Bulletin - Fall 2014 by Acadia University

Bulletin Fall 2014

NEWS FEATURE

Campus celebrates th 175 wrap-up! Stories, photos â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Page 14

Award-winning comedian and Acadia alumnus Ron James gets serious for a good cause Page 20

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

NEWS FEATURE

A year to remember! Acadia’s 175th anniversary featured a year-long celebration of academic excellence, outstanding alumni and all things Acadia, represented by more than 80 unique events/initiatives held by the Office of Alumni Affairs here at home and around the world. It began on November 15, 2013 and featured a $1 million gift from the McCain family, the naming of Perkin Way in honour of former University President Rev. Dr. James R.C. Perkin, the inauguration of the Clara Belle Marshall Raymond Memorial, and the introduction of the Arthur L. Irving Medal of Commitment. Since then, members of the Acadia family and friends have come together to make our 175th celebration a year to remember, and it’s not over yet! Keep the spirit alive, build on the momentum and get involved: share your memories on social media, attend an alumni event in your area, and make a gift to commemorate our anniversary. Think it. Grow it. Show it. #AcadiaU! Stand Up and Cheer!

Features In Every Issue From the Acadia President........... 2 From the AAAU President............ 3 Alumni Profiles............................. 4 Eye on Acadia............................. 10

Page 6

175th Events................................. 14

A trio of ghostly figures from Acadia’s past bring the University’s rich history to life.

Homecoming 2014...................... 24

Ghosts of Acadia’s past

Development............................... 26 Athletics....................................... 32 AAAU Profiles............................. 37 Class Notes.................................. 38

Photo: Fred Sgambati

Acadia Remembers.................... 43

Page 10

Final Frame.................................. 44

Always fascinated

On the Cover: Since its inception in

Page 20

1838, Acadia University has attracted students from here at home and around the world, including Cecilia Guevara of Mexico and Katharina Heinrichs of Germany. Acadia’s reputation as one of the finest undergraduate universities in Canada is as current now as it was when it was incorporated, and as we wrap up our 175th anniversary celebration, alumni and members of the University community have a rich history to be proud of and much to look forward to as we set our sights on the future and Acadia’s bicentennial in 2040. Top photo: Len Wagg Bottom photo: Peter Oleskevich

Tom Herman retires after 36 years, but his commitment to students informs his legacy.

Benefit performance

Alumnus and award-winning comedian Ron James (’79) gets serious for a good cause during Homecoming.

Page 32

Athletics

Student-athlete Michelle Pryde is named a CIS Top-8 Academic All-Canadian. ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

FALL 2014 Volume 97 Issue 2 Publisher Office of Advancement, Acadia University Editor Fred Sgambati (’83) Vice President, Advancement Rod Morrison

Photo: Dan Callis

Executive Director, Alumni Affairs and Advancement Strategy Ian Murray (’88)

Anniversary celebration strengthens ties that bind

ere at Acadia, we’ve had countless occasions over the years to celebrate scholarly excellence among our faculty and students, impressive individual and team championships in sports and, of course, recognition of your outstanding achievements as alumni. Each time the Acadia community comes together to mark such significant accomplishments, we deepen and strengthen the ties that bind our University family together. Over the past year – beginning on Founders’ Day, November 15, 2013 – we have been engaged in a wonderful, and deeply meaningful, celebration of Acadia’s 175th anniversary. From our modest and humble beginnings in 1838, we now occupy a niche in the post-secondary landscape that distinguishes us as a premier choice for students seeking a well-rounded, high quality liberal education. Throughout our anniversary year, we have had the chance to revel in our accomplishments as an institution and recount the stories of the people — the generations of outstanding professors, dedicated students, legendary alumni, and committed leaders — who have played decisive roles in Acadia’s development and success. Thankfully, some of these people were on hand to

ensure that the events and activities surrounding the 2014 Homecoming were a tremendous success, thus providing a wonderful finale to our anniversary year. Whether it was the Bulmer Race, the Ron James (’79) Homecoming show, or any of the other events on offer, alumni had a chance to connect with friends and welcome our newest students to the Acadia family. As a community, we have a great deal to be proud of – including an unwavering commitment to our founding principles and cherished traditions – all of them proudly on display at Homecoming. In wrapping up our 175th anniversary on a high note, it’s especially fitting that Homecoming is followed by the third and final edition of Voices of Acadia, included with this issue of the Bulletin. Voices recognizes some of the people who have made Acadia one of Canada’s best universities, and who have laid the foundation for the next 175 years.

What a year!

’m not sure there is anything better than fall in the Annapolis Valley: harvest time, leaves changing, corn mazes, winery tours and, of course, Acadia’s Homecoming. This year’s celebration exceeded my every expectation! The weekend featured the 102nd running of the Bulmer Race, a celebration of Women in Sport, the annual Associated Alumni Backyard Barbecue, fireworks, countless sporting events, SydStock and, of course, the hilarious Ron James (’79) comedy show. I think it’s safe to say we capped our 175th in true Acadia Red and Blue style and ended the party with a bang! Small wonder the sense of pride invoked when the 175th kicked off on Founders’ Day 2013 simply grew out of all measure over the past 12 months. As President of the Alumni Association, I’ve had the opportunity to share in many 175th events and I’m proud to report that the Acadia spirit is alive, well and thriving. I’ve met alumni from around the world who have come together to connect our rich history to today’s Acadia experience in a meaningful way that sets a course for generations to come. ‎ It was a tremendous year of alumni outreach and engagement, and it is our goal to stay in touch and build on these successes. We remain committed to the spirit and traditions that have characterized Acadia for the past 175 years. This is what has distinguished us in the past and our persistent efforts will continue to make the University attractive to students in the future. I am proud to play a role in this endeavour and I encourage you to lend whatever support you can to help us continue this important work. Stand Up and Cheer!

Raymond E. Ivany President and Vice-Chancellor Doug Jackson (’99) President, Associated Alumni of Acadia University

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Production and Events Manager Sandra Symonds AAAU Board of Directors Douglas Jackson (’99) Hugh Bray (’75) Geoff Irvine (’87) Ryan Conrod (’06) Donalda MacBeath (’75) Matt Gray (’06) Malcolm Smith (’76) Kiersten Amos (’96) Michele Gerrard (’88) Paul MacIsaac (’88) Suzanne Seaman (’97) Leslie Lewis (’10) Leslie Flemming (’05) Jake Rideout (’11) Al MacDonald (’86) Ryan McCarthy (’10) David Hovell (’91) Barry Hennigar (’87) Matt Rios (’14) Becca Webster (’13) Tony Stewart (’72) Anne Sedgwick (’01) Jennifer Perry (’83) Stan Thomas (’81) Jocelyn Graham (’14 – ex-officio) Rebecca Carr (’15 – 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 27,000 alumni. All material is copyright ©2014 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

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Alumni Profiles

A northern light Northwest Territories honour alumna Jill Taylor for work with at-risk youth

By Rachel Cooper (’89)

hen Jill (MacDonald) Taylor (‘86) was inducted into the NWT Education Hall of Fame last year, she was one of seven northerners recognized for outstanding commitment to education. Earlier in the year, she had been awarded a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal as a supporter, mentor, and advocate for youth at risk. She is the driving force behind the development of youth programs in the community and is involved in an anti-drug program and the Leadership and Resiliency program for high-risk adolescents. Taylor’s commitment to education began in childhood, when she and her four brothers were being raised in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. “My mother worked as a nurse and my father worked at a mill, and they put five kids through Acadia,” she says. “You can’t help but think how resilient they were – it amazes me that they were able to do that for us. It means so much that we were all able to go there, that we all had that shared family experience.”

A tradition begins

Her eldest brother, Shaun MacDonald (’84) came to Acadia for the business program. He is now vice-president of business development and marketing at Mariner (Saint John, NB). Paul MacDonald (’84) came for the science program and is a cardiologist in Sydney, NS. Taylor was next and is a teacher in Hay River, NWT. Lennan MacDonald (’91) is a teacher at the Canadian International School in Singapore, and Lars MacDonald (’93), the youngest, is an investment advisor with Assante in Halifax, NS. The tradition continues: Elyse MacDonald, Shaun’s oldest, is now at Acadia. “My brothers are amazing,” Taylor says. “When I won the Diamond Jubilee award I said there should be one for all of them, not me – they should have all been recognized.” Taylor credits her parents with setting them all on the path of giving back to the community. “Both of them are always volunteering in the community, always giving back, and are very compassionate. More than anything, that

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

has probably impacted not just my life, but my brothers’ as well.”

Committed to the north

Taylor and her husband, Mark, first went north in 1989 intending to stay for a year. They never left. “We love the place and the people. We’ve had some amazing opportunities, and we’re able to raise our family here. It has been a great experience,” she says. They spent the first five years in Cambridge Bay in the High Arctic, then moved to Norman Wells, in the middle of the territory, and now live in Hay River, on the south shore of Great Slave Lake. Taylor saw good kids struggling with issues that were not related to school, including drugs, alcohol, and parents who were incarcerated. “As an educator, if I really wanted to see the kids succeed, I felt we had to do something,” she says. “And it wasn’t enough to say, ‘Well, that’s the parents’ job,’ or ‘That’s somebody else’s job.’ It had to become our job.” She delved into the research on what builds resiliency and what the protective factors are, and from there she and others worked to come up with a strong community action plan. She is constantly fundraising to keep programs going and community partners engaged. “The more you do, the more you want to do and recognize the need, so you’re constantly trying to move forward,” she says.

Lifelong ties and values

Even far from Nova Scotia, Taylor has maintained her Acadia ties. “When I first came north, I came with another couple that graduated the same year I did from Acadia,” she says. “You form those bonds and friendships, and 25 years later those same friends and bonds are still important in your life.” The importance of education was an early lesson, Taylor adds. “If it weren’t for my parents valuing education, none of us would have gotten as far or had these life experiences. It’s brought into you from an early age that culture is important, family is important, and education is important. Those values stay with you.”

