Excel Fall 2018 by Lakeland College Canada

Fall 2018

4 GENERATION th

alumna continues Lakeland tradition

RIBBON CUT

NEW

Animal Health Clinic now open FALL 2018

LAKELAND LEADS

Hairstyling

Students

Excel in Competition

Two of Lakeland’s hairstyling students – Chanell Stewart and Kelsey Salteaux – wowed the judges at the 2018 Best of the Prairies Makeup and Hair Competition. Building on their avant-garde school assignments, Stewart and Salteaux competed against apprentices and professional stylists. Salteaux transformed her model into Mother Nature and earned second place. Drawing inspiration from the DC comic character Poison Ivy and Greek mythology’s Medusa, Stewart won first place and the Fan Choice Award. Stewart and Salteaux are members of Lakeland’s first full-time hairstyling class. Over the course of the year, hairstyling students complete more than 1,500 clients in Lakeland’s public student-run salon. Learn more at: lakelandcollege.ca/wellness

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Chanell Stewart

Kelsey Salteaux

FALL 2018

Enjoy

the elegance of yesterday with the charm of today.

For room and rate information: lakelandcollege.ca/alumni-house 1.800.661.6490, ext. 8737

An exciting benefit for graduates and employees of Lakeland College.

Take advantage of your benefits. You have access to the TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program. This means you can get preferred insurance rates on a wide range of home, condo, renter’s and car coverage that can be customized for your needs. For over 65 years, TD Insurance has been helping Canadians find quality insurance solutions. Feel confident your coverage fits your needs. Get a quote now.

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Get a quote and see how much you could save! Call 1-888-589-5656 or go to 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 Québec, 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, 12th Floor, Montréal, Québec H2P 1B6. Due to provincial legislation, our car and recreational insurance program is not offered in British Columbia, Manitoba or Saskatchewan. Wide Horizons Solution® travel insurance is administered by RSA Travel Insurance Inc. and is underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada. Medical and claims assistance, claims payment and administrative services are provided by the administrator described in the insurance policies. All trade-marks are the property of their respective owners. ® The TD logo and other TD trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

CONTENTS Alumni Spotlight

Fall 2018

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

The department distributes mailings, invitations and class lists. Anyone wishing to be excluded from certain mailings should notify College Advancement at 780.853.8431.

9. Alumnus receives one of

12. Proud alumna succeeds in

Ottawa’s most prestigious business awards

luxury home industry

10. Sisters share their prairie pride in first book

provides a successful start

11. Lakeland student among top

continues Lakeland legacy

apprentices in Alberta

14. University transfer program 15. Family tradition: 4th generation

Writers: Taylor Hermiston, Katie Ryan and Colleen Symes Creative Design: Chelsey Schlosser Cover Photo: Eric Healey Accepting advertising: Advertising in the Excel is welcome. For rates call College Advancement at 780.853.8628 or email alumni@lakelandcollege.ca.

19. Students in the Lead

24. Campus News

7. Upcoming Events

32. Event Recap

8. Snap Shot

33. A Visit With …

16. Convocation

34. In Memoriam

18. Donor Spotlight

35. Remember When

31. Class Notes

Editor: Katie Ryan

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 College Advancement. Publications mail agreement No. 40009099 Return undeliverable addresses to: Lakeland College College Advancement 5707 College Drive Vermilion, Alberta, Canada T9X 1K5 lakelandcollege.ca/alumni-and-friends FALL 2018

President Barry McCarty ‘69 Vice President Edmund Lefsrud ‘65 Treasurer Don Deaville ‘66 Secretary Sandra Bernes '66 Past President Bill Fox '58 Director Werner Wennekamp '65 Director Wyman Lockhart ‘66 Director Carolyn McIntosh ‘66 Director Bill Plumley ‘66 Director Kole Casey ‘12 Director Craig deJong ‘16 Director Sheila Kitz ‘86 Director Barry McDonald ‘66 Director Victoria Page ‘67 Director Jamie Taylor ‘16 Director Marie Therriault ‘65

Exciting times for

LAKELAND After taking some time to read over Excel Spring 2018, I’m feeling such pride when I acknowledge Lakeland College’s accomplishments. Every department seems to be exceeding last year’s records continually. Excelling in different areas, from plant ID to politics, shows that students, staff and alumni are really making things happen. Congratulations Lakeland College! Another new building opened this past September. The new Animal Health Clinic officially opened Sept. 7, 2018 and it will allow students to manage this facility similar to a regular veterinary business. This up-to-date clinic includes dog and cat suites, plus stocks and stalls to handle all large animals. It is truly exciting and rewarding as alumni to have had the privilege to attend Lakeland College. It is also our obligation to promote every part of this outstanding broad spectrum education facility in Western Canada. Sincerely,

Historian Tom Kibblewhite ‘59 Volunteer Phyllis Elmer ‘68

Barry McCarty

Alumni Liaison Shauna Zack

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

ALUMNI SOCIAL CALENDAR

ALUMNI SOCIAL EVENTS Dates & Locations

Yuma Alumni Snowbird Social

Homecoming

Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019 1 - 6:30 p.m. Westwind RV & Golf Course 9797 East 32 Street Yuma, Arizona Contacts: Jack and Jeanette Price, 1.928.342.4567 Lyle and Sandra Baker, 1.928.342.4339 $15 per person. Supper included.

June 14-16, 2019 More details to come

Westlock Alumni Social Saturday, July 28, 2019 More details to come

Grande Prairie Social

Edmonton and Area Alumni Social Sunday, April 14, 2019 2 - 5 p.m. Country Side Golf Club 51466 Range Road 232 Sherwood Park, Alta. RSVP to Shauna Zack by calling 780.853.8628 or emailing shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca

Thursday, August 2, 2019 More details to come

Watch for updates on our social media for all alumni and industry mixers and socials. Facebook.ca/LakelandCollege-Alumni

ALUMNI & INDUSTRY MIXERS Please join us at these alumni and industry mixers. Leave work behind and visit with alumni, college instructors and industry leaders for an evening of memories, laughs and fun! Complimentary snacks and a cash bar will be available. Bring fellow alumni or a client you need to chat with. RSVP to any of the alumni and industry mixers to Shauna Zack by calling 780.853.8628 or emailing shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca.

Farmfair International

Agribition

FarmTech

Friday, Nov. 9 5 - 8 p.m. Expo Centre Room 301 Edmonton, Alta.

Tuesday, Nov. 20 6 - 9 p.m. Brandt Centre VIP Room Regina, Sask.

Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. Chateau Lacombe Edmonton, Alta.

