Excel Spring 2021 by Lakeland College Canada

Spring 2021

FIRST IN CANADA Lakeland Launches

Ag Tech Degree

Alumna named to

T p 50

A DREAM COME TRUE

TAKING A RISK LEADS TO BUSINESS ALUMNA'S DREAM CAREER

CANADIAN AG LIST

SPRING 2021

LAKELAND LEADS

Lakeland’s

BISON HAVE ARRIVED Half of Lakeland’s 200-head bison herd arrived at their temporary home near Lakeland College’s Vermilion campus on Feb. 25. The date was the first anniversary of the announcement that Armin and Rita Mueller, owners of Canadian Rangeland Bison and Elk, were donating money and bison to Lakeland to establish a herd. Their gift strengthens the animal science technology program and provides more student-managed learning opportunities for students in the livestock major. Thank you Armin and Rita!

SPRING 2021

Shop for green & gold

ONLINE! With the click of a mouse, you can shop for new Lakeland and Rustlers gear.

Visit lakelandcollege.ca/bookstore

Coffee. It’s the easiest thing to share with a friend.

For as little as one double-double per week, you can sign up to Lakeland College’s Monthly Giving program. Giving $10 per month will support struggling students. It will help put tools in place for students to succeed. Can you help students with a monthly gift? lakelandcollege.ca/monthlygiving

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

TABLE OF CONTENTS Fall 2020

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

Alumni Spotlight 9. Dreams come true with hope

16. Building resilient wellness

10. Influencing the future

18. Alumnus among best

of sustainable agriculture

designers of 2020

12. The facets of choice and fate

20. Alumna’s dream career

14. Rustlers volleyball: A family tradition

realized after taking risks

22. Purpose and passion in action

The department distributes mailings, invitations and class lists. Anyone wishing to be excluded from certain mailings should call 780.871.5526.

Editor: Katie Ryan Writers: Melissa Barr, Taylor Hermiston, Katie Ryan and Colleen Symes Creative Design: Chelsey Schlosser Cover Photo: Cecelia Foster, photo taken in Agriculture Technology Centre

Continue Reading 6. Alumni Association

32. Message from Lakeland

President’s Message

College’s President

7. Alumni Weekend

34. Learning in Action

8. Class Champions

38. Campus News

24. Distinguished Recognition

43. Class Notes

26. Alumni Benefits

45. In Memoriam

28. Donor Spotlight

46. Remember When

30. Leading. Learning. The

Lakeland Campaign.

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. If you’re celebrating a personal or professional milestone, or have other news to share, please let us know! We’d be happy to include your news in the Class Notes section. Please address all correspondence to Community Development or contact Raelean Hickson at 780.871.5526 or raelean.hickson@lakelandcollege.ca Publications mail agreement No. 40009099 Return undeliverable addresses to: Lakeland College Community Development 2602 59 Ave. Lloydminster, Alberta, Canada T9V 3N7 lakelandcollege.ca/alumni-and-friends SPRING 2021 5

President Barry McCarty ‘69 Vice President Edmund Lefsrud ‘65 Treasurer Sandra Bernes '66 Secretary Vacant 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

Championing

CONNECTION This time we have come through in the past year has definitely been challenging. As difficult as this pandemic has been to our businesses and our schooling, both our physical and mental health is extremely important in being able to stay positive. Our alumni executive have had numerous discussions about honouring the special grad classes. Our coordinator, Raelean Hickson, together with her team, have been encouraging Class Champions. By contacting classmates, we hope that students and alumni will establish a connection to renew friendships that started at Lakeland. Many alumni have maintained relationships from 10-60 years and that is to be commended. With social media as one of our positive influences, we can continue to stay in touch. Our Alumni Association and the college team will make every effort to assist in maintaining that connection. Good luck to everyone. I truly hope you have all stayed healthy and are ready to embrace a normal world again.

Historian Tom Kibblewhite ‘59 Archivist Marilyn Campbell ‘78 College Liaison Raelean Hickson

Barry McCarty President, Alumni Association

ALUMNI WEEKEND

ALUMNI WEEKEND 2021 A virtual reunion! June 11–13, 2021 Alumni Weekend is the largest alumni event of the year for Lakeland College, and this year we’re celebrating online. Our Alumni Weekend will feature commemorative activities, prizes and more on our Lakeland College Alumni Facebook page! Join us from the comfort of home as we celebrate our reunion class years and renew connections with alumni around the world virtually. We can’t wait to connect with you, our Lakeland alumni family, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to campus when it is safe to do so. facebook.com/LakelandCollegeAlumni/

SPRING 2021

CLASS CHAMPION

BECOME A CLASS CHAMPION

Rose Hees, Class of 1960-61

Jack Price, Class of 1966

Stay connected to your fellow Lakeland College alumni as a Class Champion. The Class Champions Program enriches class reunions and deepens connections with alumni by supporting volunteers to act as class representatives. They'll reach out to former classmates to encourage them to attend their milestone reunions of five to 70 years! Become a Class Champion today!

