Acadia Bulletin - Spring 2016 by Acadia University

SPRING 2016

HARMONY & HISTORY

A RICH MUSICAL LEGACY PROVIDES A PITCH PERFECT FUTURE FOR INDIA GAILEY PAGE 20

“Receiving the Janis and Felicita Kalejs Memorial Award in Music is encouragement that what I’m doing is valuable and worth pursuing.” - India Gailey (’16)

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

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IN EVERY ISSUE From the Acadia President . . . . . . . . . 2 From the Assoc. Alumni President . . . 3 Alumni Profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Eye on Acadia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Associated Alumni Profiles . . . . . . . . 23 Alumni Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Gala 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Acadia Remembers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Class Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Final Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

FEATURES

The Force is with him When Kurt van der Basch (’97) was studying music at Acadia, he spent all the time he should have been practicing drawing. Small wonder he is now a successful storyboard artist whose recent credits include the blockbuster film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

14Giving back in so many ways Dr. Rex Dunn (’65) is in the business of saving lives, here at home and as part of a team that cares for people in one of the poorest parts of Guatemala.

32 Remarkable gift A generous $2.5 million gift to Acadia University from The Joyce Foundation will dramatically increase financial support to visible minorities and to students with a proven commitment to volunteerism.

34 Planning, plenty of support perfect recipe for success ON THE COVER: India Gailey (’16) played the cello at her graduation recital this spring. Photo: Peter Oleskevich

Athletic and academic excellence go handin-hand at Acadia and this is nowhere more apparent than in the accomplishments of three student-athletes in particular.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Spring 2016

Volume 99 / Issue 1 Publisher Office of Advancement, Acadia University Editor Fred Sgambati (’83) Vice President, Advancement Rod Morrison

PHOTO: DAN CALLIS

A PRIVILEGE TO SERVE

he spring edition of the Bulletin always seems to mark significant changes or milestones in Acadia’s history. In 2009, the Bulletin connected many of us for the very first time when my appointment as President was announced. And now, as most of you will know, I suffered a heart attack in the fall and this has led to my decision to retire from Acadia at the end of June, 2017. It has been an incredible privilege to serve the University and I leave more in awe of Acadia and its faculty, staff and students than when I began. There is much work left to do, however, and I’m looking forward to spending all the time I can with alumni and friends over the course of the next year. This edition will also introduce the new President of the Associated Alumni of Acadia University, Geoff Irvine (’87). I want to welcome Geoff to his new position and thank outgoing President Doug Jackson (’99) for his leadership. He has served his 28,000 fellow alumni with distinction, and I know that Geoff will likewise bring dedication and focus to his responsibilities. Doug, Geoff and their colleagues on the Board leave no doubt that Acadia’s Alumni Association is in very good hands. And while I have the opportunity to thank people for their contributions to Acadia, I want to mention that Darrell Youden, Vice-President Finance and Administration, retired at the end of May after a very productive tenure at Acadia. If you have noticed the repairs, renovations and renewals on Acadia’s campus over the past five years, Darrell’s creativity has been a driving force behind these projects. He has been a valued and trusted colleague who has provided outstanding leadership across an extensive and diverse portfolio of responsibilities, including finance, human resources, facilities, safety and security, and athletics. The upcoming year of transition will be important for everyone connected with Acadia. We have tremendous forward momentum, driven in no small measure by the engagement and accomplishments of alumni like Dr. Paul Corkum (’66), Sandra Irving (’74), Kurt van der Basch (’97), and Class of ’64 members John and Sandra Nowlan, and by the extraordinary generosity of Acadia graduates and special friends like Ron Joyce – all featured in this edition. Our recent Alumni Gala underscored yet again that Acadia is a family, bonded by experiences running through and connecting many generations. As Acadia has done throughout its history, we must use our shared ties to this wonderful gem of a University to propel us forward. I know the next chapter in Acadia’s history will be an exciting one in which we can all take pride, and it begins with another spring Bulletin full of great stories about you. Stand Up and Cheer! Raymond E. Ivany President and Vice-Chancellor 2

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Executive Director, Alumni Affairs and Advancement Strategy Ian Murray (’88) Production and Events Manager Sandra Symonds Associated Alumni Board of Directors Geoff Irvine (’87) Ryan Conrod (’06) Donalda MacBeath (’75) David Hovell (’91) Paul MacIsaac (’88) Doug Jackson (’99) Michele Gerrard (’88) Kiersten Amos (’96) Tony Stewart (’72) Matt Rios (’14) Ryan McCarthy (’10) Malcolm Smith (’76) Lisa Peck (’85) Jill Wagner (’99) Barry Taylor (’80) Ian MacIsaac (’86) Nick Westcott (’08) Becca Webster (’13) Sandy Beveridge (’70) Fred Gilbert (’65) David Davidson (’81) Amanda Penrice (’09) Rebecca Carr (’15) Tammy Walker (’92) Chelsea Penney (’16 – ex-officio) Madison Cyr (’17 – ex-officio) Graphic Designer Cathy Little Printing Transcontinental Printing Distributor Russell House Marketing The Bulletin is published twice a year, Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer, by the Office of Advancement, Acadia University. It is distributed on the Acadia campus and by mail to more than 28,000 alumni. All material is ©2016 Acadia University, and may be reprinted with written permission. Acadia Bulletin welcomes Letters to the Editor: Fred Sgambati Office of Advancement Acadia University Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6 fred.sgambati@acadiau.ca 902.585.1725 Advertising inquiries: Production and Events Manager Alumni Affairs Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6 902.585.1708 sandra.symonds@acadiau.ca

ASSOCIATED ALUMNI PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

PHOTO: OONAGH PROUDFOOT

READY TO LEARN AND GROW

will never forget Saturday, September 3, 1983. That was the day I moved into my room at 110 Eaton House and my Acadia story began – a four-year undergraduate adventure of new friends for life; learning how to live with people; working at the Swinging Axe Lounge; and small classes with great professors studying Political Philosophy with Dr. Pyrcz, the Battle of the Somme with Dr. Stokesbury, business process with Paul Tom, and supply and demand with Dr. Tugwell. All fantastic courses that prepared me so well for what has been a fascinating and varied career. Little did I know that 20 years later I would return to Wolfville and Acadia in the spring of 2006 and move into an office in Alumni Hall to start my next chapter at Acadia as your Director of Alumni Affairs. My first alumni event a few days later was a trip to Edmonton to help our alumni cheer on the Axemen hockey team at the national tournament. Thus began my second fouryear period at Acadia and a sabbatical from the seafood business. During what could be called my “graduate” period with the independent Associated Alumni of Acadia University and the Office of Advancement, I learned about governance, project and event management, working with and motivating a diverse group of stakeholders, and the intricacies of university bureaucracy. The best part was I got to meet hundreds of our fantastic Acadia alumni. I have the same excited feeling as I return to Acadia for my third opportunity, the “doctorate” perhaps, as President of your alumni association, to continue my Acadia story, to learn and grow (remember the slogan when we were students at Acadia – “A Place to Grow”). I have been involved in one way or another with the Associated Alumni since 2000 and, as such, am fully prepared for the challenges ahead. I tell you all this because every one of us has an Acadia story

to share. We want to hear your stories as I continue the excellent work of my predecessor, Doug Jackson (‘99), with the staff of the Office of Alumni Affairs under the fine leadership of Ian Murray (‘88). I plan to continue to advance the work in progress, including finalizing the Partnership Protocol with Acadia; re-establishing the awards program; ensuring our communication vehicles are exciting and relevant to our alumni; promoting our affinity programs to benefit alumni and provide revenue to invest in alumni and current student initiatives; and help support student recruitment efforts at our alma mater. We all owe a debt of gratitude to Acadia and, as Doug noted in his last column, it is our duty to pay it back whenever and wherever we can. I knew that day in September 1983 my life would change. I would never have been able to accomplish all that I have in my life without Acadia University. My call to action to you is simple and direct. If you are not already doing so, get engaged with Acadia again because we need you now more than ever. Consider attending a regional event or coming back to campus for a reunion or Homecoming. Help us recruit students in your town or city; call a classmate and reconnect; send us an update about what you are doing; help us raise money for key priorities on campus by giving every month or year to the Annual Alumni Fund or your priority of choice at Acadia. My Acadia story continues and so can yours. As my friend and former alumni board member Pat Ryan (‘90) always said, “Make them laugh and make them cry.” This will be my goal as your President, and I look forward to working with you in the years to come. Geoff Irvine (’87) President, Associated Alumni of Acadia University

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

W RLD CLASS

By Fred Sgambati (’83)

TRAVEL-WRITING TEAM JOHN AND SANDRA NOWLAN (’64) CARRY THE ACADIA EXPERIENCE EVERYWHERE THEY GO.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

evon Island, Baffin Bay, is the largest uninhabited island in the world and nearly 3,400 kilometres north of Acadia University in Wolfville. It seems unlikely that anyone would ever come upon anything connected to the University in so remote a location, but never underestimate Acadia’s global reach or where members of its alumni community will turn up. John and Sandra Nowlan (both Class of 1964) have enjoyed successful careers over the 52 years since their graduation and although now officially ‘retired,’ they have for the last decade enjoyed a new enterprise as freelance travel and food writers, experiencing the world with fresh eyes and sharing their adventures in print and online in publications throughout Europe and North America. Last fall they sailed north of the Arctic Circle on a two-week Adventure Canada cruise that followed the Northwest Passage. To their surprise and delight, they encountered a couple of Acadia connections onboard: cruise photographer Dr. Freeman Patterson (’59) and Canada Research Chair in Coastal Wetland Ecosystems Dr. Mark Mallory. But there was more. One of the stops was Dundas Harbour on Devon Island. There wasn’t much there but an abandoned RCMP station: shuttered, no furniture, and amidst the

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF JOHN AND SANDRA NOWLAN

PHOTO: FRED SGAMBATI

ALUMNI PROFILES

Left, John and Sandra Nowlan were startled to see the Acadia ‘A’ jutting from an iceberg in the Ilulissat Icefjord of Greenland. Above, John and Sandra at home in front of John’s Gemini Awards and, right, Sandra pointing to the plaque left by Sherman Bleakney (’49) in an abandoned RCMP station at Dundas Harbour.

graffiti scarring the walls hung a wooden plaque with more than a dozen names etched on it. Imagine their surprise to see at the top: AXE 74 – ACADIA UNIVERSITY, NS, HMCS Preserver – SHERMAN BLEAKNEY. Bleakney (’49), who had taught biology to both Sandra and John, had led a student group traveling by Royal Canadian Navy to Dundas Harbour in 1974 and they mounted the plaque to commemorate the excursion. Fast forward to 2015 and the loop closes: Sandra and John discover the plaque and record the moment for posterity. “It was amazing,” John says. Even more spectacular, they saw an iceberg in the shape of an Acadia ‘A’ in the Ilulissat Icefjord of Greenland rising like the Matterhorn above other lesser bergs. John says, “Sandra and I just about fell off our Zodiac when we saw this.” “We stood up and cheered,” Sandra adds.

TYPIFY ACADIA The Nowlans typify Acadia through and through. They have enjoyed many alumni connections over the years, culminating most notably in 2014 when 61 other members of their class returned to Acadia to celebrate their 50th Reunion. The organizing committee worked for a year planning it, Sandra says. “Vincent Leung (’64) was our Chair. Others (on the committee) from the Valley included Winnie Horton (’64), Jim and Judy Amos (’64), Pete Connelly (’64), and three or four of us came from Halifax.” Life President Linda Piers (’64), who lives in Peterborough, ON, was also on the committee. “There’s a very strong connection,” John says. “Remarkable, actually. Acadia classmates and professors influenced our lives to such a great extent, from career to marriage to everything else.” They helped set the table for many of their subsequent adventures and endeavours.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

“I had excellent training in science. It was foundational. I received a very broad-based education, and it taught me analytical scientific thinking, which I use to this day.”