FALL 2018

SNAPSHOTS

ALUMNI

Thank you to the hundreds of Lakeland alumni who joined us at Homecoming, Grande Prairie Social, Peace River Social, Edmonton and Area Social, and the Lacer the Racer Golf Tournament. We enjoyed reconnecting with you and hope youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll join us at one or more of the many events we have planned for the rest of 2018 and in 2019.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

ALUMNUS RECEIVES

one of Ottawa’s most prestigious

BUSINESS AWARDS Derek Dedman is one of the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce’s and the Ottawa Business Journal’s 2018 Forty Under 40 recipients.

he business graduate, Class of ‘09, was selected among 290 people nominated for the capital region’s most prestigious business award, which recognizes accomplished and rising business leaders under the age of 40. “It’s a big honour. I was nominated by a colleague and it’s a pretty big award in Ottawa. There are and have been some very influential people on the list, so I can’t describe how much of an honour it is,” Dedman says. He works for Watson Di Primio Steel (WDS) Investment Management as an investment analyst and portfolio manager. During the selection process, the applicants were scored on three categories: business achievement; expertise; and community In his spare time, Dedman is a involvement. Dedman believes he member of CFA Society Ottawa, was chosen because of his “good an association of investment work-life balance.” Over his working professionals, and a board member career, he’s achieved a good level of of the national Financial Planning recognizable business success, and Foundation. in life, he’s active in his community He also sits on one of Ottawa’s oldest with various charities, charities and The Caring “I credit Lakeland for my organizations. and Sharing success. Lakeland is where I In 2009, Exchange, found my passion for financial Dedman which has scored supported planning and for learning.” among Ottawa the top 10 families in financial planners from across Canada need for over 103 years. on the Certified Financial Planner Dedman has exemplified excellence (CFP) exam. Years later, he worked in his career and in life since for Canada’s Financial Planning obtaining a bachelor of applied Standards Council and helped financial services degree at Lakeland. develop the CFP exam. His academic achievements included

a perfect 4.0 grade point average that earned him a spot on the Dean’s List, and an academic award from the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference while he played for the Rustlers Men’s Volleyball team. He was named Lakeland’s Distinguished Alumni for the Lloydminster campus in 2010. He also obtained a master’s degree in personal finance from Kansas State University, and his CFA charter and CFP designation. “I credit Lakeland for my success. Lakeland is where I found my passion for financial planning and for learning. Being part of varsity athletics also helped me find a balance between school and practice. It was a combination of all those things that I ended up with a great education and experience, and success.” FALL 2018

In First Book The Stefanuk sisters check off one of their bucket list items: publish a book.

ella Stefanuk, 23, and Kyra Stefanuk, 27, both Lakeland College alumni, are the founders of Prairie Sister Publishing and authors of Ramble: A Smidge of Blue. The book is a celebration of their “deep-rooted appreciation of life in the prairies” and spirit of adventure, through a pairing of “vivid poetry and unedited photography.”

Kyra, a 2011 grad of the business administration program, says she became serious about the idea of publishing a book when she experienced a medical scare. She explained she entered a “small mid-life crisis” and felt inspired to do something. She and Della decided to amalgamate their passions.

“We didn’t realize how special our prairie experience was until we started talking to people who never had it. For us, our inspiration comes from as little as grabbing a coffee on Saturday mornings and going for a drive. Sharing that was a big part of our decision to write this book. Every page has so much thought,” says Della, Class of 2015 western ranch and cow horse. The poetry, written by Kyra, is inspired by her life experiences spanning over 15 years, while Della became serious about her photography during her time at Lakeland and found inspiration on the farm. 10

The title of the book didn’t come to the prairie sisters right away. In fact, it took careful planning and patience. However, the end result carries “a lot of symbolism” for them. “Ramble is a fun word for us because it has a double meaning. It refers to a leisurely stroll but I think of adventure. Then, the ‘a smidge of blue’ part came when we were driving on a prairie back road on a foggy day and we saw a smidge of blue in the sky,” Della says. Kyra added, “That smidge of blue made sense with our thought process behind the book. It’s supposed to be ironic because there is more than a smidge of blue in our life or a little bit of something.”

Della (right) and Kyra (left) sell Ramble: A Smidge of Blue from their website, prairiesisterproductions.ca.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

They launched their book in January 2018 at the Lloydminster Cultural and Science Centre, where Kyra works as the acting manager. They’re already working on their next photography book in partnership with Grade 7 École St. Thomas students in Lloydminster.

eloin received the award during the 21st annual Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board Awards earlier this year. The Top Apprentice Awards honour the apprentices in each trade who achieved the highest overall marks in their final period of training and received strong employer recommendations. “We are proud of all our students and when students like Lance are awarded top honours in Alberta, it shows the level of dedication and commitment from him during his time as an apprentice. I just want to congratulate him and everyone else who was involved in his education. It is truly a special relationship between the apprentice, the employer and Lakeland College,” says Dave King, dean of Lakeland’s School of Trades and Technology.

LAKELAND STUDENT

AMONG TOP APPRENTICES IN ALBERTA

Parts technician Lance Beloin was among 61 recipients to receive the 2017 Top Apprentice Award from the Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board.

Beloin, who is employed by Vermilion Chrysler, says he’s honoured to have been selected. Beloin took Lakeland’s parts technician 1st period online in 2013, and then finished his 2nd and 3rd period at the Vermilion campus. He received his journeyman certificate in 2017. “I knew I wanted to get into a trade and I was aware that Lakeland offered courses. My experience there was great. Lakeland’s facilities are good but the instructors were great. They care about their students and are passionate about what they are teaching. To sum up my experience, it comes down to the staff and instructors - they made the biggest influence on my education.”

FALL 2018

Lakeland provided me with a very good design basis. I had the fabulous Cindi Plant as one of my main instructors. She was amazing and taught me everything I know, and she is why I am as successful as I am.

PROUD ALUMNA SUCCEEDS IN LUXURY HOME INDUSTRY Dawn Lavergne brings passion, expertise and experience to every project she works on. 12

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

s the principal designer and owner of MKL Design Studio, the Class of 1991 alumna excels in the luxury home building industry in Calgary, Alta., and beyond. “When I get to sit down, design a space and be creative, I love that. That’s my happy place,” says Lavergne, a graduate of Lakeland College’s interior design technology program. Inspired by her father – a homebuilder by trade – Lavergne’s design journey began at Lakeland’s Vermilion campus. Describing the interior design technology program as “extremely” challenging, Lavergne says the program proved to entail far more work than she initially anticipated. “But, it’s really good because it prepares you for the real world. What we don’t know when we’re in school is just how vital deadlines are,” she adds. “Lakeland provided me with a very good design basis. I had the fabulous Cindi Plant as one of my main instructors. She was amazing and taught me everything I know, and she is why I am as successful as I am.”

