understanding
preparation, Mountford participated in the
of what a disability is and what you have to
university’s intense 10-day CMA Boot-Camp,
overcome,” says Mountford. “Everyday things
M 17
alumni news spring
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
FITNESS FEATURE
macewan news
M 18
TIPS TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE GOALS
Strength, stamina, mental toughness and
to help boost your anaerobic threshold.
teamwork are all required if you want to cross
This allows you to work at a higher intensity
the finish line in these events. Unlike other
for a longer period of time. Some cardiovascu-
races, adventure races don’t focus on going
lar training methods that would be effective for
from point A to point B; rather, they encour-
adventure race training include running stairs,
age participants to have fun and co-operate,
hills and trails, and undergoing fartlek (speed
as some obstacles can’t be overcome alone.
and interval) training.
While some die-hard racers are there to cross the finish line first, most are there to have fun
strength
and work together to complete the course.
The obstacles in these races vary in their physical demands on the body, so you need to have
mud, sweat and cheers
training for extreme races
a well-balanced program that addresses both
If running up muddy mountains, jumping
To compete in these types of extreme races,
muscular strength and endurance. Ensure that
into nearly freezing water and crawling under
it is important that you prepare for the physi-
the strength training you are doing is func-
barbed wire sounds to you like a fun-filled
cal and mental demands, as only about 75
tional in nature. Stay away from machines,
weekend, you will enjoy the latest in adventure
percent of participants are able to make it
opting for free-weight and body-weight activi-
racing. These races are not the traditional 10k,
across the finish line.
ties instead. Some good exercises to choose
half- or full-marathon road races; they test
from include lift-to-press (as demonstrated
your cardiovascular endurance as well as your
cardio
in the photos on the right), mountain climber
muscular strength and athleticism. Races like
It is recommended that by the time you
pull-ups and planks (side and front).
the Tough Mudder and the Spartan are events
compete, you are regularly running at least
that combine running distances ranging from
three times a week and that you are able to
MacEwan University Sport and Wellness offers
five to 25km with lots of extreme obstacles,
run five miles (eight km). While training your
a few different training options for the extreme
including hills, mud, water, ropes, walls,
cardiovascular system, you need to incorpo-
racer. In the spring, we offer an Adventure
electric shock and fire.
rate some high-intensity interval training
Race Training class that will lead you through
a series of grueling speed and endurance workouts while incorporating elements of strength training. This class will help you build athleticism and is specifically designed to prepare you for extreme races. Another option would be signing up for an Olympic Weightlifting class. Whether you’re just starting out or have prior experience, these classes will help you develop functional strength while building athleticism. MacEwan University Sport and Wellness also offers a variety of value-added classes, which are free for members. From Muscular Strength and Endurance, to Turbo Knockout and Revolution Spin, these classes incorporate high-intensity training that is a functional and fun way to prepare for your race. Jeff Calkins is a Bachelor of Human Kinetics graduate and is certified with the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology as a Certified Exercise Physiologist. He specializes in training individuals for occupational tests such as the PARE, A-PREP and COPAT, as well as individuals recovering from injury and anyone trying to make a positive lifestyle change.
M 19
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC • Free fitness and aquatic classes • Highly qualified trainers • Complimentary parking
Watch for our spring and summer program registration opening in March! MacEwan.ca/SportandWellness
alumni news spring
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
THE JIM DRAGINDA MEMORIAL AWARD macewan news
M 20
Arts and Cultural Management
After completing his Bachelor of Arts de-
knew him knew he was a trained clown,
gree in social psychology, Draginda spent
and even when not in costume, he could have
13 years with the Edmonton Journal in
anyone laughing within minutes. He will be
advertising and community relations,
dearly missed by all who knew him.
three years on staff with the Alberta Capital Region United Way, and more than 15 years teaching evening courses
jim draginda, arts and cultural management,
2001, alumnus and faculty
member, passed away november
18, 2013,
but his memory lives on in a new award established in his name. The Jim Draginda Memorial Award will honour a second year Arts and Cultural Management student who •
is in good academic standing,
•
demonstrates a commitment to volunteerism and community spirit, and
•
and workshops for NAIT and MacEwan
Donations to the Jim Draginda
University. In 2001, Draginda returned
Memorial Award can be made online at
to school to follow his passion and love of
give.macewan.ca/tributegiving
the arts, completing his Arts and Cultural
or by calling 780-497-5410.