He cites professors such as Duncan Fraser (’48) and Herb Lewis as key influencers. Sandra says that Dr. Clara Jefferson’s course in food nutrition was seminal and she really appreciated Clara’s interest in her students. John grew up in Toronto, ON, the son of Dr. James Nowlan (’28). His family moved to Halifax when he was 16 and with the many Nowlan family connections in the Valley (including George C. Nowlan, ’45; his sister Dr. Clara Jefferson, ’48 and her husband Raymond Jefferson, ‘51; and Pat Nowlan, ’52) it wasn’t hard to predict that he would end up at Acadia. Sandra came to Acadia from Deer Island, NB, and stayed in Seminary House her first year. She was awarded the Ingram B. Oakes entrance scholarship and says Acadia was the only post-secondary school to which she applied. Sandra graduated with a BSc(H) in biology and later obtained a Master of Science in microbiology at Cornell. She worked as a research scientist for the Department of Fisheries and is the published author of three cookbooks. Her sister, Dr. Sylvia Simpson (’68), is also an alumna. John earned a BSc in psychology and biology from Acadia. Heavily invested in Radio Acadia as an undergraduate, he was hired full-time by CBC upon graduation and worked there for 35 years. An award-winning producer and director, John has three Gemini Awards and an International Emmy for the ground-breaking children’s program Street Cents, which ran for 17 seasons and taught youth and teens about finances and consumer smarts. He also has a Diploma in Journalism from King’s and an Executive MBA from St. Mary’s University.

SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE They have always loved to travel and set a goal in retirement to visit all seven continents, which they have done. They are members of the Travel Media Association of Canada: John does the interviewing and Sandra takes copious notes. He writes the first draft and Sandra goes through it with a fine-tooth comb, filling in details and polishing the piece until it’s ready for submission to magazines, newspapers and travel websites. They also document their excursions photographically and usually travel about once a month except in summer. “We have the spirit of adventure,” John says, and both acknowledge a debt of gratitude for the education they received at Acadia. “I had excellent training in science,” Sandra notes. “It was foundational. I received a very broad-based education, and it taught me analytical scientific thinking, which I use to this day.” John adds that Acadia “is great for anybody who wants to go to a small university and get the benefit of small classes and contact with incredibly talented professors. For instance, on our cruise we were talking with Mark Mallory about how many students he takes to the Arctic. What a fantastic experience to be involved with a researcher of that calibre. So rewarding! “Radio Acadia really hooked me on broadcasting and it was a great starter that led to a full-time career. I will always be grateful for that. I had a very enriching experience and I would highly recommend it.”

For more on the Nowlans’ Arctic cruise, please visit: Gayot.com - THE AMAZING ARCTIC – http://www.gayot.com/blog/cruising-arctic-the-northwest-passage-greenland/ To learn more about their travels, please visit: www.nowtravel.ca.

Acadia Reminiscence John and Sandra Nowlan met in Sherman Bleakney’s biology class at a time when Penny Parades and freshman orientation were very much in vogue. Sandra remembers John being “so cheerful and awake in early morning classes. I asked him to a dance during Co-Ed Week – which was when the girls could invite the boys – and the dances were very formal then. Everyone was dressed up, with gloves and corsages.” “We had to have chaperones,” John recalls, “and they were considered to be parties, with refreshments, because we weren’t allowed to actually have dances. The Baptist influence at the time. We had halftime entertainment, too, called ‘Topics’, and the dances were held in the old gym.” 6

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

PHOTO: MCPL VINCENT CARBONNEAU, RIDEAU HALL © OSGG, 2015

Sandra Irving (’74) with His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada.

SANDRA IRVING (’74) INVESTED AS MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

andra Irving (’74) of Saint John, New Brunswick, was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada at a ceremony in Rideau Hall in Ottawa on February 12, 2016. Recognized for her contributions as a philanthropist and community volunteer who supports educational, social services and youth organizations across Atlantic Canada, Irving’s Citation read as follows: “Sandra Irving is a community leader in Atlantic Canada. She strongly supports education through student scholarships, mentorship and exchange programs, and has been a key figure in helping Junior Achievement raise financial support for entrepreneurial business studies, which prepare the next generation for business leadership. As advisory council chair of

the Royal Society of Canada, she highlighted the importance of supporting Canada’s leading scholars and researchers, and was instrumental in establishing the organization’s Atlantic chapter. She also plays an important role in supporting the business and community initiatives of Irving Oil.” His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, presided over the ceremony and bestowed the honour on one Companion, seven Officers and 39 Members. The Order of Canada was created in 1967, during Canada’s centennial year, to recognize outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Since its creation, more than 6,000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

PHOTO: SVEN SERKIS

THE ‘FORCE’ IS WITH HIM

Kurt van der Basch: ‘dynamic composition.’

CHANCE TO WORK ON NEW STAR WARS FILM A DREAM COME TRUE FOR ARTIST KURT VAN DER BASCH By Wendy Elliott (’75)

hen Kurt van der Basch (BMus ’97) was at Acadia, he spent “all the time I should have been practicing the piano drawing.” Those hours, however, have stood him in good stead and allowed him to create a successful career as a storyboard artist. Based now out of Prague, Kurt had the opportunity to work on Star Wars: The Force Awakens, a job he describes as an absolute dream come true. Helping director J.J. Abrams visualize the script as one of three storyboard artists was a genuine thrill for Kurt, who had been a huge Stars Wars fan as a kid. The project was such a big deal that he says he was motivated to do his best work. After graduating with his music degree, Kurt went to Europe. In 1999 he entered the film and television industry as an office

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

assistant in Prague. Soon he was designing and illustrating props for the epic Chinese fantasy, The Lost Empire. Four years later his knack for drawing got him work doing storyboards. Everything is Illuminated and The Illusionist were his first two films, but Kurt has also created production illustrations for music videos for Janet Jackson, Kanye West and Madonna’s 2009 tour. Recently, he contributed storyboards for the science fiction film Cloud Atlas and the action adventure Assassin’s Creed.

BEST MEMORIES For Kurt, his Acadia experiences started earlier than his actual university days. As a teenager he studied piano with faculty member Ron Tomarelli at the summer piano camps so after

ALUMNI PROFILES

high school, Acadia was an obvious post-secondary choice. “My best memories have to include Monday night chorus rehearsal, open to all students and community members. Today it’s the thing I miss most about my school days.” In his third year, professor John Hansen was creating a new project that digitally connected music students to the legendary instructor Marc Durand in Montreal. As a result, Kurt had the opportunity to study with Durand in person at the Orford summer music program. That was when the calibre of pianists he met began a shift in focus toward drawing and painting. He remembers fondly his visits with Acadia’s then artist-inresidence David Silverberg, noting, “I got a lot out of studying his drawings, watching him work and talking with him. His diligence is just incredible – he is constantly drawing.” Professor Wayne Staples’ art program offered a studio course Kurt valued, where “he would give some instruction if you asked for it, but essentially it was time just to use the art studio equipment and paint.”

LEARNED TO HAVE A THICK SKIN In the wider community, he lived near architectural designer David Ripley. After they became friends, he was introduced to Wolfville artist Jeannie Hancock. “Jeannie is one of those people who are born to teach. I’d bring her a painting or a drawing I had done and she would critique it,” he recalls. She introduced him to many contemporary icons of the art world and pushed him toward better compositions. “I learned to have a thick skin and not fall in love with my

effort. This was useful later in the often brutal world of film production where I draw dozens of storyboard frames a day and the most important thing is not beautiful penciling, but to nail a dynamic composition. Whatever I know about that, I learned from Jeannie Hancock.” Kurt also met legendary artist Alex Colville (’75) while working at the Acadia Art Gallery for curator Fran Kruschen. “During the preparation and hanging of his complete serigraphs show (which allowed me so many close-up hours with these incredible pictures), Colville was around quite a bit.” Later, he wrote Colville for advice and appreciated his response and wisdom concerning paint materials. Kurt began to teach art while at Acadia, at elementary schools and at the Annapolis Academy of Music, where he also had piano students. He enjoys instructing and was invited recently by the University of West Bohemia to teach a summer course on drawing for film and storyboarding.

Acadia Reminiscence More than 20 years ago, Kurt sang in the first two Fezziwig Family Frolics with the Acadia Quartet. The all-male barbershop-style foursome was popular. They sang at special events like sports games and did street-busking at Christmas, the Apple Blosson Festival and even in uniform on the 50th anniversary of VE day doing Andrews Sisters’ songs. Members of the quartet changed slightly, but included Michael Caines (’96), who currently directs the Acadia Chorus, Dale Miller (’97) and Alan Slipp (’06). Kurt has kept in touch with many of the individuals who made his time at Acadia so vital. Last year, he was happy to be able to give John and Barbara Hansen a tour of his adopted city while they were there.

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Shih Fang “Dino” Ng (’01)

ALUMNUS IN KUALA LUMPUR PROUD TO BE PART OF ACADIA TRADITION By Fred Sgambati (’83)

PHOTO: COURTESY OF DINO NG

hen it comes to his time at Acadia University, alumnus Shih Fang “Dino” Ng (’01) has nothing but great memories and good things to say. Based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, he is Technical Director for the Revenue Group of Companies, whose core business is e-commerce payment platforms. Acadia’s technology-rich environment in the mid-1990s and an opportunity to indulge in a grand personal adventure drew Ng to Wolfville. In a wide-ranging interview, he shares his thoughts on the Acadia experience and how it helped him to connect the dots and find success back home. Q. Where are you from originally? A. Born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Q. What attracted you to Acadia? A. It was one of the universities in Canada that offered a Bachelor of Computer Science, with a twinning program at Sedaya College, Malaysia. It was introduced with the Acadia Advantage: each student was given a personal laptop and the way the school taught and students learned was so unique. I was also curious about the lifestyle on the other side of the globe and starting a new adventure as a post-graduate. Q. What are your strongest memories of student life at Acadia? A. My first year I stayed in Seminary. My roommate was a business student from the Bahamas, Janairo Turnquest (2000). We became best friends and have kept in touch since. There are many sweet memories: staying with friends from different backgrounds and cultures,

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

ALUMNI PROFILES

sharing laughter and stories of our on-campus life. The location was perfect because classes weren’t far from the residence either. Speaking of campus, I really enjoyed the food! It may sound funny, but I did! There was shepherd’s pie; poutine; fries with white vinegar; minestrone; French Onion soup; glasses of milk; fruit punch; and many more. Just thinking of it makes me miss it. Later, I moved off campus for a different experience and lived in a basement beside Wolfville Baptist Church and behind BAC. The apartment was always filled with friends: they’d walk in, walk out, and rest on our sofas. They studied, had meetings and lots of fun. The door was always open and it was totally amazing! It felt like home, and this was one of my happiest times while living off-campus. Q. What were some of the things you learned at Acadia? A. The Thinkpad laptop! Study materials, assignments, projects, and email were all changed by the laptop! The way we learned was very encouraging and a totally different experience in my educational life. Teaching materials were shared electronically and it made it easier for us to collaborate. Class numbers were small, too, allowing us to focus more on questions that could be brought up in class. Q. Did you have any special mentors at Acadia who helped guide you? A. Yes. There was Dr. Uwe Wilhelm, for German, my very first class, first semester. He’s the one who gave me the experience of exploring different languages and cultures, and the ability to appreciate unique skills. It was more than learning a second language. It was learning how to connect with people. Dr. Tomasz Muldner was tough, but he cared about our work, including tiny matters such as coding tidiness and good structure. He was a perfectionist, and his teaching skill is still reflected in my experience today. Finally, Dr. Les Oliver (’62), the patient listener. He helped us develop soft skills, and allowed students to present the results of their creativity. He was a very supportive professor. They changed my perspective, gave me encouragement and provided the freedom to allow us to think out of the box! Q. What was your career path following graduation? A. It was very tempting to continue further studies yet I was anxiously looking for jobs where I could contribute my new skills. I was given an opportunity to start up a web/e-commerce business in Montreal, Quebec with Andrew Yang (’01) and Associate Director of the McGill Conservatory of Music, Carl Urquhart. Mastering the skills from scratch within a very limited time gave us a golden opportunity to prove our strengths and explore new challenges. Later, I started to investigate software development projects. The interesting part is there were so

many opportunities because business owners from around the world were looking for someone to fix their system issues. I gave the market a try with the concept “We’ll Fix or It Is Free” -- we would analyze issues and help clients fix their system/ software problem. During that time, back in Malaysia, a florist shop owned by my current business partners was seeking to increase sales volume from different channels and e-commerce was the right choice. However, most of the platforms were facing the same obstacle: payment acceptance. During the early 2000s, having e-commerce payment acceptance was considered high risk and only the more established and reputable businesses would be entertained by the bank. We eventually started an e-commerce channel link with a warehouse and payment system. We saw an opportunity to meet a growing need by providing payment acceptance service that connected consumers to business. We started Revenue Harvest Sdn Bhd, developing online payment platform acceptance that assisted merchants by enabling e-business. After years of experience, Revenue Harvest Sdn Bhd grew into multiple companies and formed Revenue Group of Companies. Today, Revenue Group of Companies provides payment technology solutions to banks and financial institutions, closedloop payments, loyalty and gift card solutions, fraud monitoring systems as well as security cryptography mechanisms to protect sensitive data transmissions. Q. If you could choose a standout moment from your time at Acadia, what would it be? A. My involvement with the Acadia Chinese Club, from first year as member, second year as committee member to third year as President of the Club, creating awareness of traditional Chinese events, introducing Mandarin classes, traditional dance, as well as cooking classes and joint events with other clubs to enrich Acadia’s multiculturalism. Q. You have made a generous commitment to support the Ng Scholar-Bursary in Computer Science at Acadia. What prompted you to make this commitment, and are you pleased with your philanthropic involvement with Acadia? A. It is always my pleasure to have the chance to share and contribute. There are many who need a chance to be a shooting star and become someone important in the future. I am blessed that what my parents and mentors taught me has given me an opportunity to contribute. Q. Do you have any final thoughts? A. Yes. Enjoy your life in learning. Contribute, share and you will get more than your expectation. Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, you are my second home. To all my friends and wonderful families from Canada, I am proud to be part of the Acadia tradition!