Before opening MKL Design Studio in 2015, Lavergne’s path included working for a kitchen cabinet company, showroom staging for a furniture company and completing SAIT’s architectural technology program in 1993. As a custom residential design firm, Lavergne and her team at MKL Design Studio provide design services, including zoning review and site analysis, renovations and additions, single family home designs, development permits and more. Their interior design services range from furniture layouts and procurements to millwork, lighting, fixture and drapery selections, and kitchen design, among others. Marrying her two passions – architecture and interior design – proved to be a natural and lucrative fit for Lavergne. “With my interior design background, I look at things differently than most of my competitors,” she says. “I don’t see it just from a structural side of things, which is vital. I also think about how it’s going to function for my clients, how they are going to live in that space and how they are going to use the space and decorate that space – all of that comes into play with what I do. I really believe that my interior design background has contributed to my success as an architectural technologist.” Lavergne’s enthusiasm for design led her to join the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) Prairie Provinces Chapter. In the eight years she’s been part of this professional organization, Lavergne has served on the chapter’s executive as the vice president of academic relations, vice president of communications and vice president of programs. Lavergne also completed a two-year term as the NKBA Prairie Provinces Chapter president. “Now, I am retired,” she says with a laugh, adding she’s still a member of a few NKBA committees. “I tell people this all the time: joining the NKBA was probably the best thing I ever did for my business. The networking and the growth that has come from being part of this organization has been amazing.” Learning Lakeland was named the 2017 College of the Year by the NKBA came as no surprise to Lavergne. “Knowing what I know about the level of expectation put on these students, how challenging this program actually is and the passion the instructors have, it’s very well deserved,” she says. “The level of work that comes out of this program year after year, the quality of the graduates that Lakeland consistently produces and knowing that I have that same skill level is what ultimately makes me proud to be a Lakeland alumna.”

Dawn Lavergne’s work includes (from the top), custom millwork and architectural design, residential designs and interior design services.

FALL 2018

UNIVERSITY

TRANSFER PROGRAM provides a successful start

Lauren Simpson is a farm girl from outside of Kitscoty, Alta., who wanted to start her post-secondary journey close to home. She wasn’t certain what she wanted to do when she entered Lakeland College’s university transfer program in 2014, but she knew Lakeland was the right starting point for her post-secondary education. “Once I met with (then) academic advisor Charlene Bonnar, and we sorted out my class schedule for my first year of arts and science courses, I knew I had made the best choice. The student-first service that Charlene provided was personalized and she was genuinely concerned with my success,” says Simpson. After taking her first-year psychology course, Simpson says she realized she wanted to pursue a career that would allow her to care for others and be a part of something bigger than herself. “The way the psychology material was delivered helped me reflect on my interests. Thinking about how I enjoy taking care of people, as well as the importance of both physical and mental health. To this day, I still refer back to that course and the English course, and how it applies to critical thinking skills,” noted Simpson. “While taking first-year university courses at Lakeland I was able to learn more about myself and comfortably adjust to the time demands of furthering my education.” After completing her studies at Lakeland in 2015, Simpson transferred to the University of Saskatchewan and completed a bachelor of science degree in nursing in June 2018. She successfully passed the National Council Licensure Examination in August and now works as a full-time registered nurse at the Lloydminster Hospital.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

FAMILY TRADITION

GENERATION keeps Lakeland legacy alive When Edna Kulczycki became a Lakeland College alumna she also became the fifth member of her family to graduate from the college.

graduate of the child and youth care diploma program, Kulczycki celebrated with her family and fellow Lakeland alumni on June 1. “I think it’s awesome to be at the same school that they were at and to experience it all,” she said following the morning convocation ceremony at the Vermilion campus. Kulczycki followed in the footsteps of several family generations: her greatgrandmother Elizabeth Laird, Class of 1941 home economics; grandmother Sharon Boorse (née Clarke), Class of 1969 business education; grandfather David Boorse, Class of 1969 general agriculture; and father Jason Boorse, Class of 1998 university transfer. “It was nice that Edna was able to be here at the Vermilion campus

because that is where my grandma and parents came. It’s a legacy,” said Jason, of Elk Point, Alta. “We’re all proud of her. There were a lot of choices but Lakeland just fell within her needs. It was local for us and a really good school.” Jason started his bachelor of commerce degree at the Lloydminster campus. “It worked well for me because Lakeland offers smaller class sizes, is more local and provides that bridge from a smaller school to a university,” he said. For David and Sharon, Lakeland College is not only where they earned their credentials, but also where they met. “I had a great time when I was here at college and met a lot of friends for life,” said Sharon. “I grew

up in Vermilion so it’s always nice to come back, and I’m very happy to have my granddaughter attend this college.” Proud to have his family’s Lakeland tradition continue with his granddaughter, David’s been an active college alumnus over the years. He served as vice president of Lakeland’s Alumni Association from 1983 to 1987, and as president from 1987 to 1988. With several other grandchildren still years away from starting their postsecondary education journey, David said his family’s Lakeland legacy likely isn’t over yet. “There is the possibility that more will be coming to the college,” he said with a laugh.

Top left, David and Sharon Boorse, Edna Kulczycki and Jason Boorse are all proud Lakeland alumni. Kulczycki shared a photo of her great-grandmother and fellow Lakeland alumna, Elizabeth Laird, after convocation. Top right, Jason graduated from the university transfer program in 1998. Bottom right, a snapshot from David and Sharon’s graduation celebration in 1969.

FALL 2018

CONVOCATION

CLASS OF 2018 CELEBRATES CONVOCATION Lakeland College marked the end of its 100th academic term with three convocation ceremonies.

Approximately 230 graduates celebrated at the Lloydminster campus ceremony on May 25, and approximately 550 graduates on June 1 at the Vermilion campus ceremonies. Each ceremony featured an honour song by The Pipestone Creek Singers from Onion Lake Cree Nation and congratulatory messages from a number of dignitaries. Mandy Davediuk, an interior design technology student, received the 2018 Governor General’s Academic Award for having the highest average. See page 21 for more information about Mandy.

President’s Medal recipients Two students were honoured for their leadership and involvement within the college and community: Jonathan Kuzek, heavy oil power engineering, for the Lloydminster campus and Graham Letts, crop technology, for the Vermilion campus.

Jonathan Kuzek “It’s quite an honour to receive the highest honour a student can get and to be the only student on the Lloydminster campus to receive it. I was always told by my dad if you aren’t a leader you’re a follower, so at Lakeland being a leader was important to me. I took the initiative to stand up, make the right calls and take on responsibility.”

Graham Letts “There’s only one student on the whole campus to receive the award, so I feel pretty privileged and honoured. I really enjoyed the whole student-managed aspect of Lakeland College. Having that practical experience, I think that’s an excellent model for learning.”

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Distinguished recognition Members of Lakeland’s alumni family and the community were saluted for their contributions and accomplishments. Sean Lessard, Class of 1994, and Gary Moses, Class of 1967, were recognized with 2018 Distinguished Alumni awards. Richard Klinger and Judy Woyewitka were presented with honorary degrees and recognized as the 2018 Distinguished Citizens.

Sean Lessard “Leadership can’t be reduced to techniques or a title. Leadership comes from the integrity and character of the leader. Celebrate the micro wins in our life. The small wins are important but when we look at the biggest accomplishment, we have to remember the steps we took to get there.”

