Excel Spring 2017

ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Spring 2017

Bright

FUTURE for Shade Design Collective

AG ALUMNA CROWNED

MISS RODEO

CANADA Inspiring creatives through

1450MC

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LAKELAND LEADS

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

JUMPING

FOR JOY

Lakeland College women’s volleyball team made history in March when they won Lakeland’s firstever Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association banner. The Rustlers defeated the host Camosun College Chargers 3-1 in the championship final in Victoria.

Kevin Light Photo/CCAA

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Big-picture thinkers.

Problem solvers.

Innovators.

Leaders.

These are the types of people we strive to develop at Lakeland College.

Help future Lakeland students excel by supporting our Annual Campaign for Students. Your generosity will enhance these opportunities for students.

Every gift counts.

• • • • • •

Scholarships Academic events Leadership initiatives Extracurricular activities Campus improvements Student clubs

lakelandcollege.ca/donate

Supporting you... and Lakeland College.

Take advantage of your group privileges: You could save $415* or more when you combine your home and auto insurance with us.

Home and auto insurance program recommended by

Your needs will change as your life and career evolve.

As a Lakeland College member, you have access to the TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program, which offers preferred insurance rates, other discounts and great protection, that is easily adapted to your changing needs. Plus, every year our program contributes to supporting your alumni association, so it’s a great way to save and show you care at the same time. Get a quote today!

Our extended business hours make it easy.

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (ET) Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (ET) HOME | AUTO

Ask for your quote today at 1-888-589-5656 or visit tdinsurance.com/lakelandcalumni The TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program is underwritten by SECURITY NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY. It is distributed by Meloche Monnex Insurance and Financial Services Inc. in Quebec,

by Meloche Monnex Financial Services Inc. in Ontario, and by TD Insurance Direct Agency Inc. in the rest of Canada. Our address: 50 Place Crémazie, Montreal (Quebec) H2P 1B6.

Due to provincial legislation, our auto and recreational vehicle insurance program is not offered in British Columbia, Manitoba or Saskatchewan. *Nationally, 90% of all of our clients who belong to a professional or an alumni group (underwritten by SECURITY NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY) or an employer group (underwritten by PRIMMUM INSURANCE COMPANY) that have an agreement with us and who insure a home (excluding rentals and condos) and a car on July 31, 2015 saved $415 when compared to the premiums they would have paid with the same insurer without the preferred insurance rate for groups and the multi-product discount. Savings are not guaranteed and may vary based on the client’s profile. ® The TD logo and other TD trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

FEATURES 9 11 12 16 18 20 22

TRIO CONNECTS MARKETING CREATIVES ALUMNA PURSUES PASSION

Spring 2017 Season

MEANINGFUL MENTORSHIP GOLDEN SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON TRADES APPRENTICE FROM ESTHETICIAN TO ENTREPRENEUR ALUMNA NAMED MISS RODEO CANADA

Excel is published by Lakeland College’s Department of Advancement and External Relations. Excel is also available on Lakeland College’s website at lakelandcollege.ca/excel.

The Alumni Office distributes mailings, invitations and class lists. Anyone wishing to be excluded from certain mailings should notify the Alumni Office.

POWERFUL DESIGN

Editor: Katie Ryan Writers: Katie Ryan and Eric Healey Creative Design: Chelsey Schlosser

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Cover Photo: Cecelia Foster Accepting Advertising: Advertising in Excel is welcome. For rates call Alumni Office at 780.853.8628 or email alumni@lakelandcollege.ca.

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Contributions: Special thanks to all alumni who contributed to this edition of Excel.

Letters, photographs and news are welcome. We reserve the right to edit contributions. Submitted photographs must have a minimum resolution of 300 dpi. Please address all correspondence to the Alumni Office.

Publications mail agreement No. 40009099

CONTINUE READING 7

ALUMNI SOCIAL EVENTS

38

CLASS NOTES

26

STUDENTS IN THE LEAD

40

IN MEMORIAM

27

CAMPUS NEWS

41

REMEMBER WHEN

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DONOR SPOTLIGHT

42

HOMECOMING 2017

Return undeliverable addresses to: Lakeland College Alumni Office 5707 College Drive Vermilion, Alberta, Canada T9X 1K5 1.800.661.6490 lakelandcollege.ca/alumni

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“We are a BIG family” As I’m writing this note, it is -30C and there’s a big windy snowstorm. We are all looking forward to a warm and productive spring. For everyone, young and older, spring is filled with new plans and experiences.

President Barry McCarty ‘69 Vice President Ed Lefsrud ‘65

While recently attending the funeral service of our very special alumna Jo Berglund, I found myself reflecting a lot about our Alumni Association. Thank you to all alumni and college staff who attended Jo’s service.

Treasurer Don Deaville ‘66 Secretary Sandra Bernes ‘66 Past President Bill Fox ‘58 Director Werner Wennekamp ‘65 Director Ray Yaworski ‘75 Director Wyman Lockhart ‘66 Director Carolyn McIntosh ‘66 Director Bill Plumley ‘66 Alumni Liaison Shauna Zack

During lunch while visiting, Jo’s daughter asked a group of us alumni “What kept my mom so attached to Lakeland College?” I was very touched by the question.

Our answer to her was: We are a big family; a family that always cares for each other; a family that really enjoys seeing their friends doing well; and a family that wants to build and continue with something started by others who came before us. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate a lady who was so full of giving and never turned down a challenge.

Membership in the Alumni Association is free and takes effect the moment you graduate. The Alumni Association exists to foster connections between the alumni and the college.

It is easier than ever to stay in touch. We have a wonderful Alumni Association page on Facebook that can be accessed from any part of the world you choose to live and work in.

We encourage alumni to participate in the numerous activities coming this spring. We’d love to see both new and older Lakeland College alumni at the Country Side Golf Club in Sherwood Park for our spring social. Also, be sure you make plans to attend this year’s Homecoming June 9-11.

Try something new this year and bring a friend!

Historian Tom Kibblewhite ‘59 Barry McCarty 1.780.632.7433 mccartyb@mcsnet.ca

Please join the Alumni Association and Berglund/McLaughlin family for:

A Celebration of Life for Jo Berglund, 1921-2016 If you fondly remember Lakeland alumna Jo Berglund (née McLaughlin), Class of 1939, and would like to pay your respects or share memories with friends, family, neighbours and alumni, please consider yourself invited.

Saturday, June 10, 2017 Drop in anytime from 2-5 pm ● CN Station, Vermilion Provincial Park 6

RSVP via email to Catherine Berglund at caellen27@gmail.com or text/call 206.919.2701 LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

MIX & MINGLE

ALUMNI SOCIAL EVENTS Dates & Locations

Edmonton & Area Alumni Social

Lacer the Racer Alumni Golf Tournament

Saturday, April 22, 2017 Country Side Golf Club 51466 Range Road 232, Sherwood Park, Alta.

Time: 2 to 5 p.m.

Contact: Shauna Zack (Alumni Liaison) 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628

Saturday, July 29, 2017 Vermilion Golf and Country Club, Vermilion, Alta.

Contact: Shauna Zack (Alumni Liaison) 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628

Lakeland College Homecoming Friday - Sunday, June 9, 10, & 11, 2017 Registration form is on Page 43 Lakeland College, Vermilion, Alta.

Contact: Shauna Zack (Alumni Liaison) 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628

Grande Prairie Alumni Social Wednesday, July 19, 2017 Dunvegan Campsite, Alta.

Time: 1 to 5 p.m.

Contacts: Alice Fortier, 780.532.6662

Eric Stamp, 780.766.2464

Westlock Alumni Social Thursday, August 3, 2017 Westlock Memorial Hall, Elks Room 99 Ave. – 106 St., Westlock, Alta.

Time: 2 to 5 p.m.

Contacts: George & Ivy McMillan, 780.349.2404

Doug & Vera Brown, 780.349.2410

Alumni are welcome to attend each event.

Bring a friend!

And please RSVP 14 days prior to each event to assist with planning.

IT’S EASY TO KEEP IN TOUCH! Join our Alumni Facebook page for the latest Lakeland alumni news: facebook.com/LakelandCollegeAlumni To update your contact information, visit lakelandcollege.ca/update

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ALUMNI SOCIAL FUN

Lakeland hit the road to reconnect with alumni.

We travelled to Regina, Sask., for Agribition in November, and we held a social at Farm Tech in Edmonton in January. And we were happy to reconnect with our alumni south of the border in Yuma, Ariz., in February. Our next alumni social will be held in Edmonton in April, followed by Homecoming 2017 in June.