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

CASUAL FRIENDSHIP PRODUCES CREATIVE PARTNERSHIP FOR ACADIA GRADS MANN AND RAMSAY By Rachel Cooper (’89)

urprising partnerships can arise from even the most casual friendships at Acadia. Jon Mann (’11) and Rob Ramsay (’10) are proof of that. The two met in residence at Dennis House, but it wasn’t until after graduation that their friendship blossomed. “Acadia teaches you the value of camaraderie and cooperation, and we stayed in touch,” says Ramsay, now a professional actor. “One day he reached out to me with an idea for a TV show. That was the start of our partnership.” Ramsay and Mann have been working together on film projects for four years. They’ve formed a production company called 506 Films – “506” is the area code of New Brunswick, where both have family ties. Last summer they co-wrote and filmed Rearview, an 11-minute film directed by Mann and starring Ramsay.

FESTIVAL SUCCESS Rearview is noteworthy in two respects. First, it has been accepted into several film festivals, including Canada’s prestigious National Screen Institute Short Film Festival. Second, it has no dialogue. It was Mann’s idea to make a film about a hit-and-run driver in the aftermath of the accident. Ramsay had always wanted to make a movie with no dialogue. “Jon just took this idea and ran with it,” Ramsay says. Mann has loved film and storytelling since childhood. “I come from a family that really loves books and the arts, especially my mom,” he says. In his third year at Acadia, he started reading everything he could about film theory and writing for film and the screen. Meanwhile, Ramsay was establishing his acting career. “One thing I loved about Acadia was that I felt supported in pursuing opportunities outside school,” he says. “That allows you to make mistakes or have successes then bring them back to school: hone your skills or learn from your mistakes, or just push yourself further. So in second year I got an agent and started

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

auditioning.” He won parts in shows on the Disney Channel and Nickelodeon and then Blue Mountain State, a comedy that ran on Spike TV for three years. Its popularity, then and later on Netflix, spawned a feature film of the same name, in which he also acted. It was number one on iTunes for five straight days last February. Mann’s own film career took off after graduation. A director from Saint John invited him to write a documentary called Drink ’Em Dry, about the lockout at Moosehead Brewery. It did well and premiered at Harvard Law School in February 2012.

FROM HOBBY TO CAREER At that point, Mann decided to pursue his interest in film as more than a hobby and he attended the New York Film Academy, graduating in 2013 with an advanced diploma in screenwriting. He was also working on Project Power, a feature-length documentary about a contentious deal between the province of New Brunswick and Hydro Quebec to sell off NB Power. “Again, this was a political story that interested me and I was able to translate it to film,” says Mann, who wrote, directed and produced it. After Project Power, Mann was asked to give a TEDx talk in Moncton. “I took that political situation in New Brunswick and compared it to the movie Jaws,” he says. “My political science degree from Acadia helped me to know what I was talking about.” Mann, who lives in Halifax, and Ramsay, in Toronto, usually work via Skype, but manage to get together now and then. Besides Rearview, they’ve written some pilots that they are shopping around. Another short film is at the financing stage. Mann’s next project is a music video for Halifax band Wintersleep. Ramsay will return to Acadia this summer to marry Lindsay Joseph (’10), his best friend at Acadia for four years. “I proposed to her last January, and we’re going to get married at Acadia,” he says. “Everything comes full circle.”

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF JON MANN AND ROB RAMSAY

ALUMNI PROFILES

Rob Ramsay (above) in the film Blue Mountain State. Jon Mann delivering a TEDx talk in Moncton, N.B.

Acadia Reminiscence Jon Mann’s ties to Acadia include his mother, Anne Caverhill (’78), and his uncle Tom Coolen, who coached the hockey team from 1987-95, took the team to a national championship in 1993 and was inducted into the Acadia Sports Hall of Fame in 2015. His cousin, Lillie Coolen, graduated from Acadia this spring. Athletics and academics were always part of his Acadia experience. He remembers, as a student at Homecoming games, chatting with people who had graduated in the 1950s and ’60s. “They would talk about how little had changed,” he says. “It always remains charming to be able to come back to Acadia and say, ‘This is the exact Acadia I remember.’” Rob Ramsay loves the Thomas Edison quote, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” As 2010 Valedictorian at Acadia, Ramsay spoke on what Acadia meant to him. “When I think of Acadia, it is just such an accepting place,” he says now, “and it taught me the importance and the value of failure. I recall that almost every single day. Acadia is a place that accepted failure and in fact promoted it and encouraged it. Because it’s not until you risk making mistakes that you learn.” JON MANN’S UNCLE, TOM COOLEN, BEHIND THE BENCH. (PHOTO: COURTESY ACADIA ATHLETICS)

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DR. REX DUNN ACTIVE ABROAD AND AT HOME, GIVING BACK IN SO MANY WAYS

r. Rex Dunn (’65) is in the business of saving lives, here at home and as part of a team that cares for people in one of the poorest parts of Guatemala. For the past three years, Dunn has been involved in surgical missions to Guatemala. This February, he was part of a 13-member team of doctors and nurses, mostly from Cape Breton, who flew to Guatemala City and performed 54 operations in four days as part of “Operation Giving Back”, spearheaded by another Acadia alumnus, Dr. Elwood MacMullin (‘70). Operations are performed primarily on Mayan people from remote villages identified as surgical candidates by local clinics. “The public health system there is in complete disarray,” Dunn says. “Only people with money can get adequate surgical services. The folks we see would never be able to afford the surgery they need and so we endeavour to bring to them a quality, Nova Scotia-style service.” Working with a team of professionals who also have the urge to share their good fortune is a big reason why Dunn donates his time to the project. “There is a mild sense of adventure about it all that appeals to me,” he says. “Every one of us returns to Canada with a renewed sense of our own good luck to live and work in this country.”

ACADIA CONNECTIONS RUN DEEP Dunn is no stranger to giving back. He has been active in Cape Breton, building a new YMCA and serving on many planning regulatory medical committees. For several years he was on the Council of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia, and served as President for two years. It’s the primary regulatory body for licensing, discipline and many other functions for physicians in Nova Scotia. As a student at Acadia in the 1960s, Dunn was not overly concerned with activism. He says he was just trying to find his

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way. He and his brother Peter (’67) had a singing group called Windjammers that performed various songs at University Hall as well as other venues. “Looking back, some of them were protest songs, but this went completely over our heads,” he says. Dunn attended Acadia as a 16-year-old, primarily because of a recommendation from his parents, Reginald (’39) and Theo (MacDonald) Dunn (’40), who met and married there. Dunn grew up on campus in a house where the Students’ Union Building is today. His father was a recruiter in the 1950s who visited high schools and other places to tell students what a great place Acadia was and why they should go there. Acadia tradition runs deep and history apparently repeats itself. Dunn also met his wife Heather (’65) on campus. His son Cameron (’95) attended Acadia as well. During six years on campus, completing a BSc and MSc, Dunn said his biggest takeaway was understanding that he needed to work hard to get the results he wanted. With encouragement from faculty, he learned to be truly independent. He lived off campus, with a small budget in a tiny room, focusing on top marks. “My experience with my professors was significant,” he says. Many were supportive and helpful, but he also learned from those who were inclined to be stern yet fair. Rex’s and Heather’s interest in nature later prompted them to sponsor an Acadia environmental scholarship in their names. The Heather and Rex Dunn Environmental Scholarship is awarded annually to third year, fourth year or graduate students who have demonstrated a strong interest and aptitude for environmental topics. To learn more about the project, or to help with fundraising the necessary $50,000 for each mission trip, visit the Cape Breton Surgeons on a Mission Facebook page: http://ow.ly/YN1hc.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF DR. REX DUNN

By Laura Churchill Duke (’98)

ALUMNI PROFILES

Dr. Rex Dunn performs a procedure with local anesthetic. In his right hand he is holding the lump he removed from this patient.

Acadia Reminiscence Dr. Elwood MacMullin (‘70), head of ‘Operation Giving Back’ in Cape Breton, completed a BSc and MSc in chemistry at Acadia. He has many warm memories of his time here. “I have a special fondness for those warm autumn Saturday afternoons,” MacMullin says, “watching football games, strolling the gorgeous grounds and sharing those times with new and old friends.” The Acadia tradition continued with the recent graduation of MacMullin’s eldest daughter Gillian with a BSc in biology in 2010.

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You’ve been so helpful. We’re so thankful. As we move into the intensive final stretch of this year’s recruitment drive, I want to take a moment to thank our alumni who assist us in so many ways with our enrolment efforts. Your passion for Acadia and your support to our recruitment initiatives are incredibly important, and we are very grateful. Susan Mesheau, Vice-President Enrolment and Student Services

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ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

EYE ON ACADIA

ACADIA CONFERS SIX HONORARY DEGREES DURING CONVOCATION 2016 During Convocation on May 15 and 16, Acadia University granted honorary degrees to six outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to society through their work in communities near and far and their advocacy to build a better life for others. They include: Lynn Jones, Rev. Gato Munyamasoko, Dr. Dale Frail (’83), Dr. Deborah MacLatchy (’85), Dr. Howard Wightman, and Stephen Wetmore (’76). “It has long been a tradition at Acadia to ask our graduating class to reflect on how they can positively impact the world,” said Ray Ivany, Acadia’s President and Vice-Chancellor. “Our 2016 honorary degree recipients have found ways to improve the lives of those around them – some in the face of adversity, and others by way of never settling for less. Their dedication to improving our society, whether through scientific inquiry, business leadership or community activism, serves as a reminder to our graduating class of what lies before them – an opportunity to apply the benefit of their Acadia experience to make a difference.”

Honorary Degree Recipients: Lynn Jones – an activist, community organizer, labour leader, and inspiring speaker who has shared her experiences, wisdom and expertise in Canada and on the world stage. In 1991, she was the first African Canadian to join the executive of the Canadian Labour Congress and was elected a general VicePresident.

Rev. Gato Munyamasoko – a Christian leader committed to peace-building and reconciliation in one of the most violent areas of Africa – the Great Lakes region – which covers Rwanda, the DRC, Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya.

Dr. Dale Frail – an astronomer known for his joint discovery of the first extra-solar or pulsar planets and helping the world better understand the origin of gammaray bursts – massive explosions in space that occurred millions or even billions of years ago.

Dr. Deborah MacLatchy – an academic leader, scholar, and enthusiastic promoter of women in science. She currently serves as the VicePresident, Academic and Provost as well as a professor of biology at Wilfrid Laurier University.

Dr. Howard Wightman – a consummate health care professional and community health promotion activist. He serves as a role model for healthy active living, a tireless mentor of Acadia’s kinesiology and community development students, and a booster and fundraiser for the S.M.I.L.E. program.

Stephen Wetmore – a leader of iconic Canadian firms like Canadian Tire and Bell Aliant distinguished him as one of Canada’s most outstanding CEOs. His executive leadership earned him the 2013 Distinguished Retailer of the Year award from the Retail Council of Canada.

Associated Alumni of Acadia University Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching: • Dr. Randy Newman, Faculty of Pure and Applied Science Professor Emeriti

Appointments: • Dr. Soren Bondrup-Nielsen, Professor Emeritus of Biology • Dr. Anthony (Tony) Thomson, Professor Emeritus of Sociology • Dr. Shelley MacDougall, Professor Emeritus of the Fred C. Manning School of Business Acadia’s Baccalaureate Service took place on Sunday, May 15 in Convocation Hall. The cap and gown speaker, elected by the graduating Class of 2016, was Oshawa, Ontario’s Jenna Northcott, who graduated with a bachelor of business administration. The guest speaker at the service was Rev. Dr. Bruce Matthews (’63), distinguished scholar and former Dean of Arts at Acadia. Following each ceremony, participants and their guests were invited to join the Acadia community in the Sheldon L. Fountain Learning Commons for a reception.