Richard Klinger “Choose a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life. Where you go from here is up to you, you will decide how hard you have to work, and the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Make sure you pick a job you enjoy doing and are passionate about.”

Gary Moses “To me, good leadership is achieved by working hard, behind-the-scenes, on any given project.”

Judy Woyewitka “To be a leader you have to have some vision, break it down into things to make it happen, but mostly importantly, people have to be willing to follow your idea. If nobody thinks your idea is worthy you’re not being a leader, you’re just taking a walk.”

FALL 2018

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

LONGSTANDING DONOR to help increase

increase LAKELAND

COLLEGE FARM

Judy Sweet made a $500,000 donation to Lakeland in September, which will be used to increase Lakeland’s farmland base in the future.

his gift builds on Judy’s support of the modernization and expansion of the G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility, which officially opened on Oct. 20, 2016 in memory of Judy’s late husband Garth. Students are trained on feed efficiency testing of livestock at the G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility by working with faculty and directly with industry. After learning more about Lakeland’s farm operations, as managed by the animal science technology and crop technology students, and attending the students’ farm unit presentations, Judy remained connected with Lakeland and interested in its work to advance agricultural learning. As a proud supporter of the college, Judy wanted to help Lakeland continue its momentum in expanding and modernizing the college farm.

Accompanied by her grandson Spencer Boles (front row, far left), Judy Sweet (front row, second from the left) presents Josie Van Lent, dean of Lakeland’s School of Agricultural Sciences, and Geoff Brown, associate dean, with a donation to help grow Lakeland’s farm. Joining them for the presentation are representatives from Lakeland’s student-run farm and the Vermilion campus Students’ Association.

“This donation is really about helping Lakeland College address their need to grow their farm operations. This ties into the G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility and supports the students, who are eager and already prepared for the real world when they graduate. They could run their own farm, start a new business, advance ag research or take on something else, and they are prepared to do it,” says Judy. “To advance this, you have to have more land.”

Animal science technology and crop technology students currently have access to 2,000 student-managed acres of crop and pasture land, hundreds of head of livestock and numerous learning facilities at the Vermilion campus. From the inception of Lakeland’s farm operations, as managed by students, nearly 30 years ago, enrolment has grown steadily. Since Lakeland last grew its land base in 2010, the number of animal science technology and crop technology students has increased from 90 to 266 students – an increase of 196 per cent.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

“Land is the foundation for our student-led learning model on the college farm. Our intention is to grow our land base in a way that enriches educational opportunities in ag business and research,” says Josie Van Lent, dean of Lakeland’s School of Agricultural Sciences. “We are very grateful to have Judy’s support.”

Increasing enrolment combined with growing livestock herds, including an 80-head research herd, 290-head dairy herd, 90-head commercial beef herd and a 40-head purebred beef herd, have put pressure on Lakeland’s land base. Judy’s donation will enable Lakeland to pursue a future land acquisition that supports growing its awardwinning student-managed learning model and new research opportunities.

STUDENTS IN THE LEAD

Photo courtesy of Skills Canada Alberta.

MEDALS T AWARDED TO THREE TRADES STUDENTS

hree Lakeland College trades and technology students reached the podium at the 2018 Alberta Provincial Skills Canada Competition.

Excelling in the automobile technology category were Dylan Rollheiser, a second-year automotive service technician apprentice who received gold, and Derek Haggart, a first-year automotive service technician apprentice who was awarded bronze. Over the two-day provincial competition in the spring, the students were evaluated on their knowledge of the automotive service trade during seven, 75-minute competitions. “Lakeland definitely prepared us for the competition. A couple weeks before, our instructors invited all of us to the shop on a Sunday, and they ran over what to expect, how to do certain things, and answered our questions,” says Rollheiser. Lindsay Graham, a first-year steamfitter/pipefitter apprentice, earned silver in the steamfitter/pipefitter category. “Although I did expect to place, I did not expect to be second. It was an awesome experience and a first for me. I’m proud to have represented Lakeland,” says Graham.

Dylan Rollheiser earned a gold medal at the Alberta Provincial Skills Canada Competition.

In total, five students were chosen to represent Lakeland at the provincial competition in four categories − automobile technology, electrical installation, steamfitter/pipefitter and welding.

FALL 2018

FIREFIGHTER

GRAD PURSUES REWARDING CAREER

atthew McConnell’s interest in firefighting is fueled by more than adrenaline. For the Class of 2018 firefighter training grad, it’s the opportunity to help others that led him to this field of work.

with the answer.”

Completing “live fire” training scenarios during the 12week program at the Emergency Training Centre exceeded McConnell’s expectations. From various structural fires to vehicle extrication and dangerous goods response, “I like that you always walk into a situation where you the program offers comprehensive can help people right away,” training and according to McConnell, says McConnell, citing his some challenging drills. mom’s experience as a nurse “I like that you always walk as inspiration too. “She just fell “The HAZMAT suit exercise was tough into a situation where you can in love with this type of work because with firefighting you can help people right away.” helping people and it seemed have that mindset that whatever you like something that I wouldn’t need to do needs to be done quickly, mind pursuing. Seeing that whereas with the HAZMAT it’s almost change in her life, it really made me see how much the complete opposite,” he says. happier you can make yourself when you are helping “The fire tower is well equipped and great to work in. With other people.” all the different scenarios you walk into in the fire tower, Before enrolling at Lakeland, McConnell completed his including flash overs, it was really neat to see and to be EMR medical training, joined the Canadian Armed Forces able to train on so that we could learn to be efficient at (CAF) as an armored soldier and served as an on-call what we were doing. firefighter with the Swift Current RM 137 Fire Department. “You can’t train too much for a job like this.” “We get a lot of hands-on experiences at my hall, but Proud to be a Lakeland alum and currently posted at the we don’t get to experience the classroom side of things Canadian Forces Base in Wainwright, Alta., McConnell and there is quite a bit I learned through that. It’s helped says his career path will include both firefighting and me to be a better firefighter all around on the technical the CAF. For anyone considering firefighting, McConnell side of things,” says McConnell, whose girlfriend, Kirby recommends Lakeland. Zimmer, is completing Lakeland’s animal health technology program. “The instructors are awesome. Everybody knows “It’s thought of as one of the better schools. When you their stuff and if you had a question they couldn’t answer say you’re from Lakeland, people respect that and I really immediately, they would get back to you within 24 hours like that.”

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

AWARDS, ACCOLADES

and more for

INTERIOR DESIGN Award-winning designs remain on trend with Lakeland College’s interior design technology students. For the 15th consecutive year, interior design students landed on the podium for their talent, skill and creativity in student design competitions.

The program’s award-winning legacy continued with Mandy Davediuk and Mackenzie Dieleman who placed second and third, respectively, in the 2017-2018 National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) Student Design Competition. Members of the Class of 2018, they each won a scholarship and a trip to the 2019 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Las Vegas, Nev. “It’s an honour to be part of this legacy,” says Davediuk, who is also Lakeland’s 2018 Governor General’s Academic Medal recipient. “I am really happy that we both get to be part of this and represent such a great college.”

