Excel Spring 2020

Spring 2020

STUDENT-MANAGED FARM POWERED BY NEW HOLLAND CELEBRATES

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ANNIVERSARY

SPRING 2020 to Lakeland 1 Bison coming

LAKELAND LEADS

LAKELAND

RECEIVES SINGLE-LARGEST

GIFT IN ITS

HISTORY Armin and Rita Mueller, owners of Canadian Rangeland Bison and Elk, donated $4 million to Lakeland College to purchase land and establish a bison herd at the college.

The gift announced Feb. 25 will strengthen Lakeland’s two-year animal science technology program at the Vermilion campus and provide more studentmanaged learning opportunities for people in the program’s livestock major. With the addition of a bison herd, Lakeland will become the only postsecondary institution in Canada where students, with mentorship from faculty, manage commercialsized bison, beef, crop, dairy, and sheep enterprises.

The donation also opens doors for Lakeland to participate in bison research projects with organizations such as the Canadian Bison Association, as well as other post-secondary institutions and industry partners.

“We’re honoured that Armin and Rita have chosen to support Lakeland College and our students with this donation to Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign.

It’s the largest single gift Lakeland has ever received,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, Lakeland’s president and CEO. “I admire Armin’s passion for the bison industry and dedication to sustainable agricultural practices. I know Lakeland and our students will benefit from this visionary investment for years to come.”

Flip to page 8 to read Armin and Rita’s feature story.

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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

SUPPORT STUDENT

SUCCESS Post-secondary study is exciting and fun. But it also comes with many intense changes and pressures.

Do you remember the pressure and the stress of college?

According to a 2019 Lakeland study, close to half of the students surveyed felt hopeless and anxious, and found it difficult to function within the last year. Since this study was completed, plans are being put in place to create a mental health strategy for Lakeland.

You can help support the overall wellness of Lakeland students by making a donation to Student Success at Lakeland College.

Together, we can do more to make an impact on student mental health on campus and to help ensure Student Success.

Please make your donation today online at lakelandcollege.ca/success or by calling 780.853.8431.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

TABLE OF CONTENTS Spring 2020

Excel is published by Lakeland College’s Department of Community Development.

Excel is also available on Lakeland’s website at lakelandcollege.ca/excel

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Alumni Spotlight 13. Lakeland lessons continue to

18. A modern day warrior

inspire agribusiness alumna

14. Alumna combines passion for horses and trades 16. Alumna sees the classroom from the other side of the podium

20. Work-integrated learning leads to success

25. Creating safe spaces

The department distributes mailings, invitations and class lists. Anyone wishing to be excluded from certain mailings should call 780.853.8431.

Editor: Katie Ryan Writers: Melissa Barr, Taylor Hermiston, Katie Ryan and Colleen Symes Creative Design: Chelsey Schlosser

17. Teacher’s passion brings him full circle

Cover Photos: Lakeland College Accepting advertising: Advertising in Excel is welcome. For rates phone 780.853.8628 or email alumni@lakelandcollege.ca.

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Continue Reading 7. Alumni Social Calendar 8. Donor Spotlight 12. Snapshots 21. Reunion Weekend 2020 26. Lakeland Milestones: 60 Years and Counting for Emergency Training Centre

28. SMF yields 30 years of agricultural leaders and innovation 33. Students in the Lead 38. Campus News 41. Class Notes 42. In Memoriam 43. Remember When

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 Community Development or contact Shauna Zack at 780.853.8628 or shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca.

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

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You’re invited to

REUNION 2020 President Barry McCarty ‘69 Vice President Edmund Lefsrud ‘65 Treasurer Sandra Bernes '66 Secretary Phyllis Elmer ‘68 Past President Bill Fox '58 Director Werner Wennekamp '65 Director Wyman Lockhart ‘66 Director Kole Casey ‘12 Director Craig deJong ‘16 Director Barry McDonald ‘66 Director Victoria Page ‘67 Director Jamie Taylor ‘16 Director Marie Therriault ‘65 Historian Tom Kibblewhite ‘59 Volunteer Archivist Marilyn Campbell ‘78 Alumni Liaison Shauna Zack

Please note, at press time Reunion Weekend 2020 was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stay tuned for more information!

Our Alumni Association is undergoing some changes. We are trying to update events to fit a wider group of alumni. We’ve changed the name of Homecoming to Reunion Weekend. The main reason the Alumni Board did this is because Reunion has a family appeal to it.

Our alumni are a big family, as we all know. We now have third and fourth generation family members attending Lakeland College. This is fantastic and shows that our educational “home” continues to be important to family members, as well as new students because it is a world-class learning institution.

At Reunion Weekend 2020 the anniversary classes will be featured as always.

We would really like to have more younger alumni consider joining us. So, for those people in five, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 anniversary years and beyond please get in touch with your classmates and consider a weekend back at Lakeland.

During Reunion Weekend 2020, the Student-Managed Farm alumni are celebrating their 30th anniversary. We would like to welcome all alumni back to enjoy the fellowship, camaraderie and good times you had as students. We are organizing some family-friendly activities that will appeal to the younger crowd.

We have lots of special things happening along with numerous new activities planned for Reunion Weekend 2020. Let’s rally all alumni and bring bright smiling faces to Lakeland's Reunion Weekend 2020 in June.

Barry McCarty President, Alumni Association

ALUMNI SOCIAL CALENDAR

ALUMNI & 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.

RSVP to any of the alumni and industry mixers to Shauna Zack by calling 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628 or emailing shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca.

Ag in Motion

Agribition

FarmTech

July 21-23 Location: Discovery Farm near Langham, Sask.

November 2020 Watch our website for more details

January 2021 Watch our website for more details

ALUMNI SOCIAL EVENTS Edmonton & Area Alumni Social: Cancelled Contact: Shauna Zack, alumni relations officer 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628

Lakeland College Reunion Weekend 2020 & SMF 30th Anniversary: Cancelled Stay tuned for more information.

Contact: Shauna Zack, alumni relations officer 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628

Westlock Alumni Social Thursday, Aug. 6 Location: Canadian Tractor Museum Time: 4-7 p.m.

RSVP to: Doug & Vera Brown 780.349.2410 George & Ivy MacMillan 780.349.2404

Grande Prairie Alumni Social: Postponed Contact: Shauna Zack, alumni relations officer 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628

Yuma Alumni Snowbird Social February 2021 Location: Westwind RV & Golf Resort, 9797 East 32 Street, Yuma, AZ Details will be available in the Fall 2020 Excel Contact: Jack & Janet Price 928.342.4567 Lyle & Sandra Baker 780.872.9009 or 780.871.4111

UT Alumni Social 2021 Watch our website for more details Location: Servus Credit Union Hospitality Centre Lakeland College, Lloydminster campus

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

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DONOR SPOTLIGHT

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Armin and Rita Mueller emigrated from Switzerland to Canada in the 1970s. Through hard work and innovation, they succeeded first in the dairy industry and then in the bison industry. The owners of Canadian Rangeland Bison and Elk recently announced a $4-million donation to Lakeland College to purchase land and establish a bison herd. In this story, they reflect on the opportunities they found in Canada, and the risks they took during their rollercoaster journey as ag producers.

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Armin & Rita Mueller I t didn’t take long for Canada to make a favourable impression on Armin Mueller.

“I came to Canada in 1975 to work on a dairy in Quebec. Ten days after I arrived, I mailed my first letter home to my family in Switzerland. I wrote that I wasn’t coming back.