Above: The Honourable Jackson Lafferty, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment of the Northwest Territories, awards Jill Taylor her NWT Education Hall of Fame award. Left: Jill Taylor (middle row, right) was an inductee into the 2013 NWT Education Hall of Fame for her work with youth at risk. Photos: Courtesy of the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, Government of the Northwest Territories.

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Alumni Profiles

Ghosts of Acadia past bring rich history to life

Left: Nancy Henry, in character as Constance Hayward (’27). Her son David is an alumnus (’10). Middle: Ross Chapman (’02) as Isaac Chipman. Right: Alan Slipp (’06) as Frederic Herbin. (Photos: Peter Oleskevich)

By Laura Churchill Duke (’98)

hey live in the ether, this group: three ghostly figures representative of Acadia’s rich and storied history. Isaac Chipman, a former Acadia professor who led his students in the 1800s on a geological expedition across the Minas Basin and never returned; Constance Hayward (’27), who helped to establish the Acadia Art Gallery; and John Frederic Herbin (1890), who built the first gymnasium on campus. Acadia’s past is alive and well in the 21st century thanks to alumnus Jeremy Novak’s collaborative Valley Ghost Walk’s Wolfville tour. It’s only fitting then, in honour of Acadia’s 175th anniversary, that we breach the space-time continuum and transport Chipman, Hayward and Herbin to the present day and chat with them about life at Acadia, then and now.

I: I’m afraid not! Hayward House became the French residence and now houses Enrolment Services. CH: To help all those students who are coming to Acadia? How marvelous! I wonder how much has changed since I graduated. I: I’m sure you’d be impressed with how much has remained the same, but we certainly have a few more women enrolled than in your time. In fact, more than half the students attending Acadia today are women! CH: That’s wonderful! When I went to the London School of Economics after Acadia to take a graduate program in International Relations, it was mostly designed for men.

A campus tour with Constance Hayward

I: If you walk this way, there, at the bottom of the hill, is the Art Gallery you were so instrumental in creating. CH: The establishment of an Art Gallery was vitally important to me. In 1978, I was delighted to be able to make a donation to help establish the Gallery and leave funds to be used for future acquisitions of art for it.

I: Your legend lives on, even today! CH: Is the Art Gallery in there? That is what I had originally intended when I left the funds for renovating it. It was called the West house then.

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Smyth-Adams

Interviewer: There it is, Ms. Hayward! Hayward House! Constance Hayward: Oh, please. My friends all call my Connie. Well, bless my soul.

Photo: Courtesy of Lesley

Constance Hayward (‘27) lived a life of political advocacy. Having worked for the League of Nations in Geneva, she became a founding member of the Canadian National Committee on Refugees and Victims of Political Prosecution in 1938, working tirelessly with refugees. She returned to Wolfville in 1958 to teach and later became actively involved in University life as a member of the Board of Governors.

I: You have no idea how helpful that donation is today. It has grown into the Friends of the Gallery Fund and is used to support special long-term projects and facility upgrades at the Gallery. CH: I’m just so happy to help others. I feel I lived up to my main objective: to live modestly; to work for others; to appreciate and share beautiful things; and to distribute my wealth through worthy causes.

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

John Frederic Herbin and Acadia Athletics

townspeople to create a playing field at this location – what you just referred to as Raymond Field.

John Frederic Herbin (1890) was a jeweller, author, optometrist, politician, historian, and promoter of Acadian heritage. He also played an integral role in advocating and fundraising for the construction of Acadia’s first gym, which opened in November, 1890.

I: You must have loved Acadia Athletics! JFH: Must cheer for my alma mater! A great number of fine athletes have come through these doors. I’m very proud to watch the tradition continue.

Alumni Profiles

John Frederic Herbin: My heavens! What do you call this? Interviewer: Field turf. It’s what covers Raymond Field now instead of grass. JFH: Is that what it’s referred to now? Raymond Field? I: Yes. I suppose it wasn’t called that when you graduated in 1890. This athletic complex wasn’t here back then, was it? JFH: Indeed it wasn’t. I’m proud to say I was quite instrumental in the creation of this facility, though, you know. I: I understand you were actually the driving force behind Acadia’s first gym. JFH: Well, athletics was a big part of my life at Acadia. One of the things that I recognized was the need for proper athletic facilities, particularly a gymnasium, on campus. So, in the fall of 1889, when I was still a student, I spearheaded a committee to finance and then construct Acadia’s first gym. I: All at a cost of $1,500. Remarkable! I’m sure you don’t want to know how much the rest of the facility cost? JFH: I dare say not! We were on the cutting edge then. When it opened, this was considered to be the bestequipped gym in the Maritimes. But after graduating, I felt we could do more so I continued to press for better facilities. I organized university students and

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

I: Well, thank you, Mr. Herbin! I’m sure people remember you fondly, not as a driving force behind the creation of Acadia’s first gym, but as the man who began Herbin’s Jewellers and helped to establish the park at Grand-Pré. Acadia thanks you for your contribution!

University Hall with Isaac Chipman In January 1840, at the age of 23, Isaac Chipman became Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy at Acadia, earning an annual salary of £100. He was the first geology professor at Acadia, and instrumental in rousing people to contribute to the construction of the first University Hall. Chipman was very fond of geological excursions and while leading one to Blomidon in 1852, he lost his life. Isaac Chipman: I’m sure that this is where it was built, but it doesn’t look to be quite the same building! Interviewer: University Hall? You’re right, Professor Chipman! This is actually the third building in this spot. Unfortunately, the first two burned down after your death. IC: Third? Indeed! This seems to be made out of sturdier materials than the timber used in the construction of the building in my time. It was quite the community effort, you know!

Alumni Profiles

Ghosts

Jeremy Novak (’08)

Jeremy Novak: Gravely committed to local history I: I understand people went across the province collecting donations of timber, boards, shingles, nails, glass, paint, oil and other materials just to build University Hall. You were tireless in your efforts! IC: Indeed not – we had an almighty mission to complete, a mission commemorated in the University’s motto, In Pulvere Vinces, “in dust you conquer”. It refers to the raising of our first University Hall out of nothing. Is that how you built the rest of these fine buildings? By soliciting donations of materials? I: Not so much the materials, but the spirit of giving remains the same at Acadia! IC: Well, it’s wonderful to see that certain things remain consistent over time – like the Chipman name. I: That’s right. Chipman House is named for your family. IC: I was referring more to the tradition of having Chipmans on the Acadia campus! Did you know two of my descendants have taught mathematics at Acadia? Dr. Fred Chipman (’61), and now Dr. Hugh Chipman (’90). How proud I am to have them follow in my footsteps. And Max Chipman, Hugh’s son, is a student. Perhaps he will follow suit as well. I: That’s what is great about Acadia! We are connected by generations, and traditions run deep! IC: Speaking of deep – please be wary of the Minas Basin. I can attest to the fact that the water is deep and it’s difficult to cross. I: Lucky for us that we can easily drive around to Blomidon to collect rocks these days. God rest your soul, Professor Chipman. IC: I shall continue to watch out for Acadia and your great progress in the future. All the best!

By Laura Churchill Duke (’98)

You might know him for his publication, the Grapevine, or perhaps you’ve seen him as Jerome the Grave Keeper in Valley Ghost Walks. Maybe you recognize him because of his distinctive blond dreadlocks. Whatever, Jeremy Novak (’08) is definitely a force to be reckoned with in Wolfville. As a business student, Novak became involved with the Acadia Centre for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (ACSBE) and took a course in designing and implementing small business plans. Having been on historic walks in other towns, he loved what he saw and thought that if others could organize such tours successfully, why couldn’t he do it in Wolfville? After graduation, Novak was looking for an excuse to stay connected to the Wolfville community and to make some money. With his small business plan in his back pocket, he applied for a Students in Business Loan and used it to do research, scriptwriting, buy signs and props for the inaugural season of Wolfville’s Gravely Ghost Walks. Now in its eighth season, Novak has created Valley Ghost Walks and performs in Wolfville, Windsor, Kentville and Hall’s Harbour. It has become a key tourism draw for the region, helping people to learn more about and appreciate their local history. Valley Ghost Walks offers a two-hour theatrical tour through the various towns where ghosts of the past come to life and tell their stories. The Wolfville Ghost Walk is particularly rich with Acadia history. It includes poetry by Watson Kirkconnell, the story of “Seven Brave Men and a man from Gaspereau” and a visit from Billy Oliver, the caretaker of Seminary House, to name only a few characters on the tour. Link: http://www.valleyghostwalks.com.

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Photo: Deborah Nicholson

Eye on acadia

Always fascinated Tom Herman retires after 36 years at Acadia, but common curiosity and strong commitment to students inform his legacy

By Anna-Maria Galante

he sense of wonder that biology professor Tom Herman brought with him to Acadia in 1978 took root in practically ideal conditions, thrived and spread. As teacher, administrator and trained jack-of-all-trades, Herman, described by his students as a polymath and Renaissance man, knows well the depth of the curiosity native to our species. “It doesn’t matter what your educational or cultural background is. We all share that common curiosity – it’s what makes us human,” he says, showing off the art in the office where he has served Acadia in various roles, including Department Head, faculty representative on the Board of Governors, Vice-President, Academic since 2007, and a stint as Acting University President (2008-09). Enabling natural curiosity is his legacy. “It really comes down to being a good observer, because that’s where the questions come from.” Herman is currently on a final sabbatical to observe conservation practices in southern Africa and indulge a favourite interest – “biodiversity-watching.” Botswana, Namibia and western South Africa are locations he plans to visit. With help from BSc graduates Taye Teferi (’86) at WWF East Africa and Phoebe Barnard (’83) at the South African National Biodiversity Institute and University of Capetown, he hopes to compare wildlife conservation efforts with ongoing conservation in southwestern Nova Scotia. Then he will retire, though it’s clear Herman will continue to embrace curiosity. “My wife Kath and I have never been to Africa and we’ve always wanted to go. I intend to come back, do more science, but wear fewer ties.”