Mandy Davediuk shares her award-winning design.

The accolades don’t stop there for interior design technology. The program received a 2018 Excellence in Education award from the NKBA. Lakeland’s program is one of only seven post-secondary programs in North America to receive it, and this marks the seventh time Lakeland has earned this award.

LAKELAND CASE TEAM

PLACES 3RD Lakeland College’s case team placed third at the 13th annual Alberta Deans of Business Case Competition in March. “It felt amazing to represent Lakeland in such a positive fashion and to show the post-secondary community that Lakeland produces graduates who not only excel, they win,” says Rachel Lambert, business administration and Lakeland’s Board of Governor’s previous student representative. The business students had less than 10 hours to complete a real-world case study. The competition was held at NorQuest College and MacEwan University. Thirteen teams from across the province vied for the top spot after

developing beneficial solutions for real-world business problems in a time-pressured scenario. Lakeland’s case team – sponsored by chartered professional accounting firm Metrix Group LLP – received $1,500 for placing third. This is the third time in five years Lakeland’s case teams have placed in the Alberta Deans of Business Case Competition and the fifth time in 13 years. FALL 2018

STUDENT-RUN concession adds to Rustlers’ EXPERIENCE A new student-led concession stand is enhancing Lakeland College Rustlers’ home game experience. The Concession Management Board (CMB) is the latest student-led initiative run by firstand second-year business students. The CMB serves hot and cold meals, and beverages for spectators during athletic games and events. During the 2017-18 academic year, the CMB was run by general business students Christi Hergott and Danae Sawtell, and business accounting major students Danon Johnson, Hayden Howrie and Kendra Sawtell. “Running the concession gives us the opportunity to get a look behind the scenes of an operation. We get the hands-on experience of running a business in an environment we are familiar with,” says Hergott, president and food coordinator of the CMB. The CMB is considered a partner with the Rustlers and have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lakeland’s athletics department. In May, the CMB presented $5,000 to the athletics department.

Harjot Basanti

STUDENTS EXCEL with co-op internship program

hen Dana Bernard and Harjot Basanti returned to Lakeland College this fall, they did so with confidence. The second-year business administration students each completed a 16-week co-op internship with the Lloydminster and District Co-op administration office – an experience both agreed solidified their career aspirations and raised their confidence to new heights. “I’ve grown over the summer,” says Bernard, of Lloydminster, Alta. Bernard is completing the small business and entrepreneurship major and plans on pursuing a marketing degree next. “I can walk into a room and introduce myself, where at the beginning I was a bit nervous about that. This experience built my confidence and also deepened my business knowledge.”

The 2017-18 Concession Management Board, from left: Danae Sawtell, Kendra Sawtell, Danon Johnson, Hayden Howrie and Christi Hergott.

For Basanti, an accounting major who moved from India to Canada only 18 months ago, working at the Co-op provided her with a valuable opportunity to grow both her accounting and interpersonal skills. “Being from a different country and speaking a different language,

Dana Bernard

you find sometimes it’s difficult to understand the slang, but each and every day you interact with new people, experience new challenges and learn. There are some things you just can’t learn in books,” says Basanti, who has a bachelor of technology degree in computer science.

commerce; Emelie Hedberg, senior accountant and Class of 2007 business; and Kristine Knourek, marketing and communications manager, Class of 2007 business and Class of 2008 commerce.

“You use a lot that you learned in class but this experience really expands on that. It gives you an opportunity to work in your field and being able to do that before you graduate is so beneficial. It boosts your resumé and gives you experience. Plus, we have mentors we can go to now – everyone is really good at helping you at the Co-op.”

“We are both over 100 years old as institutions, Lakeland College and Lloydminster and District Co-op, which is really unique and special, so I think history speaks,” she says. “We’ve had a long line of graduates from Lakeland College who have run our stores over generations, so for us the internship program is another way to give back and support the next generation of business leaders.”

“As an administrative team, we very much value the educational experience that we all received at Lakeland. Basanti’s internship experience saw her working in all areas Putting that into practice every day and running a of accounting, including accounts payable and receivable, successful business in Lloydminster and surrounding and in reception. “I knew that I was good at accounting, but area that supports not only my biggest challenge was to our membership but the interact with customers and now “I knew that I was good at community as well, it’s really I am confident doing that.” accounting, but my biggest challenge important to us to be able Over the summer Bernard to share that with students,” was to interact with customers and worked with the Co-op’s says Hawes. marketing team on a variety of now I am confident doing that.” Lakeland’s co-op internship projects, including commercials, - Harjot Basanti program is one of many ways a six-week summer contest, the Co-op supports Lakeland parade float, launching students. From the President’s Gala to Rustlers athletics, the organization’s Instagram account and more. “I am and individual student awards various alumni support, challenged every day, which is good,” says Bernard, who Knourek says the ties between the two organizations plays for the Rustlers women’s soccer team and continues are strong. to work at the Co-op.

While working at the Co-op, both Bernard and Basanti worked alongside several Lakeland alumni: Leanne (née Lozinsky) Hawes, vice president of operations and Class of 2007 business; Jade (née McFarlane) Hoffman, vice president of finance and Class of 2008 accounting; Chase Scarf, financial controller and Class of 2008

Top left, Dana Bernard (front row, left) and Harjot Basanti (front row, right) consider their fellow Lakeland alumni and Co-op colleagues mentors for life: (back row, from left): Emelie Currie, Kristine Knourek, Chase Scarf, Leanne Hawes and Jade Hoffmann.

FALL 2018

CAMPUS NEWS

New

ANIMAL HEALTH CLINIC provides authentic industry environment Lakeland College students are leading today in the new $8.2 million Animal Health Clinic.

he Animal Health Clinic officially opened on the Vermilion campus on Friday, Sept. 7, with more than 300 guests in attendance. The new 14,531 sq. ft. facility reflects an operational veterinary clinic and replaces the college’s Small Animal Clinic, which was built in the 1960s. “The opening of the Animal Health Clinic is our latest example of innovation and excellence. Students are taking the lead and gaining industry-relevant experience by caring for a wider variety of animals. I’m excited to see how this facility will shape our students and help them excel wherever their education takes them,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College.

Second-year AHT students participated in the official opening of the Animal Health Clinic. They gave tours of the clinic (opposite page), fielded questions from attendees and more.

One-hundred eleven animal health technology (AHT) and 26 veterinary medical assistant (VMA) students started this academic year learning in the new clinic, which accommodates 30 more seats in the AHT program. The clinic features increased lab spaces, separate animal wards, a modern surgical suite and dental lab, a separate pharmacy, front desk and reception area, and more.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Lakeland launches new program:

ANIMAL ASSISTED WELLNESS Lakeland College’s newest program – animal assisted wellness – will train professionals to safely incorporate animals into their line of work for a variety of purposes. Animal assisted wellness is a collaborative certificate program designed by human services and agricultural sciences faculty at Lakeland College, and the Dreamcatcher Animal Assisted Wellness Academy.

