
2024/25
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2024/25
you for your generous
Your support of student awards, worldclass research and innovative programs connects people and creates opportunities for all of us, making a difference today and improving lives for generations to come.

As we look to the future, we know your continued support, leadership and advocacy are more important than ever.
We recently launched our new Strategic Plan, a truly shared vision that sets the University and the region on a path to growth and success. The new plan defines who we are, our values and commitment, and sets the direction for the next 10 years, providing a long-term framework to enhance academic excellence, research innovation and community engagement.

This year’s Donor Impact Report features stories that bring our strategic directions to life. In the pages that follow you’ll see examples of how ULethbridge is challenging boundaries and inspiring curiosity, becoming a place where people aspire to learn, work and contribute, shaping the future, and engaging communities. Through these stories of support, and many more, we see the incredible potential of what we can accomplish together.
I look forward to working alongside you as we continue to transform lives and communities by ensuring even more students benefit from a ULethbridge education. On behalf of our students, alumni and employees, thank you for your continued support.
Dr. Digvir Jayas, OC, PhD, DSc, PEng, PAg, FRSC Ikkayiinnii (Fast Buffalo) President and Vice-Chancellor University of Lethbridge


Brothers Harvey (BMgt ’82) and Roland Labuhn (BMgt ’90) grew up witnessing their parents’ generosity and communityminded spirit, spurring a legacy of giving they are proud to continue through the creation of the Labuhn Family Indigenous Impact Prize.
The University of Lethbridge alumni are longtime supporters of their alma mater, contributing philanthropically through financial contributions, volunteerism, mentorship and relationship building. The latest contribution encapsulates their commitment to community building, education, reconciliation and allyship.
“Our parents were refugees who knew nobody, but created a community,” says Harvey, who worked 42 years in the accounting profession and is a retired partner at Avail LLP.
Their father, an immigrant from Ukraine, managed a concrete factory where he employed a diverse workforce, including individuals from the Blackfoot Nation.
“We saw how people embraced each other, and that formed our values,” he says. “Then, with our individual journeys towards university and understanding more broadly over time, southern Alberta and Indigenous issues, we felt like it was the right focus for this scholarship because that’s where we saw the greatest need and where we could have the biggest impact.”
The Labuhn Family Indigenous Impact Prize will award two, $2,000 prizes

annually, with at least one award designated for a student of Indigenous ancestry. The second is open to any student — Indigenous or nonIndigenous — with the focus of the awards going to those who have shown a commitment to improving the lives of Indigenous communities in Canada.
“We want to support and recognize the journey of Indigenous students and help them rise up,” says Roland, a technology partner at Deloitte and founder of R8dius, an Indigenousmajority-owned services firm. “And we also want to celebrate those who contribute to Indigenous communities in various ways, whether through research, science or community engagement. Reconciliation is a shared responsibility.”
Naamoipiiksi (Hummingbird) Shanda Webber (BA ’05), director of Iniskim Indigenous Relations, says the award continues to advance Indigenization and reconciliation on campus, a key ULethbridge priority.
Gifts like the Labuhn Family Indigenous Impact Prize provide pathways for our students to pursue their postsecondary education,” says Webber. “In addition to that, the Labuhns are showing true partnership in reconciliation. This award emphasizes building relationships based on trust, respect and understanding.”
The University’s Board of Governors Matching Fund will also double the impact of the Labuhn family donation, meaning every dollar contributed to the fund will provide twice the support for Indigenous students.
For the Labuhns, the gift is not a one-way transaction, rather it further cements relationships and elevates the community for all.
“It’s relational, and it’s a gift to us,” says Harvey. “For those of us who have the means, it’s about what it gives back in terms of how it shapes our lives and the relationships we have with our community.”
“We want to celebrate those who contribute to Indigenous communities... Reconciliation is a shared responsibility.”
- ROLAND LABUHN

Roland encourages fellow alumni and community members to find what inspires them to contribute.
“Lean in — all of us can have an impact,” he says. “Whether you think it’s small or not, you impact a broader circle, and when you connect with others and learn about them, that is the core of life. For me, that’s the biggest part of the journey.”
The first recipients will be announced in 2025. Their journeys, shaped by the support of the Labuhn family, are sure to reflect the values of leadership, allyship, and a commitment to reconciliation — ensuring that the Labuhn legacy continues to inspire.
“To whomever receives this scholarship — be that light that inspires others,” says Roland.
“Whether as an Indigenous leader or an ally, keep up the momentum.”