Realistic solutions

Herman has instilled wonder in his students, not the least because it “can save us from ourselves, protect our natural world and meet the seemingly insurmountable challenges of global climate shifts, massive habitat change and species loss.” There are many ways to look at the formidable changes underway on the planet, he says, but fundamentally, “there are way too many people processing way too much energy.” Herman, who grew up near Baltimore, Maryland, describes himself as a kid who constantly collected

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

creatures from nearby fields and forests. “Most resided in my room, unless they were over four feet long, with scales and no legs – then they were relegated by my mother to the garage! “I was always fascinated by the living world, organisms and how they worked, fit together and interacted. I spent most of my time outside, and was fortunate to have understanding and supportive parents and grandparents.” At 14, he got a job in a pet store – “not a bad gig for a nascent biologist,” he says – but it was Herman’s job as gas station attendant during high school that brought some of his deepest insights into human nature. “Realistic solutions to our environmental challenges have to focus on people. It’s the only way we can hope to pull ourselves from the midst of our present extinction crisis, which ironically, most people don’t even recognize is happening! The disturbing thing about extinction is not just the loss of what is, but also the loss of what could be.” Of the five previous major extinction events that have transpired in earth history, says Herman, none have mirrored the scope and scale of the current one. “This is by far the worst and the fastest, and most people are unaware of it. Even among the people who are aware, not all care, and of those who do, most feel powerless to act.” Those who care and feel empowered are a small, select group with an enormous responsibility. “But they can’t do it alone. Their job is not just to fix the planet or restore biodiversity, but to recruit the powerless, reach those who don’t care, and raise the awareness of those who remain simply unaware.” The only way to avoid depression or paralysis “is to see it as your job to empower a lot of other people.” To that end, Herman believes that nurturing our inherent curiosity is our best hope.

Assume responsibility

Herman’s work and that of his students in and around Kejimkujik National Park to protect the Blanding’s Turtle from extinction, a labour spanning nearly 30 years, is a prime example of instilling a proprietary sense of wonder to empower stewards. “The people who share the environment with Blanding’s Turtles must feel ownership of them, understand what

Herman says Acadia offered the requisite ground. Biology students were treated respectfully as colleagues. “What a wonderful place to teach and do research,” Herman says. “The department had a strong track record and a good reputation across Canada and beyond. I had known about it for many years before I arrived.” One secret of Acadia’s success is faculty willingness to cede an unusual degree of control over research to their students. “The results speak for themselves – just look at where our graduates go and what they do!”

Launched many careers

Herman: “Look at where our graduates go and what they do!”

they need, why they’re important, and what role people can play in ensuring they continue to thrive. This is true for nearly all biodiversity on the planet,” he says. Unless people are willing to assume responsibility for the biodiversity in their own backyard, Herman says, “in 100 years, this planet will quite possibly be unrecognizable.” “I always defined stewardship as ‘an ownership of responsibility’ for these creatures and their habitat,” says former ecology and biodiversity student Brennan Caverhill (’03), who for years delivered “turtle talks” to schools and communities throughout Nova Scotia, “teaching people about these beautiful reptiles, the threats they face, and how they can be helped.” Caverhill discussed the topic with passion and a certain amount of pride, he realized, until remembering that Herman had provided his biodiversity definition. “Tom had an amazing ability to have his students assimilate his teachings and make them their own. His students took ownership of their learning. He planted seeds; his students were inspired,” he adds.

During his time at Acadia, Herman has supervised more than 100 Honours and graduate students and been responsible for launching the careers of numerous highlyregarded academics, government, NGO, and industry professionals across North America and beyond. “I remember Tom always treating me as a capable colleague and I became a better person and scholar as a result,” says Dean Bavington (’95), now an Associate Professor of Geography at Memorial University in St. John’s, Newfoundland. “Without Tom’s encouragement to stay in the honours biology program, I would never have been able to combine the environmental sciences and humanities at Acadia and thereafter.” Donald Stewart (’87), a biology professor at Acadia, says Herman loved making connections, whether between ideas in the history of science or in nature. Herman inspired his students to think and read broadly, and “I loved going into his office/lab and exploring the diverse collections of books, journals, and natural history specimens. You could pull any book or journal from the shelf and there would be many little strips of paper marking passages that Tom had found particularly interesting or enlightening. Tom’s library was well-used. The pages of his books were also often annotated (in Tom’s tiny writing), including references or comparisons to other works.” Caverhill concurs. “In his classroom or under his supervision, you never knew what you might learn, lesson plan be damned! Ecology class was philosophy class, biodiversity was world cultures, and on it went. He discussed species dispersal as easily as sense of place. School was wonderful with Tom at the helm.”

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Eye on acadia

Welcome to the Acadia family They say it takes a village to raise a child. At Acadia, the whole community unites to welcome students By Rachel Cooper (’89)

describe a campus-wide commitment to make every new arrival feel welcomed, safe, and at home. The welcome starts even before a student arrives, says Evita Basilio, a third-year student from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. “At first I was hesitant about joining Acadia, because I was coming from a big city, halfway across the world,” she says. “But the staff constantly kept in touch with me by e-mail: not only Student Services, but also Residence Life and my department, which is Nutrition. Everyone was making sure my arrival would be good and that I was ready.” For local students, a summer orientation day offers a taste of university life before they start. “Orientation provides students with the opportunity to meet with faculty, to register for their courses for the school year, to have a residence tour – sometimes to see their actual room in residence – and then to meet with Student Services staff,” says student advisor Cecilia Jacobs, who was in charge of the Student Services segment this year. Using feedback from last year’s students, she focused on three main areas of student life: academic, social, and well-being.

Welcome Week

Welcome Week gets under way the weekend before classes start, but for international students the welcome begins a few days earlier. “That’s really helpful,” says Basilio, “because you have such a huge culture shock. They taught us about Canadian culture, took us on shopping trips, and took us around the area. We got a campus tour, met with our professors, and met with the heads of our departments. And they had movie nights and other events for us. I had a wonderful time. It was just so welcoming.” After some initial homesickness, Basilio quickly adapted. “As soon as Welcome Week started, I was completely settled in,” she says. Welcome Week is a collaboration between Student Services and the Acadia Students’ Union. Alumni pitch in as well, helping to direct traffic, share information about the Acadia experience and unpack cars during Move-In Day. Senior Alumni Officer Oonagh Proudfoot (’93) says, “Move-In Day is not only an incredible experience for new students, but also for alumni. We see so many of them bringing their students to Acadia to carry on the family tradition. We also have many enthusiastic alumni who volunteer that day because they are so proud to show off their alma mater!”

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Bryce Tully (’10), organizing Welcome Week on behalf of Student Services, points to the diversity of events they offer and says that events are designed to be safe, inclusive and to help students feel they’re part of a community. “We try to have events for everybody, and if we haven’t, we’re more than willing to help you set up your own,” he adds. Move-In Day is the focus for welcoming students and parents to Acadia, Tully says. One important event is Matriculation, where first-year students, in traditional undergraduate robes, are piped in to University Hall as part of a ceremony that formally acknowledges the start of their Acadia journey. Above: Executive Director of Student Services James Sanford (’87). Below left: Evita Basilio Below right: Bryce Tully (’10)

Residence Life

For students in residence, Resident Assistants are well trained to welcome and support them. Basilio, now a Resident Assistant herself, recalls her introduction to residence life. “As soon as I arrived at Acadia, even though the RAs were all in training, it was so wonderful because they were all waiting at the door. They greeted me and helped me settle in. My RA checked on me every single night, making sure that I had a good day.” Icebreakers and games help students get to know each other in residence and become familiar with campus resources.

Working together

“First and foremost,” says James Sanford (’87), Executive Director of Student Services, “our role is to ensure that every student that arrives here feels comfortable, feels safe and feels welcomed.” If a student has a specific requirement, Student Services is there to help. “Our Welcome Week program is very much a partnership with our students, especially through the student leaders with our Students’ Union,” Sanford says. “Students want to meet new people, they want to feel comfortable in their community environment, and the best way for us to do that is to engage student leaders who are already living in those environments.” The whole campus, including members of the alumni family, contributes to making students feel at home. “From our academic colleagues to our service providers, everybody is focused on making this the best possible welcoming experience for students,” Sanford says. “The community is kind and helpful, and I think they really protect their students,” Basilio says. “They really take care of us.”

Photos: Fred Sgambati

Welcome to Acadia! Three simple words, but they

“So welcoming.”

“We try to have events for everybody.”

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

rsary Even nive ts n A

Acadia’s 175 celebrated at Beaubassin th

By Laura Churchill Duke (’98)

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

study those diverse communities that have lived on the land, from First Nations to French and British settlers to the Planters and beyond. A central focus of this research is to examine the ways in which these communities altered their environments, successfully or unsuccessfully.” Biology, earth science, environmental science and chemistry students look at the land itself. They study coastal wetlands, creating baselines for future research and exploring environmental contamination. In the sea, students examine the alewife herring to find solutions for declining fish populations. In the sky, they study the swallow population on the marshes. Beaubassin hosts a radio telemetry tower that is used to track over 30 species of birds and their migratory patterns. “The Beaubassin field station demonstrates the opportunities presented by trans-disciplinary research involving the humanities and applied sciences. Partnerships such as those with the Irving family and Ducks Unlimited place Acadia at the forefront of research that works to understand and explain our world,” said Duke. “The Beaubassin Research Centre is a model not only for present activity, but for the future – for partnership between Acadia and organizations sharing a similar vision, and for undergraduate-centered research that investigates key questions about the natural environment and our place in it. The vision of its founders will therefore serve Acadia University through our next 175 years.” Links: http://www.ducks.ca/your-province/new-brunswick/ programs-projects/beaubassin/ http://science.acadiau.ca/field-stations.3007.html For more on the 175th event, please see our photo gallery. To learn more about the Beaubassin Research Centre, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=CFzTpqQhsYs#t=14

Top: Dominique Dupuis and Stephen LeBlanc perform as part of the 175th Anniversary celebration at the Beaubassin Research Centre in September. Bottom left: Chancellor Emeritus Dr. Arthur Irving (’52). Bottom right: Vice-President, Advancement, Dr. Rod Morrison and University President Ray Ivany chat with Geoff Harding, Manager of Major Projects at Ducks Unlimited.