Beyond the classroom, AHT and VMA students are gaining practical experiences through the new student-led clinic model. While students are working with both large and small animals and handling clinic operations, they’re developing soft skills such as client interaction, critical thinking, communication and problem-solving. “When it comes time to find a job, the student-led clinic is a great model to learn from. Graduating into industry, I feel our skill set is going to be a lot more advanced,” says Haylie-Ann LaFrance, a second-year AHT student. Students are also working with the latest technologies standard in many veterinary practices.

“The opening of the Animal Health Clinic is our latest example of innovation and excellence ... I’m excited to see how this facility will shape our students and help them excel wherever their education takes them.”

Offered online, this program builds on a previous credential while focusing on interpersonal relationships, the animalhuman bond, animal assisted interventions, ethics of animal integration into settings, and animal welfare, health and wellness. The program culminates in a hands-on animal handling certification process. “There is no other program like this in all of Canada,” says Joanne McDonald, chair of human services. “With this new and emerging industry, it’s important that we provide foundational knowledge and handson learning opportunities for professionals to integrate best practices for both animals and people.” Animal assisted wellness complements existing programs in human services and agricultural sciences.

- Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart

Worth approximately $1.3 million, students have access to realistic equine models, a direct digital radiography x-ray system, a bovine ultrasound machine with BCF universal goggles, canine and feline SynDaver models, and more. Lakeland will be the first organization in the world to use SynDaver’s CopyCat synthetic feline cadaver for training. Thank you to the Government of Canada’s Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund, the Government of Alberta, and donors for helping make Lakeland’s Animal Health Clinic a reality. FALL 2018

ENERGY PARK SITE

OFFICIALLY OPEN Norm Stevens is one of many street rod technologies (SRT) students who’ve learned to “turn rust into gold” at Lakeland’s new Energy Park Site.

Officially opened in April thanks to the generosity of donor Barry Anderson, the site includes three industrial acres with two large buildings that now house the SRT and truck driver training programs.

car at Lakeland was a 1977 red Mercedes 450 SLC, a classic vehicle he acquired in a trade for a boat he rarely used.

For Stevens, the Energy Park Site is where he took his interest in restoring vehicles to the next level during a leave from his job with Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training. “I have a ’58 Cadillac at home that I’ve been working on for a few years by myself but I lacked the skills and knowledge. That’s why I took this program,” he says.

until you start cutting it. There are lots of surprises along

To be successful in the SRT program, it doesn’t matter your age, gender or skill set. What matters, says Stevens, is that you have a keen interest in older vehicles. Students can bring a vehicle to work on during the program and perfect the skills they learn in class. Stevens’ project

“The car runs great but (it had) lots of cosmetic fatigue, lots of neglect. You don’t really know what’s in that car the way,” says Stevens. “I put in a couple of hundred hours of work, cutting out rusty floor panels and rocker panels. I spent a week on the trunk cutting out rust and putting in new metal.” Stevens learned a lot not only from his instructors and working on his Mercedes, but also from the other students and their projects. “You can compare notes and check on each other’s progress. It’s fun watching everyone’s skills develop. The growth and development over the eight months is amazing.”

New livestock researcher AIMS TO INCREASE LAKELAND’S PROFILE Increasing Lakeland College’s livestock research activities and student involvement in applied research are among the goals of the newest member of Lakeland’s applied research team. Dr. Obioha Durunna joined Lakeland as a livestock research scientist earlier this year. He’s excited to use his skill set and innovative ideas to grow Lakeland’s livestock research, specifically in the area of production efficiency for grazing livestock. “One of my goals is to help develop Lakeland’s livestock research. I have a great interest in feed efficiency and the use of telemetry to improve selection of efficient livestock, so I hope Lakeland will become a go-to place for livestock producers to learn how telemetry and other simple tools can support them,” says Durunna who has been researching feed efficiency since 2007. Durunna previously worked for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture; Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada; and Livestock Gentec, which is based at the University of Alberta, his alma mater. His past research on feed efficiency and feeding behaviors have been published in numerous research journals. 26

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

NEW BOARD CHAIR

FOR LAKELAND Scott Webb, a respected community leader, businessperson and long-time resident of Vermilion, is the new chair of the Board of Governors at Lakeland College.

Lakeland named one of

ALBERTA’S TOP 70 EMPLOYERS

For the second consecutive year, Lakeland College made the list of Alberta’s Top 70 Employers.

Following an open recruitment competition, Webb was selected in September as the successful candidate for board chair. He is a third-generation business owner leading George C. Webb & Sons (1980) Ltd., a Ford dealership and three successful agricultural machinery businesses. “Mr. Webb is a highly regarded member of the business community with proven leadership skills and strong connections to the community. I am confident he will make valuable contributions to Lakeland College, ensuring the highest-quality education for its students. I look forward to seeing the college grow and succeed under his leadership and vision,” says Marlin Schmidt, Minister of Advanced Education. Webb is active in the community volunteering for numerous organizations including the Vermilion and District Housing Foundation Capital Campaign and Rotary Club of Vermilion. He also served as a member on the Board of Governors of Lakeland College from 2014 to 2017. Two of his children attended Lakeland College.

Lakeland is one of five post-secondary institutions in the province on the 2018 list and the only one not based in Edmonton or Calgary. The annual competition recognizes Alberta employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work.

Investing in Lakeland College LEARNING SPACES Lakeland College received funding to complete major repairs to the exterior of its Trades Centre, helping students continue to train for good jobs.

“I’m honoured to be selected to chair Lakeland College’s Board of Governors. There are many positive things happening at Lakeland right now and we have a talented leadership team in place. It’s my goal to work with board members to ensure the momentum continues as we strive to meet the needs of students and other stakeholders in our region and beyond,” says Webb.

The Government of Alberta provided $6 million through the Capital Maintenance and Renewal budget for the repairs, which are expected to take up to two years to complete and provide employment for up to 50 people.

Lakeland College thanks Darrel Howell, Lakeland’s recent Board of Governors chair, for his work. Howell was designated as chair in 2014. During his term, Howell oversaw the completion of the Energy Centre, Dairy Learning Centre and Energy Park Site, among other projects.

Located on Lakeland’s Vermilion campus, the Trades Centre offers educational opportunities in nine different trades.