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PHOTO: FRED SGAMBATI

RAY IVANY TO LEAVE ACADIA IN JUNE 2017 ACADIA’S 15TH PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR CHOOSES TO END SECOND TERM EARLY

cadia University’s 15th President and Vice-Chancellor Ray Ivany will end his second term on June 30, 2017, two years earlier than planned. Ivany made the announcement February 5, 2016 during a meeting of the University’s Board of Governors. “This was one of the most difficult decisions of my life,” Ivany said. “I came to Acadia in 2009 because I respected the institution’s history, the faculty and staff who had established its reputation, its alumni who care deeply about the University, and its students who, year after year, earn awards and recognition for their work. “In my time here, I have discovered the same Acadia magic that attracts students from around the world. Acadia’s faculty and staff have built a unique environment that touches both the head and the heart in a way that challenges you to be your very best. This is an incredibly powerful educational model and Acadia deserves its reputation as one of Canada’s best universities. Leaving Acadia won’t be easy. However, my recent health issues have caused me to reflect deeply on how I need to shape my life in the years to come and I feel that accelerating my retirement date is an appropriate first step. It has been an honour to serve Acadia’s faculty, staff, students and alumni during the past seven years and I am looking forward to continuing to work on our agenda over the ensuing months.” “It’s hard for our Board to put into words the gratitude we feel toward Ray for the extraordinary contribution he has made to Acadia,” said Paul Jewer (’94), Chair of Acadia’s Board of Governors. “Since his arrival in April 2009, Ray has been at the forefront of leading change both on our campus and within our province. He joined at a time in our University’s history when we needed his leadership, his commitment to students, and his vision for what Acadia should and can contribute to the

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Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, and Canada’s post-secondary sector. While Ray’s term will be ending somewhat earlier than our Board expected, he will be leaving us in a strong position and we have the next 14 months to use his expertise to position Acadia for future success.” Since his appointment in 2009, Ivany’s contributions to Acadia and Canadian post-secondary education have been significant. Acadia’s full-time undergraduate enrolment has grown by 25 per cent after reaching a 20-year low in 2008. Financial support for Acadia has increased by almost 200 per cent since 2012, reaching an all-time one-year high of more than $8 million in 2014. He chaired the Council of Nova Scotia University Presidents between 2012 and 2014, Atlantic University Sport between 2011 and 2015 and the Nova Scotia Research and Innovation Trust between 2012 and 2014. He served as a Director of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada between 2010 and 2014 and is currently a Council Member of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. In 2012, Ivany was asked by the Province of Nova Scotia to chair the Nova Scotia Commission on Building our New Economy. The Commission’s report, “Now or Never: An Urgent Call to Action for Nova Scotians,” has become the blueprint for the Province’s economic development plans and priorities. In June 2015, Ivany was named the Halifax Chamber of Commerce Person of the Year and Canada’s Public Policy Forum also honoured Ivany at their Atlantic awards in March 2016. Acadia’s Board of Governors is in the process of searching for Ivany’s successor and will release details of that process in the near future. Editor’s Note: the spring 2017 edition of the Bulletin will include a full-length feature on Ray and his achievements as Acadia’s President.

2016 LIFE OFFICERS

EYE ON ACADIA

PHOTO: LIGHT AND LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

Life Officers for the Graduating Class of 2016 are (from left to right): Chelsea Penney - President; Danielle Poirier - Secretary; Rachel Hammond - Vice-President; and Todd Dow - Treasurer. The Associated Alumni welcomes the 2016 Life Officers to the alumni family.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Kalejs Memorial Award

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE KALEJS FAMILY

A Musical Legacy

By Rachel Cooper (’89)

hen India Gailey (’16) played the cello at her graduation recital this spring, she was paying homage to a family whose Acadia story began 67 years ago. Gailey’s studies were supported in part by the Janis and Felicita Kalejs Memorial Award in Music, presented annually to a promising student of strings. Janis and Felicita Kalejs were husband-and-wife musicians with an established reputation in Europe when they began teaching in Acadia’s School of Music in 1949. Janis instructed in strings, Felicita in piano. Their perilous journey to Wolfville from Riga, Latvia, lasted five years. In September 1944, when the occupying Soviet Red Army advanced into Riga, Janis and Felicita were working at the Conservatory. The Latvian Culture Minister – godfather of their infant son Juris – arrived with fake passports and said that the last Red Cross train was about to leave.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Clutching their passports and a few possessions, Janis, Felicita, young Juris, Felicita’s parents and eight other family members managed to catch the train. For five years, they lived in crowded Displaced Persons camps. Meanwhile, they played in concerts – Janis on violin, Felicita on piano – in the camps and for troops while applying for employment overseas. Then, in 1949, Acadia President Watson Kirkconnell (’64) offered them positions. They arrived in early September with Felicita’s parents and Juris. The rest of the extended family made it safely to other parts of Canada and the USA. When Janis died in 1973, he was Dean of the School of Music. Felicita became Acting Dean and set up a music award in Janis’s memory. Following Felicita’s death in 2000, Juris (’63) and his wife, Beth (Elizabeth Archibald, ’63), continued the award in memory of Janis and Felicita. “Juris’s parents were fantastic in the Music department,”

EYE ON ACADIA

PHOTO: PETER OLESKEVICH

(Left) Beth Archibald and Juris Kalejs at their graduations, 1963. (Below) India Gailey (fall, ’16). (Right top) Juris and Beth Kalejs in recent years. (Right bottom) Janis and Felicita Kalejs at the University Women’s Club recital

Beth says now. “His father was appointed Dean of the School of Music in 1965, but he also was behind growth of the Acadia Summer Music Camp and had a key role in planning Harvey Denton Hall. They gave recitals in Canada and the US and broadcasts over the CBC, Trans-Canada and Maritime stations.”

A GIFTED FAMILY Juris and Beth met in seventh grade in Wolfville, where Beth’s father was the United Church minister. Her sister, Eleanor (’63), is married to Ned Chase (‘63), a former member of the Board of Governors at Acadia and past president of the Associated Alumni. While Juris was studying physics at Acadia, Beth pursued a BSc in Home Economics. She completed a dietetic internship in Vancouver, after which Juris persuaded her to come to Rhode Island, where he was doing a PhD in physics at Brown University. Beth worked as a dietitian at Rhode Island Hospital for five years. They married in 1966. Juris made his career as a scientist. Besides the PhD, he earned an MSc in mechanical engineering from the University of Minnesota and did postdoctoral work at the universities of Oxford and Toronto. He was a pioneer in solar energy and recognized as an international solar-industry leader. He published

over 100 scientific articles, held several patents, and founded two solar integration companies. Juris and Beth settled in Massachusetts and had three children: Emily, Eleanor and Alex. At the time of Juris’s death on January 6, 2015, they had seven grandchildren. An eighth, James, has been born to Alex and his wife, Heidi, and will carry on the Kalejs name. Juris was buried in Wolfville on August 4, 2015. The entire family made the journey from Colorado and Massachusetts. “He was a wonderful man,” Beth says simply.

THE KALEJS LEGACY TODAY For India Gailey, the support of the Kalejs Memorial Award has meant a lot as she strives to become a master cello performer. “I’ve been able to focus on what I’m learning instead of having to earn money,” she says. “I’ve been really fortunate because I’ve been so supported by scholarships that I can continue my studies in the summer, and that has been really valuable.” Professional success in music can be difficult. “Receiving the Janis and Felicita Kalejs Memorial Award in Music is encouragement that what I’m doing is valuable and worth pursuing,” Gailey says. “To the Kalejs family, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I’m grateful for their support and generosity.”

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It doesn’t get much bigger than this. Fifty years after graduating from Acadia, Dr. Paul Corkum’s name was one of several to surface last September as a possible contender for the Nobel Prize in Physics. A member of Acadia’s Class of 1965, Dr. Corkum and his research partner, Dr. Ferenc Krausz of Germany, were deemed most likely to win the Prize for their work on developing attosecond lasers – lasers that measure time in billionths of a billionth of a second. The fact that they didn’t does not diminish in any way his extraordinary personal and academic achievements. After graduating from Acadia, Dr. Corkum obtained his Masters and PhD from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. He joined the National Research Council of Canada in 1973 and began a remarkable academic and research career in which he has produced almost 300 peer-reviewed papers and supervised more than 60 graduate students, helping them to launch their own academic careers. In 2015, Dr. Corkum received the Associated Alumni of Acadia University’s Distinguished Alumni Award. Dr. Corkum’s work with attosecond lasers dates back to a paper he published in 1993. This ground-breaking paper has been cited more than 3,000 times, a feat achieved by only 1,500 of the approximately 60 million academic papers published since 1900. The importance of measuring time in attoseconds is that it allows scientists to watch the activity of electrons in a chemical reaction as the reaction proceeds. This has a profound benefit for scientists studying molecular changes such as what happens to protein when bombarded by x-rays. “I did my first research project, which led to my first paper, while I was at Acadia,” said Dr. Corkum. “The paper described photographing water moving around a bubble – the wake of a rising bubble. Now I measure electrons as they move from place to place in molecules or solids. It takes seconds for the

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Dr. Paul Corkum wake of the rising bubble to form so an ordinary camera flash was sufficient for my Acadia experiment. For electrons the flash must be much faster because electrons move from atom to atom in molecules or solids in only a few attoseconds or billionths of a billionth of a second.” Currently the National Research Council – Canada Research Chair in Attosecond Phototonics at University of Ottawa, Dr. Corkum has received some of the world’s most prestigious awards for scientific achievement and public service. These awards include, in Canada, the Order of Canada, the Order of Ontario, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Gerhard Herzberg Canada Gold medal for Science and Engineering, and the Killam Prize for Physical Sciences. Internationally his awards include the Frederic Ives Medal of the Optical Society of America, The King Faisal International Prize for Science, the Harvey Prize, The Technion, from the Israel Institute of Technology, and the Einstein Award from the IEEE Phototonics Society. Dr. Corkum is a Member of the Royal Society of Canada, Fellow of the Royal Society of London and a Foreign Member of the US Academy of Sciences and the Austrian Academy of Sciences. Dr. Peter Williams, Acadia’s Dean of Pure and Applied Sciences, said at the time, “Paul wrote his first scientific paper while he was a student at Acadia and we continue to provide the same type of faculty involvement in research to our students that launched Paul’s career. We could not be more pleased for Paul’s success. It affirms for us that early involvement in research is at the heart of creating a robust scientific community in Canada.” And connecting undergraduates to research is what might result, someday, in someone being considered for a Nobel Prize.

PHOTO: COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA

NOBEL BUZZ FOR STELLAR SCIENTIST

ASSOCIATED ALUMNI PROFILES

TONY STEWART (’72) Tony Stewart arrived in Wolfville from Montreal in 1968 to attend Acadia University and never left. The University has been an important part of Tony’s life. He received a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education and Masters of Education from Acadia, all of which have been critical in his lifelong career as an educator. While at Acadia, Tony played football and then worked with the team as an assistant coach for nine years at a time when the Axemen were a football dynasty, winning two national championships. Tony retired from public school education in 2003 after a 31-year career. For 26 of those years, he held a number of administrative positions in the Annapolis Valley, including Assistant Superintendent of Schools, Kings County District School Board; Principal, Port Williams Elementary School; Principal, Central Kings Rural High School; and Principal, Wolfville School. In retirement, Tony has continued to be active in education, having recently completed a nine-year term as the Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Educational Leadership Consortium. He will continue to follow his passion for leadership as the Director of the Nova Scotia Instructional Leadership Academy. In addition, Tony has contracted his services to the Nova Scotia government, provincial universities, Nova Scotia School Boards, and has supervised and taught student teachers at Acadia. Tony was on the Board of Directors of the Associated Alumni in the 1980s, serving in a number of capacities, including VicePresident of the organization. Tony is interested in returning to his roots and further serving the Acadia family during these exciting, challenging times..