Photos: Peter Oleskevich

ore than 100 Acadia alumni and friends gathered on Sunday, September 7, 2014 at the Beaubassin Research Centre on the Tantramar Marshes in New Brunswick. Co-hosted by Acadia President Ray Ivany and The Honourable David D. Smith (‘66), Chief Justice, Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick, the outdoor event was organized to celebrate Acadia’s 175th anniversary. Distinguished guests Chancellor Emeritus Dr. Arthur Irving (’52), his wife Sandra and their daughter Sarah, Senator Kelvin Ogilvie (’63), as well as Peter Halpin from the Association of Atlantic Universities, and Geoff Harding of Ducks Unlimited Canada, toured the Centre to learn firsthand how Acadia faculty and students are involved with cutting-edge research projects. Initiated by Dr. Irving as a basis for studying the rich landscape, the Centre, located on the New Brunswick side of the Nova Scotia border on the Tantramar Marshes, operates as a partnership between Acadia University, Ducks Unlimited and Irving Oil. Introduced by Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Rod Morrison, Vice-President, Advancement, Chief Justice Smith brought greetings and shared memories of his time at Acadia. Dr. Irving also delivered opening remarks, welcoming everyone and stating how proud he was to partner with Ducks Unlimited and Acadia University to create the Centre. “The idea,” President Ivany said in his opening remarks, “was to create a research station where students could work across disciplines and be intimately and directly involved with their field of study.” Dr. David Duke, Coordinator of the Environmental and Sustainability Studies program and Associate Professor in History and Classics at Acadia, presented some of the research being conducted at Beaubassin. He said it is truly trans-disciplinary, and can be divided into three categories: land, sea and sky. “Not only is the Beaubassin region an ideal wetland, it is also a place of historical significance. History students

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1. St. John’s Reception Fifteen Acadia alumni and friends enjoyed a reception at the Clovelly Golf Course in St. John’s, NL on April 24, 2014. The event was hosted by Acadia’s Executive Director of Philanthropy Nancy Handrigan (’92), in cooperation with AAAU Board member Becca Webster (’13, pictured with Amy Powell ’13 and Lauren Fogarty, ’12), Muggs Tibbo (’77) and Heather Hickman (’77). For more photos, please visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/acadiauniversity/sets/72157644036348490 Photo: Nancy Handrigan

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2. Vancouver To help celebrate Acadia University’s 175th anniversary, alumni and friends in Vancouver were invited to join University representatives from the lower mainland on April 29, 2014 for light refreshments and information about their alma mater. Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Ian Murray (’88) and Executive Director of Philanthropy Nancy Handrigan (’92) met with 20 Acadia alumni at the Rogue Kitchen and Wetbar where they enjoyed a festive evening of conversation and current news about the University. Check out our photo gallery at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/acadiauniversity/ sets/72157644670729434/ Photo: Nancy Handrigan

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3. Calgary Eighty Acadia alumni and friends came together on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at National on 17th in Calgary for a reception to share some fun and fellowship and celebrate Acadia’s 175th birthday. Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Ian Murray (’88) and Executive Director of Philanthropy Nancy Handrigan (’92) were in attendance and brought news and updates about the University. For more, see the photo gallery: https://www.flickr.com/photos/acadiauniversity/sets/72157644256410758/ Photo: Nancy Handrigan

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4/5. Summer Reunion More than 200 Acadia alumni and friends gathered July 11-13 for Summer Reunion 2014 at their alma mater in Wolfville. The Classes of 1949, 1953, 1954, 1958, 1959, 1968 and 1969 and their guests returned for a fun-filled weekend of festivities. The Class of 1964, with a whopping 63 members in attendance, marked its 50th anniversary during the Reunion, which was part of Acadia’s 175th celebration. Highlights included welcome receptions on Friday evening, class meetings, the Alumni Banquet at Wheelock Dining Hall, and Reunion Dance on Saturday. Sunday featured coffee and muffins to start the day, Chapel Memorial Service, a farewell barbecue lunch in the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre, and Acadia’s 175th Anniversary Garden Party, where retired Acadia faculty members were acknowledged and applauded. For more, please see our photo gallery at: https://www.flickr.com/ photos/acadiauniversity/sets/72157645709640815/ Photos: Sandra Symonds and Fred Sgambati

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Forty-seven Acadia alumni and friends gathered at the Next Door Lounge (Merchantman Pub) in Charlottetown, PEI on Thursday, June 5, 2014 to celebrate Acadia’s 175th anniversary and hear news and updates about the University from special guest, President Ray Ivany. Also on hand were former President of the Associated Alumni of Acadia University (AAAU) Charles Coll (’84); Acadia Senior Alumni Officer Oonagh Proudfoot (’93); and AAAU Director Jennifer Perry (’83). Pictured sharing in the celebration are, from left to right: Matt Mackin (’11); Kelton Thomason (’07); and Haley Doherty (’14). Photo: Oonagh Proudfoot

Thank you!

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7. East Coast Lobster Boil Acadia alumni and friends came together on Friday, June 6, 2014 for the 3rd Annual East Coast Lobster Boil. Held at Gossip Restaurant in Toronto, 40 people gathered to hear news and updates about the University from Chancellor Libby Burnham (’60) and meet local Associated Alumni Director Matt Gray (’06); new President of the Associated Alumni of Acadia University Doug Jackson (’99); Nancy Handrigan (’92), Executive Director of Philanthropy; and Melanie Jackson (’99), External Events Coordinator, from the Office of Advancement. Photo: Nancy Handrigan

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8. Lobster Picnic in the City More than 50 Acadia alumni and friends gathered at the Ottawa Tennis and Lawn Bowling Club on May 31, 2014 for this year’s Maritime Lobster Picnic in the City. Part of Acadia’s 175th anniversary celebration, guests were given updates on University news and events by Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Ian Murray (’88) and Executive Director of Philanthropy Nancy Handrigan (’92). A big thank-you goes out also to the alumni organizing committee in Ottawa, led by Associated Alumni of Acadia University Board member Suzanne Seaman (’97). Photo: Nancy Handrigan

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Photo: Fred Sgambati

6. Charlottetown reception

Eye on Acadia

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Acadia University President Ray Ivany hosted faculty and staff during Summer General Assembly on Thursday, June 12, 2014 in the Garden Room at the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre. A total of 53 people were recognized by members of the Acadia community as they celebrated retirements and career milestones of 35, 25 and 10 years of service respectively. Afterward, honourees and guests shared a social time and enjoyed strawberry shortcake. Retirees included (pictured, left to right): Patricia Gallant, Vaughan Memorial Library; Michael J. Dadswell, Biology; Carol Levy, Event Services/Student Services; Jill Davies, Student Resource Centre; Dr. Ian Stewart, Politics; Heather Turner, Psychology; Dr. Peter Horvath, Psychology; Dr. Janice Best, Languages and Literatures; Terry Lane, Student Resource Centre; Dr. Peter McLeod, Psychology; and Dr. Scott Follows, F.C. Manning School of Business. Missing from the photo: Deborah Boutilier, Mathematics and Statistics; Ann Hennigar, Vaughan Memorial Library; Dr. David Kristie, Biology; Susan Martin, Vaughan Memorial Library/Enrolment and Student Services; Dr. Marlene Snyder, Biology; Dr. Thomas Voss, Languages and Literatures; and Roger Wehrell, F.C. Manning School of Business. ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Feature

Comedian gets serious for a good cause

Alumnus Ron James gives benefit performance to bolster Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award By Fred Sgambati (’83)

on James (’79) is funny and smart, but sometimes it’s not about getting a laugh. He can get serious for a good cause, and stepped up recently at ‘A Ron James Homecoming’ to help a friend in need. On October 18th, he performed a benefit concert at University Hall as the marquee event of Homecoming 2014 and delivered a comedic tour de force in support of the Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award. Over a 35-year career as an entertainer, James has written six critically acclaimed national television specials, just wrapped his fifth season of The Ron James Show on CBC-TV, and has been selling out theatres from coast-tocoast for nearly two decades. He started out riffing bits in Crowell Tower as an undergrad and has been part of the Acadia consciousness ever since, earning a Distinguished Alumni Award from the Associated Alumni of Acadia University in 2007 and extolling the virtues of his Acadia roots wherever he goes. He returned to campus over the summer to promote the show and spoke with us about his Acadia experience.

Q. What does it feel like to be back on campus? A. Pretty good. It’s great to come back to your roots and affiliate with the alma mater without the pressure of exams (laughs). The pleasure of embracing the people and place. Having a morning run in the shadow of Blomidon is such a bonus.

Q. Why did you want to perform during Homecoming? A. For the Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award. My friend (Barry Taylor ’80) lost his daughter a couple of years ago and many friends from near and far rallied around him. Everybody works with what they’ve been given and I just happen to be a comedian. We’re only here for a short time and we have to make it matter, so when the request was placed, it was no questions asked. The 175th is also fairly momentous; an important event and date in the calendar of a university. I also had an ulterior motive – I was hoping I could sneak into the Dean’s office and knock those marks up that I got in third year!

Q. What is your connection to Sydney Taylor? A. Sydney interned during the first season (of The Ron

James Show) and was loved by all. That first season, too, we were right in the trenches, creating the show, and there were all sorts of plates spinning. Sydney was always a reservoir of calm surrounded by madness.

Q. She made quite an impression. A. Yes.

Q. What’s it like to run into alumni while you’re on the road?

A. Always the best! It’s the roadhouse pit stops having

pints with aging soldiers of the ‘70s that was a perk of the road. That’s what I call it. We sit around, have pints and catch up. Running my trap line to the far points of the frontier, no matter where you go, there is always somebody from here.

Q. What did you learn during your time at Acadia? A. Comedians and my brothers of the muse who

follow this craft, we’re populists. A comedian’s job is to unify the room, and if there’s anything l learned here, it was to always win the room and never lose the room. Those nights when I was riffin’ at Tower, which was always a spontaneous explosion of madness, it was the beginning of learning the fundamentals of stage craft. I learned that I enjoyed it, I learned that it was a calling, and if that’s what university is all about – to find your calling – then I found it here. It took a long time to be comfortable in that skin, but that’s what Acadia was great for. It let me know what abilities I had that were worth working for.