I also remember the first letter I got back from home. My brother said, ‘You know, you're a dumb dreamer. You'll be back.'”

Armin’s brother Xavier was wrong. Forty-five years after immigrating to Canada, Armin has no regrets about leaving his family’s dairy farm to work in agriculture in Canada. “There was no room for me over there. I needed to make my own opportunities elsewhere,” says Armin, who moved to Alberta in 1977 to work on another dairy.

Rita Sigrist also grew up on a small farm in Switzerland. She came to Canada in 1977 on an international agricultural exchange program, working at a grain farm near Basano, Alta. She and Armin met in 1978 when both were visiting their families in Switzerland. They married in 1980 and settled on a dairy farm near Bentley, Alta., that Armin purchased in 1979. They named it Pilatus Farms after the Swiss mountain between their families’ farms.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Things started out well for the Muellers.

Alberta and the dairy industry were booming.

But their efforts to expand their dairy combined with record-high interest rates led to challenges. Within a few years they were paying up to 24.5 per cent interest on a $1-million loan.

“We didn't take many holidays. We worked hard and put in long days all year long. We didn't know anything else. But we were happy,” says Armin. They, along with their children Alex, Simon and Michelle, worked together to expand their land base and dairy herd.

Their children didn’t want to dairy farm, so Armin and Rita sold the cows and the milk quota in 2000. That same year, they invested in bison, an animal that’s always fascinated Armin.

“As a little boy, I was captivated with the West.

I was reading books and watching Western movies. Bison always had a significant role,” he recalls. Although they had done little research on raising and marketing bison, the couple bought about 300 head of bison. They also invested in Canadian Rangeland Bison and Elk, a marketing company.

Bad news often comes in threes, and that was the case for the Muellers. Drought, BSE and the near collapse of Canadian Rangeland Bison and Elk occurred shortly after they began raising bison.

maple syrup.

Armin and Rita’s daughter Michelle and her husband Steven Lunty are now involved in Pilatus Ranches and Canadian Rangeland Bison. “Michelle and Steven have a real love for bison. I guess Michelle got a little bit of that from her old man,” says Armin with a smile.

“Within probably 15 months of us getting involved in Canadian Rangeland Bison and Elk, that business was in trouble. We had bison and we needed a place for the meat, Strong partnerships helped the Muellers succeed. “To be so, without any experience whatsoever, we took over the successful you need the right partners. You need the right company and kept it going,” says Armin. Today, Canadian partner in marriage, and in business.

Rangeland Bison sells prime bison You also need the right employees and meat throughout North America I’ve been fortunate in all of these areas,” If it doesn’t work out and Europe. The Muellers were says Armin. but you learn from your also founding partners in 2006 Rita says their journey has always been mistakes, it’ll make you a of Canadian Premium Meats, a interesting. “I think you get into this processing company. They sold stronger person. together and you don’t think ahead, you their investment in that company just do it. You work through it. It wasn’t five years ago. always easy, but if we look back now, 40 years later, I Although Armin jokes that investing in bison was the wouldn’t have wanted anything different. It’s been great,” result of a midlife crisis, there’s nothing he’s enjoyed more she says. “Canada’s been good for us.” during his career than raising and marketing bison. “I love The Muellers consider their gift to Lakeland College an everything about bison. The way they run, the way they investment in the future of the bison industry. Students behave, the way they roll in the dirt. And I really love the will learn more about bison and take that knowledge with meat. It’s high in protein, high in iron and the way we raise them throughout their careers. “I think this will really help bison is as close to nature as we can get,” says Armin. strengthen the Canadian bison brand,” he says.

He acknowledges that if they faced the obstacles they did Armin’s advice to students is to try new paths, think outside while raising another animal, he likely would have quit. the box, and don’t be afraid of failure. “If it doesn’t work “But I had the drive to continue because I saw the potential out but you learn from your mistakes, it’ll make you a in bison. There’s nothing like a bison, especially in North stronger person.”

America. This is where they thrive,” he says, noting that he’d love Canada to be as famous for bison as it is for And, of course, never quit dreaming.

Front row: Steven and Michelle (Mueller) Lunty and their daughters Skyler and Marlee, Rita and Armin Mueller and Josie Van Lent, dean of Lakeland’s School of Agricultural Sciences. Behind are staff from Canadian Rangeland Bison and Elk, Lakeland’s School of Agricultural Sciences, and animal science technology and crop technology students with general manager or assistant general manager roles in the SMF – Powered by New Holland.

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SNAPSHOTS

GENERATION

ALUMNI Are you the child or grandchild of an alumnus?

Did your children go to Lakeland College?

Each year Lakeland College's alumni office recognizes graduates whose parent(s), grandparent(s) or great grandparent(s) attended Lakeland College!

In the late 1930s, Vermilion School of Agriculture recognized the first generation alumnus. This evolved into our alumni generation recognition during convocation.

If you missed out on this during your convocation please complete the Alumni Generation Recognition Form online and return it to Shauna Zack, alumni relations officer, by emailing shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca. If you have any questions, please call 780.853.8628.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

There’s nothing better than catching up with our alumni! Thank you to everyone who visited with us in Yuma, as well as Agribition and FarmTech. Missed out on the fun? Check out the events we have planned for the rest of the year on page six!

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

INSPIRE LAKELAND LESSONS CONTINUE TO

AGRIBUSINESS ALUMNA Makayla Moen was drawn to Lakeland’s Vermilion campus because of the rodeo team and opportunity to study both business and agriculture simultaneously.

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dealing with similar situations and he Class of 2018 agribusiness it set me up to succeed really well. alumna liked the community There wasn’t a course or a class that so much, she ended up wasn’t relevant. I feel like 20 years staying. Now, using the lessons she down the road, I’ll still somehow learned during her time at Lakeland, remember my instructors’ voices and Moen works with local farmers, the lessons ranchers and I learned.” commercial members as a It’s important for people to Even the credit analyst know just how involved you get lessons that in the lending don’t directly to be at Lakeland. You’re not department at apply to the just sitting at a desk all day. the Vermilion work she does Credit Union. now still help “Coming out of college and getting

her relate to the members she serves.

a job was scary,” she says. “But

“If you’re having a conversation with a farmer, it’s nice to have that knowledge of agronomy or livestock production, for example. It really

whenever I felt like I didn’t know what I was doing, I’d remember what I learned in class or on assignments

helps me connect with the member.

A farmer doesn’t necessarily want to deal with someone who doesn’t know agriculture and it helps that I come from an agricultural background.”

Prior to Lakeland, Moen studied business at another post-secondary institution but found that it didn’t quite fit. She had grown up with her family in Elrose, Sask., and had always been involved in agriculture. Moen found herself missing the comforting familiarity. After hearing good things about Lakeland’s rodeo team and agribusiness program, she made the decision to transfer.

"I think that was the best decision I ever made, transferring to Lakeland," says Moen, who was involved with the rodeo team and the agribusiness case study competition team, and was a Resident Assistant.

The biggest difference she found on campus had nothing to do with rodeo, however; it was the instructors she met. “They really encourage you to get involved. It helps socially and you meet a lot of other students. I have connections now with people from all over Canada and made so many good friends.”

Moen says she’s happy to have been given the opportunity to stay in Vermilion.