Check the alumni social events list on page seven or visit lakelandcollege.ca/alumni for other upcoming events. We hope to see you at one of our socials!

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

TRIO CONNECTS MARKETING CREATIVES

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Legend has it in the year 1450 the commercial printing press was invented, thus revolutionizing the world of communication.

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that was not available before.”

Knourek credits her professors at Lakeland, who taught her the importance of asking the simple question “why?”, with the genesis of 1450 Marketing Collective.

“When asked in a respectful, curiosity-inducing fashion, this question is very powerful,” says Knourek, Class of 2007 business diploma and Class of 2008 commerce degree. “In terms of shaping 1450MC, we saw the need that existed in bringing together those in the marketing and creative fields and essentially asked the question, ‘Why can’t we have something like this in Lloydminster?’

“This mantra has continued to push us toward excellence in everything we do,” adds Knourek.

Since the first social gathering in June 2015, which saw eight people in attendance via personal invites, their goal has remained the same – to enhance the marketing and communications field in Lloydminster and area through regularly scheduled events.

Kristine Knourek (front left) and Jill Kelly (second from the right) returned to the Lloydminster campus to speak with second-year marketing major students about the industry and 1450MC in 2016.

T

imes change and people evolve, but one constant is the deep desire for learning, connection and passion for and within one’s industry. Enter three Lakeland College alumnae, who set out to create an avenue to enhance the marketing and communications fields in Lloydminster and area under the banner known as 1450 Marketing Collective (1450MC).

The trio behind 1450MC includes Jill Kelly, brand strategist and owner of Red Bicycle Communications, Penny Manners, alumni relations and marketing specialist at Lakeland, and Kristine Knourek, marketing and communications manager for Lloydminster & District Co-op.

Before CBC Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada was held in Lloydminster in 2014, the co-founders perceived there was a limited pool of marketing professionals in Lloydminster.

It wasn’t until after spending two years on the volunteer committee they realized how large the industry is locally, and sought to bring creatives together.

“It was a great moment of clarity and inspiration,” says Kelly, Class of 2006 university transfer. “We were compelled to connect marketers and creatives in the community in a way

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

“Each meet-up is so unique and diverse. As marketers do, we wanted to test the community and see what people were interested in,” says Manners, Class of 1994 university transfer. The collective responded by adding guest speakers and inviting local experts for roundtable discussions and panels on marketing and communication subjects.

Previous events included traditional networking events where attendees were provided opportunities to ask questions in a professional and accommodating atmosphere. Other gatherings have steered to the educational side, exploring trends in the industry, sharing common experiences and learning from one another’s individual expertise.

Now, attendance has increased to an average of 40 people at these inclusive learning and networking opportunities, hosted for those working in or interested in the field of marketing, design and other creative industries.

As for what the co-founders find most gratifying, it’s learning more about marketing from the local specialists they invite to speak, asking questions of those around them at networking events and being able to connect with others working in similar fields.

Events are held regularly (excluding December, July and August) and are open to the public. More information about 1450MC can be found online at 1450mc.com, their Facebook page, 1450 Marketing Collective, or on Twitter, @1450MC. “1450MC is a wonderful place to connect, learn, and mingle with like-minded creatives … no matter what your industry is,” says Knourek.

ALUMNA

PURSUES PASSION

programs, I knew I wanted to “If I could fully explain the feeling I make the most of my education get when I’m working with a child for my career so I enrolled in and their whole face lights up, I It’s the tiny moments that both. I knew at the end of the would have to say I enjoy that the Rhiannon Cave really appreciates two years I would have gained most,” says the Lakeland College alumna, Class of 2011 and 2012. about her work with the Eagles Nest more information and developed important skills, and I did.”

Cave completed the early learning Out of School Care Society. and child care certificate and Thanks to an international diploma programs at the Vermilion campus. She’s now the practicum opportunity available every second year in program director for the Eagles Nest Out of School Care Lakeland’s School of Human Services, Cave was able to Society which opened in September 2016 in Edgerton, travel while at college. During her second year of studies, Alta. she and her peers went to the Dominican Republic Cave is in charge of the community’s new before- and afterschool child care program. As the only one of its kind in Edgerton, the society is providing a much-needed service to local families.

“We accept children from kindergarten to Grade 6, and are currently licensed for 24 children,” says Cave, who has a level three certification in early learning and child care, is qualified by the Government of Alberta as a child development supervisor and is the main staff member at Eagles Nest.

“I plan and implement all activities myself, as well as I am the main go-to for parents and I’m in charge of recording all child subsidy claims.”

Cave planned to travel before she started her postsecondary education. However, an opportunity to work with children at a daycare saw Cave draft new plans for the future.

“I applied to Lakeland on a whim and when my acceptance letter came in the mail I was over the moon,” she says.

“When I read about the early learning and child care program plus the option of the certificate and diploma

and worked with the Community Service Alliance. They travelled to Santo Domingo to tour local schools and learn about the local history and culture. They visited Puerto Plata to work with local children and paint educational murals, and even poured cement floors and built latrines in Neiba.

“It was the perfect way to end two years of college,” says Cave, who hails from Wainwright, Alta. “We were able to use the skills we developed at Lakeland. It was right up my alley being able to work with children and travel, so I couldn’t turn the opportunity down.”

Cave enjoys her work as the program director at Eagles Nest and has quickly realized that the more she interacts with the children, the better the programming becomes.

“I’ve learned to really get to know the children in my care so I can plan and implement activities that work best for them,” she says.

She’s confident enrolment in the before-and-after school program will continue to grow. “We eventually want enough children registered for our program to be considered full and even have a waitlist. Then we’ll be able to hire more staff to help more families.”

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Meaningful

MENTORSHIP

Grayden Kay believes everything is better with some cows around. Since a young age, the Lakeland College alum has been heavily involved in showing purebred cattle and attending shows and sales.

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“

I

love getting up every morning knowing that there are cattle waiting for me to feed them,” says Kay, Class of 2015 and 2016 agricultural sciences. He’s continually building his operation, Rockytop Cattle Company, a 30-head purebred Simmental and Angus herd he runs south of Lloydminster, Alta./Sask.

“We’re a small operation right now, but one that is growing. I have lots of plans, I just have to make them happen,” he says with a laugh. While Kay’s goal is to one day farm full-time, he’s keeping busy in school and later plans to launch a career in ag.

So far Kay’s earned an animal science technology and agribusiness diploma at Lakeland’s Vermilion campus.

Now, he’s working on a business degree, with a major in marketing, at Lakeland’s Lloydminster campus thanks to the college’s partnership with Athabasca University.

“I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” says Kay of his Lakeland experience. “I love the small class sizes and how personable it all is. Here we are known by name and recognized in the hallway by our instructors, we know our classmates and I just love the environment.”

“The real beauty of this program is that even after I’ve completed it, I will know my mentor forever.”

To “bridge the gap” between his studies and launching a career in the beef industry, Kay successfully applied to the Cattlemen’s Young Leaders (CYL) Mentorship Program.

“I am excited to expand my network.

I have one more year of school after this, but in the meantime I want to meet as many people as I can and figure out all of the career paths there are in the beef industry,” says Kay, who works part-time as a project manager for Bellaspur Innovative Media.

The CYL Mentorship Program matches candidates with a handselected expert in the mentee’s specific field of interest. And once matched, together they set out goals

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

they wish to achieve over the eightmonth mentorship.

Through attendance of industry events, meetings with their mentors and the completion of the Beef Advocacy Canada program, candidates like Kay build their knowledge base and grow as highly capable individuals to represent and lead the beef industry into the future.

sharing and analyzing our results, giving presentations and applying everything we learned to our work on the farm and SME. The instructors really pushed us to develop our true potential.”

lot, serves on different boards and committees, and is a great public speaker. To see how she works, prepares and delivers speeches and conducts herself professionally has been a great learning opportunity.”

Together, Kay and Wilson attended the Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference in January, and a series of beef producer and association meetings in February. They also visited Lakeland’s Vermilion campus where Kay spoke about the CYL Mentorship Program and Wilson talked about the beef information exchange system.

With over 70 applicants interested in the 2016 program, Kay was one of 24 selected to attend the semi-final roundtables at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in August.