Q. Why is it important to you to help the Sydney Taylor

(’13) Memorial Award? You’re celebrating a life and channeling the life force. That’s what it’s all about. Sydney had a phrase – ‘Sing until you have no voice’ – and that’s what I’ll be doing onstage. Talking until I have no voice.

Ron James (’79) during his visit to Acadia, wearing an ST button in honour of Sydney Taylor. Photo: Peter Oleskevich

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

FEATURE

By Fred Sgambati (’83)

cadia alumnus Barry Taylor (’80) has known comedian and TV star Ron James for 37 years, and even though they have pursued different career paths, it’s just like old times when they get together. Barry runs a construction company in Nova Scotia and Ron is an entertainer based in Toronto, but they’ve never had any problem bridging time and tide, and they both share something in common: a love for Barry’s daughter Sydney (’13), who died suddenly in 2013 a week prior to her graduation from Acadia. Since then, Barry has been the driving force behind the Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award, given annually to a returning student in the Faculty of Arts who demonstrates Sydney’s commitment to academic excellence, her inquisitive nature, love of family, friends and music. Barry and his many friends in the Acadia community have raised more than $50,000 to support the award, and when he reached out to James to lend his voice to the campaign, Ron didn’t think twice. ‘A Ron James Homecoming’ in support of the Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award was created and became the hottest ticket over Homecoming Weekend 2014.

Q. What did it mean to you to have Ron do this benefit? A. It’s like all of my Acadia and Nova Scotia friends

– having Ron do this and step up is huge. We’ve had so much support from all of my Acadia friends since

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

losing Sydney and people like Ron, who are of that caliber. Having Ron here was very special. He’s a great talent and a great human being. He was a friend to Sydney and she came to know him while working on his show. Ron did this for Sydney and for me because he knew her, and knew her well.

Photo: Peter Oleskevich

Benefit show just like old times with a new twist Barry Taylor (’80) discusses with Bulletin editor Fred Sgambati (’83) the Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award. Below: Sydney Taylor (Photo courtesy of Barry Taylor)

Q. What’s it like when you and Ron get together? A. It might as well be 1977 or ’78. We haven’t changed

in our core, and that kind of camaraderie is what Acadia is all about.

Q. How is the Sydney Taylor fund doing? A. We’re very fortunate to have a wide range of

contributors from many Acadia relationships and friends across Nova Scotia and Canada. Sydney had a broad reach, and I’ve learned since last May just how special she was for so many people. I was also fortunate to be very close to her, being a single father from the time she was seven years old. I’m blessed to have this Acadia community that has made this time in my life a very positive one, and we’ve been trying to make something positive out of something that was obviously very negative. Sydney always said, ‘Sing until you have no voice.’ We’re keeping that voice alive, and Ron is an extension of that. For more information and to contribute to the Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award, please visit: http://giving.acadiau.ca/scholarships-and-aid.html

Barry and his many friends in the Acadia community have raised more than $50,000 to support the award, and when he reached out to James to lend his voice to the campaign, Ron didn’t think twice.

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Homecoming

Weekend 2014 3 1-2. Acadia swag was prominent at the Backyard BBQ: Mike DeWare (’86) shows off his 30-yearold hand-knitted Axemen sweater; and University President Ray Ivany shares a word with Colton Fagan (’14) prior to the football game. 3-4. Chancellor Libby Burnham (’60) and ASU President Callie Lathem at the start line for the 102nd running of the Bulmer Relay Oct. 17, 2014. The winning team – Former Axewomen and Then Some (Red) – receives the trophy from Chancellor Burnham. 4

5. Keynote speaker and two-time Olympic gold medalist Heather Moyse (left), with Acadia Athletics Director Kevin Dickie, and Acadia alumna Cindy Tye (’94) at the Women in Sport brunch.

7 Photos: Fred Sgambati and Peter Oleskevich

Fan support was strong for the football Axemen as they took on Mount Allison at Raymond Field.

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fans

6. Two student-athlete awards endowed by the Associated Alumni of Acadia University were among those presented at the Women in Sport brunch on Oct. 18. Pictured with AAAU President Doug Jackson (’99) and AAAU Board secretary Donalda MacBeath (’75) are recipients soccer player Emily Nickerson, second from left, and volleyball player Tessa Bulmer. 7. Award-winning comedian and Acadia alumnus Ron James (’79) performed a benefit show to a packed house on Oct. 18 in support of the Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award. Afterward, President Ray Ivany, AAAU President Doug Jackson (’99) and Barry Taylor (’80, right), presented the first Sydney Taylor (’13) Memorial Award to Lauren Matheson, a thirdyear BA Psychology student from Truro, N.S. 8. On Oct. 18, 27 Special Education grads from the Class of ‘84 met for a full day of activities marking their 30th reunion, including Acadia’s 175th anniversary festivities and a dinner at La Caveau restaurant in Grand-Pré.

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Photo: Jo

hn Overm

eyer

Outstanding experience, sense of community prompt benefactors to support Acadia University

“ ”

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

f Mabel Tsechi Young (’63) had not come to Acadia University, she would not have emigrated from Hong Kong. David Thompson (’74) went to Acadia, as did his wife Jeanie (’76) and daughter Jenny (’08). His sister, Gladys MacPherson (’69) and her husband Jim MacPherson (’70), are also grads. In fact, David says there are roughly 20 or more other family members through three generations that have graduated from Acadia, and he does his best to get back to visit the campus every three years from his family’s Alberta home because “it just makes you feel good.” Both Young and Thompson are valued donors who have given to Acadia for reasons that transcend the earning power the University has bestowed upon them. Young, who became a guidance counsellor, didn’t have a lot of competing choices or information about different institutions, but chose Acadia on the simple recommendation of a friend from church. “It’s a university with a good Baptist background,” the friend told her, and termed it the ideal “small undergraduate university for a girl.” Young laughs at the recollection now, but she realized how much she missed Canada after returning to Hong Kong to teach at an all-boys’ school for three years. “The friends I had at Acadia, in residence for firstyear – my floor mates were seniors. They took me under their wing and introduced me to the Canadian way of life: brownies and coffee! I spent quite a lot of time drinking coffee.” Young did a BA in music, thrilled at the notion of piano instruction being included in her tuition, despite her belief that she did not have the talent to be a performance major. Her sister followed three years later, and Young went on to McGill for an MA.

New frontier

For Thompson, university was a whole new frontier. “If you go back – in the ‘50s and ‘60s, early ‘60s – there were not a lot of opportunities or student loans. In the mid-60s, the federal or provincial governments started throwing money at the universities about the time they brought out student loans.” This made university “very accessible for rural kids who didn’t have the chance to go to school and really drew me,” says Thompson, who grew up in Lower Economy, on the other side of the Minas Basin. Thompson took business administration and graduated in 1974. “I should be retired, but not yet. I’m self-employed. I’m a CA and my wife as well. We’ve had our own little practice for about 25 years.” When they graduated there weren’t a lot of work

The friends I had at Acadia… took me under their wing.

DEvelopment

Why give?

By Anna-Maria Galante

ABOVE: Mabel Young (’63)

opportunities in the Maritimes, so they went west and “stayed a couple years,” says Thompson with a note of irony. They articled at the University of Calgary. “We love to go back,” he says of Nova Scotia. “We try to get back every three years and end up in Wolfville. I don’t know what it is, but there’s certainly a draw.” Jenny, entering her third year of medical residency, attended Acadia seven years ago. “It just was a wonderful place for her: the small campus, lots of friends. She fit in like most people do. Jeanie and I both had the experience. My wife did a science degree. My daughter did a science degree. My mother-in-law is 90 – Jeanie’s mom, Dorothy O’Brien – and graduated in 1944. My sister in ‘69, from Poli Sci, and her husband in ‘70, also from Poli Sci.”

Inspirational students

Young has found inspiration giving to hard-working students who make room for music in their lives, as she did, even if they don’t make a career of it. This year she donated money to set up a $25,000 endowment fund – $5,000 per year for five years – “to encourage students to take music, even as an elective. I don’t mind the scholarship going to a science student,” she says. She doesn’t know if everyone will approve of this condition, but since her sister’s recent death, Young has decided to be as generous as possible to what matters to her, although she has probably always been a “good giver. I’ve been single all my life. Never married.” She also keeps in contact with former students and friends from residence. “I’m in touch with my classmates, one or two of them, and go to seminars and workshops.” Back home, she says, she missed that kind of friend. “I built my career here, but not in music. In the public system, I was hired as a guidance counsellor, but they knew my music skills so I always helped out with the choir.” One of her Acadia floor mates, an organ major, introduced her to the instrument, and Young not only later developed a sideline as a supply organist, but recently donated money to repairs of the Manning Memorial Chapel organ. She has given gifts in denominations that match (or exceed) anniversary years, and not just to Acadia. She has made donations to the Royal Canadian College of Organists “to encourage young organists to take workshops.” Young has lived in Hamilton for 35 years now, and donated $1,000 when the art gallery there celebrated its 30th anniversary. “Both music and art have enriched my life.”

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DEVELopment

The $1.5 million, 3,600-square-foot two-storey addition to Alumni Hall received unanimous approval from Wolfville’s Town Council and it’s now full steam ahead.

Wu Welcome Centre construction underway C

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Photo: Peter Oleskevich

onstruction of Acadia’s Wu Welcome Centre at Alumni Hall is under way. Announced in November, 2013, as Acadia launched its 175th Anniversary year celebrations, the Wu Welcome Centre is a generous gift to the University from the Wu Jieh Yee Foundation, under the auspices of Dr. Wu’s children Lily (’63), Doris (’64), and Timothy (’66). Lily’s husband, Dr. Andre Lau (’61) is also an Acadia graduate. The $1.5 million, 3,600-square-foot two-storey addition to Alumni Hall received unanimous approval from Wolfville’s Town Council and it’s now full steam ahead. During the approval process, the design was praised by community members for its faithfulness to the character of the original building. Prior to the construction phase, Acadia celebrated with a ceremonial groundbreaking during the 2014 Summer Reunion Weekend on the site of the new Wu Welcome Centre (pictured). The Wu Welcome Centre will feature a reception area, large multi-purpose meeting space, and offices for Acadia staff who regularly meet with alumni, supporters and prospective students. In addition, discussions are currently underway about potential collaboration with the Town of Wolfville to maximize the benefit and impact of the Centre. With some renovations to historic Alumni Hall also in hand, the entire building will have a new and updated feel. The Wu Welcome Centre will provide a spectacular setting for receptions, reunions, Homecoming, and a wide range of events for students and prospective students.