“If it wasn’t for Lakeland, I wouldn’t be where I am,” she says. “I 100 per cent recommend the agribusiness program. It’s important for people to know just how involved you get to be at Lakeland. You’re not just sitting at a desk all day. You’re at the StudentManaged Farm (— Powered by New Holland) working with cattle or you’re planning the Pop-Up Shop. You’re doing a retail store case study or even organizing Band in the Sand. You’re using your own creativity to learn. It’s very involved and I miss it.”

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ALUMNA COMBINES Passion FOR HORSES AND TRADES j'Amey Bevan’s journey from a downtown Vancouver city girl to the chair of the Government of Alberta’s Apprenticeship & Industry Training Board is a complex one.

She charted her own course, blending her love for the trades with her love of horses. Her first step on that journey was Lakeland College.

city girl from downtown Vancouver with a passion for horses, the Class of 1997 alumna came to Lakeland in the 1990s to learn more about horsemanship, an industry she had very little experience in. It was cost-prohibitive for her to have access to horses in Vancouver, but she had always been fascinated by them and had a dream to own a farm with pastureland and her own horses. It was that dream that brought her to Lakeland and the former western horsemanship program, which is now the equine major of the animal science technology diploma program.

“I came to Lakeland with very little actual experience,” she says. “I was definitely in over my head, but I learned a ton.

It was a very supportive learning environment, I made lifelong friends I cherish and the skills I learned there have been applicable in so many areas of my life.”

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Bevan developed a resiliency at Lakeland that served her in her future career, one that was derived from entering and excelling in a program that she had very little experience in, but a strong passion for. “There wasn’t anything I wouldn’t tackle after I completed the program. It was such a physically challenging program and all of those things made me feel confident in trying the next thing.”

For Bevan, the next thing was boilermaking. In order to establish the horse farm she had been dreaming about, she needed a stable source of income. She accepted an apprenticeship in boilermaking, where she would discover another passion.

country as a whole, and is excited that her role puts her in a position to continue to advocate for trades education.

“The skilled trades are vital to our province. Tradespeople do so much for our economy and for Alberta as a whole. The trajectory of my career has been to promote apprenticeship not just in my own trade, but all the trades in the province. It’s so important for us to continue to value the skilled trades, promote them and help educate people about what the trades are and what great opportunities there are here.”

Bevan’s journey came full circle in December when she was able to visit Lakeland as the chair of the Apprenticeship & Industry Training Board.

Bevan has now been

She met with some of

a boilermaker for over

Lakeland’s trades faculty as well as students.

20 years, moving from

“The students seemed so working on industrial appreciative of the things and construction they were learning,” Bevan sites around the says. “I believe Lakeland Edmonton region to is a leader in Canada for working in education the training that they do. In and training with the j'Amey Bevan with her horses Diablo and Walker. Bevan has been a any education, there has to boilermakers’ union. boilermaker for over 20 years. be a practical component She was the director that allows you to take of apprenticeship and what you’ve learned and apply it, especially when you’re education for the union for 14 years, continually learning applying it in an environment that is willing to teach you and supporting upcoming apprentices. She completed her and support you in your development, like Lakeland. That’s master’s degree in leadership in 2014. very critical.”

When the opportunity to apply for the Alberta The one piece of advice Bevan has is to keep on learning.

Apprenticeship & Industry Training Board came up, Bevan took it and was appointed the board chair in 2016.

“Learning doesn’t stop when you finish college. You need During her boilermaking training, the foundational education she had at Lakeland contributed to her success.

“There were a lot of business management courses at Lakeland that were integrated into the western horsemanship program,” Bevan explains. “We took accounting and marketing classes that gave me the skills to help me move on in my career. Shortly after I got my Red Seal certification in boilermaking, I was able to get my Blue Seal, a business credential, using some of the programming that I had learned at Lakeland. It all tied together quite nicely.”

She says continuing to support and educate people in the trades is incredibly important to the province and

to be open to possibilities. Be a lifelong learner and it will benefit you in so many ways. Don’t be afraid to forge your own path and design your own life. Great things will happen – and Lakeland College is a great foundation for that.”

As for her dream of owning her own horse operation, Bevan’s work as a boilermaker allowed her to purchase her first acreage in 1999, giving her a home for her horses. She currently has a 65-acre hobby farm in the Tofield area with 10 horses and a donkey.

“We do very much enjoy having the horses,” Bevan says. “I honestly can’t see me ever not being involved with horses in one way or another.”

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Alumna sees the classroom from the other side

OF THE PODIUM Dr. Katie Lafreniere credits the support of one particular Lakeland College business instructor with giving her the confidence to pursue academia as a career.

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he began her career as an assistant professor at the University of Lethbridge in 2019.

The Class of 2007 alumna came to Lakeland from her hometown of Winnipeg on a basketball scholarship and studied business administration.

While she loved her experience playing for the Rustlers and made life-long friends on the team, her experience off the court is what changed her life.

“When I first came to Lakeland, I just came to play basketball,” says Lafreniere. “I didn’t really take school seriously. It was Lakeland that fostered the desire to actually become a good student and to take my education seriously.”

Struggling with a low GPA, Lafreniere sought support from accessibilities services in The Commons.

It was Lakeland that fostered the desire to actually become a good student and to take my education seriously.

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“When I came to Lakeland, I had an undiagnosed learning disability,” she explains. “So my first year at Lakeland was a real eye opener. I learned that I wasn’t able to get by without treating it and accessibilities services set me up for success. They set me up with a doctor to help figure out what was going on and it completely changed my life.”

She was supported in her academic journey by the instructors at Lakeland, particularly Doreen Der. Lafreniere’s undiagnosed learning disability had convinced her that she was not good enough to succeed academically, but Der’s support changed her mind.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

“Doreen gave me confidence that I didn’t just have to be a good student.

She truly believed in our potential and gave us all the tools we needed to succeed. In her class, I learned I could study hard enough that I could get A+s. I went from having a 1.9 GPA in my first semester to a 3.8 the next year because of the confidence Doreen helped me build. She helped me believe that I could accomplish more than I ever expected I could.

I don’t even know what I would be doing if I didn’t get the confidence at Lakeland that I did.”

After graduating with her business administration diploma from Lakeland, Lafreniere went on to earn a bachelor of management and her master of science – management in marketing from the University of Lethbridge. She completed her Ph.D in business from the University of Alberta and started in 2019 as an assistant professor on the tenure track in marketing at the University of Lethbridge.

As a professor, Lafreniere supports her students the same way she was supported at Lakeland, a responsibility she does not take lightly because of her own academic challenges.

“I don’t judge a student because they’re struggling in class,” she says. “I’m very aware that it’s usually other factors that are hindering their experience. If we can just give them the support they need, then they can succeed, just like anybody else.”

TEACHER'S PASSION BRINGS HIM

FULL CIRCLE Craig Blythe’s education has brought him home.

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e grew up in Lloydminster, completed the university transfer (UT) program at Lakeland College, graduated with a bachelor of education from the University of Alberta, and now he is back in the community sharing the lessons he learned along the way with his third grade class at Rendell Park Elementary School.

Growing up in Lloydminster meant that Blythe was very familiar with Lakeland. When he graduated high school, he felt the college’s UT program would be a nice stepping stone to ease the transfer to university. He credits the two years he spent at Lakeland with helping prepare him for his academic success.

“I really liked being the big fish in a small pond,” Blythe explains. “Being able to thrive at Lakeland really built my confidence as a person and a student. If I had just started off at the university, I might have been swallowed up in the first year. At Lakeland, I didn’t feel like I was competing with my classmates. Instead, we were working together to get the best grades and to learn as much as we could together.”