Contact Raelean Hickson: 780.871.5526 | raelean.hickson@lakelandcollege.ca lakelandcollege.ca/classchampion 8

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Judy May-McDonald, Class of 1985

Make phone calls

Rekindle friendships

Relive the good old days

Take a leading role in reconnecting your college classmates with Lakeland

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Noyce graduated in 2020, though her final semester was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the abrupt change, Noyce says her positive Lakeland experience wasn’t impacted because her instructors managed to make the online transition work seamlessly. After graduating, Noyce was hired as a full-time plant technician at the Cenovus Energy Upgrader, where she had completed both of her practicums. She felt confident during her practicums and now in her full-time position, credits Lakeland’s facilities, hands-on training and quality education for preparing her to succeed in the industry.

Lakeland alumna Amanda Noyce wasn’t sure what to expect when she enrolled in heavy oil power engineering (HOPE). She had no experience in the industry, wasn’t sure what exactly a power engineer did and didn’t know if she’d enjoy the program at all. She ended up falling in love with it and, with the support of her instructors, landed her dream job at the Cenovus Energy Upgrader in Lloydminster. “I did more research into what a power engineer does and it really interested me to get out of my comfort zone,” Noyce says. “I figured that at least I’d learn about motors and a little bit of plumbing and electrical. Good life skills. But I ended up really enjoying it.” Coming to Lakeland with an open mind, Noyce couldn’t help but feel a little anxious on her first day. She credits her instructors for helping her overcome those nerves and excel in her studies. “I was terrified my first day,” she confesses. “Coming into a program like this, where I had no previous knowledge and as a woman, I didn’t know if I could do it. But my instructors really helped me to thrive. They were honestly the best part of my Lakeland experience. I could call them if I had questions about an assignment I was working on, even if it was late. They’d drop anything to help me. They’d stay late, come in early, reach out on weekends. They went out of their way to make me feel like I was important.”

My time at Lakeland was so worth the time and investment and I enjoyed it so much. At the end of the day, I ended up getting my dream job.

“The labs at Lakeland are awesome,” she says. “The Cenovus Energy Lab is such an amazing place to learn. I loved that aspects of heavy oil were mixed with the power engineering parts of this program. It meant that when I got on the job, I could recognize the equipment and recognize the different processes. I already knew the chemical reactions that were essential for the job. My time at Lakeland prepared me so well for this position. “It’s the exact job I want, it’s exactly what HOPE prepared me for. My time at Lakeland was so worth the time and investment and I enjoyed it so much. At the end of the day, I ended up getting my dream job.” SPRING 2021

INFLUENCING THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

akeland College alumna Jess Verstappen credits her passion for youth in agriculture, and sustainable farming with landing her on the list of Canada’s most influential people in agriculture.

Canadian Western Agribition released the Top 50 most influential people in Canadian Agriculture for the first time on Canada’s Ag Day in 2021. Nominations for the list were accepted from all across Canada with the final 50 selected by a panel of judges, who narrowed the list down to a top 10 in five categories: mentors, upstarts, innovators, deal makers and designated hitters. Verstappen landed in the upstart category. “I’m extremely honoured,” Verstappen says. “It definitely caught me by surprise. I feel like I’m so early in my career and path in agriculture and there’s so much left for me to do. It’s amazing to be recognized so early in my career and that people can see that what I’m trying to do is making a bit of a difference.” Originally from Holland in The

Netherlands, Verstappen moved to High Prairie, Alta. when she was still a child. Raised on a cattle and sheep operation, Verstappen had her heart set on attending Lakeland College since Grade 9, when she first learned she’d be able to take her horse with her. “I wanted to make sure that when I went to college, it was an academic focus but was also going to build my skills in networking abilities with people in similar industries,” Verstappen explained. “I have a passion for judging so Lakeland’s judging team was especially exciting. Being able to learn from some of the best in the business at Lakeland was a huge draw.” She intended to apply to the animal science technology program but in the end, her mother convinced her to try something new – an unconventional move that Verstappen credits with her unique approach to agriculture now. “The day I was applying, my mom asked me why I was going into animal science and I told her how much I love animals and cows. She told me that there was so much more I needed to learn in order to manage a farm properly,” Verstappen explains. “She suggested I try looking into something else that would add to our cattle operation instead of growing the knowledge I already had. Bring home some new ideas.”