During the semi-finals, Grayden Kay (far right) learned a lot from being part of Lakeland's Student“The unique part about candidates were tasked Managed Enterprise. He's excited to expand his network and learn from his CYL this program is that with discussing different mentor, as he continues to build his operation, Rockytop Cattle Company. we have someone to topics and issues with take us to all of these the beef industry in front As one of the 16 successful CYL events and help us network,” says of a panel of judges. A mixture of mentorship recipients, Kay was paired Kay, who encourages other students stress and fun is how Kay describes up with his mentor, Deborah Wilson, to apply to the CYL program. “Being the experience. in October. And since then she’s been part of this program is a perfect fit “Although the topics were quite assisting Kay with developing his for me right now and to be able to complex, I wasn’t fazed by the network. meet someone like Deb, it’s hugely questions that were being asked and beneficial. She’s been great at sharing “I am really excited to be able to how to respond to them because we her schedule with me and allowing shadow her,” says Kay. For nearly were put through so much of that by me to attend many of her events 40 years, Wilson has worked in the our instructors in Vermilion that it felt and meetings. She’s assisting me in ag industry as a livestock producer natural. But everyone at the table was becoming a stronger beef advocate, while maintaining a successful so skilled and knowledgeable, so I am and is great at sharing her findings career in administration, advertising, really honoured to be chosen for the and experiences with me.” marketing, sales and business program,” says Kay. development. She’s worked for Farm And while the program will be done During his three years at Lakeland’s Business Communications, a division in eight months, Kay is confident he’ll Vermilion campus, Kay had the of Glacier Farm Media, and writes be able to turn to Wilson for advice opportunity to work on the Studentfor Canadian Cattlemen. Wilson is and support for years to come.

Managed Farm – Powered by the senior vice-president of BIXSco “The real beauty of this program is New Holland as the purebred unit Inc., which controls the Canadian that even after I’ve completed it, I will leader. He was also a member of voluntary Internet database designed know my mentor forever.” the inaugural Student-Managed to capture and exchange data linked Enterprise (SME). to an animal’s unique electronic ID Producers between the ages tag number. of 18 and 35 can apply to “What’s so unique about Lakeland the CYL Mentorship Program programs are that they are so hands“I truly admire how dedicated and at no charge. Learn more at on,” he says. “Everything we did in ag passionate Deb is about the beef cattlemensyoungleaders.com. involved discussions and debates, industry,” says Kay. “She travels a SPRING 2017

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GOLDEN SPOTLIGHT shines on trades apprentice W

hen Filipa Borges moved to Canada’s Border City to pursue a career in welding over a decade ago, she probably never imagined being on Discovery’s Gold Rush.

When it came time to leave, tears were shed, says the 34-year-old welder. She learned not only about the production crew but the life experiences of everyone she worked alongside.

But, that’s exactly what happened to this Lakeland College Class of 2009 welding alumna.

“After spending six months with everyone, you get pretty close. Hopefully, I get to see them next year,” says Borges, who is already contemplating returning despite the personal hardship.

From April until October 2016, the Simcoe, Ont., native spent her days at a camp about 100 kilometres south of “Emotionally, mentally and physically it was tough,” Dawson City, Yukon, mining for gold with the Tony Beets explains Borges, who was away from her husband Randy crew. Borges was asked to join the team by fellow welder Rechlo for six months. “But I would “Big Mike” Beaudry, who’s been on the popular reality show for three “To this day, anyone I talk to about do it again in a heartbeat, so long as my husband is okay with it.” seasons.

getting their welding ticket, I tell

The show’s seventh season “The entire experience was them to go to Lakeland.” premiered on Nov. 1, 2016, and phenomenal. To see Canada’s since then Borges has seen herself northern scenery and the history in three episodes, joking the camera operators could have surrounding the area is amazing,” says Borges, adding taken better angles of her. However, Episode 13 (Lifeline), everyone should get to experience 24-hour daylight at which aired Jan. 17, is a favourite as it shows a shot of the least once in their lifetime. memorial sticker for Rick Mossip on her welding helmet.

“Everyone should go, even if only for a week.”

“Rick was our best man at our wedding, he passed away Throughout the season, a production crew of about 20 three months later,” says Borges. “Knowing he was up there people captured all the action. Cameras were constantly (in the Yukon) with me, I couldn’t have asked for anything within arm’s reach, recording nearly 300 hours of footage more.” for a single episode. When operators weren’t in sight, you Now, back home, Borges continues to operate her could be guaranteed a GoPro was watching. company, Scorpion Steel Ltd., offering 24-hour mobile “I had to bite my tongue,” says Borges with a laugh, welding services and custom fabrication. knowing someone was always listening. “But you get used As to how she first arrived at Lakeland, word of mouth to it and pretend no one is around.” played a large role. And now, she too is telling others What started as a dozen or so working under Beets’ about the program. daughter Monica in an all-female group, Borges was one “To this day, anyone I talk to about getting their welding of four females who stayed for the full stint. While not ticket, I tell them to go to Lakeland,” says Borges. “The unfamiliar with the work at hand, she was provided multiple instructors are amazing and very encouraging for a female.” hands-on opportunities to build and dismantle barges and trailers, operating a dredge, haul trucks and various other Welding is one of nine apprenticeship trades offered at equipment.

Lakeland College’s Trades Centre at the Vermilion campus.

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FROM ESTHETICIAN to

ENTREPRENEUR

F

ranki Spinney is passionate about skincare. If you walk into her spa – Luscious Beauty Clinic – in downtown Lloydminster, this Class of 2013 Lakeland College alumna would be more than happy to tell you why.

“I want people to get the best outcome possible with their skincare that they can,” she says. “We do a lot of body treatments and we focus a lot on skincare.”

“I have always wanted to have my own business and this is perfect for me. I love this industry.”

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Originally from Nova Scotia, Spinney understands all too well how the dry prairie climate can wreak havoc on one’s skin. And so does her business partner Lisa Carroll, who hails from Ireland.

“Living in a place with the ocean nearby, that extra moisture can make your skin healthier and more luscious,” says Spinney. “Living here

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

can be a challenge for skincare, which is why we offer quality, organic skincare products and spa services that can ensure your skin is lush and healthy year-round.”

At Luscious Beauty Clinic, Spinney and her team specializes in a range of body treatments, including wraps and scrubs, facials, waxing, manual spray tan, hand and foot treatments, makeup services and more. “Between all of us, we have a lot of different levels of education and strengths so it works out really well,” says Spinney, adding they proudly offer the Eminence organic skincare line from Hungary.

Before going into business for herself, Spinney originally left the East Coast in search of work. Instead, she found Lakeland College’s esthetician program. “I really enjoyed how

hands-on the program was, but it was a lot harder than you realize. It’s more than just painting nails – there is so much to learn and so many skills to develop,” says Spinney. “For me, working in the spa and meeting clients provided really valuable experience. Lakeland is one of the best places to go for an esthetician program because the instructors are the best.”

After graduation, Spinney worked in a local spa for several years.

That’s where she met Carroll.

Neither was ready to open their own business. Spinney honed her skills and continued her education by taking courses in skincare and microneedling. “I got a lot of experience working there and I learned a lot from my colleagues,” she says.

When the spa they worked at together closed, Spinney says it was the push she needed to make the leap from esthetician to business owner with Carroll. “It was as though

one door had closed but the next one was already open for us,” she says.

“Lisa and I had wanted to open a spa for a while and it was time.”

Luscious Beauty Clinic opened in June 2016. Since then, business has been going strong. “We’ve had a lot of new people come through our doors as well as our great client base,” says Spinney. “Downtown Lloydminster is very supportive. It’s amazing to see other local businesses support you and we’re happy to support them too. Everyone is helping each other out.”

The transition from esthetician to entrepreneur has been interesting and rewarding, says Spinney, who returned to Lakeland’s Lloydminster campus in the fall to speak with current esthetician students about her experience.

“It was great to be back on campus to speak with them. My advice to them is to expand your skills and go with what you’re interested in. Find your strong points and strengths and build on

Purchase your own piece of

LAKELAND HISTORY! Lakeland’s Alumni Association has a surplus of the following:

those,” she says. “I also encouraged students to get some experience in the industry first, before starting your own business. That experience is very valuable because it shows you what it’s like in industry.”

Just as she learned at Lakeland, customer service is a top priority for Spinney and her team at Luscious Beauty Clinic. Ensuring her clients are well taken care of and happy with their services requires ongoing education, which Spinney enjoys.

“This industry is always growing and changing, so you can always learn more and keep enhancing your skills,” she says. “It makes us a lot happier that we can do this on our own. I have always wanted to have my own business and this is perfect for me. I love this industry.”

Located at 5003-49 Ave. in Lloydminster, Sask., Luscious Beauty Clinic is open Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, visit lusciousbeautyclinic.com or find them on Facebook, Instagram or Snapchat.