The smaller class sizes helped him develop both his study habits and his comfort level when it came to participating in the classroom, and he thrived when he moved on to the university. Getting first-hand experience with classes in the Lloydminster school system is also an important part of the UT education program and helped him as he reflected on the type of teacher he wanted to become.

“Because Lakeland is so close to the surrounding schools, we were able to get some practical experience in the Lloydminster school system,” he says. “I built relationships with the teachers, administrators and superintendents in the school system. I think that had a big part of helping me get a job in Lloydminster, as well as helping me learn about the teaching profession in a real way.”

The lessons he learned at Lakeland have informed the approach Blythe takes to his own classroom.

Though the students are much younger, Blythe knows how important it is for students to have a strong relationship with their instructor. He has also incorporated some of the activities he learned at Lakeland with his students.

“My experience at Lakeland College sparked my passion for teaching.”

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ege d Coll n a l e a k no’s La him to make u r B y ires Dann e insp c n e i . r expe ry day e v e e nc differe

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s a carpentry instructor for The Indigenous Offender Employment Project at the Pê Sâkâstêw Centre, a minimumsecurity correctional facility, in Mâskwâcîs, Alta. (90 kilometres south of Edmonton), Bruno is equipping adult learners with usable skills to transition from incarceration to the working world.

my work, just skipping to the results.

Then, my instructor Curtis Cassibo said if he looked in my car, he might find a mess. He helped me understand that I live with not being organized in various areas of my life.

I started to take control of that by being accountable. I realized why I have to show my work so that I can catch where I went wrong and steer

My instructor Trevor saw a lot of potential in me. He taught me that it's okay to fail as long as I fail forward.

“In six weeks, I teach them a preemployment carpentry course. It’s so easy for me to teach because it’s similar to what I learned in my first- and second-year modules at Lakeland. I’m able to use my Lakeland experience and education to help others better their lives,” says the journeyman, who completed his carpentry periods from 2015-2018 at Lakeland’s Vermilion campus.

myself to the right path. From that point on, I would stay late after class and study. I'd reread each module, so I would have it all memorized for my exams.” All of his hard work was recognized when Bruno received the Cam Macfarlane award for outstanding achievement.

Beyond the academic relationships with his instructors, Bruno says he appreciates the compassion he

As he mastered woodcraft and other valuable carpentry skills, Bruno says he treasures the lessons he learned from his Lakeland instructors, whom he continues to seek mentorship from today.

received when he had two family

“My instructor Trevor (Provick) saw a lot of potential in me. He taught me that it's okay to fail as long as I fail forward. I learned that mistakes happen, I won’t ace every exam, and I’m not going to have every day go my way, because there's always something going on outside of school. I need to keep trying and persisting.”

It’s these Lakeland experiences that not only have Bruno keep in touch with his instructors but inspires him to stay in this line of work.

As a student, Bruno describes himself as a struggling learner, who would stay after class to catch up on assignments and seek additional support. Bruno says his Lakeland instructors took the time to understand which kind of learning technique would best suit him.

“I had a tendency of not showing

members pass away during his time at Lakeland. He recalls John Wilkinson pulling him aside, seeing him in tears, and encouraging him to take time off if he needed it.

“They helped me develop my lesson plans, provided me with project ideas, and so much more. They also care about everything I'm doing.

There are times during my 50-minute work commute, Trevor Provick and I will chat over the phone about my workday. He also keeps me updated on the national building code (N.B.C) and if there are changes in the program modules. He's like my secret weapon,” Bruno shares.

at Lakeland, Bruno says working for his previous employer made him overcome prejudices about his Indigenous heritage. He says he realized he needed to find an employer that saw his potential and appreciated his skills. Now, working at Pê Sâkâstêw Healing Lodge, Bruno says the confidence Lakeland gave him and the hard work he put in is finally paying off.

“It's a life-changing experience for me to see the men I teach take what they learn, put the work in and then transition into the working world.

It’s special when they call me to tell me that they found a job as well,” Bruno says.

Bruno adds that working at the Healing Lodge has allowed him to keep up with his culture, as he is able to participate in ceremonial sweats, smudges and Powwows routinely, as it is encouraged at his workplace.

He also volunteers his time and carpentry talents to the Samson First Nation in Maskwacis, fixing major housing problems.

“There have been times where I have felt like I’m consistently doing warranty work, but working at the men’s prison, I feel like I can show the value of what it means to be a strong Indigenous man who provides for his household, which means being a modern-day warrior. I can lead by example, as words carry very little weight. Most importantly what I learned from pursuing my dream at Lakeland College is that it’s my responsibility to use my skills towards helping others in need.”

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Every lab had a field component and that really helped set me apart from other graduates coming into the industry.

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rustrated with the lack of job opportunities that were mainly seasonal, she was looking for a career that would support her financially and offer more stability. An online search for environmental programs associated with the oil and gas sector led her to Lakeland. At the advice of her instructors, she made the decision to switch to Lakeland’s bachelor of applied science: environmental management program. She completed a year of upgrading to qualify for it and hasn’t regretted a thing.

WORKINTEGRATED LEARNING LEADS TO SUCCESS Lakeland College was a refreshing change for Bridget Loe. The Class of 2008 alumna already had a university degree in natural resource management: fisheries and wildlife when she decided to apply for the environmental sciences diploma program.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

“Lakeland is basically like a large family,” Loe explains.

“Coming from a small town, I felt very comfortable. It wasn’t this large university with hundreds of thousands of students. There were smaller class sizes and you get a lot of one-on-one interaction with the instructors. The instructors always had an open-door policy so you could stop in, ask questions. It was a breath of fresh air coming from university.”

After graduating, Loe found a position with SLR Consulting in Fort St. John, B.C., where she completed her practicum, part of the bachelor of applied science: environmental management program. Loe currently is a senior environmental program manager with ClearStream Environmental Consulting Services in Fort St. John, B.C., where she works with a fellow Lakeland alumnus. Loe manages environmental projects focusing on reclamation and remediation of upstream oil and gas facilities.

She credits Lakeland’s work-integrated learning with helping her successfully forge her career path after graduation.

“Lakeland really set me up with applicable skills for completing field work,” she says. “There were so many field trips and outside labs. I had the opportunity to be around a drill rig, collect and assess soil and water samples and complete plant identification. Every lab had a field component and that really helped set me apart from other graduates coming into the industry. Lakeland exposed me to so much practical hands-on experience that it was an easy transition from school to work.”

CANCELLED STAY TUNED FOR MORE INFORMATION

Lakeland College

REUNION WEEKEND 2020

Tentative Schedule of Events All activities are at the Vermilion campus

Thursday, June 11 2 – 5 p.m.

REGISTRATION: Alumni House If you arrive later, security (780.853.8505) can let you into your dorm room. RV parking available in the football field east of the campus (see signs). No sevices.

Contact Shauna Zack for information about off-campus accommodations: 780.853.8628 or shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca.

Friday, June 12 Noon – 5 p.m.

REGISTRATION: Alumni Hall (Main Building)

5 – 11 p.m.

REGISTRATION and FAMILY BBQ: Spurs

9 – 11 p.m.

FAMILY BONFIRE: Quad Enjoy s’mores at the fire. Bring a lawn chair. Musical instruments welcome, sing-a-long at the fire.

Saturday, June 13 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

7:30 – 9 a.m.

9 – 10:30 a.m.