FALL 2018

NEW PRESIDENT OF CCAA Alan Rogan thrives on new challenges. And he’s now undertaking a national one as the 13th president of the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). “New challenges keep you thinking and keeps your creativity going,” says Rogan, Lakeland College’s athletic director. “Every time you sit on a board, I think it’s professional development because you get an opportunity to learn from people. You take the good and you learn from the things that you don’t agree with, and you create your own style.” During his two-year term as CCAA president, Rogan says on top of the traditional presidential duties there are three key initiatives he will be directly involved in: reviewing the association’s governance structure; working towards the implementation of a national Responsible Coaching program; and working through an application from a new conference to join the CCAA. “My role is to make sure we are all moving in the right direction and to supply some leadership, but everyone on the executive and board is involved in collegiate athletics and we have a veteran staff in the office, which means there is a lot of experience around the table,” says Rogan, who

previously served as CCAA vice president of eligibility. Rogan joined Lakeland in 1986 as the equipment room supervisor. He coached the men’s volleyball team for 13 years and spent one year at the helm of the women’s team. In 2006 he was named Lakeland’s athletic director. A former Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) president and executive committee member, Rogan spearheaded the growth of futsal in the ACAC. In 2017, Rogan was named the first ACAC Athletic Director of the Year and the CCAA Athletic Director of the Year. “I think these awards were the culmination of years of work, being able to retain dedicated staff and having quality student-athletes who share the department’s vision. If everybody buys in, then it makes your job easy. My greatest accomplishment is building a department that works together towards growth and success in the three Cs: classroom, competition and community engagement,” says Rogan.

CANADIAN ARMED FORCES certifies two Lakeland energy programs Lakeland College’s heavy oil power engineering (HOPE) and heavy oil operations technician (HOOT) students now have more career options thanks to new certification from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Lakeland’s School of Energy submitted an application for both programs to receive a Canadian Armed Forces - Accreditation Certification Equivalency (CAF-ACE) as part of the occupational training requirement for the marine engineer technician qualification. 28

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

After an intensive application and review process, HOPE is certified to provide up to 85 per cent and HOOT is certified to provide up to 70 per cent of the training required. Both programs had to meet a minimum of 70 per cent to receive the certification. The remainder of the training is completed through the CAF. Lakeland is one of four colleges in Canada certified for the marine engineer technician qualification. The college’s firefighter training program is also CAF-ACE certified.

Dean of School of Agricultural Sciences

WINS NATIONAL AWARD Increasing student enrolment, expanding student-led learning opportunities and developing key connections with industry are a few of the reasons why Josie Van Lent is the winner of a national award. The dean of Lakeland College’s School of Agricultural Sciences received a 2018 Gold Award of Excellence from Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan). Winner of the leadership excellence for managerial staff category, Van Lent received the award during CICan’s annual conference in April. Award criteria included community involvement, teamwork, creativity, sustained leadership, positive impact and dynamism. Since Van Lent joined agricultural sciences in 2007, the school’s enrolment has increased from 182 students to almost 500 in the 2017-18 academic year. Van Lent helped secure vital collaborations with New Holland Agriculture and Alberta Milk. She also worked with her team to expand the student-managed learning concept to more agricultural sciences programs. Three recent capital projects benefitted from Van Lent’s leadership: the modernization of the G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility, and the construction of the Dairy Learning Centre and Animal Health Clinic. Van Lent’s participation in international projects, including a beef trade mission to Russia and Kazakhstan, as well as speaking engagements and involvement in the agriculture industry has helped raise Lakeland’s profile.

School of Energy helps develop

PROGRAMMING IN GHANA Lakeland College will share its energy expertise and program training with the Republic of Ghana’s growing oil and gas sector.

industrial training in different parts of the world. CPI was contracted by the WRCF to find institutions that could help develop training programs for Ghana’s oil and gas sector.

The college signed memorandum of understandings (MOUs) with the Western Region Coastal Foundation (WRCF) and Seaweld Engineering to develop training, and academic and research activities for Ghanaian training and educational facilities.

Lakeland will facilitate updates and develop educational programs related to its petroleum management and gas process operator programs for the Regional Maritime University (RMU) of Ghana, according to the MOU with Seaweld.

Earlier this year, Lakeland was contacted by CPI Training, a Canadian company that focuses on corporate and

Lakeland will also send an instructor to train Ghanaian instructors once these programs are introduced. FALL 2018

Front row second from the right, Audrey Poitras, president of the Métis Nation of Alberta, presented Dr. Alice WainwrightStewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College, with a cheque for $287,600. Present for the gift announcement were representatives from the Métis Education Foundation and Rupertsland Institute, Métis Nation of Alberta Region 2, Métis Nation of Alberta Region 5, Lloydminster Native Friendship Centre and the Lloydminster campus Students’ Association, as well as several students.

This gift builds on a previous commitment made in 2015 by the Métis Nation of Alberta and its affiliates – the Rupertsland Institute and the Métis Education Foundation – in partnership with Lakeland College, to provide financial support to Métis students. To date, nine Lakeland Métis students have received financial support from this partnership.

MAJOR GIFT SUPPORTS

MÉTIS STUDENTS The Rupertsland Institute and the Métis Education Foundation gave a significant gift to support Métis student success and leadership at Lakeland College.

“The Métis Nation of Alberta and its affiliates are investing $287,600 to further support Lakeland Métis students. This figure, combined with further investment from Lakeland College and previous contributions from both organizations, will create a $500,000 endowment fund to ensure bursaries are available for Métis students,” said Audrey Poitras, President of the Métis Nation of Alberta. “In making this announcement, I am aware that this contribution on behalf of future generations of citizens could not be possible without the relationships and partnerships that we have created with the Métis community and stakeholders across the province.”

Lakeland earns AFAC Award of Distinction Lakeland College’s commitment to building a culture of animal care and welfare has earned the college an Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC) Award of Distinction. The Award of Distinction for Industry Leadership was presented to Lakeland representatives during the AFAC Annual Conference in Olds, Alta. in March. Every animal science technology student takes Lakeland’s animal handling, welfare and ethics course during their first year. The handson lab component of the course teaches students low stress handling techniques in many types of situations and in various settings, including handling facilities for sheep, beef 30

and pasture settings, says Marisa Schuebel, the instructor of the animal handling course and coordinator of Lakeland’s Animal Care Committee. Animal care and welfare is a focus in many of the other programs found in the School of Agricultural Sciences, including the animal health technology, western ranch and cow horse, and veterinary medical assistant programs. Jessica Hryciuk, chair of the Animal Care Committee, Hayley Clark, an animal science technology student and committee member, and Marisa Schuebel, instructor of the animal handling course and coordinator of Lakeland’s Animal Care Committee, accepted the award on Lakeland’s behalf.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Lakeland’s Animal Care Committee is comprised of students, staff, instructors, community members, and a college representative who is not directly involved with animals. Lakeland previously received the award in 2008.

CLASS NOTES

1. Tennisha Baldwin, Class of 2001 natural resources technology, 2003 wildlife guiding and outfitting, and 2004 ranch and stockhorse rider, married Peter Wagner on June 16, 2018.

6. Luke Wrubleski, Class of 2013 agribusiness, welcomed a daughter, Raina, on June 20. Luke was a student member on the Lakeland Board of Governors and now works for Farm Credit Canada.