PHOTOS: OONAGH PROUDFOOT

DAVID HOVELL (’91) David Hovell, a lifelong Port Williams, N.S. resident, began his career in agriculture as a founding partner of Planters Equipment Limited, a John Deere agricultural, consumer and commercial equipment dealership in Kentville. The business grew to include locations in Middleton and Halifax and was recognized as the largest tractor volume dealership in Canada. Later, with a keen interest in marketing and public relations, David created his own government relations consultancy firm, which led to his next post as Director of the Nova Scotia Government Caucus serving under Premiers Hamm and MacDonald. In 2011, David took on a challenge that blended his experiences from both the business and not-for-profit sectors as the first Executive Director of the Wolfville Business Development Corporation. Seizing the opportunity to combine his love of cottage life and water sports into a business, he and a partner formed DockWorks Inc. in 2011. Dedicated to becoming a waterfront solutions company, it is the Annapolis Valley and Southwestern Nova Scotia dealer for EZ Dock and Eastern Township Docks. An active community volunteer, he is past chair of the Canadian 4-H Foundation and past president of the Valley Regional Hospital Foundation. He is also a former director of the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival, Annapolis Valley District Health Authority and Acadia University Foundation. David holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Acadia University, joining his father and grandmother, who are also Acadia commerce alumni.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Alumni Events 1

SPECIAL NIGHT IN SYDNEY, NS It was a special night at the Old Triangle Irish Alehouse in Sydney, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia on Thursday, November 26. Approximately 25 Acadia alumni and friends came together to hear news and updates about the University from President Ray Ivany and President of the Associated Alumni, Doug Jackson (’99). Sydney is Ivany’s hometown so it was a bit of a homecoming for him, and a good time was had by all at the relaxed and informal event. Other Acadia representatives in attendance included Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Ian Murray (’88) and Executive Director of Philanthropy Nancy Handrigan (’92). (PHOTO: NANCY HANDRIGAN)

GREAT TURNOUT IN BAHAMAS! Fifty-two alumni and friends gathered in

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event included University President Ray Ivany, University Chaplain Tim McFarland (’92) and University archivist Pat Townsend. The 103rd running of the annual Bulmer Race also took place that day, this time on the track at Raymond Field, with seven teams and two individuals participating. A total of $400 (PHOTO: IAN MURRAY) was raised for Acadia’s Global Brigades, which hosted the event. Pictured 3 above at the cake-cutting ceremony for FOUNDERS’ DAY 2015 Founders’ Day are: (left to right) Acadia’s Acadia University celebrated its 177th Vice-President, Advancement, Dr. Rod anniversary on November 13, 2015 during Morrison; University President Ray Ivany; Founders’ Day on campus. Faculty, staff, former President Dr. J.R.C. Perkin; Acadia alumni and members of the community Students’ Union Vice-President Academic were invited to share in the occasion Fallis Thompson (’15); former President and mark the official opening of the Senator Kelvin Ogilvie (’63); and Wolfville Wu Welcome Centre at Alumni Hall, a Mayor Jeff Cantwell. wonderful gift to the University from (PHOTO: FRED SGAMBATI) the Wu family of Hong Kong and now available for use by Acadia’s campus 4 constituents. Featured speakers at the NEW YORK RECEPTION 2016 Nassau, Bahamas on Tuesday, February 2, 2016 to celebrate their shared Acadia experiences, reminisce, and receive greetings from Chancellor Dr. Libby Burnham (’60), (Acting) Dean of Arts Dr. Jeff Hennessy (’99), and Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Ian Murray (’88).

An enthusiastic crowd of Acadia alumni gathered for a reception at the Office of the Consul General of Canada in midtown Manhattan, New York City on March 7, 2016. On hand to bring greetings and news about the University were Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Ian Murray (’88), Executive Director of Philanthropy Nancy Handrigan (’92) and Dr. Bob Perrins, (Acting) Vice-President Academic, who gave a fascinating presentation on the history of the so-called ‘Resurrection Men’ in New York City. Pictured (left to right) are: Ian Murray, Corey Hodder (’10), Riley Wilson (’08), Dr. Perrins, Valerie Kerr, Kory French (’00), and Mikaela Vimar Perrins (‘99). (PHOTO: NANCY HANDRIGAN)

KUALA LUMPUR RECEPTION Acadia alumni and friends came together at the St. Giles Boulevard Premier

ALUMNI EVENTS

Hotel in Mid Valley, Kuala Lumpur on November 20, 2015. Guests were treated to an international buffet and heard updates about the University from Dr. Rod Morrison, Vice-President, Advancement (front row, third from the left) and Dr. Bob Perrins, (Acting) Vice-President, Academic (holding banner).

SUCCESSFUL SOCIAL ON THE HILL Approximately 75 Acadia alumni and guests enjoyed the annual Holiday Social on the Hill Monday, November 30, 2015 in Ottawa. The event was hosted by Senator and former University President Dr. Kelvin Ogilvie (’63), who was unfortunately unable to attend 6 due to unforeseen circumstances. HOLIDAY RECEPTION IN MONTREAL President Ray Ivany brought greetings, Acadia alumni and friends gathered news and updates from the University. in Montreal on December 1, 2015 for a Special guests in attendance included Holiday Reception kindly hosted by Mirko Chancellor Libby Burnham (’60); Scott (’82) and Colleen Wicha. Guests enjoyed Brison - MP, Kings-Hants and President of the Wichas’ generous hospitality, some the Treasury Board; Andy Fillmore - MP, wonderful homemade hor d’oeuvres and Halifax; Paul Corkum (’65) - Honorary other refreshments while Chancellor Degree Recipient and Distinguished Libby Burnham (’60) provided news and Alumni Award recipient; Matthew Rios updates about the University. Pictured (’14) - Director, Alumni Association; and enjoying the reception are Jeff MacKean Suzanne Seaman (’97) - Director, Alumni (’83) and Lyla Bradley (’07). Association. Pictured with Mr. Brison (PHOTO: NANCY HANDRIGAN) enjoying seasonal good cheer is Acadia

alumna Larissa Law (’10).

(PHOTO: NANCY HANDRIGAN)

8 FUN AND SUN IN BERMUDA More than 50 Acadia alumni and friends gathered at the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club in Hamilton, Bermuda on Thursday, February 4, 2016 to share stories and reminisce about their time at Acadia. Welcoming remarks and information about the University was provided by Chancellor Libby Burnham (’60), Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Ian Murray (’88), Executive Director of Philanthropy Nancy Handrigan (’92), and Manager for Enrolment Services Leigh-Ann Murphy. Pictured (left to right) enjoying some fun and fellowship at the event are: Rachael Ashford (’02), Melody Johnson (’01), Mekisha Simmons (’98), LeMohn Smith (’98), and Karolyn Darrell-Burgess (’00).

FLORIDA LUNCHEON 2016 Approximately 35 alumni and friends attended the Annual Florida Luncheon at the Stoneybrook Golf Club in Bradenton on Tuesday, March 22, 2016. It was a great opportunity for alumni to gather and meet fellow graduates living and/or wintering in Florida and also a chance for alumni to meet Vice-President, Advancement, Dr. Rod Morrison; (Acting) Vice-President Academic, Dr. Robert Perrins; and Executive Director, Alumni Affairs, Ian Murray (’88). Dr. Perrins also shared a short presentation on Yellow Fever in Tampa that was interesting and entertaining.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Acadia Day in Toronto

PHOTOS: NANCY HANDRIGAN

It was a big day in the Big Smoke on February 25, 2016 when more than 75 Acadia alumni and friends came together to celebrate Acadia Day in Toronto. It all began at 7:15 a.m. with breakfast at the National Club, where guests heard firsthand updates from Dr. Rod Morrison, Vice-President, Advancement and Dr. Ian Hutchinson, Director of the F.C. Manning School of Business, followed by feature presentation “Stay Engaged and Embrace Change” by Charlotte F. Burke (’83). At 1:30 p.m., Peter Armstrong (’95), Economics Reporter for CBC News, provided a backstage tour of the CBC, where attendees saw how the daily news is prepared and packaged for delivery to radios and televisions across Canada. Finally, Chancellor Libby Burnham (’60), and other Acadia representatives including Dr. Morrison, Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Ian Murray (’88) and Executive Director of Philanthropy Nancy Handrigan (’92) joined guests at Grace O’Malley’s at 6 p.m. to hoist a tankard in a cheer to good old Acadia and round out the day in style!

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR DISTINGUISHED, YOUNG ALUMNI AWARDS Alumni are one of Acadia Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest assets. The Associated Alumni offers and supports awards and honours to recognize and showcase those who have earned distinction and achieved inspirational success in life and career. Their diverse contributions reflect favorably on Acadia and serve to represent and promote the University both here at home and around the world. Nominations are now open for:

Outstanding Young Alumni Award

The Outstanding Young Alumni Award recognizes Acadia alumni who have graduated within the past 10 years whose endeavours in professional research, athletics, the arts, the community or other areas worthy of recognition bring honour to Acadia University. Nomination deadline is June 24, 2016.

Distinguished Alumni Award

The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes the outstanding achievements of Acadia alumni whose endeavours in professional research, civic duty, business, athletics, the arts, the community, or other areas have made a significant contribution and inherently brought honour to Acadia University. Nomination deadline is October 31, 2016. Both awards are presented annually at the Alumni Gala Dinner. To nominate someone, please visit: http://www2.acadiau.ca/alumni-friends/alumni/awards.html

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ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Gala 2016

Approximately 340 Acadia alumni and friends gathered at the World Trade and Convention in Halifax, Nova Scotia on April 20, 2016 for the 14th Annual Acadia Alumni Gala Dinner and Silent Auction in support of athletics, student financial aid and other programs at Acadia. A VIP reception hosted by McInnes Cooper kicked things off in fine style, and Peter Harrison (’84) was masterful as dinner emcee. Special guests included

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Chancellor Dr. Libby Burnham (’60), University President Raymond E. Ivany, Associated Alumni President Doug Jackson (’99), 2016 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient Brigadier-General (Ret’d) Hilary Jaeger (’79) and Young Alumni Award recipients Mike Kennedy (’05) and Chansey Veinotte (’10). Guests were encouraged to participate in a Silent Auction, and later a raffle donated by Paul Bailey (’75) for a trip to Toronto

with proceeds going to the S.M.I.L.E. program. The auction raised $13,683 and the raffle $3,120 on the night. Since its inception, the Gala has generated more than $340,000 for financial aid initiatives, athletics and other programs for Acadia students. Nominations are now open for the Distinguished Alumni and Young Alumni Awards (see Page 27).

PHOTOS: PETER OLESKEVICH

ALUMNI EVENTS

Gala Dinner & Silent Auction

April 20, 2016

Thank you to our Sponsors! Paul Bailey (’75) Bruce Phinney (’81)

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Dr. Paul Arnold On the chewing (and cutting) edge of composting technology

By Laura Churchill Duke (’98)

r. Paul Arnold’s research is on the chewing (and cutting) edge when it comes to composting. Although not his primary focus, Arnold has had an ongoing hobby looking at how worms can be used in the composting process. He began his career with National Sea Products in its engineering department, investigating the management of fish waste. Originally, the fish by-products were diverted to a landfill or back to the sea, but when policies changed, Arnold was asked to find new ways to process the waste. Thus began his interest in compost and waste management, and a realization that waste could be a marketable commodity. A faculty member in Acadia’s Ivan Curry School of Engineering, Arnold retains an abiding interest in waste management, looking at ways to optimize microbial growth to enhance and speed up the composting process, and this is where worms come into the story. For decomposition to happen, three things are necessary: air, food (for the microbes), and water. Worms are like tiny gardeners whose activities aerate soil. Without worms, people would have to manually turn soil to let oxygen in to support microbes or it would have to be done mechanically.

REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS Biology graduate Jonathan Howatt (’13) worked with Arnold and his worms for his honours thesis. Howatt wanted to test if levels of carbon dioxide affected the growth rate of plants. To do so, he used planted pot trays encased in a plastic tent. Under one of the trays was a box of composting worms. Results indicated that the plant tray containing the worms had higher levels of carbon dioxide, which initially accelerated plant growth. Not a lot of pure research is being done on composting or especially the use of worms, Arnold says. “Farmers know of the benefits of using worms, but it is a relatively new topic for study.” Acadia, it seems, is on the “chewing edge” of this kind of research.

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The use of worms in composting – known as vermiculture – has many real-world applications, especially in terms of waste management. If composting facilities employed worm aeration, they might be able to do away with expensive equipment like loaders, which are currently used to turn compost piles in the later stages of decomposition. Arnold says his lifetime research goal would be to look at the heat energy given off in the initial decomposition stages. “If we could capture the energy from composting, we could use it to run a nearby facility, such as a greenhouse,” he says. This process would involve researchers who have expertise in optimizing compost decomposition, growing plants and operating a greenhouse. Arnold has partnerships with the Northridge Farms compost facility near Aylesford, Nova Scotia, and Valley Waste Resource Management in Kentville.