A new chapter in geomatics education has begun at the University of Lethbridge with the launch of i4Geo — the Institute for Geospatial Inquiry, Instruction and Innovation.
Supported by TECTERRA’s generous $1.3-million contribution in 2023, as part of the broader $5.2 million Legacy Program investment, this initiative aims to elevate both students and research within the geospatial sector. The gift’s key objectives are to advance geospatial technology research and training, foster innovation in environmental monitoring, natural hazard assessments and risk mitigation, and create new career and educational pathways in Alberta’s geospatial fields.
For students like PhD candidate Emily Jones, i4Geo offers invaluable handson experience with cutting-edge technologies. Emily expresses her excitement by explaining, “The TECTERRAfunded institute will allow students to engage in practical research and connect with professionals in the field.”
TECTERRA’s ongoing support is shaping the future of Alberta’s geospatial sector. Monty Carter, Managing Chair at TECTERRA, highlights, “We’re excited to see the unique academic programs i4Geo will create. Innovation is central to its mission.”
i4Geo’s interdisciplinary focus, encompassing geography, remote sensing, environmental science and computer science, ensures students are well equipped to address global environmental challenges. Dr. Dena McMartin, Vice-President (Research), stresses the institute’s role in fostering student growth: “These centres break boundaries, inspire innovation and offer numerous opportunities for students at all levels.”
With i4Geo, ULethbridge is forging a bold path forward. The institute is a dynamic environment where knowledge, innovation and ambition converge, empowering the next generation of geospatial pioneers to lead.


A veteran supporter of Pronghorn Athletics and the University of Lethbridge, Knud Petersen has done much to enrich the lives of many, both through his presence in the stands for games and competitions, as well as behind the scenes. His story is one of passion, commitment and unwavering belief in education as a cornerstone for building strong communities.
A Danish immigrant who arrived in Canada in 1965 as an agricultural exchange student, Petersen developed a deep love for farming and decided to settle in the country, eventually working for the Perry’s and later becoming a partner in the renowned Potato Domes of Chin, Alta. Despite the demands of running a farm and raising a family, Petersen was active in his community, coaching local soccer teams and volunteering for various causes over the years.
His commitment to sports and community service only increased in retirement. A constant presence at local gatherings, he is widely recognized and welcomed by individuals from across the region, none more so than at ULethbridge where his connections run deep.
“Knud firmly believes that community support is crucial to sustaining our programs and fostering student success,” says Neil Langevin (BA/BEd ’91, MEd ’10), executive director of Pronghorns Athletics and Recreation. “This philosophy is reflected in his call for his fellow community members and alumni to get involved and contribute in meaningful ways.”
Petersen’s gift underscores the powerful influence of community involvement, highlighting how one individual’s belief in student-athletes can foster success both on and off the field.
He has been a leader in fundraising activities for Pronghorn Athletics and was a founding member of the Pronghorn Booster Club, taking on the role of president for six years. He served another six years on the University Senate. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Petersen was awarded the Pronghorn Athletics Gary Bowie Leadership Award in 2003 and the University Volunteer Award in 2006. In 2023, he was inducted into the Pronghorn Hall of Fame as a builder, further cementing his enduring impact on Pronghorn Athletics and the broader University community.
Though Petersen’s contributions are considerable, he is quick to redirect attention from himself to encourage others to get involved. By focusing on collective action rather than individual accolades, Petersen exemplifies how community engagement can create lasting change for future generations.
His commitment to education as a transformative force drives his philanthropic endeavours. Over the years, Petersen’s endowed donations to women’s soccer and women’s rugby have resulted in nearly $65,000 in scholarships, empowering countless athletes to pursue their dreams. Most recently, Petersen established the Knud Petersen Family
Men’s Soccer Award. Paired with matching funds from the University of Lethbridge Board of Governors, this gift will double its impact and ensure more Pronghorn athletes achieve both their academic and athletic goals.
Petersen firmly believes that assisting in the creation of scholarship endowments is a powerful gift that helps future leaders succeed in their post-secondary studies and become pillars in their communities.