Whether you’d like to create a new academic award, establish a memorial scholarship or donate to Lakeland in honour of a fellow alumnus, we’re here to help.

Contact Shauna Zack to find out how you can help Lakeland students take the lead.

Call: 780.853.8628 Email: shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca Visit: lakelandcollege.ca/donate

50-year anniversary books 75-year anniversary books Plus yearbooks!

Contact Sandra Bernes, Class of ’66, with the Alumni Association.

Purchase by donation.

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ROYAL ROLE Alumna named Miss Rodeo Canada

F

rom Balzac, Alta., to Australia, Ali Mullin, Class of 2014 agribusiness, has a busy year of travel ahead of her. She’ll be living out of a suitcase for much of it as she attends upwards of 500 events as Miss Rodeo Canada 2017.

“It’s definitely a whirlwind but it’s all kinds of fun and I wouldn’t change it,” says Mullin. The Lakeland College alumna was crowned Miss Rodeo Canada in Edmonton, Alta. on Nov. 12 – her parents’ wedding anniversary – during the 43rd Canadian Finals Rodeo.

“The competition was quite intense but it was a lot of fun,” she says. Competitors for the crown were judged on horsemanship and public speaking, among other criteria.

Mullin worked hard at preparing for the competition in the summer. She even honed her public speaking skills as an emcee at Lakeland’s first annual Feast on the Farm in August.

“I am going to be doing a lot of events like that now,” says Mullin, who travelled to Denver, Colo., in January for the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo and Cowboy Downhill Ski Race, among other events. “People don’t think we’re active in the winter because the rodeo season slows down in Canada, but that’s when I do lots of my United States travel.”

Mullin’s first trip as Miss Rodeo Canada 2017 was to Las Vegas, Nev., for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in December. She rode in the grand entry almost every night, was involved in the Montana Silversmiths buckle presentations and much more.

“We got to see a lot of Vegas but all with a very strong rodeo flavour. It was really cool for me to see this great big city that was all lights, noises and loud action, but it was turned into a cowboy town,” says Mullin, who’s currently pursuing a bachelor of applied arts in visual communications at Medicine Hat College.

Travelling across North America and even to Australia comes with the territory as Miss Rodeo Canada. “It’s my duty to try to grow the sport of rodeo in the best way that I can,” says Mullin, the 2015 Medicine Hat Exhibition and

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Stampede Queen. “With my marketing background from Lakeland, I learned about not just advertising to your existing audience but also pushing the envelope to draw in more fans to your product. I think if we apply that strategy to rodeo, that’s a way for us to generate more interest in the general population.”

from, if you have the desire to do something and you are committed, then you are capable of reaching that goal.”

Originally from Cartwright, Man., Mullin has always had interest in a western way of life and rodeo. She grew up ranching with her parents on their Manitoba quarter horse operation.

“I do give Lakeland College credit for reigniting my interest and even preparing me for Miss Rodeo Canada,” she adds. “Lakeland helped me to grow enough to have the confidence to think I could take on that role and become that person. I think that I have and I am really grateful for that.”

As a Lakeland student, Mullin immersed herself in her studies and extra-curricular activities. She was a member of Lakeland’s Rodeo Team and several clubs, including Rodeo, Stock Dog and Ag Tour. “Plus, I was an opening act at the first annual Band in the Sand,” Mullin says, noting learning An ambassador for the sport, Mullin not only visits rodeos at Lakeland is a family affair. Her cousin Shannon graduated but attends community events, teaches people about the in 2014 and her sister Quinn stock and rodeo events, its history and more. “What a lot “It doesn’t matter where you come from, graduated in 2016. of people, even in the rodeo if you have the desire to do something and Mullin excelled as a Lakeland world, might not know is that you are committed, then you are capable of student. She received the the rodeo queen is actually a President’s Medal and made big part of the promotional reaching that goal.” the President’s Honour Roll and and marketing aspect of our Agricultural Sciences Dean’s sport,” she says. “I want to use this title as a way to promote List. “I wanted the full Lakeland experience,” she says. “I rodeo in areas that maybe don’t have a strong western or was also named the High Point Cowgirl and Cowgirl of the cowboy culture.”

Year in the Canadian Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.

Mullin’s fascination with Miss Rodeo Canada was sparked as a young girl, but it wasn’t until she was a student at Lakeland’s Vermilion campus that Mullin decided to pursue her dream of being queen.

“I got to know some of the Miss Rodeo Canada alumni – Nicole Briggs and Katy Lucas – through the Canadian Intercollegiate Rodeo Association and it fired up my passion again,” she says with a laugh. “And now I want to use this title as a way to promote rodeo in those areas, like Manitoba, that don’t have as much of it. I also want to remind others that it doesn’t matter where you come

The Kissimmee Rodeo in Florida, Medicine Hat Broncs and Honky Tonks Spring Rodeo, Ponoka Stampede, Canadian Finals Rodeo and many other events will keep Mullin busy as Miss Rodeo Canada throughout 2017.

“I can’t wait to just soak it all in and promote this great sport.”

To learn more about Miss Rodeo Canada or to request an appearance, visit missrodeocanada.ca.

Ali Mullin (left) and Carson Reid, Class of 2016 agribusiness, co-emceed Feast on the Farm 2016.

Mullin says that experience helped her prepare for the Miss Rodeo Canada competition.

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Powerful

design

Interior design technology alumnae open Shade Design Collective LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE 22

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Taylor Bertoia (left) and Amy Kistner (right) are the proud owners of Shade Design Collective.

L

“When you make it your own, you

themselves as casualties of a ong hours working in want to be in that space – that’s the slow economy. They took the a machining shop as a power of design.” plunge and went into business draftsperson left Amy for themselves.

Kistner, Class of 2010, and Taylor Bertoia, Class of 2011, uninspired.

“It was a sign,” says Kistner, with a laugh, of being laid off The Lakeland College interior design technology alumnae drafted and designed parts, tool boxes and other industry products for an oilfield company in Lloydminster, Alta./ Sask. “It was a great job to have but it wasn’t creative,” says Kistner, who’s originally from Porcupine Plain, Sask.

Given their artistic backgrounds, their desire to design overtook them. "On some down time, we decided to create something of visual interest – a world map," adds Bertoia, who hails from Cut Knife, Sask.

Creating the map involved drafting and cutting, as well as painting. Following hours of research on metal refinishing and how to create a rustic look, both were satisfied with the end result; in fact, so much so that they shared a photo of their large-scale artwork on an online yard sale. The feedback they received was overwhelmingly positive.

“We thought ‘Hmmm, maybe we’re on to something,’” says Kistner, who met Bertoia while taking the two-year diploma program at the Vermilion campus.

Together, they researched other projects they could create using different metals. Their hobby burgeoned into something more when both Kistner and Bertoia found

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within six months of each other. Since December 2015, Shade Design Collective has grown into a creative custom venture for Bertoia and Kistner.

With a modern and contemporary design aesthetic, Bertoia and Kistner create a range of products including home décor, signage, furniture, stair railings, fireplace screens, privacy panels and more. Using steel and aluminum, wood and a number of products for different finishes, Bertoia says the options are endless.

“We enjoy surprising our clients with our creativity – quite often they don’t know what’s possible with design and we’re happy to show them,” she adds, noting they’ll accommodate any style in their work.

Popular in Australia, their decorative outdoor panels are now catching on in the Midwest. They help block wind, provide privacy and create shade, which is what inspired their company’s namesake. “We focused a lot on shadows right from the start,” says Kistner, stressing the importance of how their pieces interact with their clients’ space.

As small business owners and entrepreneurs, Bertoia and Kistner do it all. They recently opened up a new

shop in Lloydminster, complete with a showroom that features their latest work. They’ve just launched their website – shadedesignco.com – and they manage their own social media accounts (Instagram and Facebook).

They’re in charge of marketing their work, working with clients, designing and finishing pieces, shipping products and everything else that comes with running your own business.

“It’s a little overwhelming at times, but we set aside time so we can just create things because otherwise we’d get bogged down with all the projects. It’s a chance for us to collect ourselves,” says Kistner.

“It helps us relax and refocus,” adds Bertoia.

When it comes to creating their custom works of art and functional décor, AutoCad plays a starring role in their design process. Once they’ve completed their design in AutoCad, the design duo move on to cutting out their work with a CNC plasma table.

“Learning AutoCad at Lakeland was great. I’ve used it in every job I’ve had since graduating and continue to use it today,” says Bertoia. “With Lakeland’s program, you really learn the depths of design. It taught us how to research and look at everything as a whole in our work. You can branch out into so many different areas with this program.”