COMPOST GURU “Paul is known as the compost guru to us solid waste folks,” says Andrew Garrett (’98), communications manager at Valley Waste. Garrett says Arnold and his students have worked on several solid waste projects that have helped municipalities find solutions for hard-to-manage materials. “His expertise on compost systems is an invaluable asset to Nova Scotia’s organics management programs,” Garrett notes. If anyone is interested in learning more about worm composting or seeing it in action on campus, Arnold says people are welcome to contact him directly at paul.arnold@ acadiau.ca. He has also made presentations to schools or groups with a special interest in composting. “I’m so pleased with Acadia and its attitude toward waste management and the environmental initiatives it is taking,” Arnold says. “Through programs like Environmental and Sustainability Studies and the Acadia farm, we are making headway toward conserving our resources, and I’m happy to be associated with it.”

RESEARCH

PHOTOS: JESSICA DARMANIN, MACLEAN’S

Alumnus Jonathan Howatt (BSCH ‘13) worked with engineering professor Dr. Paul Arnold (right) in the vermi-composting lab at the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre at Acadia.

Acadia Reminiscence Dr. Paul Arnold says he realized how unique and special Acadia was when he was away from campus. During a sabbatical last year, he taught a few courses at the University of Alberta because he wanted to see what it was like to experience a bigger university environment. Class sizes were around 150 students. He attended tutorials, which in itself was unusual because tutorials at U. of A. are run primarily by teaching assistants. During one of these sessions Arnold struck up a conversation with a student and asked him his name. The student gave Arnold a bewildered look. When asked why, the student said that no one had ever asked him that before. “It was then,” Arnold says, “I realized the value of the personalized experience we can offer at Acadia because of our small class sizes.”

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

DEVELOPMENT

JOYCE FOUNDATION $2.5M GIFT TO ACADIA ONE OF THE LARGEST IN UNIVERSITY’S HISTORY

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Pictured at the Ronald V. Joyce Centre for the Performing Arts in Hamilton, ON on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at an event to celebrate the Foundation’s generous gift are, from left to right: Hon. Don Oliver (’60), Rob MacIsaac, President Raymond E. Ivany, Nancy McCain (’82), Chancellor Libby Burnham (’60), Ron Joyce, Michele Thornley, Grant Joyce, Steven Joyce, and Vice-President, Advancement Dr. Rod Morrison.

help open doors to many more young people, particularly African Canadians from the Atlantic, who will benefit from everything Acadia has to offer.” Approximately 80 per cent of Acadia students are involved with at least one volunteer activity beyond their studies. For example, Acadia’s award-winning S.M.I.L.E. (Sensory Motor Instructional Leadership Experience) program matches approximately 400 student volunteers with 300 children and youth with physical and cognitive disabilities, and Acadia has the largest Global Brigades Chapter of any Canadian university despite its small student population. These awards will further enhance Acadia’s reputation for community involvement and social responsibility. “We are deeply fortunate that Ron Joyce and The Joyce Foundation place such a premium on opening doors to higher education for young people,” said Dr. Rod Morrison, Acadia’s Vice-President, Advancement. “We believe that this generous gift from the Foundation will encourage more students to choose Acadia because our commitment to inclusivity and social engagement resonates strongly with them, and we’re looking forward to welcoming the first recipients of the Joyce Foundation and Oliver bursaries to campus.”

PHOTO: PETER OLESKEVICH

generous $2.5 million gift to Acadia University from The Joyce Foundation will dramatically increase financial support to visible minorities and to students with a proven commitment to volunteerism. The Joyce Foundation Bursaries and The Clifford and Helena Oliver Bursaries will be among the largest renewable awards available to students from Atlantic Canada and Ontario who choose to study at Acadia. “We are profoundly grateful to Ron Joyce and The Joyce Foundation for the support they have shown for Acadia students,” said Ray Ivany, President and Vice-Chancellor of Acadia. “Ron has been a long-time supporter and promoter of post-secondary education as one avenue for young people to achieve their full potential. He understands the challenges faced by students with limited financial means and through these gifts from the Foundation many more students will be able to pursue their goals here at Acadia. The special emphasis placed on volunteerism and students from visible minority groups fits perfectly with Acadia’s culture and community.” The $2.5 million endowed gift – $1.5 million supporting the Joyce Foundation Bursaries and $1 million for the Clifford and Helena Oliver Bursaries – will support up to 20 students annually and on an ongoing basis through $5,000 bursaries granted on the basis of financial need. The awards will be available to students from Atlantic Canada and Ontario who demonstrate exceptionality in volunteerism, leadership, citizenship and character, with a portion of the Oliver Bursaries available only to students from visible minority groups. “The Joyce Foundation is pleased to play a role in helping young Canadians pursue a university education by removing financial barriers,” says Ron Joyce, one of Canada’s most iconic business leaders. “Recognizing students who are already committed to their communities by being active volunteers is particularly satisfying.” Retired Senator Donald Oliver (’60) says, “I can’t thank my friend Ron Joyce enough for endowing this $1 million gift to Acadia in honour of my parents, Clifford and Helena Oliver. Postsecondary education is more important now than ever before and Ron’s generosity will ensure we do what we can to support students who see university as an important step in achieving their career plan. Acadia was a wonderful experience for me and thousands of Acadia alumni worldwide. This incredible gift will

ATHLETICS

PHOTOS: PETER OLESKEVICH

FOUR INDUCTED INTO HOCKEY HONOUR ROLL

There was plenty of excitement on November 14, 2015 when Paul Doherty (‘98), Brian Casey (‘98), Dave Beach (‘85), and Malcolm Cameron (‘94) were inducted into Acadia’s Hockey Honour Roll. The event, which took place at the Sheldon L. Fountain Learning Commons, was attended by more than 100 people, including the 2015-16 men’s hockey team, coaches and staff, alumni, parents, family and friends. The annual luncheon illustrates the long-standing connection that exists between Acadia’s greats and today’s student-athletes who aspire to personal success and championship seasons in Wolfville. Pictured above with University President Ray Ivany are, from left to right: Athletics Director Kevin Dickie, Tom Prescott (’58), Brian Casey, Paul Doherty, Dave Beach, Malcolm Cameron, and Axemen head hockey coach Darren Burns (’95).

“PROUD TO REPRESENT ACADIA UNIVERSITY”

T MC

Taylor Maclellan Cochr ane L A W Y E R S

Making Service A Matter of Practice Since 1835

Tel: (902) 678-6156 | www.tmclaw.com ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

PLANNING, PLENTY OF SUPPORT THE PERFECT RECIPE FOR ATHLETIC, ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AT ACADIA By Monty Mosher (‘82)

WIDE-RANGING SUPPORT Ross plays soccer for the Axewomen in the fall and basketball in the winter. The commitments, however, often create a time crunch. She has had moments in Wolfville where she wishes there were a few additional hours in the day. “It’s the night before a game and you know you need a good sleep, but you are up until three or four in the morning because practice ended at 9:30 and you didn’t get to start your work until after that.” Part of what has made her experience at Acadia so special has been the support of teammates, faculty, coaches and friends. “Everybody is going through it together, so you never feel like you are alone at all, which is awesome,” she says. “After games I come out of the locker room and see so many familiar faces. For basketball, the whole football team will be there, making sure the visiting team knows whose gym they’re in. I’ll have other teammates there from soccer, too.”

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Katie Ross, receiving a Governor General’s Academic All-Canadian Commendation from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston.

She has at least one more year with the Axewomen, which will include the CIS women’s soccer championship at Raymond Field in 2016, and doesn’t have to concern herself too much with the future for now. “I think it will be hard to move on to another university if I decide to do a Master’s or anything like that because Acadia is such an awesome place,” she says. “I think that’s why so many people come back here for Homecoming or stop in whenever they can. They have so many great memories here.”

MEANINGFUL, FULFILLING EXPERIENCE Michelle Pryde is a chemistry major who graduated in May, but will return in the fall to play her final season with the soccer team. It won’t be a leisurely summer as she plans to write her MCATs in August. She has also become a whiz at planning. In her third year she took five courses and three labs during soccer season, getting by on “sacrifice and lack of sleep. If you take a few minutes to plot out your week and figure what will make you successful in getting things done, those few minutes really make a difference in helping your day run smoothly,” she says. ”You have to keep rolling.” Her Acadia experience has been meaningful and fulfilling

PHOTO: COURTESY ACADIA ATHLETICS

thletic and academic excellence go hand-in-hand at Acadia and this is nowhere more apparent than in the accomplishments of three student-athletes in particular. Katie Ross, for instance, would be extraordinary if she played only one varsity sport, or none at all for that matter. Throw in two sports, an honours program in kinesiology and plenty of community involvement and Bedford’s Ross could be forgiven for wanting an occasional day off to rest mind and body. But it hasn’t been that way through three years at Acadia and isn’t likely to change anytime soon. Ross is the 2016 recipient of the 30th annual James Bayer Memorial Scholarship Award, awarded annually to an outstanding student-athlete in Atlantic University Sport for excellence in academics, athletics, leadership, sportsmanship and citizenship. She is also a CIS Top-Eight Academic AllCanadian, earning a visit to Rideau Hall to meet His Excellency the Governor-General of Canada David Johnston last November. It’s the third straight year for an Acadia student to be so honoured, with soccer player Michelle Pryde (’16, Calgary, AB) achieving the distinction in 2014 and hockey player Travis Gibbons (’15, London, ON) in 2013.

ATHLETICS

Left: Michelle Pryde (’16) Below: Travis Gibbons (’15)

with no shortage of challenges. “Athletics Director Kevin Dickie always says that Acadia is a magical place, and he couldn’t have chosen a better descriptor,” Pryde adds. “When I do go there are so many things I’m going to miss, like playing at Raymond Field for a big Friday night game and waking up early on Saturday morning for the S.M.I.L.E. (Sensory Motor Instructional Leadership Experience) program.”

WILLING TO GIVE BACK Travis Gibbons graduated from Acadia in 2015 with a degree in kinesiology and has moved on to a Master’s at the University of Waterloo. He didn’t play hockey this season, but hasn’t ruled out a return to CIS ice for a final season of eligibility. He described his Acadia experience as a huge component in his development as a person and a student. He maintains connections with his former Axemen coaches and teammates. “The amount of community and the support system at Acadia made it easy to succeed on the ice and in the classroom,” Gibbons says. “It was a community that really encouraged success in all aspects of being a student-athlete.”

He hopes to be able to maintain a connection to Acadia over time. “If there were opportunities for me to be involved as a member of the alumni community, I would jump at it. Acadia gave me so much; I would definitely be willing to give back in any way that’s meaningful.”

Acadia Reminiscence The three Top 8 Academic All-Canadians have no shortage of great memories from their time at Acadia. Narrowing it to one isn’t easy, but Michelle Pryde says, “going through my degree there have been a few things people have said that really helped translate into a lot of happy memories in soccer, academics and relationships. Somebody said you are allowed to take a ‘me-day’. When things are busy, you shouldn’t feel bad about taking time for yourself because it is really important to keep yourself healthy mentally and physically. Another one that helped was, ‘Nothing is done until it’s finished.’ Practice being present and in the moment, and don’t forget to have some fun.” Travis Gibbons remembers “the process things: bus rides with the team, stints in hotels. Things like that and being around the team. It means a lot to have shared those opportunities with some of my best friends.” Katie Ross says, “I look up at my parents at a game and Ray Ivany is sitting there having a conversation with them. I think that’s something that’s unique to Acadia. I go to class on Monday and my prof says, ‘Good game.’ Everybody is just very interested in how you are doing and not only inside the classroom. They care about your life, which I think is really neat. They get to know you on a personal level.” ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Paloma Anderson in action against Cape Breton in the AUS playoffs.