“Knud celebrates and supports a range of community events, programs, athletes and students, and his contributions have elevated countless programs and positively impacted the lives of many individuals,” explains Keegan Brantner (BA ’21, MA ’23), past recipient of the Knud Petersen Rugby Award. “He is the embodiment of community — so to be recognized for my own community involvement and outstanding leadership with an award from the legend himself is truly an honour.”
Petersen’s continued generosity underscores the powerful influence of community involvement, highlighting how one individual’s support and encouragement can foster success in others. While many recognize him for his cheers on the sidelines, it is his deep and ongoing commitment to the success of student-athletes that will define his legacy.
“Knud celebrates and supports a range of community events, programs, athletes and students, and his contributions have elevated countless programs and positively impacted the lives of many individuals. He is the embodiment of community — so to be recognized for my own community involvement and outstanding leadership with an award from the legend himself is truly an honour.”
- KEEGAN BRANTNER (BA ’21, MA ’23)
RECIPIENT OF THE KNUD PETERSEN RUGBY AWARD

The Dr. Cormican Excellence Scholarship in Rural Medicine stands as a testament to her deep-rooted commitment to our collective health and wellness. With a distinguished academic background Dr. Cormican’s career reflects a rare blend of intellectual rigour and compassion.
Dr. Aileen Cormican’s $25,000 endowed scholarship, matched by the University of Lethbridge’s Board of Governors, reflects her dedication to advancing medical education. The Dr. Cormican Excellence Scholarship in Rural Medicine supports Southern Alberta Medical Program (SAMP) students, prioritizing those from southern Alberta or those who have completed a significant portion of their studies at the University of Lethbridge.
Cormican’s humanitarian spirit extends beyond academia. Her volunteer work with Radiology Across Borders and the Lethbridge Soup Kitchen further exemplify her commitment to global and local health care.
“The pursuit of medicine is hard enough; we need to make sure we are doing the right things to keep healthcare professionals here for our region by attracting and then supporting medical students and keeping physicians in southern Alberta,” she says. Cormican’s philanthropy is proof of her staunch advocacy for addressing health-care disparities, particularly in rural areas.
Her gift is not only a financial investment but a call to action to cultivate and retain talented healthcare professionals in southern Alberta. Cormican, who also serves on the University of Lethbridge Senate, believes this scholarship will inspire others to contribute, forging a lasting legacy of support for the region’s health-care system. Through her
“We need to make sure we are doing the right things to keep health-care professionals here for our region by attracting and then supporting medical students and keeping physicians in southern Alberta.”
- DR. AILEEN CORMICAN
efforts, Cormican hopes to spark a ripple effect of generosity, ensuring that southern Alberta continues to thrive with capable, compassionate medical professionals who are as dedicated to their communities as she is to hers.


The Syrian refugee crisis that made headlines in 2015 spurred Dr. Anne Dymond, a professor of art history, along with colleagues and later students, to join forces. They formed a local World University Service of Canada (WUSC) committee to sponsor a refugee student. Within a few months, they had raised the funds needed to bring a qualified United Nations refugee student to ULethbridge for a year. The first student, a Syrian living in Jordan, started his studies in the fall of 2016.
In 2017, ULethbridge students supported the program and voted to help sustain it through a student levy. The levy and fundraising by the WUSC Club support refugee students through their first year. ULethbridge is currently sponsoring its ninth student through WUSC.
Dymond and Professor Emerita Shelly Wismath, former dean of the School of Liberal Education, were concerned refugee students would not have the financial means to continue their education beyond the first year. They pooled their resources and created a new Refugee Student Bursary.
“The new award is specifically for that second year to cover at least most of the fees,” says Wismath. “The support is great for the first-year WUSC student, but then they are on their own financially, which is too big a leap for most of them.”
“We find that it’s often difficult for these students to find employment, and
because they have no other support — in fact, they’re often trying to help others back home — this bursary will really benefit them,” says Dymond. “My husband, Philip Byrne, and I hope these funds will ease their financial burdens so they can focus on their studies and enjoy the university experience more.”
The university experience is lifechanging for refugees, many of whom have been displaced by war and had their education limited. In turn, other students on campus learn about global citizenship first-hand.
“The most important thing I’ve learned overall has been that even when we can’t change the world, we can do things that have big impacts on individual people,” says Dymond. “Knowing the transformative power of education, we invite everyone to contribute to the fund. Through the Campaign for Students, gifts to the fund have double the impact with matching funds from the ULethbridge Board of Governors.”