REGISTRATION: Alumni Hall (Main Building) FREE BUFFET BREAKFAST: Cafeteria Thank you to Lakeland College Board of Governors for sponsoring breakfast.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: Cafeteria

10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

COLLEGE BOOKSTORE OPEN: Alumni Swag available

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

FARM TOURS Hosted by Peter Walsh, meet in front of Alumni Hall (Main Building). See our new facilities.

Noon – 1:30 p.m.

1 - 4 p.m.

1 p.m.

CLASS LUNCHEONS & PHOTOS Various locations on campus. We hope you attend the luncheon as we want to include you in the class photos.

Spurs is open GOLF AT VERMILION GOLF CLUB Tee times are reserved. Pay your fees at the Golf Club. Please advise number of golfers on the Registration Form.

2 – 3 p.m.

KIDS ACTIVITIES Stay tuned for more details!

2 – 4 p.m.

FARM TOURS Hosted by Peter Walsh, meet in front of Alumni Hall (Main Building).

See our new facilities.

2 – 4 p.m.

AFTERNOON TEA in the ARBORETUM Hosted by Class of 1968. Everyone welcome (hats will be provided).

REUNION BANQUET - Vermilion Regional Centre 4:30 p.m.

Registration moves to Vermilion Regional Centre

5:30 p.m.

Cash Bar

6 p.m.

Banquet & Program - Peter Walsh Roast

8 p.m.

Kids’ Room Opens

9 p.m.

Grand March, Dance & Midnight Lunch

The DJ is requesting song(s) from your time at Lakeland. Please forward to Phyllis by June 1 - alumni.association@lakelandcollege.ca

Sunday, June 14 7:30 – 11 a.m.

Farewell Buffet Breakfast - Cafeteria (pay your own)

CREAT I NG SAFE SPACES

For Lakeland alumna and registered social worker/psychologist Tamara Gartner, returning to college was a homecoming she had been looking forward to for years.

The Kitscoty-native holds a master of arts degree in counselling psychology and has her own private practice, Inclusive Counselling & Consulting Psychological Services, Inc. with her wife in Edmonton. They specialize in supporting children, youth, adults and families that identify as LGBTQ2S+.

She has provided over 175 professional development training sessions and workshops on that topic, including the one she presented at the Lloydminster campus in October 2019. The workshop was geared specifically towards creating inclusive environments for LGBTQ2S+ individuals and their families.

Her experience in the university transfer program helped her identify some areas of study she'd pursue as well as gave her the confidence to move to larger centres to continue her studies.

based out of Seattle.

After completing the program in 1992, Gartner transferred to the University of Saskatchewan to work

“This community has been marginalized and my experience is that there are few services, not only in smaller centres like Lloydminster, but everywhere,” she explains. “When families are struggling, they don’t know where to turn to for support.

When families or individuals have nowhere to go, they suffer, and I’m not okay with that. I’m not okay with people facing adversity alone.”

It was the first time Gartner had the opportunity to come home to share what she had learned with area service providers.

After graduating from high school with no clear idea on what she wanted to do with her future, Gartner enrolled in Lakeland’s university transfer program, a move she credits as an important step in her academic success.

“It gave me a starting point,” she explains. “It gave me the comforts of being near loved ones when I still wasn’t sure where to go next.

It also gave me experience to start out my post-secondary route and to try being a post-secondary student without going through the throes of moving away or jumping into larger financial debt.”

Gartner spoke to Lakeland faculty and staff, as well as teachers and service providers from the Lloydminster area in 2019.

on her bachelor of arts and then earned a diploma in social work at MacEwan University. She finished her bachelor of arts at the University of Alberta and spent eight years working in the field, primarily at non-profit organizations. In 2008 Gartner went back to school to earn her master of arts in counselling psychology.

She was a student at the Edmontonbranch of City University of Seattle,

Gartner’s experience growing up in the Kitscoty area also informed her studies, helping her understand a need in LGBTQ2S+ community that she was specifically qualified to fill.

It’s part of the reason why Gartner was so excited for the opportunity to return home to offer a workshop on this topic. She receives a lot of referrals from the area and knows that, like many smaller urban centres, there is a lack of specialized supports.

“I always said to myself, 'If I could just get close enough to my hometown to offer a workshop like this, that would be the most ideal situation,'” she says. “My learnings are important, my specialization and my personal experiences growing up here and identifying in this community was painful, so for me to come back and to share my story and to share why I do this work, I think it’s important for Lloydminster to hear it. I want to share my knowledge and my skill set so people can learn from it.”

SPRING 2020

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LAKELAND MILESTONES

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Milestone anniversary:

60 years

and counting

for Emergency Training Centre For more than six decades, the Emergency Training Centre (ETC) has trained leaders for the frontline of emergency services.

When the ETC — then known as the Fire Officers Training School — opened in 1959 under the jurisdiction of the Alberta Fire Commissioner’s Office, approximately 100 aspiring emergency services professionals were trained annually. Now, the ETC trains and graduates more than 1,300 individuals each year.

“I am very happy to see ETC make it to 60 years and particularly the last 20 years under the college, which has been great. We expanded our operations under the college, both in pre-employment programming and industrial contract training, which adds over $3 million of revenue to the college’s bottom line,” says Chris Senaratne, dean of the ETC. Senaratne has been dean since 2004 but has been walking the ETC’s halls since 1991.

The ETC’s roots are in the post-World War II era when massive infrastructure development was taking place in Alberta’s urban and rural communities. In response to this growth, an organization was needed to provide training for firefighters. Through the next half-century, the training facility would have many changes including a move from

provincial government jurisdiction to become a subsidiary corporation of Lakeland in 1998. The corporate status was dissolved, and the ETC became a division of the college in 2004.

As one of the most comprehensive, state-of-the-art training grounds in Canada, the ETC continues its mission to train emergency service personnel. People travel from across the nation to train at the ETC in emergency services technology, firefighter training and bachelor of applied business: emergency services, plus various short-term courses for municipalities and industry.

Jesse Shelton, an Ingersoll, Ont. native and 2019 firefighter training graduate, says he left Lakeland with the skills he needed to excel on the frontline.

“I came in here knowing a bit about fire and having a grasp of the concept of first responding from previous schooling, but this is a different branch of first responders. I am now leaving with a wealth of knowledge. My classmates and I lifted each other and supported one another. My instructors had a wealth of experience they were always willing to share.”

The facility is complete with more than 20 different training structures and props, as well as 16 firetrucks, including aerials and rescue, two ambulances, 300 breathing apparatuses, a fire tower, a dangerous goods pad and so much more. These tools and the addition of more than 250 years of on-the-job experience by ETC instructors is a recipe for success.

To commemorate 60 years, Class of 2019 graduates of ETC programming received a commemorative coin.

SPRING 2020

27

SMF YIELDS 30 YEARS OF AGRICULTURAL LEADERS & INNOVATION Hard workers, problem solvers, innovators and leaders. These are the types of graduates Lakeland College produces through the Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland (SMF).

2019-20 marks the 30th anniversary of the SMF. And there is much to celebrate. From our humble beginning as a demonstration farm to an award-winning, global leader in student-managed learning, Lakeland College excels at developing leaders with experiential learning opportunities.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

1

st

Lakeland is the first post-secondary institution in Alberta to complete an Environmental Farm Plan.

Lakeland received Alberta Farm Animal Care’s 2018 Award of Distinction for Industry Leadership.