“It’s a base for so many things. All of our friends from the program do something different,” adds Kistner, listing graphic design, upholstery design and contract design as examples.

In their first year of business, Shade Design Collective has served clients across Western Canada. One client – The Meating Room – discovered their work through their @shadedesignco Instagram account. Bertoia and Kistner created wall panels, signage and a cafe door for this new Regina, Sask., restaurant.

Branching out and working with other designers, architects and creatives across different industries is what Bertoia and Kistner want next for Shade Design Collective. They’re on their way to achieving this vision too. The pair is working with an Edmonton company to provide decorative wall panels for their modern homes.

“We can help people make another living space outdoors or help make living spaces more functional. I think people enjoy life more when they are comfortable in their space,” says Bertoia. “When you make it your own, you want to be in that space – it’s the power of design.”

And that’s exactly what Shade Design Collective excels at.

Located at 5217-63 St. in Lloydminster, Alta., Shade Design Collective is open by appointment. For more information, call 306.821.7760.

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STUDENTS IN THE LEAD

BIO LAB

quenches thirst for

KNOWLEDGE University transfer students took charge of the lab for their final project in Bio 108 Introduction to Biological Diversity.

Asked to take an investigative approach in researching a chosen invertebrate animal, students designed and executed their own experiments with the national standards of animal care in mind. One group of three — Emily Rondeau, Kyle Schooley and Marti King — chose bean beetles.

Over the course of three labs, the trio conducted extensive research, performed their experiments and presented their findings. “The idea for our experiment came from one sentence we read in our research that said if presented with water, female beetles would drink more because it helps with reproduction,” says Rondeau, a firstyear pre-dental hygiene student. “Normally these beetles don’t eat or drink their entire adult life, which is only a 10-day stage, because they only exist to mate.”

For their experiment, male and female beetles were separated.

Their water consumption was monitored.

Designing the experiment from scratch proved to be a challenge the group was prepared for. “Thinking about

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how we were going to measure the water properly and if it would give us results was tough, but I think we did a pretty good job drawing on the skills we developed earlier this semester,” says Schooley, a first-year pre-dentistry student.

As for their results, the female beetles did drink more than their male counterparts. In addition to their experiments, each group conducted secondary research about their invertebrate’s habitat, physical characteristics, body structure, natural history and taxonomy.

“It was also cool to be in the driver’s seat and in charge of an experiment. It was interesting to see where we could take our research in the lab,” says Rondeau. Each group created a large-scale poster and shared their project with their class. Afterwards, the posters were displayed in the hallways at the Lloydminster campus.

“It’s really important for us to have an opportunity like this,” says Schooley. “We got to decide what we did in the lab rather than following more instruction, which does have its place in learning, but this put us in charge of the experiment.

We got to figure out how to put together the experiment from the start and work through it.

Now that we’ve done it, I can’t wait to do it again.”

CAMPUS NEWS

LAKELAND WELCOMES NEW INDIGENOUS SUPPORT SPECIALIST Dedicated to guiding Indigenous students in their transition to college while leading and promoting retention strategies, Clint Chocan joins Lakeland College as its first Indigenous student support specialist.

"The most important thing is I’ll be working with aboriginal students and supporting them while attending Lakeland. My hope is to offer a smooth transition for students moving off-reserve and to facilitate a support system for them to achieve their goals of completing their programs,” says Chocan.

Having spent the past 20 years working in the Onion Lake Cree Nation education system, the Onion Lake resident earned his bachelor’s degree in education (majoring in Cree Language and minoring in Native studies) in 2013 and brings with him a wealth of knowledge.

Chocan held various positions

within the band, including computer support/network technician, Cree language resource developer, Cree language teacher, and most recently Cree language specialist.

As the Indigenous student support specialist, Chocan will also assist in the development of aboriginal awareness and appreciation of Indigenous culture throughout Lakeland. Chocan also acts as a liaison between Lakeland College and the surrounding aboriginal communities and is hoping to improve relations and provide a better understanding between aboriginal and non-aboriginal cultures.

Chocan provides his expertise to both campus students’ associations as they continue to host First Nations events and introduce a cultural feast, Round Dance and a bannock-making contest.

Milestone

SUPPORT Close to $1.5 million in awards, scholarships and bursaries will be distributed to Lakeland College students by the end of the 2016-2017 academic year.

Generous donor support, including seven new donors, will see more than 1,500 students benefit from the student awards program this year.

To thank donors for their support and congratulate recipients on their achievements, Lakeland hosted donor celebration ceremonies in Lloydminster on March 8 and Vermilion on March 14.

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Instructor earns Canada’s first

VTS CREDENTIAL Two and a half years of hard work has paid off for Lakeland College’s Brianne Bellwood. The Lakeland instructor is Canada’s first credentialed veterinary technician specialist in the field of clinical pathology.

Bellwood earned this credential in September 2016 after being the only applicant invited to challenge the exam governed by the Academy of Veterinary Clinical Pathology Technicians (AVCPT).

“It’s exciting,” says a humbled Bellwood, an instructor for both animal health technology and

NEW PROGRAM

focuses on modern business skills Students in Lakeland College’s newest business program will learn to take the lead in a modern business environment.

Administrative professional, a one-year blended certificate program, begins this fall at the Lloydminster campus. Featuring courses such as business communications, office procedures, workplace writing and computer applications, students develop skills that will make them valuable members of any business.

“With this certificate, students can advance in any business organization and take charge of their future with a solid foundation in business basics,” says Michael Crowe, Lakeland’s vice president, academic.

The program includes a combination of face-to-face and online courses. Social media marketing and human relations will be delivered online. Students finish the program with a three-week work practicum in a professional office.

“Based on input we’ve received from the business community and our alumni, we believe a large number of people in the region could benefit from this opportunity to develop modern, professional administrative skills,” says Brad Onofrychuk, dean of the School of Business and Continuing Education.

Applications are now being accepted.

Learn more at lakelandcollege.ca/business.

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veterinary medical assistant programs at the Vermilion campus.

“This area of study has always been a passion of mine.”

To become certified, Bellwood was required to compile a lengthy application and go through a vetting process with the Academy.

The application consisted of case reports, a comprehensive skills verification list, hundreds of case logs, numerous hours of continuing education, as well as compiling standard operating procedures performed in a veterinary clinical lab.

Dairy unit recognized with

PROVINCIAL AWARD A combination of strong communication, hard work and consistency netted Lakeland College’s dairy unit a Milk Quality Award from Alberta Milk.

“It’s recognition from industry that we’re doing a great job and that’s the goal that we’re striving for,” says Darrell Hickman, chair of Lakeland’s School of Agricultural Sciences.

Lakeland is one of 204 producers out of 535 qualified to receive this award for the 2015-2016 milk year by the provincial milk marketing board.

Receiving a Milk Quality Award is a team effort.

“Everybody has to do their part to make sure that it happens. Morgan (Sangster) does an incredible job of running the dairy facility and making sure that the pieces come together,” says Hickman.

“The students can’t learn if they don’t have a great example provided for them, and she makes sure that happens for them.”

In order for Lakeland to ship milk and not face any penalties, certain criteria regarding bacteria count (IBC), somatic cell count (SCC), freezing point (FP) and inhibitors (INH) must be met.

ENERGY STUDENTS

trump provincial ABSA average

Students in Lakeland’s energy programs exceeded the provincial pass rate for the Alberta Boilers Safety Authority (ABSA) exam.

Heavy oil operations technician (HOOT) and first-year heavy oil power engineer (HOPE) students achieved an 86 per cent pass rate for the 4th class ABSA exam, trumping the 2015 provincial pass rate of 67 per cent. Second-year HOPE students bested the 2015 provincial pass rate of 77 per cent by achieving an 86 per cent pass rate on the 3rd class ABSA exam.

“Our students work hard and it shows. These are really good marks for our students,” says Kevin Ma, chair of Lakeland’s energy department. “We are definitely happy about this but we can always improve.”

The students’ strong pass rate is a key indicator for how successful Lakeland’s energy programs are. The combination of the department’s wealth of experience and comprehensive lab work enables students to take the lead, according to Ma. “Our labs provide excellent hands-on learning opportunities for our students.

This helps them to achieve high marks and excel on practicums. I have been to quite a few colleges and Lakeland’s labs are probably among the best in the country,” says Ma of the Husky Energy Power Engineering Lab and the Energy Centre located at the Lloydminster campus. “The new Energy Centre is a state-of-the-art facility designed just for teaching purposes. They incorporated as many different types of equipment as possible with industry input, so the students are exposed to many different systems and techniques.”