Leadership can take on many forms and be expressed in multiple ways — its commonality being that it is a powerful skill that can inspire people to work together to achieve incredible outcomes.
A group of University of Lethbridge alumni who honed their leadership skills serving as ULethbridge Students’ Union (ULSU) presidents have come together to support a common goal as they lead a fundraising campaign aimed at raising $100,000 from all 57 former ULSU presidents to establish the ULSU Presidents’ Leadership Award.
“I see getting involved in the Leadership Award campaign as an opportunity to support and invest in the future of student leaders who make a real impact on campus and beyond,” says Brenna Scott (BA ’16), who served as ULSU President in 2015-16. “Leadership at the university level is more than just holding a title — it’s about making a difference, fostering a sense of community and learning valuable life skills that extend far beyond campus. By creating this award, we want to ensure that future student leaders feel supported and motivated to take on these important roles.”
The raised funds will contribute to a $200,000 endowment that will provide up to 10 ULSU Presidents’ Leadership Awards annually, creating scholarship opportunities for current students who participate in extra-curricular activities and excel in leadership initiatives on and off campus. Another strong focus of the award is a commitment to the University’s founding ideal of liberal education values, focusing on critical thinking, broad-based learning and active community engagement.
Robin Dann (BASc ’72), a ULSU president in 1970-71 and retired crown prosecutor, says these values permeate throughout the ULethbridge experience and are especially highlighted when taking on leadership roles, such as in student governance.
“Leadership, at its best, is learning to work with people with diverse viewpoints on a wide range of issues in order to accomplish positive things for the greater good,” he says. “This award recognizes students committed to contributing to the greater good.”
For Armin Escher (BSc ’14), ULSU president in 2012-13, the liberal education focus of the award resonates. He graduated with a geography degree and currently works as an administrative manager for Korn Ferry Ltd., an executive search firm.
“I look at the path I took, I have a geography degree and I’m in administration now doing consulting work,” says Escher. “But that’s what it’s all about, you get a degree in X or Y, but it’s so much more than that — it’s getting the breadth of the entire experience, learning to learn and this award encourages that. Do what you enjoy, you’re going to learn so much more than that topic, you’re going to learn how to think and figure things out, and that’ll be relevant to you no matter what career you choose.”
Jon Oxley recently retired from his role as ULethbridge Art Gallery manager. A ULSU president for two terms (198890), he was also an Art Gallery tech and ULSU manager. He has seen the passion of engaged students and the contributions they make on campus and in the community.
“Student leaders are literally everywhere there is good work to do. Student leaders raise funds for refugees, organize to protect eco-spaces, create community gardens and food banks, and so much more,” he says. “Student leaders are an inspiration to faculty, administration and staff — their energy brings a constant state of renewal and optimism to their communities.”
Past student leaders agree that an investment in the Leadership Awards is not a finite benefit to the recipient, and rather a gift to society that keeps earning returns. For Scott, the skills she honed as a student leader have guided her career and continue to pay dividends, for her and the valuable work she does in her community.
“My time in the Students’ Union gave me invaluable skills that I use in my career today,” says Scott, a business development manager with Canadian Blood Services. “Leadership is never a solo effort, and my role required constant collaboration with my executive team, university administration and student organizations. I learned how to delegate tasks effectively, trust my team members and foster an inclusive environment where everyone felt valued. These skills continue to shape my ability to lead, communicate and create meaningful impact.”