HOOP STAR ANDERSON NOMINATED FOR BLG AWARD AS TOP STUDENT-ATHLETE IN CANADA

aloma Anderson may not have a harsher critic than herself. The basketball guard has squandered more chances than she can remember by putting herself first. When she got the opportunity to join the Acadia Axewomen during the holiday break in the 2014-15 season, the resident of Phoenix, Arizona was determined never to stumble over her own feet again. “When I started playing basketball, I had a really huge ego for no reason,” Anderson says. “I don’t understand why. I put myself in front of the teams instead of trying to be a part of them. I never knew how it was to be part of a team until I came to Acadia.” The 21-year-old Anderson has capped her first full season with the Axewomen as Atlantic University Sport’s female nominee for the BLG Awards. The awards are presented each year to the most outstanding student-athletes in the country. She helped Acadia advance from a 4-16 team in her first season to 16-4 in her second year. The team started the season 15-0 for the first time. Considered by many to be too small at 5’1” to be a top varsity player, she piled up personal accolades. She became Acadia’s first conference-most-valuable in women’s basketball, won a spot on the all-Canadian first team and broke Acadia’s single-game scoring record with 41 points. She scored 18.7 points per game, second in the nation. She placed fourth in steals and ninth in assists. Acadia Athletics Director Kevin Dickie had a heart-to-heart with Anderson after coach Bev Greenlaw retired following the 2014-15 season and was replaced by Len Harvey (’03). Greenlaw had recruited Anderson from a junior college in Iowa, where Anderson had hit on hard times. Anderson had considered leaving Acadia rather than face a coaching change, but Dickie told her that great things awaited if

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

she stuck it out. “Arriving on campus last January as an inner-city athlete from Phoenix, Paloma has exceeded our expectations as a person and athlete,” Dickie says. “She has embraced the local and student community and has become a fan favourite with her tireless effort on and off the court.” Harvey and Anderson have built a strong bond in their time together. “She has faced a lot of adversity while growing up, whether it was her circumstances at home or problems she admittedly created on her own,” Harvey says. “Paloma has grown out of a tough situation through plenty of adversity to become the person and athlete she is today.” Anderson had a friend who played at the University of Saskatchewan and became curious about the CIS brand. She liked the idea of having five years of eligibility, giving her two more with the Axewomen. She says something amazing happened when she got to Acadia. The team was winless when she arrived. “Honestly, I didn’t feel like there was an adjustment,” she says. “I’ve played for a lot of teams, but for some reason, when I came to Acadia, threw on the jersey and it said ‘Acadia’ across my chest, it just felt right. I don’t know. I can’t explain the feeling.” Wolfville was an adjustment, for sure. Anderson has family ties in Arizona and New York and her piercings and tattoos are part of who she is. “I got a lot of stares, but that was just in the first weeks after I arrived. It’s really homey here. No one judges me. People are extremely friendly and make you feel welcome. They don’t make you feel like an outsider. I feel like I’ve been here for 18 years, and it’s a feeling I’ve never had before. Wolfville is home. I don’t plan to go anywhere. I plan on finishing out and being an alumna at Acadia.”

PHOTO: PETER OLESKEVICH

By Monty Mosher (‘82)

Acadia Remembers We are saddened to report the following deaths in the Acadia community: Aleda E. Meloche (’34) Berwick NS

Frank G. Bell (’49) Liverpool, NS

Sara Illsley (’37) Halifax, NS

John A. Archibald (’49) Ottawa, ON

Charles H. Read (’39) Iowa City, IA

Walter O. Baker (’50) Beverly Hills St., FL

—

Winnifred L. Vaughan (’41), London, ON —

Margaret R. Smith (’41) Amherst, NS —

Betty I. Garland (’41) Ottawa, ON —

Ann I. Burnett (’43) Ottawa, ON

—

Robert A. MacKenzie (’50) Sydney River, NS —

Shirley Y. Alcoe (’50) Fredericton, NB —

Hazel MacLaren (’50) Calgary, AB —

Thelma E. Chute (’51) Berwick, NS

—

Joyce Fowler (’45) Oakville, ON

Paula Jane Fry (’51) Maple Ridge, BC

—

Claude T. Bishop (’45) Nepean, ON —

Mary Louise (Simms) Bach (’46) Buckhorn, ON —

Maura M. Parks (’46) Port Williams, NS —

Patricia A. Kellar (’47) Bloomington, IN —

Harold E. Ryan (’47) Napa, CA

—

Eugene R. Sanford (’51) Calgary, AB —

Stewart Love (’51) Cookeville, TN —

Richard S. Graves (’55) Etobicoke, ON —

Mary R. Baitz (’56) Mississauga, ON —

Eric K. Dickie (’56) Dartmouth, NS

—

Sheila F. Allen (’47) Halifax, NS

Leonard H. Orr (’56) Saint-Lambert, QC

—

William C. Crowell (’47) South Ohio, NS —

Virginia K. Bayley (’47) Fredericton, NB —

Gerald B. Stiles (’48) Claremont, CA —

Karl W. Perry (’48) Halifax, NS

—

Victor Sutherland (’56) Calgary, AB —

Janet M. Townsend (’57) Wolfville, NS —

Laurence Edmund Outhouse (’58) Tiverton, NS —

J. Ronald McCullough (’58) Winnipeg, MB

—

Robert B. B. Dickison (’49) Fredericton, NB —

A. Roy MacLean (’49) Sydney, NS —

—

H. Beverly Haynes (’49) Lakefield, ON

—

Nita R. Brennan (’59) Springhill, NS —

Donald Edgar Schnare (’59) Kingston, NS —

Jane K. Wightman (’60) Bridgetown, NS

Eugene F. Chatterton (’61) Stittsville, ON

Catherine Melanson (’80) St. Amable, QC

David Pretty (’61) Raleigh, NC

Gregory Brian Denton (’84) Bridgewater, NS

—

William H. White (’62) Kingsport, NS —

Macpherson Eaton (’62) Wolfville, NS —

Juris P. Kalejs (’63) Wellesley, MA —

Arthur A. Macumber (’63) Truro, NS —

Gail L. MacDonald (’67) Moncton, NB —

Patricia A. Keddy (’70) Bedford, NS —

Gordon Stewart Lewis (’71) Annapolis Royal, NS —

David C. Fry (’72) Halifax, NS —

Alexander Michael Morgulis (’72) Toronto, ON —

Maurice Frederick Strong (’72) Ottawa, ON —

Sally E. Graham (’73) Scarborough, ON —

Darlyene Jean Harrington (’74) Summerside, PEI —

Enid Deborah Pehowich (’74), Edmonton, AB —

Thomas E. MacDonald (’74) Fredericton, NB —

Debra Ann Mary MacNeil (’75) Prince George, BC —

Warren John Legge (’77) Truro, NS —

David A. Boyd (’78) Toronto, ON —

Bruce Ivan Hoover (’79) Aiken, SC

—

Andrew John Setlakwe (’88) Adstock, QC —

Linnea Lora Veinotte (’01) New Denmark, NB —

Jonathan Daniel Chigier (’02) Bedford, NS —

Matthew Kennedy (’06) Calgary, AB —

Edgar Frank Arsenault (’07) Kingston, NS —

Troy Anthony Raynes (’07) Saint John, NB —

Elsie J. Charles-Basque (’13) Saulnierville, NS —

Frank John Lampe (’15) Halifax, NS —

Thomas A. Churchill (HOR) —

Alexander Grant (HOR) North Vancouver, BC —

Mary Louise (Wilson) Penelton (HOR), North Gower, ON —

Lillian Black Halifax, NS —

Reuben Manalaysay North York, ON —

Kayla Cotton Louisdale, NS —

Sharon Roscoe Wolfville, NS —

James M. Thompson Ottawa, ON —

Frank B. Hazel Middleton, NS —

Donald A. McLeod Wolfville, NS

—

Marla Gail Rafuse (’79) Bridgewater, NS

We produce this list to the best of our ability with the information provided. If there is a discrepancy or error, please contact the Office of Alumni Affairs at 902.585.1459. ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

CLASS NOTES

1950s From Ginny Murray: “I noticed in the fall 2015 Bulletin a picture of some Acadia girls getting together each year for the past number of years. In keeping with this, last summer eight old friends, some of whom hadn’t seen each other in over 50 years, met at the Inn on the Lake in Dartmouth, N.S. We all started in 1955. Pictured left to right are: GINNY (HUBLEY) MURRAY BASEC (’58); ELEANOR HOWARD; LOIS (JOHNSTONE) STEWART; ANGELA (NICHOLSON) HINCHLIFFE (DIP SEC SC, ‘58); SHARON SINNOTT; ELEANOR (MCINVER) MACASKILL; ANN (DOBSON) HANSEN (DIP SEC SC ’57); and front, ROSAMOND (SABINE) HOPE (BASEC ’58).”

1960s CRYSTAL (BLENKHORN) WALLIS (‘64) and GLENN WALLIS (‘72) missed the class of 64’s 50th Reunion a year ago due to Crystal’s recurring problems after bilateral knee replacements, so they made the trip a year later on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary. They enjoyed the previous reunions and hearing from

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

classmates via the Bulletin. Now (since Crystal’s retirement in October 2007) firmly settled at The Top O’ The World, Claremont, Cumberland County, they look forward to hearing from others from the mighty Class of ‘64.

JOHN HORTON (’66) has received a Distinguished Service Award from Golf Canada. The National Sport Federation’s Distinguished Service Award has been presented annually since 1993 to recognize outstanding individuals who have had an impact on Canadian golf either nationally or within their communities. The presentation of the 2016 Award took place Feb. 27 as part of Golf Canada’s Annual General Meeting in Halifax. Even before becoming the 60th President of the Nova Scotia Golf Association in 2013-14, John had spent more than 40 years promoting the game he loves. After serving on the

Board of Directors and chairing the Junior Development of Golf at Ken-Wo Golf Club in the 1970s, the Wolfville native turned his passion for golf into an active volunteer role at the provincial level. In addition to championing the growth of Nova Scotia’s Junior Development program, the former school teacher familiarized himself with the Rules of Golf and became a Rules Official – a role that has allowed him to officiate at numerous local, regional, provincial and national championships. He has been active in Handicapping and Course Rating and currently serves as director of Course Rating with the NSGA. In addition to Rules, Handicapping and Course Rating, John has also served the NSGA as its Tournament Director and Junior Director. Despite ascending the volunteer ranks provincially, John remains committed to the home club where he began his journey with the game, still serving as Ken-Wo’s Handicap chair. John is married to WINNIE (KING) HORTON (’64) (with him in the photo) and they have two children: KATHY (HORTON) FULLER (’87) and JOHN F. HORTON (’94). John’s parents, ISOBEL (MADER) HORTON (’36) and SYDNEY HORTON (’41) attended Acadia, as did his brother, SYDNEY (’67). DOUG GRANT (‘66) recently qualified for the title Certified Financial Planner, as part of a second career. He and his wife Kathy reside in Kitchener, Ontario, where Doug operates his own advisory business as “Doug Grant, Financial Counselling and Mentoring”. JIM PRIME’S (’69) play, Fish and Dicks: A Case from the Files of the Digby Neck and Islands Fish-Gutting Service and Detective Agency, captured the People’s Choice Award last summer at the Kings Shorts Festival of 10-minute plays.

CLASS NOTES

1970s

JOHN PINEO (’71) of Bridgetown, Nova Scotia, a professional engineer and Life Member of Engineers Nova Scotia who is now retired, received an Award of Merit in December 2015 from the Canadian Motorcycle Association. Born in Wolfville, John is a Life Member of the CMA and has served as a member of the Board of Directors, holding the post of President from 1981-83, and as CMA Atlantic Region Secretary for a number of years. He was named Honorary President of the CMA and currently serves on Board Committees for Strategic Planning and for Nominations, where he is currently Chair. Together with Graham Read, John holds the special ranking of Ambassador for Atlantic Region. He is a lifetime member of the Apple Valley Riders, serving on the club executive in various capacities as well as being one of the chief organizers of their Bluenose Rally, an event that at various times has been the CMA National Rally and the FIM North America Rally. John is a dedicated long distance touring rider and also dabbles in dual sport trail riding. While teaching and visiting sites in Borneo, JOANNE LIGHT (‘74) met an

orphan orangutan. Hearing of the plight of this habitat and its species prompted her to write and self-publish Suzie, an Orphan Orangutan - A Very Sad and A Little Bit Happy Story, a not-for-profit children’s book on the plight of this and all rainforest species in the region. Comments on her work from the Halifax Public Libraries catalogue say: “This book brings out the orangutans’ plight of near extinction as well as ways to help. It is so challenging to share with young readers our concern for environmental threats and the fate of innocent creatures without creating fear. This book, with its charming illustrations, gets the point across without heaviness and with a sense of hope and possibility. Suzie the Orphan Orangutan is a touching and educational story based on real-life experience that conveys an important message for every child and adult today to change and move the world in a better direction.” Learn more at: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/847723245257799/.