2. Reid Daley, Class of 2008 conservation and reclamation major, married Christina Olson on July 1. A number of Lakeland College alumni attended their wedding, including: Kevin and Caitlin Vanslyke; Dean and Gina Sentes; Craig and Anne Onsychack; Rachael Merritt; Reid and Christina Daley; Myroslav and Evonne Zukiwski; Brett Macrae; Cody and Jennifer Garbutt; Jaede Macdonald; and Leanne Myer.

7. Rebecca (née Stewart) Genik, Class of 2006 interior design technology, welcomed her second child, Adrie, on Oct. 29, 2017.

3. Brianne Collette, Class of 2009 business administration and Class of 2011 university transfer, completed her dietetic internship in June 2018. She was a five-year member of the Rustlers women’s volleyball team. 4. Holly Ferrier, Class of 2007 livestock production, married Robert Lamont on Feb. 14, 2017. The couple welcomed their first child, Kelvin, in May. 5. Brittany Partington, Class of 2009 university transfer and former Rustlers basketball player, married Joel Budd on Oct. 14, 2017.

8. Arnold (née Gundt) Grandt attended Lakeland from 1980-82. He is still lifelong friends with a number of Lakeland alumni. In November, Arnold traveled to Asia with six other friends, including two fellow Lakeland alumni: David Powers, Class of 1982 fish and wildlife, and Brenda Houston, Class of 1982 fish and wildlife. They travelled to Asia for a month-long sojourn to Vietnam (cycling), Thailand (worked at an elephant sanctuary) and built a home for some local villagers in Cambodia. 9. (Not pictured) Katlyn Macdonald, Class of 2013 conservation and reclamation major, married Brent Degenhardt on July 21, 2018. 10. (Not pictured) Kayla Soto, Class of 2015 interior design and former Rustlers soccer player, welcomed her son, Zachary Comaniuk, on March 30, 2018. FALL 2018

EVENT RECAP

OUTSTANDING

SUPPORT Thank you to all of the generous sponsors, guests and friends of the college for their support and for making a lasting impact in the lives of Lakeland students.

7th annual Rustlers Golf Tournament The 2018 Lakeland Rustlers Golf Tournament raised more than $27,000 for Lakeland’s athletics program. All proceeds go towards athletic scholarships, provincial and national championship travel, and other related operation costs.

3rd annual Feast on the Farm More than $18,000 was raised at the 2018 Feast on the Farm. These funds help to grow and enhance student leadership opportunities at Lakeland.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

6th annual President’s Gala It was the best year yet for Lakeland’s President’s Gala – presented by Eagle Builders. The 2018 event raised over $72,000, topping last year’s fundraising total of $56,000. Proceeds from the gala help to build the Support Our Students (SOS) Enhanced Bursary.

A VISIT WITH …

Name: Alice Fortier Program: Home Economics, Class of 1951 For more than 28 years, Alice organized the Grande Prairie Alumni Social. She called alumni every year to remind them of the event coming up. When the social first began almost three decades ago, Alice would organize the caterer, collect the money, and plan the games and entertainment for the event. During the early years of the social, there would be around 85 alumni in attendance. Alice recalls every social being a great time, and as the years passed, getting together just to socialize and visit was just as fun as the games were when it began. Alice describes that, “the social is like a magnetic pole to bring people back to reminisce of old times.” Alice thanks Eric Stamp for his prompt help over the years. Alice has seven kids, 16 grandkids, and over 30 great-grandkids.

Profession(s) … Chasing seven kids around the farm, mother, farm wife, worked in a museum, designer for flower shops and caregiver.

If I were to change professions, I would be a … Caregiver. I did this for eight years and it was my last job.

The thing I remember most about being a student is … Learning to get along with so many different personalities.

The worst job I’ve ever had was … Picking rocks. Game show I would be best at is … Let’s Make a Deal. My favourite place is … Peace River Country. The one habit I’m trying to break is … Eating too much. The last book (thing) I read was … The Wit and Wisdom of Downton Abbey. The most defining moment in my life is … Having my children. The one way I have changed for the better is … I’ve got more empathy. I started feeling like a grown up when … I don’t ever remember being a kid, I was always very responsible and had to help my mom.

The daily habit that contributes to my success is … Honesty. How I would like to be remembered … As a caring person. If I could be in any TV show or movie it would be … The Waltons. My first job after graduation was … I worked in a grocery store in Grande Prairie. My wage was $90 per month.

The item I never leave the house without is … My purse. The biggest influence in your life … My uncle Lawrence because he was always there when I was a little girl, and he would answer my questions.

Happiest moment of my life … Marrying my husband. Favourite childhood memory … Always out spending time with the animals in the barn. FALL 2018

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.

Irene Aasen Class of ’63

Shirley Lindsay (spouse)

Janet Anderson

Alfred Mathieu

(spouse)

Class of ’48

Fred Bennett

Everett McCrimmon

Class of ’47

Ernest Casselman

Walter McNary

(spouse)

Class of ’47

Norma Casselman

Lloyd Miller

Class of ’51

Class of ’58

Ted Chudyk

David Mitchell

Class of ’54

Class of ‘50

Hugh Craig

Jock Ockerman

Class of ’49

Class of ’11

Colleen Dolan

Stan Palmer

(spouse)

Class of ‘68

Anna Eshpeter

Evelyn Philip

Class of ’57

(staff)

John Giebelhaus

Irvin Ross

Class of ’49

Class of ’48

Alan Glasrud

Otto Scriba

Class of ’61

Class of ’50

Elmer Goeglein

Franziska Selin

Class of ’48

Class of ’53

Brian Gulbraa

E. Margaret Taylor

Class of ’78

(staff)

Harold Holtby

Ronald Taylor

(staff)

Class of ’42

Hazel Irving

Leon Vallee

Class of ’41

(spouse)

Clare Johnston

Esther Williams

Class of ’53

(staff)

William Levitt Class of ’78

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

REMEMBER WHEN

Back in 1991, Lakeland’s conservation and reclamation students were just as busy as our current class. When they weren’t engrossed in their taxidermy lab where they inspected preserved animals, they were learning beyond the classroom. They took field trips to gain applied skills related to their major. Do you recognize anyone in these photos?

SHARE YOUR

PHOTOS! Would you like your “vintage” Lakeland photos featured here? Send them to the Alumni Office!

FALL 2018

Alumni House

The elegance of yesterday with the charm of today.

READ THE EXCEL? TELL US HOW WE CAN BEST SERVE YOU!

Take our Excel Magazine Readership Survey to share your feedback: • Do you like the features? • Does this keep in you in the loop of what’s happening at Lakeland? • What’s missing from this publication? Complete the survey online: lakelandcollege.ca/excel Don’t have access to the internet? Call Shauna at 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628 to have a paper copy mailed to you (along with return postage). If you complete the survey – online or by mail – your name will be entered into a draw for some Lakeland College swag! Five winners will be announced on December 1, 2018. The Excel Magazine Readership Survey closes on November 30, 2018.

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-and-friends or call 1.800.661.6490, ext. 8737

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