The University of Lethbridge is sincerely grateful for the trust and generosity shown through gifts made in memory of, in honour of, and in tribute to valued colleagues, students and community partners.
The funds supported in 2024 celebrate remarkable individuals whose indelible impact continues to shape our community. Your support honours the past and fuels a future full of inspiration, opportunity and lasting legacy for future generations.
Anna Elgby Memorial Award
Blaine Thacker Memorial Award
Bob McKay Memorial Bursary
Bud & Roberta Bibby Memorial Award
Carol Gemer Memorial Award
Christine Miller Memorial Award
Claire Jean Goodman Scholarship in Finance and Economics
Clarence and Ilene Bengtson Memorial Bursary
December 6 Award
Dennis Connolly Entrance Scholarship
Dexter Johnson Award in Music
Doug Inglis and Jenny Gusse Memorial Endowment
Doreen Kooy Memorial Prize for Co-op Student Excellence
Dr James D Tagg History and Citizenship Award
Dr. Robert Koep Memorial Award
Edd McRory Memorial Bursary
Frances Camyre Memorial Foundation Bursary
George A. Young
Memorial Scholarship
George D. Thompson Memorial Bursary
Gordon W. Russell Memorial Scholarship
Honourable L. D. Maclean, Q.C., Memorial Award for Service
Isaac A V Johansen Memorial Bursary
Janine Jackson Memorial Scholarship
Jared Heidinger Men’s Basketball Award
Jasminn Berteotti Award for WIL
Jesara Nichol Leadership Award
Joanne Helmer Research Fellowship in Southern Alberta Feminist History
Joe Rood Memorial Scholarship
Kalen Brown Memorial Fund
Ken McDonald Scholarship
M. Amy Irwin Award in Visual Arts
Marjorie Miller Music Award
Maria & Alexander Tron Scholarship for Academic Excellence
Mat Hanrahan Memorial Bursary for First Nations Students
Nancy and Paul Walker Music Scholarship
Patricia A. Wilson Memorial Bursary
Paul Blaskovits Memorial Award
Penny Anne Turner Memorial Fund
Perry Family Scholarship
Ric Suggitt Women’s Rugby Memorial Award
Rolf and Karin von Heyking Award
Shane Gartshore Memorial Bursary
Thomas Staples Award
Tom Caruso Memorial Bursary
Tom Lavers Memorial Music Award
Vaughn Berg Memorial Award
Washburn Memorial Bursary
Werner O. Hoerger Memorial Award
Wilma G. Winter Memorial Award
In a poignant tribute to Jared Heidinger (BSc/BEd ’00), Pronghorn Athletics has established a scholarship that honours his remarkable legacy. Born from the heartfelt contributions of his teammates and amplified by the University of Lethbridge’s $10 million Board of Governors matching initiative, this endowment is destined to uplift future student-athletes who embody the same spirit of leadership, perseverance and resilience that Heidinger displayed on and off the basketball court.

Jared Heidinger celebrates the announcement of the scholarship in his name alongside family and teammates from 1995-97 Pronghorns men’s basketball team.
“Jared is a shining example to incoming players of what it means to be a student-athlete.”
– TIM ROLLINGSON
From 1994-1999, Heidinger’s versatile play was crucial to the Pronghorns success, earning him Canada West Second Team All-Star honours. Yet, it is his courage in the face of life’s trials — most notably his ongoing battle with Multiple Sclerosis — that has solidified his legacy. The scholarship supports a dedicated Pronghorns men’s basketball player, honouring Heidinger’s legacy.
Tim Rollingson (BSc ’99), the teammate who first thought of the scholarship explained, “Jared is a shining example to incoming players of what it means to be a student athlete, contribute to community and take care of one’s family. Together, as Pronghorn Herd, we can express our love for him.” This humble idea will benefit new recruits coming to the University of Lethbridge men’s basketball team for endless seasons to come.