P “ ictured from left to right: Doug Jackson (‘99), President of the Associated Alumni of Acadia University; Wolfville Deputy Mayor David Mangle; Chancellor Libby Burnham (’60); Suzanne Gray, Vice-President Communications, Acadia Students’ Union; Dr. Rod Morrison, Vice-President, Advancement; and Dr. Robert Perrins, Vice-President, Academic. ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

DEVELopment

$1 million donation W

ith the advent of the 2014-2015 university hockey season, there will be a new look and new feel – not to mention a new name – for the Acadia

Arena. Last fall, as part of Founders’ Day celebrations to mark the school’s 175th anniversary, Nancy McCain (’82) and her siblings Stephen (’81), Margie (’77), Allison, Kathy and Linda announced a $1 million gift in memory of their father, Andrew H. McCain. The donation was targeted toward renovations and improvements to the arena complex, which will be known in the future as the Andrew H. McCain Arena. In making the gift announcement, Nancy McCain said, “Stephen, Margie and I are all graduates of Acadia. Making this gift, with the enthusiastic support of our siblings, gives us a great deal of pleasure. Our father was a tremendous hockey fan throughout his entire life, and was very supportive of the overall academic and personal growth experience Acadia offers its students. Acadia’s Athletic Complex is a campus and community hub, and we are so pleased that the arena will now be able to better meet the needs of the future. We can’t think of a better way to honour our father’s love of sport, improve the experience of everyone who benefits from the arena, and make a meaningful contribution to Acadia. It’s a win all around.” Acadia’s Vice-President, Advancement, Dr. Rod Morrison, agrees. “It has been a great pleasure to work with the McCain family on this project. Their focus throughout was on a fitting legacy for their father that also brings real benefits to Acadia and the Valley community. I think they’ve hit the nail on the head, and we’re very grateful for their generosity.”

Visible changes, subtle alterations

Work on the improvements to the building got under way this summer. When completed this Fall, visitors to the arena complex will see a lot of visible changes, not to mention some subtle alterations.

Photo: Peter Oleskevich

transforms newly minted Andrew H. McCain Arena Most evident is a new all-weather walking and jogging track, running 250 metres around the perimeter of the arena. The track will include an ‘air curtain’, said Athletics Director Kevin Dickie, “allowing us to maintain the temperature, both in the arena and in the rest of the facility,” while allowing the arena doors to remain open for unobstructed use of the track. On entering the facility, the entrance to the athletic complex will be modernized, with accents featuring Baltic birch from Latvia. Inside the arena, one of the most obvious improvements is enhanced lighting, which will completely change the feel of the arena, and will be visible to anyone attending events there.

Community use

The changes have already had an impact; the new track is available to both Acadia students and the community. Rails have been installed in the aisles, on both sides of the arena, to allow for easier access to seating for fans with physical challenges. The sound system in the arena has been improved and work is being done on the ventilation system, both in the arena and throughout the athletics complex. The final piece of the project is fully reroofing the arena. The donation, Dickie said, “hasn’t just provided for bells and whistles. We’ve also been able to do some badly needed deferred maintenance. What we have here, with the arena, will without question help us create new partnerships in the future, with other people who want to be affiliated with our athletic program,” he added. “The McCain family’s generosity has really set the table for a new generation of student-athletes at Acadia and simultaneously provided an enhanced community resource that will serve the region well for many years to come.” Dr. Morrison emphasized, “we are proud and privileged to have this wonderful relationship with the McCain family and I know their support will bring tremendous benefits to Acadia and to the community at large.”

With files from John DeCoste (’77); reproduced courtesy of TC Media and www.kingscountynews.ca.

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Annual Acadia Alumni Gala Dinner & Silent Auction DATE: Thursday, April 9th, 2015 World Trade and Convention Centre, Halifax, NS TIME: 5:30 p.m. COST: $125 per ticket; $1,250 for a table of 10 Young alumni who graduated between 2005–2014 can purchase a discounted ticket for $75 by contacting Melanie Jackson directly at melanie.jackson@acadiau.ca.

Nominations are open for the 2014 Distinguished Alumni Award. Nomination forms are available at: alumni.acadiau.ca/ and click on ‘Associated Alumni Awards’ ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Athletics

Soccer Axewoman Michelle Pryde named

CIS Top 8 Academic All-Canadian S

ince coming to Acadia in 2012, Michelle Pryde has achieved her academic goals and so much more. She has excelled as a member of the Axewomen soccer team and her leadership skills are also evident beyond the pitch, making her one of Acadia University’s most exceptional student-athletes. Her brilliance was highlighted this fall when Michelle was selected as the Atlantic University Sport female representative for the Canadian Interuniversity Sport Top 8 Academics. For the second year in a row, an Acadia student-athlete was named a CIS Top 8 Academic. Hockey Axeman Travis Gibbons earned the prestigious honour in the 2013-14 season. Pryde’s selection caps a record-setting year during which 95 Academic All-Canadians at Acadia were honoured by the CIS, surpassing the 2012 record of 91. There are over 11,000 CIS student-athletes and Acadia has had one of the eight best in the country two years in a row. Director of Athletics Kevin Dickie points out that Pryde is not just an exceptional student. “It is apparent that Michelle is very dedicated to her academics, athletics, campus and community. She truly epitomizes the perfect student-athlete and is definitely maximizing her potential at Acadia as an extremely well-rounded person and leader.”

Good fit academically, athletically

Born and raised in Calgary, AB, Michelle had two older brothers to look up to as role models. She began playing soccer at age three and became serious about it when she joined the Willowridge Dynamos as an eight-yearold. At 12, she continued with the Foothills Soccer Club until embarking on her university career. It wasn’t until Grade 12 year at Lord Beaverbrook High School in Calgary did she hear about Acadia while attending a showcase tournament in Toronto. After receiving a personal phone call from University President Ray Ivany and persistent overtures from head coach Amit Batra, Pryde chose Acadia over offers from U.S. and other Canadian universities. Batra said it was obvious that Pryde was a good fit academically and athletically at Acadia. “During my first meeting with Michelle as a high school recruit, it was very

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

clear that academics were her top priority. It didn’t take long for Michelle to establish herself as a top student in the challenging chemistry program. She has consistently achieved Academic All-Canadian status with grades at the high end of the spectrum, and currently sports a 3.94 cumulative GPA.” A recipient of several academic accolades and scholastic awards, Michelle has focused on the chemistry program in the Faculty of Science. Her current success has fueled aspirations to become an orthodontist. This past summer, she was employed as a summer research assistant in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Calgary under the mentorship of Associate Professor Todd Sutherland. “Michelle worked in my research lab on the next generation organic battery materials from mid‐June to mid‐August, under the direct supervision of a senior graduate student,” Sutherland said. “After just completing her second year of chemistry at Acadia, she was able to grasp quickly most of the complexities of the project. There were many new techniques and purification strategies she needed to learn that she handled with aplomb.” When asked how Pryde coped with research that most senior students would do, Sutherland said she had the ability to learn new material and the tenacity to get through the required rigorous protocols in organic chemistry. “She is clearly a hard‐working and very dedicated student that manages to balance athletics and academics well. Based on comparable academic metrics from University of Calgary, she would be in the top 1‐5 per cent of students,” Sutherland added. While academic performance is a major element of being named a CIS Top 8 Academic All-Canadian, Michelle meets many more criteria as an exceptional athlete and an individual that cares about her community. Numerous volunteer efforts pepper her resume, including work at home and in her community of Wolfville. Efforts beyond the pitch and classroom this past year included assisting in various local elementary school fundraising events along with team efforts in the Relay for Life and CIBC Run for the Cure. Pryde, along with Gibbons, is what Acadia is all about – education in and beyond the classroom.

Photo: Eric Cederberg

By Eric Cederberg (’94)

Pryde (left) and Gibbons: academic and athletic excellence.

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

NEWS FEATURE

Alumni News

Golfers turn out to support 33rd Annual Alumni Tournament!

Photos: Fred Sgambati, Sandra Symonds

Twenty-five teams and more than 120 golfers were on hand Friday, July 25, 2014 at Ken-Wo Golf Club in New Minas for the 33rd Annual Acadia Alumni Golf Tournament. Weather was fair and participants enjoyed 18 holes of golf, a chicken dinner, and various draws and prizes to end the day. Proceeds from the tournament help to support academic awards for incoming Acadia students from local high schools, in recognition of the need to assist Annapolis Valley students and to encourage enrolment at our alma mater.