15

different crops grown by SMF since 2012.

Lakeland College is the first post-secondary institution in Alberta to attain Verified Beef Production Plus certification.

Recipient of 8 Milk Quality Awards from Alberta Milk.

466

Unique views of SMF live-streamed presentations in 2019.

Two Awards of Excellence from the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics:

"The real value in the SMF is that it integrates business and management, production and soft-skills training in a real-world model. The students have a high degree of accountability in meeting key performance indicators and working with a team. They have a sense of ownership towards the business. It’s so rewarding to watch the students advance their leadership skills.”

– Josie Van Lent, Dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences

• 2014 for our commitment to involve industry in the SMF- Powered by New Holland.

• 2016 in the leadership development category.

"Lakeland is renowned across Canada as one of the best schools for agriculture. It’s completely different here with the new Dairy Learning Centre and everything else on the Student-Managed Farm – you don’t get anything like this anywhere else."

– Ron Eggenberger, Class of 2019 animal science technology.

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We work well together to do new and innovative things on the farm to enhance operations. It definitely prepares you for real life. Lakeland has some of the best advisors and instructors.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Animal science technology program adopts the SMF concept. Initial units include beef, dairy and sheep.

Lakeland expands SMF, purchases Barrhill Farms Ltd. of Vermilion. The purchase includes 10 quarters of land (1,449 acres) and a yard that borders the west side of the Vermilion campus.

2011

Legend has it key players kicked around the idea in a basement. Thumbs up for the concept from the industry advisory committee.

2010

The Student-Managed Farm (SMF) starts at Lakeland with crop technology and ag mechanics students. John Robinson, Mel Mathison, Rob Baron, Bob Brad, Robert McFadzean Allan Forbes, Doug Livingstone, Josie Van Lent and Peter Walsh were among the instrumental key players in the SMF’s infancy.

2009

1990

Ag Tour Club encounters the student-managed farm concept on a tour through the United States’ mid-west.

LATE 1980s

MID 1980s

– Nicki Meier, Class of 2019 animal science technology.

Lakeland and New Holland Agriculture announce 10-year, multi-million-dollar collaboration.

The SMF is renamed the StudentManaged Farm – Powered by New Holland. New Holland is now Lakeland’s official agricultural and utility equipment sponsor.

W

orking in teams, crop technology and animal science technology students are in charge of research, finances, production, management decisions, sustainability and stewardship – essentially the entire SMF operation at the Vermilion campus. They’re integrated into all aspects of the management of the enterprise.

Students have access to 2,000-plus student-managed acres of crop and pasture land and hundreds of head of livestock, including commercial, purebred and research beef herds, a Holstein dairy herd and a flock of sheep.

They also work in numerous learning facilities, including the Dairy Learning Centre and G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility.

the roots of a highly successful and rewarding workintegrated learning model,” says Dr. Alice WainwrightStewart, president and CEO of Lakeland. “Our graduates are set apart by the real-life work experience and valuable leadership skills they gain through this concept. We’re proud of our SMF and our exceptional team who ensures its continued success. We look forward to celebrating new student-managed innovations on the SMF that support one of Canada’s most essential industries.”

With guidance from faculty and staff advisors, they try new things like growing faba beans and tackling environmental farm plans. They work to improve herd genetics. And they have the opportunity to share our SMF story and participate in international experiences, including a trip to Kazakhstan to explain the value of the SMF learning model.

They work directly with peers and industry, lead innovation and are accountable for results.

New Dairy Learning Centre opens, features state-of-theart technology in robotic and conventional milking and feeding systems.

– Terry Eleniak, Class of 1991 crop technology and the first SMF student manager.

Lakeland expands farm base, purchases two adjoining quarters with 309 acres of quality cropland thanks to $500,000 donations from both Judy Sweet and Roy Kubica to Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign.

FALL 2020

2019

Thanks to the generosity of Judy Sweet, the former bull test facility is modernized and enhanced with new technology for livestock research and development. Reopens as G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility.

2017

2016

“The 30th anniversary of our SMF is a chance to celebrate

"What started out as 500 acres turned into this 2,000-acre prosperous farm you see here today.

I know the education I got at Lakeland and the experience I had with the Student-Managed Farm have contributed to my success."

NEXT

SMF units include crop, commercial beef, purebred beef, dairy, sheep and livestock research. In fall 2020, a seventh unit – equine – will join the SMF. The opening of the Centre for Ag Technology and offering of Lakeland’s first agricultural degree, bachelor of applied science: agriculture technology, are also slated for fall 2020. A bison operation and farm expansion are also on the horizon for the SMF.

$4-million donation from Armin and Rita Mueller, owners of Canadian Rangeland Bison and Elk, will establish a bison operation at Lakeland and expand the SMF.

Equine SMF unit to be offered and the Centre for Ag Technology is slated to open.

SPRING 2020

31

Return to your rural roots at

SMF

SMF

THEN

NOW

FEAST ON THE FARM 2020

VISIONARY

A tangible way for students to apply what they learn in class to running a crop enterprise.

Students are integrated into all aspects of the management of an ag or livestock enterprise. They work directly with peers and industry, lead innovation and are accountable for results.

NUMBER OF SECOND-YEAR STUDENTS INVOLVED IN SMF UNITS

Technology 6 Crop students

121 STUDENTS 48 Crop Technology 73 Animal Science Technology

PROGRAMS WITH SMF COURSES

2

1 Crop Technology

Crop Technology & Animal Science Technology

NUMBER OF SMF UNITS

1 Crop

Beef, 6 Commercial Purebred Beef, Dairy, Livestock Research, Sheep, Crop

STUDENT-MANAGED CROP AND PASTURE ACRES

500 Acres

2,000+ Acres

EQUIPMENT Limited equipment owned by Lakeland. Seeding was done by area farmers.

Since 2011, the SMF has been powered by New Holland equipment, ensuring students have access to the latest technology.

Thursday, Aug. 13 Vermilion campus

·•·

Enjoy a delicious meal outdoors, live entertainment and more.

Watch lakelandcollege.ca/FOTF for details!

STUDENTS IN THE LEAD “Working for the college was appealing to me because it allowed me to have a source of income without having to worry about my employer misunderstanding my school schedule,” says Jenna Hnetka, one of two student operators and a second-year heavy oil power engineering (HOPE) student.

“There is also the opportunity to get hands-on experience.

We have access to equipment that is running continuously which is something that you don't see until you’re in the industry. It’s a realistic representation of what I can expect to work with when I pursue my career.”

Hnetka adds her favourite aspect of the job is troubleshooting. “It's you and the lab. If something goes wrong, you can take the time to think to yourself and work through it. I’m gaining confidence comfortably.”

Hnetka and Graham Ruzesky, the other student operator

ENERGY CENTRE OPERATION Lakeland College offers a tremendous opportunity for second-year heavy oil power engineering students to take their first career steps during their studies.

Students are hired as student operators and tasked to operate the Lloydminster campus and Energy Centre boilers on weekends.

and second-year HOPE student, are tasked with ensuring all production rates are achieved and maintained, completing water analysis on boiler waters, assisting in rounds and routines associated with steam generators, and more.

“When you're out in the field, you're not going to have an instructor or classmate over your shoulder who you can turn to for support,” says Ruzesky. “I’m building confidence in my abilities to troubleshoot and perform adjustments on the system.”