Despite her short life, Jesara Nichol (BA ’17) left a lasting legacy. She studied psychology at the University of Lethbridge and worked as a Residence Assistant (RA). Her compassion for students was obvious and she always made time to listen and comfort them.
As an RA, she was a confidante to hundreds of students during stressful times, helping them cope with their studies, breakups or other life challenges.
“She loved ULethbridge and the housing team,” says Earle, Jesara’s father. “She put her heart and soul into the students.”
“She did the same when she was at Young Canadians,” says Nancy, Jesara’s mother. “She took the time to help brand new people coming into the program.”
Jesara became fast friends with Laura Correal (BSc ’19), Associate Director of Housing Services, when they were roommates.
“She was my RA in my first year,” says Correal. “Jesara was someone you immediately gravitated to. She was the kindest, most welcoming person who filled up the room as soon as she walked in.”
After graduating, Jesara worked for the Canadian Mental Health Association. When she learned

there was an opening for a Residence Life and Education Coordinator at ULethbridge, she applied and was offered the job. She’d only been in the position a short time when she passed away on Dec. 17, 2018, at age 24 due to a pulmonary embolism.
After her passing, Correal wanted to ensure Jesara’s memory and impact wouldn’t be forgotten. She, with the support of Jesara’s parents, established the Jesara Nichol Leadership Award using surplus funds earmarked for inperson events but unused due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The award is open to undergraduate students who are members of the Organization of Residence Students (ORS) or ORS council members who have exhibited exceptional leadership qualities and selflessness in helping others. The scholarship has been matched by the ULethbridge Board of Governors.
“It’s important to us to keep her name alive and the example that she set,” says Earle.

Jesara Nichol
“Jesara was someone you immediately gravitated to. She was the kindest, most welcoming person who filled up the room as soon as she walked in.”
- LAURA CORREAL
After nearly 35 years of dedicated service, Nancy Walker (BMgt ’82), Vice-President of Finance & Administration, retired on Oct. 1, 2024.
Her career has left a lasting impact on the institution, and her commitment to the University’s growth and development is a testament to her dedication and passion.
Looking back on her career, Walker reflects on the privilege of working at the University of Lethbridge, emphasizing the remarkable people she worked with over the years.
“The thing I like about the University is that it isn’t just a job,” she says. “You’re changing the lives of students and you’re trying to build something and make the world and society a better place.”
To celebrate her long-standing contributions, the University of Lethbridge established
the Nancy and Paul Walker Music Scholarship. This award, inspired by Nancy and her husband Paul’s shared love of music, celebrates their passion and Nancy’s dedication. The scholarship supports new high school students pursuing a major in music or digital audio arts, giving them opportunities to shape their futures.
Nancy’s retirement closes an important chapter in the University’s history, but her influence will endure. Through this scholarship, the Walker’s commitment to the arts, education, and future generations will continue nurturing talent in music.


The University of Lethbridge is deeply saddened by the passing of Dean Gallimore (BMgt ’84), Chair Emeritus of the University of Lethbridge Board of Governors, on April 6, 2025. His passing is a profound loss that will be felt deeply by the University community and beyond.
Dean made a lasting impact on the University and the broader community through his leadership, dedication and generosity. A respected member of the southern Alberta business community, Dean was a decorated chartered professional accountant leading one of the top accounting firms in the city. He will be remembered for how he leveraged his professional accomplishments to effect long-lasting change in his community, advocate for post-secondary education and create pathways to success for the next generation of students.
Read the full tribute



Support the Dean Gallimore Memorial Scholarship
Dean was passionate about establishing the Southern Alberta Medical Program (SAMP) at ULethbridge. Due to that passion and the excellent care he received at the Foothills Hospital, his family plans to establish a scholarship in his name to support students pursuing medical training at ULethbridge. Contributions to the Dean Gallimore Memorial Scholarship, which will be matched by the Board of Governor’s matching program, can be made online by scanning the QR code.
For more information, please contact External Relations at 1-866-552-2582 or email external.relations@uleth.ca.


Your gifts to the University of Lethbridge have helped advance our region, Alberta and Canada through teaching, research, and outreach activities. As we look to the future, the impact of your support will be witnessed time and time again as more graduates go on to make important contributions in communities around the world.
Thank you for your generous contributions.