Management diploma at MacEwan. Upon gradating, Dragina’s work took him to the Fringe Festival, Workshop West, Laurie Blakeman’s constituency office and Meals on Wheels. Draginda was an avid volunteer who was involved with the Arts and Cultural Administrators Association, Alberta Community
demonstrates a positive spirit, good sense
Development’s Board Development program,
of humour and displays kindness to others.
and the ELOPE Musical Theatre. Those who
here are some reasons to have an active presence on linkedin:
• Recruiters use Google and LinkedIN to search for talent. Be searchable and make your profile public to ensure you can be found for key skills and competencies. • You can mold your personal brand. Whether you know it or not, you have a personal brand. Find out what your
CAREER TIPS, TRICKS AND TRENDS
online reputation is saying about you,
most working professionals have
and take control of your professional
heard of linkedin , but do you have a profile ?
image by demonstrating your work,
And more importantly, if you
community involvement and background.
don’t, should you? LinkedIn is a powerful tool that can be leveraged to make the
• It’s about who you know. Getting
from Karly Gerlach, employer relations
most of your professional connections, stay
recommendations and endorsements
specialist at MacEwan University
current in your area of expertise and act as
from managers and influencers in your
Career Services.
your own personal billboard.
industry will boost your reputation and give you more credibility. • You don’t have to re-invent the wheel. Join groups that allow you to share your knowledge and best practices. You may find a solution to a problem or be inspired by others in your field. • It’s a great place to research a career path. If you admire someone and want to know how they got there, check out their LinkedIn profile to view their background and see how they found success. Another reason to join LinkedIn is to keep in touch with your fellow MacEwan University alumni. Join our group, MacEwan University Alumni, to see where your peers are now! If
Junior Griffins summer camps are designed to promote individual skill development within the context of a team environment. We believe the key to success in sport is to focus on skill development in a positive environment. By fostering a culture of growth and achievement, our athletes will develop a passion for playing and the skills to succeed. Each camp is led by MacEwan University lifeguards/instructors, coaches and athletes.
*
Supervision extends from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
you need help getting started, Career Services provides LinkedIn profile reviews for alumni within two years of graduation. If you have questions regarding this topic or have any career-related questions you would like answered, please email alumni@ macewan.ca with “Career Corner” as the subject line.
MacEwan.ca/SportCamps alumni news spring
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 21
Alumni Advisory Council 2013/14 Interested in becoming a member? We are now accepting applications for our 2014/15 year. Contact the Alumni Relations and Service office at 780-497-4273 or alumni@macewan.ca
macewan news
M 22
The Alumni Advisory Council (AAC) was
the Council and represent the interests of all
Services, the AAC also supports alumni in
established in 2009 to advise and support
MacEwan University alumni. They play a vital
their personal and professional development
MacEwan University in creating and enhanc-
role in developing the alumni community,
and strives to continue to add value to a
ing services and opportunities for alumni.
acting as advocates for alumni, and help-
MacEwan University education.
Each year, members of the MacEwan Univer-
ing alumni stay connected to the university.
sity almuni community are selected to sit on
In conjunction with Alumni Relations and
Neall Alden, Public Relations, 2003
Neall Alden lists his MacEwan University
Born in Northern California, Alden moved to
experience as being a crucial part of his cur-
Canada with his mother at a young age, and
rent success in business as owner of western
upon proudly becoming a Canadian citizen,
Canada’s largest group ski tour operator,
he turned his passion for surf into a passion
Backside Tours Inc. Backside has been listed
for skiing and snowboarding. With a new and
as one of Alberta Venture Magazine’s Fast
improved ownership group in place, Backside
Growth 50 companies with revenues under
Tours is now operating mountain golf tours
$20 million for three of the past four years,
with 1st Tee Golf so Albertans can now get to
placing 11th, 2nd and 13th.
the Rockies year round.
AAC Bradyn Arth, Bachelor of Commerce, 2010
After graduation, Bradyn Arth was hired by
Apartment Group team, Arth has grown his
CBRE, a global commercial real estate broker-
transaction experience to include existing
age. To date, Arth has been directly involved in
multi-family, land, new development and
the acquisition/disposition of over $300 mil-
judicial work. While attending the university,
lion worth of real estate in both Edmonton and
Arth spent two years with the Commerce Club
secondary markets. Working on the National
acting as vice-president of finance.