POP-UP SHOP REBRANDING A SUCCESS Starting any business venture is filled with challenges that must be overcome and it was no different for the second-year agribusiness students involved in Pop-up Shop 2019. Faced with rebranding the event and hosting it in a new venue, the students employed a guerrilla-style marketing campaign to spread the word and as a result, the retail venture was a big success.

Pop-Up Presents Lakeland’s Hidden Creations invited shoppers to Spurs for the opportunity to browse wares procured from local vendors and artisans, all in keeping with the rustic theme.

More than 280 people made purchases and Emma Robb, one of the student leaders of the project, is pleased with the success of the event.

“We wanted to revamp it and bring a new style to the event,” she says. “We made sure the vendors were carefully selected to match with our rustic vibe. It was an awesome two days.”

SPRING 2020

33

STUDENTS REAP BENEFITS OF ELECTIVE CO-OP EXPERIENCE BECOME A CLASS

CHAMPION We need your help looking for lost classmates and many hands make light work!

Make some phone calls

Lakeland College's optional 16-week paid work experience turns into full-time employment for these business administration accounting majors when they graduate in 2020.

Second-year students Angela Robinson and Heather Healey both agree Lakeland’s optional 16-week paid work experience was invaluable.

“This was a good opportunity for me to get out and see what career options were available. After this coop experience, I feel more prepared

Rekindle friendships

for the workforce and my second

Relive the good old days

year of school,” says Healey, who

Take a leading role in getting your college classmates back together for Reunion Weekend as a Class Champion.

SIGN UP TODAY! Call Shauna Zack 780.853.8628, or email shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca

34

completed her placement at MNP LLP, an accounting firm in Lloydminster, from May to August 2019.

Healey’s summer employment presented opportunities for her to develop her technical skills in compilations, reviews, audits, bookkeeping and taxes, setting up files for new clients, obtaining and reviewing documents, and more.

“MNP also sent me for training, which was a benefit from this experience,” Healey explains.

Robinson, who completed her practicum at Wawanesa Insurance in Lloydminster, says her instructors were integral in helping her through the job application process.

“Obviously working for an insurance company doesn’t quite pertain to my accounting major, but my other Lakeland courses helped me with data entry and organizational behavior,” Robinson explains. She adds these transferrable skills were integral to her success on the job.

Thanks to their hard work and jobready skills, their co-op employers hired both students for full-time employment, which will begin in 2020.

“With the skills I gained with them over the summer and my second-year studies, it’ll be exciting to see what I can accomplish with them as a fulltime employee,” Robinson says.

Social savvy student shares

ENVIRO PROGRAM ADVENTURES From releasing raptors back into the wild to building shelters during a survival night, there's little that Stephanie Sitkowski does not share about her Lakeland College experience.

Known as greeneyedgirl626 on Instagram, the second-year environmental sciences student is using the platform to share her adventures in the college’s wildlife and fisheries conservation (WFC) major. Sitkowski is learning and putting into practice how to protect, conserve, reclaim and sustain wildland, parks, lakes, rivers and wildlife. She shares that Field Week, which introduces students to real-world scenarios through hands-on learning, was one of many experiences that allowed her to put her education into action.

Students establish industry connections

AT LIVESTOCK INFORMATION

FIELD DAY

“We’re getting our hands dirty in a good way. During Field Week, I released an owl back into the wild. I also weighed, measured and determined the sex of a deer mouse before releasing it back into the wild, and I learned how to do surveys and river velocity assessments at the Battle River.

It's never been a dull moment around here.”

With a university background, Sitkowski explains that instructors break or make a program. Her Lakeland instructors demonstrate the latter. “The environment and the passion that the instructors create for us facilitates success.

They give us valuable skills and information on prospective job opportunities. I can tell they want to create the next generation of conservationists.”

Close to 100 agricultural sciences students attended Lakeland’s Canadian Angus at Lakeland Technology & Information Field Day in November at the Centre for Ag Technology and G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility.

Featuring industry experts from the Canadian Angus Association (CAA), GrowSafe®, NeoGen, Datamars and Lakeland’s applied research department, the event provided local producers and students with the latest industry news and research.

“Getting the opportunity to meet other commercial and purebred producers from the area at an event like this, as well as industry organizations, helps us students learn to establish connections. I appreciate that Lakeland is helping us to build connections now,” says Robert Geis, a second-year animal science technology student in the beef major who emceed the event alongside fellow student Ben Rajotte.

Geis adds he received valuable information he can take back home to his parents' purebred black Angus operation in Barrhead, Alta.

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35

For 35 years, Lakeland’s play program has been putting students in the lead. The program is a chance for second-year early learning and child care (ELCC) diploma students to put everything they’ve learned in class into practice. This academic year, 23 ELCC students are running two play program sessions, free of cost to local families. “The children are such mighty learners,” says student Shyanne Blomquist. “We watch them and take their lead throughout the program.

They plan our whole day. You never know how strong the children are in learning until you’re here.

It’s really eye-opening.”

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Designing for a sustainable future Second-year interior design technology students grew their skills in sustainable design thanks to a locally-sourced project. They were assigned to design a sustainable home for a fictitious client based on the Trout Pond in Vermilion Provincial Park. The project combined what the students have learned in design and graphic presentation courses, as well as gave an opportunity to use digital modelling.

Healey’s house was based on a

Katlynn Healey, an interior design student who participated in the project, enjoyed it because it gave her a chance to put what she has learned so far into practice and left room for creative interpretation.

towards more sustainable, green

linear design with lots of windows and natural light, high-efficiency appliances, a garage to store an electric car, kayaks, biking and hiking equipment. She also ensured she included plenty of space to store art, as well as a studio and an office space, both of which the fictitious client required.

“Today, when we’re trying to move buildings, I feel like we learned a lot in this project that will help us design in the real world,” says Healey, adding the project was a culmination of the skills she has developed so far.

Students share the therapeutic value of

In the veterinary field, connecting with people is just as essential as connecting with their pets. Remembering that bond and sharing it, along with the therapeutic benefits of pets, is an important part of what the animal health technology (AHT) students’ community outreach committee on the public relations team does.

Their community outreach activities involve demonstrating those benefits to young and old as they run a dog reading buddy program at St. Jerome’s School and visit the residents at the Vermilion Valley Lodge. “The children are always so excited to read to the dogs. It’s a safe environment for them to learn how to read out loud and improve their skills,” says Brittney Sperling, second-year AHT student and chair of the outreach committee.

Students evaluate the dogs used in both programs at

the beginning of the school year, testing them on their ability to behave around children and seniors, as well as other potential challenges, like wheelchairs.

Approximately 10 dogs qualified this year and are able to attend either program, wearing bandanas that say they passed their evaluation.

“It’s so important to reach out and connect with your community, to be involved and to show the benefits pets can have,” says Sperling. “It also ensures we have a good sense of the importance pets have in people’s lives. In our field, we take care of people’s pets but it’s so important to always be aware of how important those pets are in someone’s life.”

CAMPUS NEWS

New lab spaces improve student experience Lakeland College put student experience at the forefront of newly renovated environmental sciences and agricultural sciences lab spaces.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

The four enhanced labs in Academic Link at the Vermilion campus opened at the beginning of the winter 2020 semester and will be used by hundreds of students throughout the academic year. They feature specialized equipment required in the study of soils, plants, aquatic organisms and chemistry.

The renovation also included improved ventilation, updated lighting, new furniture and technology. As a result of the upgrades, the labs have a more effective and comfortable layout for students to excel.