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NEW DEAN

for School Of Business & Continuing Education

F

or Brad Onofrychuk, the 2016-17 academic year has been a busy one. Taking on the role of dean for the School of Business and Continuing Education in August, Onofrychuk has been hard at work at the helm of this school.

“It’s been going very well and I’m honoured to have this opportunity at Lakeland. We’re excited about having business and continuing education together in one school,” he says of the reorganized school at the Lloydminster campus. “We’ve got talented people in both areas and we’re making positive changes.”

No stranger to Lakeland, Onofrychuk has been with the business department since 2007 when he joined the faculty. For the last five years, Onofrychuk served as the Lakeland business chair and a part-time instructor. He led Lakeland’s case competition team for four years and saw them reach the podium twice at the Alberta Deans of 30

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Business Case Competition. In 2011, Onofrychuk took his economics class to London, England, for an international learning field trip.

Before coming to Lakeland, Onofrychuk earned a bachelor of management and international management degree from the University of Lethbridge and an MBA from Ipade Business School, the top business school in Latin America.

The business department offers the accounting technician and administrative professional certificate programs, and a business administration diploma, which features five majors: accounting, general business, marketing, real estate appraisal and assessment, and small business and entrepreneurship.

The continuing education department offers programs and courses in employment skills enhancement, energy, and performing arts, among other areas of interest.

“Lacer The Racer” Alumni Golf Tournament In memory of Lacey Longworth

LLOYDMINSTER FIRE DEPARTMENT SUPPORTS

Saturday, July 29, 2017 Registration deadline: July 14, 2017 Fundraiser for a Rowing Scholarship at Lakeland College Join us for Golf & Steak Dinner or for the Steak Dinner only Vermilion Fair Beer Gardens get-together to follow

LAKELAND Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre’s fleet was enhanced with a donation from the Lloydminster Fire Department.

Pre-register by July 14 Phone: 780.853.8628 | Email: shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca Please submit all payments for golf/steak supper to the Vermilion Golf Club on July 29.

In February a special ceremony was held for the official handoff of the department’s former aerial truck. The vehicle served Lloydminster for more than 30 years.

“Lacer The Racer” Alumni Golf Tournament Registration Form

“On behalf of Lakeland College’s Emergency Training Centre, I would like to thank Fire Chief Jordan Newton and the Lloydminster Fire Department for their generous donation of the aerial unit,” said Chris Senaratne, dean of the Emergency Training Centre.

“It is with your generosity we are able to enhance our fleet, enabling us to provide a stronger education to our business clients and our students – the leaders of today.”

Golf and Steak

Please Print

Name (First)

(Last)

Address

Phone

Steak Only

City

Home

Cell

Province

Postal Code

Email

All payments for golf/steak supper are payable at the Vermilion Golf & Country Club on July 29, 2017 To register fill in this form and mail to: Lakeland College, c/o Shauna Zack

Fax to 780.853.8704

5707 College Drive, Vermilion Alberta, T9X 1K5

Email: shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca

Lakeland College will recognize contributions by publishing donor names in its publications and website. If you wish to remain anonymous, please contact us at 1.800.661.6490 ext 8703. Lakeland College complies with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act of Alberta. Information collected through the donation process is used in the normal course of College operations in accordance with this legislation. If you have any questions about the collection and use of this information, please contact the FOIP coordinator. Please do not send money with this registration form. Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $20 or more.

If you have any questions regarding this event or would like to donate to the Rowing Scholarship, contact Shauna Zack at 780.853.8586 Donations will be accepted at the Alumni Golf Tournament

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NEW SEED DRILL FOR CROP RESEARCH

T

he success of an experimental trial hinges on the day of seeding. “Therefore, having a piece of machinery that is going to do a quality job really helps the rest of the program flow forward,” says Laurel Perrott, a crop research specialist at Lakeland who’s looking forward to using Lakeland’s new specialized seed drill.

Designed in partnership with Lakeland and manufactured

by Fabro in Swift Current, Sask., the new drill features five seed and fertilizer hoppers and what Perrott says is the most crucial feature of the drill – two precision cone planters. “This new seed drill is very versatile and leaves a lot of room for us to grow the program as well as raise the profile of the college as a whole through the research we’ll be able to perform,” says Perrott.

Lakeland is already in the early stages on a number of new projects with the new seed drill, which arrived on campus in winter 2016.

Lakeland’s crop research team received approval for funding through the Alberta Crop Industry Development Fund (ACIDF) to conduct a herbicide and nitrogen fertility trial to control toadflax and hoary alyssum weeds in pastures. There are six satellite sites with natural toadflax and hoary alyssum populations located in the Municipal District of Wainwright and Lamont County. The research team is also partnering with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry (AAF) and the University of Alberta to conduct a large plant growth regulator project in the 2017 growing season to address lodging reduction in cereals.

Perrott is already planning crop research projects into the 2018-2023 growing seasons on the topics of canola stand establishment, corn fertility and N fertilization, and the potential benefits of using malt barley genetics for feed end-use with new partners.

Laurel Perrott, crop research specialist at Lakeland College, stands beside research department's custom built seed drill.

COLLEGEnew ALUMNI MAGAZINE 32 the appliedLAKELAND

Automotive department’s fleet

EXPANDS Students in Lakeland College’s automotive service technician apprenticeship program now have three new vehicles to aid in their educational experience in Vermilion.

In December 2016, Lakeland received by donation a 2017 GMC Tracker from General Motors of Canada, and a Ford Escape and a Ford Focus hatchback - both 2015 models from Ford Motor Company of Canada.

“Being able to gain more hands-on experience on newer vehicles definitely aids in our training, especially coming from a dealership,” says Thomas Stevenson, a second-year apprentice at Norris Ford Sales in Wainwright. Working at a dealership typically provides real-world experience on vehicles less than five years old; therefore having a newer inventory “is great because I can apply what I learned right away.”

The new additions bring Lakeland’s new-vehicle inventory to five. About a year ago the automotive program received a 2015 Dodge Charger by donation and the department purchased a 2008 Toyota Prius for hybrid training.

The automotive department also has various older vehicles that are industry-relevant and serve as useful tools to

Paige Skrypichayko (left) and Thomas Stevenson, both secondyear automotive service technician apprentices, are two of many students to get their hands on three recently donated vehicles.

complete objectives set out in the training guidelines.

“I sincerely thank both General Motors and Ford for supporting our automotive service technician program through their recent donations,” says Dave King, dean, trades and technology. “While it remains important for our students to have the knowledge and understanding of older automotive technology, their generosity will help in keeping our programs as current as possible.”

The new additions will also be used in the parts technician apprenticeship program as well as the career and technology studies (CTS) partnership with Buffalo Trail Public Schools, and St. Jerome’s Catholic School and Blessed Sacrament School of East Central Alberta Catholic Schools.

RUSTLERS ANNUAL GOLF TO UR NAMENT

Support our student-athletes! All proceeds go towards the athletics program for scholarships and travel expenses as they pursue provincial and national championships.

August 31, 2017 Lloydminster Golf & Curling Centre Texas Scramble Format – Shotgun start at 9 a.m.

Registration: Team of 4: $1,000 | Individual: $250 Includes 18 holes of golf with cart, breakfast, supper, hole-in-one-prizes, food and beverage tents, door prizes, tax receipt for taxable portion of the registration and a lot of fun!

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sheray Thomas at sheray.thomas@lakelandcollege.ca or 780.871.5472

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THE WAY FORWARD

MOOC IS OPEN

After a successful pilot period, The Way Forward – Transitional Life Skills for Military Members and their Families is now available as a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) for anyone to access.

The Way Forward is a free online resource designed for military members, their spouses and their dependents. Students complete modules on communication, organization, goals, transition challenges, emotions, mental health and resources. The content is available online through Desire2Learn, the learning management system Lakeland uses.

“There’s no time limit, people can work through the modules at their own pace.

There are discussion threads they can use as well, which I moderate,” says Dale Pearce, an accessibility advisor in The Learning Commons at Lakeland College.

Development of the resource began in February 2015 when Lakeland College officials asked employees for new programming ideas. As a former military member, Pearce knew there was a need for resources to help members adjust to life outside the military.

“It’s a need that I hope we have met with The Way Forward,” he says. “My hope is that this becomes an essential tool in the member’s toolkit as they transition from the military to life as a civilian.”

Unforgettable CFR for

LAKELAND COWBOYS Two Lakeland Rodeo Team members had their rodeo dreams come true when they competed in the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton Nov. 9-13, 2016.