Rebecca Bissonnette, Management
Studies, 2003, Co-Chair Alumni Advisory Council After graduating, Rebecca Bissonnette contin-
Bissonnette is currently delivering work-
ued her education at the University of Alberta,
shops to frontline daycare staff at the Alberta
where she completed an Elementary Educa-
Resource Centre for Quality Enhancement,
tion degree. Since then she has had numerous
teaching courses for preschool and youth
teaching opportunities, including working
with the City of Edmonton, teaching English
with ABC Head Start with preschoolers, Bosco
at NAIT and using her creativity as a dance
Homes Ranch with at-risk youth, Careers in
teacher with Edmonton Community Dance.
Transition with adult GED learners, and the YMCA out-of-school care program.
Ed Bootle, Management Studies 1997,
Chair Alumni Advisory Council Ed Bootle is a senior executive financial con-
Prior to his financial services career, Bootle
sultant at Investors Group Financial Services
served as a member of the Canadian Armed
Inc. and a member of the company’s Execu-
Forces, where he obtained his bachelor’s
tive and Senior Consultant Group, which is
degree in Business Administration. He has
comprised of the top 1 percent of advisors
obtained the Certified Financial Planner and
within the company. In this role, he provides
Financial Management Advisor designations
personalized financial planning advice to a
and is a founding board member of Valour
select group of clients with combined invest-
Place, a charity to support veterans, wounded
able assets in excess of $80 million.
soldiers and RCMP members.
Anthony Falls, Human Resources
Management, 2008 Anthony Falls began his university experience
Falls has been an employee of the MacEwan
as a student who was working as a residence
University for over seven years and is currently
assistant in the MacEwan University Residence.
an event consultant with Conference and Event
After graduating, he continued his studies at the
Services. This role allows him to coordinate a
University of Lethbridge and graduated with a
wide range of events both on and off campus that
Bachelor of Management degree in 2010.
contribute to the student and alumni experience.
alumni news spring
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 23
Peggy Gilchrist, Voluntary Sector
Management, 2000 Peggy Gilchrist shares MacEwan University’s
the sports movement as an athlete, volunteer,
commitment to community development,
spectator and staff member, promoting ev-
networking, opportunities for learning, and
erything from grassroots sports development
enhancing the lives of Albertans. Gilchrist’s
to international masters sports, including the
career in the not-for-profit sector spans a
Alberta Games, Western Canada Games and
diverse range of fields, including adult
the World Masters Games. Gilchrist achieved
education, humanitarian and developmental
her long-time goal of being chosen for a posi-
support for children and mothers, health,
tion on the Canadian Olympic Committee
and arts and culture.
through her dedication and participation for more than 30 years in amateur sports.
Gilchrist also possesses a passion for amateur sport. It has been her honour to work within
Patti Leclerc, Fine Arts, 2005
Patti Leclerc exemplifies commitment to
the residents of her facility. She continued to
lifelong learning. She completed MacEwan
explore the role of art in the healing process
University’s Fine Art program while work-
as a Visual Artist in Residence at the Glenrose
ing in recreation therapy at a long-term care
Rehabilitation Hospital. Leclerc has recently
facility. After graduation, she continued with
returned to the university and is in her third
her own studio practice and exhibitions while
year of a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree,
implementing a creative arts program for
majoring in psychology.
Sharon MacLean, Advertising and Public
Relations, 1975
macewan news
M 24
Sharon MacLean is an integrated communi-
an international team before helping in 2013
cations strategist experienced in the private,
to launch the Edmonton Catholic Schools
public and philanthropic sectors of Alberta.
Foundation. MacLean now applies her upgraded knowledge in digital marketing for
As owner and publisher of a notable magazine
business through her company, WorldGate
for 21 years, MacLean was an innovator in cre-
Media. This native Edmontonian received the
ating content with forward-thinking solutions.
Global Television’s Women of Vision award
She originated the famous Sizzling 20 under
(2006), a nomination for the YMCA’s Woman
30 that celebrated 200 young business and
of Distinction award (1999), and recognition
community leaders for over 10 years. She later
from Women’s Empowerment Canada (2010).
led an investor-backed online start-up with
AAC Cameron McCoy, President, Students’ Asso-
ciation of MacEwan University (SAMU), 2013 Cameron McCoy is in his fourth year of the
their success. Whether it’s sleeping outside for
Bachelor of Commerce program and currently
five days to raise money for Youth Empower-
in his first term as SAMU President. As Presi-
ment and Social Services (YESS) or working
dent of SAMU, McCoy has been involved in
on research projects focused on incorporating
internal projects for the organization such as
nonprofit studies into MacEwan University’s
working on the development of a SAMU build-
School of Business, McCoy is always looking
ing and leading a task force to increase student
for opportunities to use his skills to build the
engagement on SAMU’s Students’ Council.
community around him.