From ROBERTA (BOBBI) BISHOP (‘76): Hello dear Acadia family! Hope this finds you all well! My ‘local’ (St. Norbert) hotel ‎hosted a special Winnipeg Blue Bombers Alumni get-together prepping for last year’s Grey Cup. As Acadia alumni, BOB CAMERON (’77) and I shared past and present stories of Acadia and Wolfville! A little more grey than in the mid-seventies, but we still “Stand Up and Cheer....”

1980s DR. ELIZABETH CANNON (’82, DSC ’10), president and vice-chancellor of the University of Calgary and Acadia Distinguished Alumni Award recipient (’14), began a two-year term as chair of Universities Canada’s board of directors in October 2015. A professional engineer and renowned expert in geomatics engineering, Cannon has served as president and vice-chancellor of the University of Calgary since 2010. Her research in geomatics engineering has been on the frontier of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) since 1984, in both industrial and academic environments. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and the Canadian Academy of Engineering, as well as co-chair of the Business-Higher Education Roundtable, a member of the federal government’s influential Science, Technology and Innovation Council and chair of the Canadian Research Knowledge Network. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in mathematics from Acadia University as well as a bachelor of science, master of science and doctorate in geomatics engineering from the University of Calgary.

JANICE ALLEN POTVIN (‘84) and REV. DR. MARC POTVIN (‘86) have moved to Sherbrooke, Quebec, where Marc is

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CLASS NOTES

now the pastor of Green Ridge Baptist Church in Lennoxville. “We are enjoying the beauty of the Eastern Townships as well as enjoying being only seven hours from our children in Ontario: DAVID (‘08), Benjamin and Sarah.”

CHANCELLOR LIBBY BURNHAM (’60) had an opportunity to catch up with KENT BASCOME (’86) in Hamilton, Bermuda in February. Kent is CFO for the West End Development Corporation at Dockyard, where things are particularly busy in preparation for America’s Cup 2017. Kent invites all Acadia alumni to visit Bermuda for the races next year (https:// www.americascup.com/en/bermuda. html). LORIE KANE (’88) was inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in March 2016. She told CBC Sports afterward

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

that “this sits right beside my first win,” which came at her first professional tournament in 2000 at the Michelob Light Classic outside St. Louis. “It took me a long time to get my first win and if I look at my career, if this is my 20th year, I’ve been truly blessed. I still see lots of future in front of me, as far as my life in golf is concerned. I hope it doesn’t mean the circle is complete because I still want to keep going around, if that’s where I’m at.” Kane, from Charlottetown, is still active on the LPGA Tour and has won eight pro tours in her career. She also won the Bobbie Rosenfeld Award in 1997 and 2000 as the Canadian female athlete of the year and was named to the Order of Canada in 2006. She becomes the first native of Prince Edward Island to be inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.

1990s Actor/producer STEVEN (SULLIVAN) BIDWELL (BRM ’96), based in New York City, is currently on a cross-country tour in the U.S. as Bert Barry in the musical extravaganza 42nd Street. He’ll be on the road throughout the summer and hopes to see Acadia alumni at stops along the

way! For more on Steven and the show, please visit: http://www.42ndstmusical. com (Steven is pictured at right; photo courtesy of Steven Bidwell) COLIN LEVERE (’96), Senior Legal Counsel, Mergers and Acquisitions for Scotiabank, was named recently by The M&A Advisor (the New York-based leading mergers and acquisitions organization) one of the Top 8 Corporate Dealmakers in North America in 2015; and one of the Top 8 Legal Professionals in North America in 2015. As a follow-up Colin tells us, “I won The M&A Advisor’s award for Corporate Dealmaker of the Year in North America in 2015 at the 14th Annual M&A Advisor Awards held in New York City on November 17, 2015. I was also one of six finalists for The M&A Advisor’s award for Legal Professional of the Year in North America in 2015.” Stand Up and Cheer! WADE WHITE (’97 MDIV, ’99 MA), who also teaches Hebrew in the Acadia Divinity College, has signed a two-book deal with Little, Brown and Company. Movie rights to the novels – The Adventurer’s Guide to Successful Escapes and its sequel, The Adventurer’s Guide to Dragons (and Why They Keep Biting Me) – have also been secured and the first book will be published in late summer/fall 2016.

CLASS NOTES

DR. MARJORIE FOUNTAIN (’99), daughter of famed industrialist and noted philanthropist FRED C. MANNING (’16) and wife of the late SHELDON L. FOUNTAIN (’39), founder of the Fred C. Manning School of Business at Acadia, celebrated her 95th birthday in Halifax, Nova Scotia on March 2, 2016. To mark the occasion, Dr. Rod Morrison, VicePresident, Advancement, University Chaplain Rev. Tim McFarland, and Director of the Fred C. Manning School of Business Dr. Ian Hutchinson visited Dr. Fountain and presented her with flowers, a congratulatory letter from University President Ray Ivany and crystal glasses from the President’s Office to honour this remarkable milestone. All the best from the Acadia community!

A pretty big reunion of Acadia friends and Recreation Management grads took place July 9-12, 2015 at White Point Beach Resort in Nova Scotia. Those in attendance with their families included: JESSICA (HIRSCH) ATKIN (‘98); MEG (ROSS) CUMING (‘99); JON CUMING (‘96); CHRISTINE (WILSON) BAKER (‘00); ALEXIS (CURRER) GALLAGHER (‘00); CASEY GALLAGHER (‘00); SEAN BROWN (‘98); JAY DICKSON (‘95); CHRISTINE ARNOT (‘99); SAM WEISS (‘99); VERONICA OSBORN (‘99); LAURA MACDONALD (’98); ANNE (READ) ROBINSON (‘99); JAY ROBINSON (‘99); LEAH (TINKHAM) RIMMER (‘99); JESSIE BARRIE (‘99); COLLEEN DICKIE (‘98); MAGGIE (PHILLIPS) SCARLETT (‘00); STEVE FOOT (’03); BEN HARVIE (‘99); and DAWN (CALLAGHAN) HARVIE (’98).

Acadia Branded Merchandise

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of her parents. Explore the adventures of our home-birthing, breastfeeding, cloth-diapering, baby-wearing, funloving, globetrotting family at: www. bermudaglobetrotters.wordpress.com.

CHRIS HOUSTON (’99) was on campus Thursday, January 28, 2016 to speak at a Lunch and Learn session in Patterson Hall sponsored by launchbox and the F. C. Manning School of Business. Over the past 15 years, Chris has worked with and founded tech start-ups, raised about $500 million in venture funding and has two successful exits under his belt. Stand Up and Cheer!

2000s RYAN SUTHERLAND (’00) and Christina Vandoremalen, who were married in October 2014 at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, are now living in Toronto, ON. There was certainly an Acadia presence on their wedding day (from left to right): Isabelle Morin, Christina Vandoremalen, RYAN SUTHERLAND (’00), DAVE CARON (’01), and DUNCAN SMITH (’00).

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RACHEL BEDINGFIELD (’02), Director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Kentville and co-chair of a new provincial organization WomenActive-NS, was named a Women of Influence for 2015 by the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS). “Bedingfield is passionately involved in promoting physical activity and sport, with a special focus on vulnerable populations. In 2015, she led several initiatives addressing gender equity in recreation and physical activity, including providing free fitness passes to women living in a transition house, and having female change rooms installed in rinks,” reads Bedingfield’s Most Influential Women 2015 profile on the CAAWS website. JUSTIN OLIVER (BKIN ‘06) has started a group dynamics company based out of southwest Nova Scotia. Active Solutions has been working with local sports teams, high school groups, and businesses to improve performance on the ice, in the workplace, and within community groups. Feel free to check out his website at www.actsol.net. MAYA (DAVIS) MCINTOSH (‘07) and FRANKIE MCINTOSH (‘05) are happy to announce the birth of their majestic daughter, Stella, on July 2, 2015. Following a phenomenal home birth, Stella continues to create magical moments in the lives

Two Acadia alumni wed on Saturday, September 5, 2015 in Gananoque, Ontario. MEREDITH ST. JOHN (`07) and PATRICK MCNALLY (‘07) met at Acadia during Meredith’s second year and have been in love ever since! Mere and Pat both practice law in Calgary. They gathered on the day with other friends from Acadia, including: ALISON BACKMAN (’07), JENNY THOMPSON (’08), RACHEL “PIP” POTTER (’08), MEREDITH ST. JOHN, LYLA F. BRADLEY (’07), BRONWYN “BRONCO” SORBIE (’07), and ALLI FUNG (KING ’07).

2010s Congratulations to JAKE RIDEOUT (‘11) and MIRANDA COLLINS (‘14), co-owners of Inquisitive Toy Company

CLASS NOTES

“We had our photos done in and around the K.C. Irving (Environmental Science) Centre. Yours in Acadia Spirit, Annie.” Thanks for sharing your lovely picture, and congratulations!

in Wolfville. Approaching its third year of operation, Inquisitive Toy Company was recently named Best Specialty/Gift/ Jewelry Shop in the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Valley’s Best competition. Pictured with Miranda and Jake (centre) at the ceremony are Chelsea Turner (’16), their first employee, and Paul DesBarres, AVCC President. To learn more about Inquisitive Toy, please visit: http://www.inquisitivetoys.com/. Stand Up and Cheer!

In summer 2015, AIMEE CLEARY (’04) studied biotic, physical and cultural forces that affect tropical biodiversity at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and La Selva Biological Station in Costa Rica. Aimee, a learning support specialist at American School of Kuwait in Hawally, Kuwait, took the graduate course in pursuit of her master’s degree from Miami University’s Global Field Program. SUZANNE KIANI (‘07) and her husband, Bradley Knight, are proud to welcome their first child, Miles Andrew Kiani Knight. Miles was born on October 10,

2015, and to his parents’ delight, he is a calm, happy baby with a smile that lights up the room. Congratulations to all!

The proud wife and daughter of EREK FOX (‘10) would love to congratulate him on his very successful and wellearned Medical Doctor degree from the Caribbean Medical University. Erek, JESSICA (‘09) and their daughter Josie currently live in the UK, where Erek hopes to complete his Residency before settling back into Canadian life.

ANNIE (MACDUFF) FORNEY (BED ’15) writes to let us know that she and KEVIN FORNEY (BRM ‘10, BED ‘14) were married on December 28, 2015. She says,

HAYLEY SCHOFIELD (’15) graduated from Acadia with a BA in Classics. She focused on the archaeological aspects of classical study, taking opportunities during her student life to study art and architecture as well as aid in excavations at Grand-Pre National Historic site. Upon graduating, Hayley furthered her experience in the field by taking a trip of a lifetime to Italy, where she aided in archaeological surveys conducted by Dr. Myles McCallum of Saint Mary’s University. Hayley has always enjoyed taking a hands-on approach. Having the opportunity to travel to some of the ancient sites she had seen previously only in textbooks was a very rewarding experience. She spent a week in Rome, taking in many sights. Seeing such manmade greatness was both humbling and empowering. Working in southern Italy’s rolling hillsides, Hayley assisted in mapping potential sites and in collecting and recording ancient artifacts. Having participated in two unique types of archaeological fieldwork, Hayley now sets her sights on broadening her experience through public relations in a museum setting before continuing forward with a Master’s degree.

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

Final Frame In each edition of The Bulletin, we reserve space on our final pages for a fond look back at the way we were. Do you know the people in this photo? If so, send me an e-mail at fred.sgambati@acadiau.ca. First person to identify them will win an Acadia sweatshirt (valued at $70.00). Please include your name, address and phone number in your response. We will reveal the answer, the winner and have another image for you in the fall edition. Look forward to hearing from you. Have fun!

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Peter A. Miller, bba ‘89, cfp, fcsi, ciwm Senior Wealth Advisor Director, Wealth Management peter.miller@scotiawealth.com Angela L. Clair, bba ‘88 Administrative Associate angela.clair@scotiawealth.com 1.902.679.4915 1.877.842.3188 1 Webster Street, Kentville NS www.petermillerfinancial.ca

csi.ca/ciwm “The keys to successful client-advisor relationships are communication and trust.”

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In our last edition, Kim Meechan (’80) of Halifax, Nova Scotia was the first to identify Tim Wile (’81) and Bruce (Nick) Nicholson (’84) as the iconic Acadia Axemen. Congratulations, Kim!

Mark Your Calendar!!

Acadia Axemen Celebrity Hockey Dinner June 16

Summer Reunion July 8-10

35th Annual Alumni Golf Tournament July 22

Homecoming October 14-16

Ottawa Social on the Hill November 28

For more on these and other alumni events, please visit: http://www2.acadiau.ca/alumni-friends/ alumni/events.html

ACADIA BULLETIN Spring 2016

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