Kolby Wanchuk won the novice saddle bronc event and Danny Vandenameele placed second in novice bareback. “It was an unreal experience and it was a lot of fun,” says Wanchuk, a heavy oil power engineering (HOPE) student at the Lloydminster campus.

“I managed to win three of the rounds and placed second in the other two,” says Wanchuk. He earned $5,200 for his work at the CFR. Competitors in the novice events are considered semi-pros.

Vandenameele, an agribusiness student at the Vermilion campus, pocketed $3,200 for winning the second and third rounds, and placing second in the fourth round.

Wanchuk and Vandenameele weren’t Lakeland’s only representatives at the CFR. Alumna Ali Mullen, Class of 2014, was crowned Miss Rodeo Canada. Students Hailey Tonn, Brooke Martine and Nicole Fossheim each received a Bill Kehler Memorial Scholarship during the CFR. 34

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INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES for enviro students

Danine Kidd and Brett MacDonald have been accepted into a five-week environmental expedition with Operation Wallacea.

Students in Lakeland’s and Brett MacDonald, a conservation Bachelor of applied science: and restoration ecology major, are environmental management (BASEM) environmental sciences taking part in Operation Wallacea. students travelled more than 12,860 programs are taking the lead kilometres for an international field Kidd will visit the Dinokeng Game abroad this year! trip to Sri Lanka. The entire BASEM Reserve and monitor leopards as well class – 13 students – and three assess how elephants use and effect habitat. From there, instructors, including environmental sciences chair Mal she will visit Sodwana Bay where lectures and in-water Dissanayake, took the 10-day trip in February. practical exercises will provide her with the skills required “I like that we’re learning about environmental sciences internationally. We’re broadening our horizons,” says student Ashley Mabbott. “Hopefully this opens doors for future students.”

During their international field trip, BASEM students visited a river diversion project for elephant and human interactions, a Canadian funded river dam project, a tea factory, an elephant orphanage and various cultural sites.

They also went on safaris in Minneriya and Maduru-Oya National Parks and visited the Environmental Sciences Department of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura to share their work within Lakeland’s Student-Environmental Consulting Office (S-ECO) and highlights about Canada.

This summer two of Lakeland’s environmental sciences students will pack their bags for a five-week environmental expedition in South Africa. Both in their first year of studies, Danine Kidd, a water conservation and management major,

to identify major reef-associated fish families and common species.

“The reef ecology is going to be excellent, and there will be a lot of hands-on learning,” says Kidd. “The things I’ve learned in my ecology courses, I am certainly going to use on this trip.”

MacDonald will spend her time in the Western Cape region on the Gondwana Reserve. Here, she will assist botanists and large mammal specialists in assessing the floral diversity of different areas of the reserve following different levels of fire management techniques.

Both students were accepted to the expedition program after submitting applications to Operation Wallacea earlier in the school year. Operation Wallacea is a network of academics from European and North American universities, who design and implement biodiversity and conservation management research expeditions.

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AG STUDENTS TRAVEL

TO KAZAKHSTAN

C

aity Anderson and Jordan Stefaniuk can now include international experience on their resumés thanks to a recent trip to Kazakhstan made possible because of their agriculture studies at Lakeland College.

to the Alberta and Canadian governments a few years ago for assistance in developing their industry. It’s the third time since 2013 that Lakeland has been part of a delegation that travelled to Kazakhstan; the first time also included federal representation.

The second-year animal science technology students at Lakeland’s Vermilion campus joined Lakeland instructor Geoff Brown in Kazakhstan in the fall. Brown was Lakeland’s representative in an Alberta delegation that was in the former Soviet Republic from Oct. 20-30, 2016. The group included people from the provincial government and cattle breed associations, as well as livestock exporters.

Recognizing what a great learning experience the trip to Kazakhstan would be for Lakeland students, two spots were offered to secondyear animal science students in the beef stream.

With a climate and landscape similar to Alberta’s, the Kazakhstan government turned

From left, Geoff Brown, Caity Anderson and Jordan Stefaniuk spent 10 days in Kazakhstan in the fall.

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While other members of the delegation focus on topics such as exporting cattle genetics and creating import protocols, Lakeland’s role is to provide leadership on developing agriculture curriculum and possibly a farm school with various partners in the industry.

LEAVING a

LEGACY Before Don Shaw even graduated from Lakeland College in spring 2016, he knew he wanted to pay tribute to those who helped finance his education.

T

he accounting technician and accounting major alumnus accounted for every dollar when considering the estimated $60,000 he would spend on tuition, books and living expenses by the time he graduated. Not having experienced debt before and looking for various ways to pay off his student debt, the dean’s list student was always searching for awards and scholarships.

“The awards I received while attending Lakeland were very helpful for me. I will always appreciate the support provided by the donors,” says Shaw, who received more than $4,000 in awards and bursaries while attending Lakeland.

incoming students,” says Shaw. “If you’re peer tutoring, it eats away at the opportunity to earn extra income by getting a part-time job, which makes the student awards program so important.”

The Shaw Legacy Award is available to full-time students in their second or subsequent year of studies in any business administration or university transfer program. The award is based on good academic standing and the recipient must also be an actively involved tutor through Lakeland’s Lloydminster campus peer tutor program.

While the award will certainly prove beneficial, it’s the relationships built and personal success that Shaw found to be the most rewarding as a tutor and hopes to see the program continue well into the future.

“Having the opportunity to spend the extra time with my peers in the tutoring program is also what helped me succeed,” says Shaw. “I still speak to many of the students and work with them today.”

Alumni who would like to contribute to the Shaw Legacy Award can do so by contacting Shauna Zack in Alumni & Fund Development, 780.853.8628.

Now, there is a new award to be won in Lakeland’s student awards program – The Shaw Legacy Award.

Through the award, Shaw and his wife Chantal (née Bowen), Class of 2016 esthetician, will not only pay tribute to the support he received but will also commemorate the time and dedication of faculty and peer tutors – a program the former was heavily involved in during his two years at Lakeland as both a tutor and tutee.

When Shaw first began his studies at Lakeland he was struggling with some of the content. He eventually sought the help of a peer tutor at the suggestion of a classmate. After a few sessions, Shaw was able to understand the basics and much more.

Throughout his first year, Shaw worked closely with Adrienne Robertson, an accessibility advisor, and Carley King, a learner pathways coordinator, alongside other tutors and tutees. The first year went well he says, as for his second year, “the program had a phenomenal amount of activity.

“We want to show our appreciation toward the team involved in the program, plus provide an incentive to SPRING 2017

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CLASS NOTES

Artistic achievement Herb Dietz, Class of 1951, was recognized by the Forestburg, Alta., ATB Branch for sharing years of his artistic talents. He was presented with a photo montage of nine of his paintings, inscribed with the words “Thank you Herb for adding character to our branch décor with your many paintings. You are awesome!” Dietz has painted for much of the past 50 years. He’s also been a lifelong community volunteer with various groups including 4-H, Lion's Club, Masons, ag societies and community initiative groups, as well as Alberta Pool. Dietz was primarily a grain and cattle farmer and is finally slowing down.

New arrival Congratulations to bachelor of applied science: environmental management grads Angela Eberhard, Class of 2012, and Jeremy Pashniak, Class of 2011, on the birth of their daughter. The engaged couple welcomed Alice Manuela Pashniak on Jan. 25 at 7:46 a.m. Alice tipped the scales at 7 lb, 3 oz.

Marathon achievement

Sharing insight

Kagan Kneen, Class of 2006 business diploma and Class of 2008 commerce degree, completed his first full marathon in Walt Disney World in January. But this wasn’t just any marathon, Kneen completed the Dopey Challenge – a four-day race through Walt Disney World theme parks.

In this challenge Kneen completed a five-kilometre race on Jan. 5, a 10-kilometre race on Jan. 6, a half-marathon race on Jan. 7, and finished with a full marathon on Jan. 8.

By completing all four races, Kneen ran a total of 75.2 km (48.6 miles) in four days.

Colby Oracheski, Class of 2012, environmental sciences diploma, and Brad Bardoel, Class of 2014, bachelor of applied science: environmental management, and Class of 2012, environmental sciences diploma, returned to campus for a special conference, Positioning for Transitioning.

Organized by the student-run EnviroMentors group, the half-day conference provided students with an opportunity to learn from Oracheski and Bardoel on entering the workforce after graduation. Attendees also heard from industry representatives.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

What’s new with you?

We want to know!

Perhaps you’re celebrating a...

• new baby

• credential

• career

• marriage

• award

• milestone

Together, let’s celebrate your success with your alumni classmates and friends of Lakeland.