McCoy is passionate about the nonprofit sector and integrating business practices to support
Greg Munro, Bachelor of Arts, 2010
Greg Munro graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor
Nations Club, assisting with training and the
of Arts degree with a major in political science
creation of the MacArthur Model United Na-
and a minor in business studies. Since graduat-
tions Travel Award. Munro is also a frequent
ing, he has remained active with the United
plasma donor with Canadian Blood Services.
Kathleen Sawdo, Human Resources
Management, 2009 Kathleen Sawdo is Anishnaabe (Ojibway), Bear
Aboriginal Human Resource Council: Young
Clan, and is originally from Lac Des Mille Lacs
Indigenous Professionals. Sawdo is a recipient
First Nation, Northwestern Ontario.
of the Peacehills Trust Aboriginal Leadership Award (2009) and the Christenson Develop-
Sawdo has worked for non-profit organizations
ments Leadership Award in Human Resources
for over nine years in a variety of positions,
(2009). In 2009, Sawdo was selected as one
has been a board director for the Aboriginal
of Canada’s top 100 Aboriginal graduates and
Women’s Professional Association (AWPA),
continues to maintain a strong connection
the Canadian Association of Professional
with the Indigenous community in Alberta.
Access and Privacy Administrators, and the
Ann-Marie Thivierge, Legal Assistant
Program, 1995 Upon graduation, Thivierge went on to work
with numerous charitable organizations
with the private sector and Provincial Govern-
throughout the city, is a volunteer with Sor-
ment as a legal executive assistant specializing
rentino’s Compassion House and assists
in family law, personal injury and corporate
various organizations that support School
matters. She is the past president of the
for Kids, United Way, the Canadian Cystic
McKernan Community League, where she
Fibrosis Foundation and the Rainbow Society
now sits as a director. Thivierge is involved
of Alberta Caps Off for Kids program.
alumni news spring
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
M 25
have news to share?
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 email to alumni@macewan.ca
length and clarity.
or by mail to: Alumni Relations and Services, MacEwan University, PO Box 1726, Edmonton, AB T5J 2P2
1985 david maze
1988 (Law Enforcement)
2013
james anderson
(Music)
James is currently the music director at
Jonah is currently working on his masters
the Lethbridge Regional Police Service and
the Centre for Spiritual Living.
in Local Economic Development at the
recently retired after 27 years. During his
University of Waterloo. His statistics courses
service, he was assigned to patrols, forensic
in his commerce program have really helped
dercover, recruiting and training, major crimes,
him in his studies. He is enjoying his current
2002
program and says MacEwan University is
the integrated intelligence unit and from 2009
macewan news
(Bachelor of Commerce)
After graduation, David went on to work with
identification services, special operations un-
M 26
jonah cooper
with him every step of the way. (Legal Assistant)
to 2013 was seconded to Criminal Intelligence
amy quintal
Service Alberta as the director of the Provincial
For the past 12 years, Amy has been work-
Bureau for organized and serious crime. David
ing in a variety of large-scale law firms.
is now teaching at Lethbridge College in the
Since 2005, she has been working full time
School of Justice Studies.
as a client relationship paralegal to Indian residential schools survivors and attending the University of Alberta part time working towards her degree in Native Studies.
1986
Upon completing her degree, she hopes to be accepted to the Faculty of Law at the Uni-
david hawthorne
(Law Enforcement)
versity of Alberta. Her training at MacEwan
David is presently working with the Edmon-
University allowed her to have a successful
ton Police Service, Economic Crime Section
career while still setting her sights on her
as a general fraud detective.
long-term goals.
M 27
“Ancient Village of Hongcun,
Do you have a talent for photography? The alumnus who submits the published photo will receive a
Yixian County, China�
$100 gift certificate for any campus mstore. Photographs can be submitted to alumni@macewan.ca.
Carol Tenney
For more details visit MacEwan.ca/Alumni
Travel Consultant, 1988 alumni news spring
2014
macewan . ca / alumni
ALUMNI RELATIONS AND SERVICES
Out of university. Into the community. Our grads aspire and, in turn, inspire. MacEwan.ca/Alumni If undeliverable, please return to: Alumni Relations and Services, MacEwan University, City Centre Campus , P.O. Box 1796, Edmonton, AB, Canada T5J 2P2
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