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

2013-14 Annual Report

Upcoming Acadia Alumni Events

Wednesday, November 12, 2014 Beijing, China

Associated Alumni of Acadia University Balance Sheet

Monday, December 1, 2014

As at March 31

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

December

Assets

Ottawa Social on the Hill

Unaudited 2014

Unaudited 2013

Montreal Reception Boston Reception

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Coach Huard Induction - College Football Hall of Fame

Wednesday, December 10, 2014 New York Reception

February

Bermuda, Bahamas, Barbados Receptions

Thursday, February 12, 2015 Toronto Business Breakfast

AAAU/Acadia Joint Account $ Affinity Fund General Fund (Alumni Hall) Constance Hayward Fund Carr Fund Graham Fund Vesta Magee Fund Allan Fulton Fund Total Assets $

138,118 $ 363,762 57,968 270,726 42,037 16,096 28,935 12,846 930,489 $

161,313 376,405 57,107 266,707 41,413 15,857 28,506 12,655 959,963

End of February, early March Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur Receptions

March 24, 2015

Florida Alumni Reception

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Alumni Gala Dinner

May 10-11, 2015

Spring Convocation

July 10 -12, 2015 Summer Reunion

Friday, July 31, 2015

34th Annual Acadia Alumni Golf Tournament - Valley

October 16-19, 2015

Homecoming Weekend ••• More information on these events can be found on our website

http://alumni.acadiau.ca/ 36

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Committed Funds Scholarships $ 20,000 $ President’s Discretionary Fund 10,000 Director’s Fund ‐ - Alumni Position Funding 60,000 Alumni Hall Painting and Refurbishment 5,538 Axeman Mascot ‐ - Athletic Signboards ‐ - Recruiting 1,100 Total Committed Funds $ 96,638 $ Uncommitted Funds $ 833,851 $

30,000 10,000 1,192 120,000 5,538 750 700 168,180 791,783

Associated Alumni

Mark Your Calendar

AAAU profiles

Associated Alumni of Acadia University

Ryan McCarthy (’10)

Ryan McCarthy is a native of Falmouth, Massachusetts. Ryan completed a Bachelor of Business Administration, with a Co-op Option, at Acadia in 2010. During his studies, he worked for a number of departments across campus and was an active volunteer in Acadia’s Kinderskills program. He also organized two DiscoveryQuest programs and a summer institute for Grade 11 students from the Maritime Provinces and New England, designed to support their desire to learn and contribute to a deeper understanding of themselves and the environment. After graduating, Ryan continued to work closely with Acadia University as an Events Coordinator for the Alumni Affairs office. Currently, Ryan works in corporate development/relations at the Media Lab, an interdisciplinary research laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, devoted to projects at the convergence of technology, multimedia, sciences, art and design. He resides in Boston, Massachusetts.

Jennifer Perry (’83)

Jennifer Perry is from Charlottetown, PEI. She has been a strong supporter of Acadia since she graduated in 1983 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. Jennifer is the Life President of the class of 1983 and was part of the team that organized the 30th Reunion Alumni activities last year at Homecoming. She was also actively involved in the Toronto Acadia Alumni branch with her partner, Jim Williams (’83). After leaving Acadia, Jennifer went on to get her law degree from UNB in 1991. She practiced labour and employment law on Bay Street for a number of years before returning to PEI in 2007. Jennifer currently works as a Rental Officer with the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission. She is an active volunteer and seasoned Board member. Jennifer lives in Stratford, PEI with Jim, their dog, Lola, and their two teenage daughters, Sarah and Samantha (who are reminded frequently the merits of Acadia!).

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Submit a class note to tell us about a new job, recent promotion or award, wedding or family addition. Deadlines for submissions are April 1st for the spring issue and October 1st for the fall issue. Class notes are subject to editing. Office of Advancement: 512 Main Street, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6 Canada Email: alumni.office@acadiau.ca Phone: 902.585.1459 Toll Free: 1.866.222.3428 Fax: 902.585.1069

1940s George Edward Hart (BA, MA ’42), actor of

Mercutio, Malvolio, Prospero and Macbeth under Professor Sipprell, creator of the United Way Centraide of Greater Montreal, author of Transcontinental Pedestrians and four books of poetry, will be 100 on October 15, 2014.

1960s Tim Rogers (’65) has written a novel of historical fiction, The Mystery of the SS Southern Cross (St. John’s, NL: Creative Book Publishing, 2014). The story is set in 1914 and follows the lives of men involved in the loss of a sealing ship off the southeast coast of Newfoundland. Her full crew of 173 men were lost when she went down in a great storm. He’s particularly pleased that the book includes a CD of songs from the time performed exceedingly well by two of Newfoundland’s finest traditional singers, Jim Payne and Fergus O’Byrne. This, he adds, makes the project an interesting crossfertilization of the folk arts and written word.

••• Elaine (Wentzell) Cox (’67) says friendships stand the test of time, and these former Acadia students get together annually to catch up and share their memories of Acadia. Fifty years of celebration was on the agenda as they enjoyed a few days on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, rooming together like they did many years 38

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

ago at Seminary House. Back row, left to right: Mary (Timpa) Giles, Lois (McClare) Dewar (’65), Jean (Farnsworth) Pottie; seated: Connie (Dickson) Ayer (’69), Mary (Tanton) Stone (’67), Bonnie (Dickson) Cuming (’70), and Elaine (Wentzell) Cox.

••• LeRoy Lenethen (’68) recently retired from the practice of law after 43 years with the law firm of Taylor, MacLellan and Cochrane of Kentville, Nova Scotia. He started with the firm following his graduation from Dalhousie Law School in 1971. For the last 37 years of his law practice, LeRoy acted as local legal counsel to Acadia. His former law firm continues in that relationship with Acadia. He and his wife, Patricia (Dal ‘68 BA and ‘69 BEd), continue to live in Kentville. Their son lives and works in Peterborough, Ontario and their daughter lives and works in Halifax.

••• Jim Prime (’69), who has authored all three volumes of our special 175th anniversary supplement, Voices of Acadia, has certainly been keeping busy. His 18th and 19th books (Tales From The Blue Jays Dugout and Amazing Tales From The 2004 Boston Red Sox Dugout) were released earlier this year, and his 20th book (From The Babe To The Beards), was published in October. Also, the group he co-founded, the Bluenose Bosox Brotherhood, recently brought the World Series trophy to Nova Scotia for the second time, along with a former Red Sox player and their Executive VP.

1970s Dr. Joan Viantha Qureshi (’70) of South Natick, MA received her Life Member Status and Pin from the American Dental Association at a presentation during the Metropolitan District Dental Society Meeting (MDDS) recently. After seven years as MDDS treasurer, chair of the Committee on Abuse and Neglect, chair of the Community Health, nine years as an awardwinning editor of Yankee Dentist, an Academy of

Halifax campus. Her thesis entitled, “The Effect of General Osteopathic Treatment on Pain in Veterans Diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder” earned her the Sutherland Award for excellence in a Quantitative Thesis. Andrea owns and operates an Osteopathic and rehabilitation clinic in Marriott’s Cove, Nova Scotia.

Class Notes

Share your news with us!

General Dentistry publication, she has finally settled into retirement from professional obligations. When she visits family, she frequently stops at Acadia and is amazed at the progress the campus and programs have made. She was a resident of Seminary and Dennis dormitories, and has an early construction clip of the Chapel still in her albums.

••• This spring, well-known Antigonish artist and art instructor, William Rogers (’71), received the honour of a lifetime by being chosen to accompany HRH Prince Charles, and the Duchess of Cornwall as the Royal Tour artist on their visit to Canada. It was a whirlwind tour of just over three days in mid-May and included stops in Halifax, Pictou, Charlottetown and Winnipeg. A plein-air watercolour painter in his own right, Prince Charles chose Rogers from a list of nominees who were all members of the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour (CSPWC), the oldest watercolour society in Canada of which His Highness is an honorary member. Reviving a tradition established by Queen Victoria of having an artist record the Royal Tours, Prince Charles began bringing an artist along on his travels during the 1980s, funding the artists’ travel expenses himself. Rogers was told to paint what he liked at each location, the result being a collection of paintings from which His Highness will choose one or more for his own private collection. Rogers says he found the Royal couple kind, genuine and hard-working, and he enjoyed the numerous engagements that reflected their charitable work as well as their special interests in nature, history and the arts. This has been a banner year for Rogers. Besides the Royal Visit in May, he was accepted into the juried Carmel Art Festival in Carmel, California; participated in the prestigious Easton Plein-Air Festival in Easton, Maryland; and the Castine Plein-Air Festival in Castine, Maine. His recent work will be featured at Lyghtesome Gallery in Antigonish, Nova Scotia later this fall.

••• Michael Thomas writes to tell us that, “I graduated from Acadia with an MA in English in 1977. I am now a writer and a lecturer at the Open University in the UK. My latest poetry collection, The Girl from Midfoxfields, is published by Black Pear Press http://www. blackpear.net/. My latest novel is Pilgrims at the White Horizon and my website and related details are: http://www.michaelwthomas.co.uk/; amazon.com/ author/thomasm54; http://panscriptus.blogspot.co.uk/ . I hope all is well at Acadia, and it would be great to hear from anyone who remembers me. Thank you.”

••• Andrea Mounce-Halasz (‘77) recently graduated as an Osteopath from the Collège d’Études Ostéopathique,

1980s Eileen Robichaud (‘82) just started in her job as the University Business Continuity Analyst for Tulane University in New Orleans, LA. She recently completed her MS in Safety Management at Indiana University (IU) and worked as a Business Continuity Specialist at IU.

••• Pam Tower (’82) of Tower Interiors has been recognized by the Consumer Choice Awards for the fourth year in a row. Consumer Choice Award recipients are not selected by a panel of judges, but are chosen by the public. Each year, consumers are surveyed all across Canada to gather their opinions, perceptions and expectations regarding the services they choose on a daily basis. “We are honored once again to be chosen by the public as their Interior Design firm of choice,” Pam says. “This is an incredible award to win, to have our efforts acknowledged. Thank you to all of you who made this a reality!”

••• Clyde MacLellan (’83), CPA, CA, Assistant Auditor General of Canada, has been named a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario (ICAO). This is the highest designation that the Institute confers in recognition of outstanding career achievement and leadership contribution to the community and the profession. Clyde, formerly from Sydney Mines and now residing in Ottawa with his wife, Marian (McMahon), is the son of Dr. D. Lorne (’53) and Irene MacLellan. His sister, Nancy MacLellan Robinson (’86), is also an Acadia graduate.

••• Graham F Greene (’84), M.D. FRCSC, has recently been appointed Executive Director of Lakeland Regional Cancer Center in Lakeland, Florida. He practices urologic oncology and serves as the health system’s Chief Academic Officer. He and his wife Maryanne recently celebrated their 22nd wedding anniversary and have two children, Laura (15) and Liam (13).

••• ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Class Notes

•••

Lutz (’07); Samantha Goreham (’11); and Chad Haughn (’00).

••• On May 23, 2014, Marion Aretha Borden-Davis (‘89, ’92) received a Distinguished K-2 Teacher of the Year Award as a First Grade Teacher at George Washington Carver Academy in Highland Park, Michigan, where she has been teaching since July 2000.