Be featured in the Class Notes section of our next Excel by sending your news, photos, program and graduation year to: alumni@lakelandcollege.ca.

Excelling in marketing Jill Kelly (née Morrison), Class of 2006 university transfer, is the brand strategist and owner of Red Bicycle Communications in Lloydminster, Alta. Since launching in 2014, Kelly has been a finalist for three chamber of commerce awards: • 2016 Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneur of the Year • 2016 Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce Community Spirit Award • 2015 Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneur of the Year “I think we (Red Bicycle) have been very successful thus far and we owe it to great clients and great projects,” says Kelly. Kelly was also a member of the entrepreneurship panel during the Lloydminster Business Education Conference in March, offering her insights into life as an entrepreneur.

Presidential post Brett McRae, Class of 2007 agribusiness, is the president of the Young Cattlemen’s Council (YYC). Started in 2013, the YYC is a subsidiary of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association. “It is the vision of the Young Cattlemen’s Council to cultivate youthful leadership by exposure to industry policy development while allowing for the opportunity to gain experience and bring fresh insight to the table,” says McRae. Membership to the YYC is available free of charge to Canadian residents ages 18 to 35 who are involved in the beef industry.

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IN MEMORIAM Lakeland College announces the passing of the following alumni, past staff and alumni spouses. Our condolences are extended to their family and friends.

Charlie Adams

David Keay

Theordore Roose

Class of ‘60

Class of ‘55

Class of ‘57

Ellen (Jo) Berglund

Lorne Kulak

Calvin Ross

Class of ‘39

Class of ‘65

Class of ‘55

Stephen Blashko

Roger Laplante

John Rowan

Class of ‘56

Class of ‘52

Class of ‘61

Bill Campbell

Ken Lawrence

Inez Schmit

Class of ‘66

(Staff)

(Spouse)

Ethel Candlish

Alvin Liknes

Ryck Sunderland

Class of ‘38

Class of ‘67

Class of ‘74

Stuart Church

Kathryn Liknes

Helen Timanson

Class of ‘49

(Spouse)

Class of ‘28

Allan Driver

Robert McLaughlin

Susan Thompson

(Staff)

Class of ‘41

Class of ‘82

Alfred Dufva

Harold Morris

Brian Williams

Class of ‘57

Class of ‘53

(Staff)

Lynda Finlay

Manny Nanninga

Dave Wilm

(Spouse)

Class of ‘56

Class of ‘88

Harold Hauer

Thomas Nisbet

Edith Wyllie

Class of ‘52

Class of ‘56

Class of ‘30

Brian Heisler

Ernie Paskevich

William Wyllie

Class of ‘67

Class of ‘51

(Spouse)

Helen Huber

Grace Peden

(spouse)

Class of ‘40

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

REMEMBER WHEN

We’re stepping back to 1977. Flipping through Lakeland’s 1977 yearbook you’ll find candid photos of students and staff, and photos of student clubs and Rustlers teams, including men’s and women’s football, volleyball, basketball, broomball and hockey. It was quite a year according to student council president Les Clarke: “College, a learning experience? I believe this is so true. We learn both educationally, and I think more importantly, socially.

Lakeland College is a unique experience, and a good place to learn. It is small and compact and the students learn to get along with one another and share each others’ happiness and sorrow. I hope that, if no educational benefit has been gathered at Lakeland, a clearer outlook on life has been obtained. If, then, we never cross pathways again, I would like to wish everyone good luck in the future and may God bless.”

Here’s a look at Lakeland’s student council in 1977: Back row: Wayne Bilyk, boys’ social lit.; Keith Rice, treasurer; Elizabeth Spoad, girls’ sports rep.; Marilyn Bell, public relations; Dean Smith, boys’ dorm rep.

Front row: Les Clarke, president; Cecile Benoit, secretary; Kathy Currie, girls’ dorm rep.; Connie Bagnall, girls’ social lit.; Stephen Ackerman, boys’ sports rep.

Missing: Carolyn Backus, vice-president

SHARE YOUR

PHOTOS! Would you like your “vintage” Lakeland photos featured here?

Send them to the Alumni Office!

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HOMECOMING 2017 June 9, 10 & 11 | Vermilion Campus

Lakeland College is preparing to celebrate Homecoming and Rose Ball 2017!

This celebration is open to all Lakeland alumni!

Tentative Schedule of Events Thursday, June 8 2 – 5 p.m.

REGISTRATION, Alumni House If you arrive later, security (780.853.8505) can let you into your dorm room. RV parking is beside the dorms (see signs). Power available, but no water

Friday, June 9 Noon – 5 p.m

REGISTRATION, Main Building (Alumni Hall)

5 – 8 p.m.

REGISTRATION, moves to Spurs

6 – 11 p.m

ALUMNI WELCOME SOCIAL – Tailgate Party at Spurs (meal, socializing, cash bar)

Saturday, June 10 8 a.m. – 4 p.m

REGISTRATION, Main Building (Alumni Hall)

7:30 – 9 a.m

FREE BUFFET BREAKFAST — Cafeteria Thank you to Lakeland College Board of Governors for sponsoring this!

9 – 10:30 a.m.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – Cafeteria 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Noon – 1:30 p.m.

1 – 4 p.m.

COLLEGE BOOKSTORE OPEN

CLASS LUNCHEONS & PHOTOS Various locations on campus We hope you attend the luncheon as we want to include you in the photos SPURS LOUNGE OPEN (cash bar)

1:30 – 4 p.m.

Rose Ball

GUIDED TOURS of the Vermilion Campus (Meet in front of Main Building)

Vermilion Regional Centre (Directly North of Campus)

4 p.m.

Registration moves to Vermilion Regional Centre

4:30 – 6 p.m.

Photo booth open for informal photos

5:30 p.m.

Cash bar

6 p.m.

Banquet & Program

7 – 8:30 p.m.

9 p.m.

Photo booth open for informal photos

Grand march, dance & midnight lunch

Sunday, June 11 7:30 – 11 a.m.

FAREWELL BUFFET BREAKFAST - Cafeteria (pay your own)

2017 Homecoming and Rose Ball Registration Form How to Register:

Mail registration form and payment to: Lakeland College, Alumni Office, 5707 College Drive Vermilion, AB T9X 1K5 Fill out form online form at: lakelandcollege.ca/alumni and email to shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca

Registration deadline is May 31, 2017- No late registrations please Alumni Name: Maiden Name (if applicable)::

Class Year(s):

Address: City/Town:

Province:

Home Phone:

Cell Phone:

Postal Code: Email:

Name of Guest:

If Guest is Alumnus, Class Year(s):

Event Ticket Options June 9, 10 & 11, 2017

□ Option 1 - Entire Weekend

□ Option 3 - All Saturday

- Friday Tailgate Party - Saturday Breakfast & AGM - Class Luncheon/Photos - Class Photo (5x7) - Afternoon Activities - Rose Ball ____x $125/person: $______

- Saturday Breakfast & AGM - Class Luncheon/Photos - Class Photo (5x7) - Afternoon Activities - Rose Ball ____x $100/person: $_____

□ Option 2 - Friday Only

□ Option 4 - Rose Ball

- Friday Tailgate Party ____x $25/person: $______

- Rose Ball Banquet (Band) - Midnight Lunch ____x $60/person: $______

Event Ticket Total: $_______

Class of 1967 Class of 1967 history book A wonderful keepsake!

Dietary Restrictions: # of books: ___x $45: $______

Accommodations (Lakeland College Dorms) □ Single Room $60 □ Single Room $60 □ Single Room $60

Thursday, June 8 Friday, June 9 Saturday, June 10

RV Parking at Lakeland College

□ Double Room $80 □ Double Room $80 □ Double Room $80

□ Thursday □ Friday □ Saturday

Dorm Total: $_______ RV # of nights ___x $15: $_______

METHOD OF PAYMENT □ Cheque Enclosed (payable to Lakeland College) □ Visa □ MasterCard Expiry Date: Name of Cardholder:

TOTAL $_______

Card Number: Signature:

For more information contact Shauna Zack at 780.853.8628 or 1.800.661.6490 ext: 8628 Email: shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca

Lakeland College A S S O C I AT I O N

Alumni House

The elegance of yesterday with the charm of today.

For a place to stay or getaway, enjoy the charming atmosphere & quiet elegance of Alumni House.

For room and rate information visit lakelandcollege.ca/alumni or call 1.800.661.6490, ext. 8737

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Lakeland College Alumni OfďŹ ce 5707 College Drive Vermilion Alberta T9X 1K5 Canada Post Publication Mail PM40009099