“Lakeland College is dedicated to investing in its students by ensuring they have access to modern lab spaces in which to conduct experiments and develop the foundational skills to be successful in this industry,” says Mal Dissanayake, dean of the School of Environmental Sciences. “I’m so pleased with how the labs have been redesigned to ensure that our students can continue to conduct experiential-learning activities in a multi-functional environment designed for their comfort and safety.”

The labs are used by students in the environmental sciences and agricultural sciences programs.

Environmental sciences students conduct many different lab activities in the redesigned lab spaces, including wetland classification, water conservation, wildlife biology and more, in addition to field work.

Agricultural sciences students, including those in the crop technology and animal science technology programs, use the labs for soil and plant labs, among others.

“The student experience in the new lab spaces is totally different,” says Kyle Kipps, a Lakeland agricultural sciences instructor. “They are big, bright and airy and that energizes the students. In the soils lab, it’s easier for the students to look at examples and see the things we are trying to teach them. The monolith display cabinets are really well done and allow students to look at all kinds of different soil profiles from all across Canada.”

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39

Lakeland named one of

2ND CLASS POWER ENGINEERING PROGRAM RESTRUCTURED Starting fall 2020, students can earn while they learn in Lakeland College’s updated 2nd Class power engineering program.

Lakeland College is honoured to be named one of Alberta’s Top 75 Employers. The 2020 announcement marks the fourth consecutive top employer accolade for Lakeland.

“We’re grateful to receive this recognition. It’s a testament to the culture we’ve created and our exceptional Lakeland team,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland.

Cultivating a respectful, inclusive work environment has been a top priority for Lakeland. Recent initiatives include the creation of cross-functional teams to establish a new mission, vision and values for the college, as well as a guarding minds committee that’s focused on mental health in the workplace training. Safe Space training is also offered regularly to all Lakeland staff. Lakeland has also made strides in building capacity in intercultural understanding and diversity through initiatives such as the Elder in Residence program, Blanket Exercises and the Indigenous Awareness Week activities, and by hosting cultural diversity workshops each year for staff.

Lakeland is one of only five Alberta post-secondary institutions to receive this accolade for 2020.

The Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) approved the program’s move from a face-to-face format to a new blended learning format last month. Lakeland is the only post-secondary in Alberta to offer the program in this format.

“We are thrilled about this change to our 2nd Class power engineering program. In this format, students can take advantage of this opportunity to stay in their current employment, while taking the next step in their career,” says Brad Onofrychuk, Lakeland’s dean of the School of Energy.

The blended learning format stretches the existing program over two years. Students complete the majority of the program’s courses online, as well as complete a face-to-face component at Lakeland’s Lloydminster campus one day per week. During the program’s online portion, students can receive help and support from their instructors via email, phone or skype.

“We hope this move bolsters the number of employed 3rd Class engineers who are looking for a flexible program to obtain their 2nd Class certificate. The goal is to upgrade job-ready skills that may appeal to industry,” says Rob Collins, Lakeland’s chair of the School of Energy.

The new agreement between Lakeland and ABSA states upon completion of the entire two-year program, students can reduce their firing time by nine months of the 24 months needed.

CLASS NOTES

1

2

4

3 1. Jared Borzel, Class of 2015 university transfer, is teaching high school chemistry and math in St. Maarten at the Caribbean International Academy. After Lakeland, Borzel completed his bachelor of education degree at the University of Alberta. In 2017, he taught math and science at the Canadian School in Guadalajara, Mexico.

2. Lukash Nahachewsky, Class of 2012 environmental sciences wildlife and fisheries conservation, married Charlotte Fildes in September.

3. Laura Goodsman, Class of 2015 interior design technology (IDT), was awarded Yorkville University’s President’s Medal Award upon graduating from their bachelor of interior design program. Goodsman is a member of Lakeland’s IDT advisory committee and works with 1080 Architecture Planning + Interiors.

4. Meagan Lee (née Klatt) Dyjur, Class of 2016 university transfer, and Nathan Henry Dyjur, Class of 2016 heavy oil power engineering, were married on Sept. 1, 2018.

They celebrated the birth of their daughter, Sophie

5

6 Jenna Lee, on Dec. 23, 2019. Meagan is working towards a bachelor of social work degree at the University of Calgary.

5. Jenna Dudding, Class of 2012 business administration and Class of 2018 bachelor of commerce, married Jesse Lawes, Class of 2013 business administration on Sept. 21, 2019. They met while studying business administration at the Lloydminster campus – Jenna even tutored Jesse. Several years later, they reconnected and are now enjoying married life.

6. Kurt Printz, Class of 2007 crop technology, married Bailey Wiebe on Nov. 2, 2019.

7. Carla Cusack, Class of 2009 child and youth care and Class of 2017 university transfer, joined Lakeland’s student and academic services team as a learner pathways coordinator. Cusack recently earned a bachelor degree in secondary education from the University of Alberta. (Not pictured)

To submit to Class Notes, please contact Shauna Zack: shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca or 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628.

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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.

Dave Armstrong

Roger Laurin

Class of ’72

(staff)

Robert Bokenfohr

Daniel Legarde

Class of ’19

Class of ’09

James Boyd

Arthur McGinnis

Class of ’48

Class of ’41

Vera Boyd

Florence Miller (spouse)

(spouse)

Malcolm Breckenridge

Orlando Omlid

Class of ’48

Class of ’59

David Fair

Joan Poitras

Class of ’51

Class of ’64

Marion Featherstone

Robert Reed

Class of ’57

(spouse)

George Finner

Walter Ropchan

(spouse)

Class of ’47

Bruce Gowanlock

Doug Schmit

Class of ’62

(former President)

Velma Hockridge

David W. Smith

Class of ’48

Class of ’52

Dawn Horbach

Harvey Wagner

Class of ’74

Class of ‘61

Ed Jenson

Harvey Wild

(former Board of Governor)

Class of ’53

Roger Jones

Josephine Willes

Class of ’49

Class of ’59

Jean Kliparchuk

Eleanor Wozny

Class of ’55

Class of ’72

To submit to In Memoriam, please contact Shauna Zack: shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca or 1.800.661.6490 ext. 8628.

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LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

REMEMBER WHEN

Lakeland opened its doors in Vermilion in 1913 – known then as Vermilion School of Agriculture – with 34 students in the first class. After years of incredible growth and advanced programming, the college expanded and began offering programming in Lloydminster in 1965. By the 1980s, the college offered full-time, part-time and continuing education programs and courses in four leased facilities in Lloydminster.

“When I started at Lakeland College in 1982, I taught business classes in Lloydminster in what was then known as the Resource Centre,” said Glenn Charlesworth, former Lakeland president, during the Lloydminster campus 20th anniversary celebration in January 2011. “Fortunately for our college, there were people who wanted to see a campus built in Lloydminster.”

As mayor of the City of Lloydminster from 1982 to 1987, Bill Kondro advocated for the construction of the Lloydminster campus. He encouraged the city to support the project and in 1986 the City of Lloydminster donated 30 of the 65 acres of land where the campus is located. Since opening in 1990, the Lloydminster campus has grown with three additional features: Vic Juba Community Theatre (2002), Bill Kondro Wing (2008) and the Energy Centre (2015).

Home to state-of-the-art labs, classrooms and resources, students from across Canada and around the world take charge of their future at Lakeland’s Lloydminster campus.

Would you like your vintage Lakeland photos featured? Send them to shauna.zack@lakelandcollege.ca

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