1990s Troy Guindon (‘91) has just published two children’s books as Troy Kent: The Reading Promise and Stinky Blinky. For more, please visit: http://www.standardfreeholder.com/2014/06/11/apromising-read-from-longsault-author (photo credit: Todd Hambleton/Cornwall Standard-Freeholder/Qmi Agency)

A happy group of Acadia Recreation alumni took some time out to celebrate and reconnect recently while attending the Atlantic Recreation and Facilities Conference in Moncton, April 22-24, 2014. The “social” was supported by SAURG (Society of Acadia University Recreation Graduates) and Acadia University Alumni Affairs. In attendance were: Robin Norrie (‘86); Kent Kuhn (‘86); Norma MacLeod (‘85); Frank Grant (‘96); Trudy (Mullin) Payne (’90); John Ansara (’11); Meg (Ross) Cuming (’99); Rachel Bedingfield (’01); Joanne (Lebans) Lamarche (’92); Nichole

••• Amanda (Bragg) Pedro (’92) tells us: “After living in Toronto for 18 years, we’ve finally moved back east. In 2012, I moved, with my husband and two children, to Shelburne, N.S. to start the Boxing Rock Brewing Co. with another couple. We love living on the Southwest Shore and all that this little village has to offer. We’re a friendly folk here – come for a beer! Or look for us in an NSLC close to you! Cheers!”

•••

Chantel Smith (‘93) and Philip Nickerson (‘96) are proud to announce that their niece, Nicole Smith, has enrolled at Acadia University. They hope she will be as happy as they were to Stand up and Cheer!

Class Notes

Shelley Fleckenstein (’85), a physiotherapist with 26 years of experience, was profiled in the May/June issue of Atlantic Business Magazine as a Top 50 CEO Award winner. This prestigious honour was celebrated at a formal awards Gala on May 14, 2014 at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax. Shelley is the founder (1995) and current coowner/director of Kings Physiotherapy Clinic. She is also the Regional Manager - Mainland Nova Scotia with CBI Health Group.

••• Judy N. Green (’98) has returned recently to Nova Scotia, settling in Clementsport. She is now working as a Certified Nutrition and Wellness Coach out of Annapolis Natural Foods.

••• Hon Seng Phuah (’99) writes, “I changed a new career last year from a software developer to a licensed Malaysian tourist guide. It give me new experience to work closer to people than computers. Those who like to visit Peninsular Malaysia or want to experience Asian culture, you can contact me. My contact is +6016 475 2089.”

••• Jonathan Gunstrom (’98) says, “I don’t know why I didn’t send a photo of this 14 years ago when I got the truck with the personalized license plates. I have been showing my Acadia pride in Juneau, Alaska ever since I returned to Juneau and got the truck in 2000!”

2000s On July 26, 2014 at Acadia’s Manning Memorial Chapel, Elizabeth Foster (BSc ‘05) and Chris Judd (BKin ‘08) wed in front of their closest family and friends. Most family members on the bride’s side have attended Acadia, including her father, the late Gary Foster

(‘68) and uncle, the late Wayne Foster (‘63); uncle John Johnson (‘77) (top left in photo); and uncle Alf Bent (‘68) (top right). The groom was the quarterback for the Acadia football Axemen from 2004-06 and now works with the team, so several football alum and coaches were there to celebrate. Here is the picture that was taken after the wedding, starting with the bottom row: Ian Mills, Meaghan Upton, Callie Foster (bridesmaid), Laura Swaine, Sarah Flemming (bridesmaid), Elizabeth Judd (bride, née Foster), Chris Judd (groom), Jerry Flemming (Sarah’s father); (back row) Ashley Gaslin, Lindsay Downie, Carly Munro, Ashley MacPherson, Garth Melrose, Brady Pimlott and Laura Hartwell (Brady and Laura are now engaged), John Johnson (uncle of the bride), Andrew Hines, Melinda MacKenzie, Josh Lambert, Charlotte Nutt, Shad McLachlan (groomsman), Wayne King, and Alf Bent (uncle of the bride). Bride and groom reside in Wolfville, where both work at Acadia: he is Quarterback Coach and Offensive Coordinator for the football team, and she is an English instructor for Open Acadia.

••• Congratulations to Carolyn Fung (’07) and Trevor Kouyoumjian (‘08), who got engaged in July! They met at Acadia seven years ago. Both are BBA graduates from Ontario who spent four incredible years of their

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ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

Class Notes

undergrad lives at Acadia. Carolyn says, “we are so excited to start planning for this next chapter of our life! We are still very close friends with people we met at Acadia who recently celebrated our engagement with us. We currently live in Vancouver. Acadia is such a special part of our lives. We wouldn’t have met without it, so we wanted to share the news!”

Acadia remembers We are saddened to report the following deaths in the Acadia community:

••• Joel Isenor (‘07) and wife Laura Isenor (‘07) are proud to announce the arrival of their first-born, Cam Gregory Isenor, on April 14, 2014, weighing in at seven pounds, 10 ounces. Stand Up and Cheer!

•••

Wayne ThibodeaU (‘08) and Christina G iles - T hibodeau (‘08) of Weymouth, Nova Scotia would like to announce the birth of their son, Andre Thibodeau. He weighed six pounds, 12 ounces, and was born May 2, 2014 at Valley Regional Hospital. He is a little blessing to our lives.

•••

Kelli O’Reilly (‘09) sends us this quick alumni update! “I was recently married (April 2014) to Jeff Ferguson (‘08) in Ottawa. Other alumni at the wedding included: Sarah Kennell (‘08), Fraser Mackinnon Blair (‘09), Samantha Sanford (‘09), Rhys Kavanagh (‘09), Erin Norwood (‘09), Katie Aucoin (‘09), Chris Miller (‘06), Eddie Staines (‘06), Alexandra Tims (‘07), and Brad Marcotte (‘07). Unfortunately, no picture of all the alumni, but here is a picture from the wedding. I also graduated from Medicine at UOttawa in April and have moved to Vancouver to start my residency in Anesthesia at UBC.”

2010s Kelly Bowen (BSC ‘10) graduated in May with a doctorate degree in Osteopathic Medicine from Des Moines University in Des Moines, Iowa. She will be pursuing residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, New Jersey, beginning this summer. Kelly graduated with high honours and believes that her time at Acadia was the driving force behind her determination in the pursuit of her medical degree.

••• Monic Dagenais (’14) is now living in PEI and started work at her new job with the government in Tourism PEI! She is the media relations assistant, working with all PEI events and the coordination of all incoming as well as local media. “Wouldn’t be able to do it without my Acadia BA!” she says.

Muriel L. Israel (’32), Toronto, ON

Donald W. Burns (’60), Yarmouth, NS

Jessie (MacWalker) London (’43), Toronto, ON

Winnifred I. Harvey (’63), Windsor, NS

Maxine E. Cochran (’47), Halifax, NS

Judith Greenwood-Hill (’64),

Shirley E. Heidl (’48), North Sydney, NS

Eric Bligh Kinsman (’48), Kinderhook, NY

Linda Bent (’64), Canoga Park, CA

Frances L. (Holmes) Comeau (‘48),

Dianne E. Thompson-Sheppard (’64), Wolfville, NS

Garnet F. Parker (’65), Kentville, NS

Corner Brook, NL

Musquodoboit Harbour, NS

Harriet A. Robinson (’49), North Bay, ON

Andrew J. Kranack (’65), Amherst, NS

Enid Shields (’49), Ottawa, ON

Karen Crowell (’65), Calgary, AB

Kenneth H. Sanford (’49), Kentville, NS

Blaine Whynott (’82), Liverpool, NS

Thomas M. Jones (’49), Windsor, NS

Burlin R. Fawkes (’84), Quispamsis, NB

Catherine Donovan (’49), Waterville, NB

Kathleen P. Osinga (’90), Middleton, NS

William H. Reeves (’51)

Dan Bobbitt (’92), Petawawa, ON

Milton E. MacInnis (’53)

Robert L. Lestinger (’93), Seattle, WA

Manuelita Zephirim (’53), St. Michaels, Barbados

Johanna Dean (’08), Halifax, NS

Janet M. Ells (’56), Chester Basin, NS

Ronald T. Barkhouse (HOR), Halifax, NS

George F. Archibald (’57), Victoria, BC

Emma Louise Crossan (HOR), Wolfville, NS

Jacqueline MacLean (’57), Penfield, NY

Phillip Ryan (HOR), Rothesay, NB

Agnes Bishop (’59), Winnipeg, MB

William E. Keddy (HOR), Berwick, NS

Dennis Veinotte (’59), Kentville, NS

Allan E. Griffin (Board of Governors), Amherst, 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 Fall 2014

SAVE THE DATE!

Final Frame

Winner!

October 15-18, 2015 Barrax ’83 Reunion and Friends: All Barrax residents from 1978-83 are invited to attend this jam-packed reunion on Homecoming Weekend. For more information, contact: Brian Chapman ’83 Brian.chapman@mdlz.com 905.404.9969 Amy-Jane Maciel (’99) of Tyngsboro, MA was the first person to correctly identify the Final Frame photo in the spring 2014 edition of the Bulletin. Pictured are Amy-Jane (née Troupe), Shannon Cunningham and Karen Dorchester, all Tully girls. The photo was reprinted to honour Tully’s 100th anniversary celebration.

July 10–12, 2015

Alumni Summer Reunion 2015: All alumni from the Classes of 1945, 1950, 1955, 1960 and 1965 are invited back for a weekend of reminiscing with classmates. For more information contact: Sandra Symonds, Reunion Coordinator Sandra.symonds@acadiau.ca 902.585.1708 More information on these events can be found on our website http://alumni. acadiau.ca/

Final Frame In each edition of the Bulletin, we reserve space on our final page for a fond look back at the way we were. Do you know the people in the foreground of this photo (#35 and #74)? If so, send me an e-mail at fred. sgambati@acadiau.ca. The first person to identify them will win an Acadia sweatshirt (valued at $70.00). Please include your name, address, e-mail and phone number in your response. We will reveal the answer, the winner and have another image for you in the spring edition. Look forward to hearing from you.

Have fun! 44

ACADIA BULLETIN Fall 2014

“PROUD TO REPRESENT ACADIA UNIVERSITY”

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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 Fall 2014

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