Verstappen ended up enrolling in Lakeland’s environmental sciences diploma and majored in conservation and restoration ecology. “Looking back now, I wouldn’t change it for the world. Those were some of the most valuable courses I’ve ever taken,” Verstappen says. “It really gave me a good start with knowledge on plant biology, how things grow and what we need to do to rejuvenate pasture and crop land. Regenerative and sustainable agriculture really became a big part of what we like to do on our farm.” Following her environmental sciences diploma in 2016, Verstappen completed Lakeland’s agribusiness diploma in 2017 and then a year of university transfer courses to complement the management skills she learned in agribusiness. She explains, “The agribusiness side really helped me understand the risk-reward ratios and how farm management works. I was raised on a farm but I wouldn’t say that I had a background in management. I knew daily what needed to be done, but I didn’t have any idea how to run a farm from a business standpoint.” The combination of environmental sciences, agribusiness and

not a single course that I didn’t keep my notes from. I met some amazing people and great instructors. The true value I got from going to Lakeland was being able to gain an incredible education while being able to network with so many people.” Verstappen operates the first predator and wildlife-friendly ranch in Canada with her family and works at Cargill. “We try to be a leader on the forefront of existing with the wildlife and nature that surrounds us,” she says. “Coming from Holland, it’s a passion for us. There isn’t really a whole lot of nature left in Holland, so coming to Canada, we wanted to maintain some forested areas on our land instead of clear cutting. We wanted to be able

Looking back now, I wouldn’t change it for the world. Those were some of the most valuable courses I’ve ever taken. management studies has given Verstappen a unique perspective on agriculture, one which helped land her on Agribition’s Top 50 list. “My education has made me so well-rounded for the ag industry,” Verstappen says. “The variety of options played together so well. I loved my time at Lakeland. The hands-on learning was such a crucial part of my overall growth. There’s

to see wildlife around us because it was something we didn’t have before. It’s really important for us to try to maintain that ecosystem around us. "The key to being a predator and wildlife-friendly ranch is running a sustainable and responsibly managed operation," Verstappen adds. She and her family have found that avoiding wildlife conflict and co-existing naturally with the predators around them has not only allowed them to

protect the ecosystem, it has also proven to be more profitable, with less predator loss. “There is a profitability in sustainable farming,” Verstappen explains. “We have our livestock guardian dogs and really good fencing and have had great success with that strategy from a long-term livestock management approach in reducing and eliminating wildlife losses on our operation." Verstappen believes that sustainable and responsible farming is a growing trend in the agricultural industry, especially with steadily increasing public scrutiny on agriculture. “From a long-term standpoint, I saw what happened with agriculture in Holland and the lack of nature there. I don’t ever want Canada to get to that point. There are a lot of other people realizing that too.” Verstappen also tries to be a good mentor for other youth looking to get into the industry, particularly those who may not have been raised in it. “I try to show the long-term success of sustainable agriculture and be a strong influence for other youth in agriculture. It’s not easy to integrate into a whole different industry, so I try to be a resource and mentor people, and help them out in any way I can to see the future in agriculture.” Brett McRae, who graduated from Lakeland’s agribusiness program in 2007, also made the Top 50 list. SPRING 2021

THE FACETS OF CHOICE AND FATE:

ALUMNUS SHARES HOW HE GOT HIS START IN LAW

t’s astonishing how a moment of error can alter a path believed to be so clearly laid out.

This is, at least, applicable to Lakeland College alumnus Jeremy Wakefield, Class of 1993 university transfer.

Some faces may change, but Lakeland’s spirit stays the same.

With aspirations of entering the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Wakefield enrolled in Lakeland’s university transfer program to take courses in English, psychology, sociology and math, which would help him achieve a degree in criminology. He transferred his credits to the University of the Fraser Valley’s criminal justice program, 12

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

where he could complete a practicum placement with the RCMP.

According to Wakefield, he stumbled into law after a poor decision resulted in missing the opportunity to work with the RCMP. Instead, he selected a position with the Surrey Crown Counsel Office and took a chance on learning a different facet of law enforcement. “I did my practicum, and I hit it off famously with the lawyers there so I was asked to come back for a second practicum because of a big case we were working on at the time. I thought becoming a lawyer wasn’t such a bad idea,

Jeremy Wakefield (middle) was a panelist at the 2020 UT Alumni Social.

to some universities, and the rest is history. “Some bad decisions worked out well,” he says. Wakefield completed his bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Alberta and then returned to his hometown, Lloydminster, Alta., in 2000 to start his legal practice. Currently, his practice areas include residential and commercial real estate, corporate and commercial transactions and wills and estate matters at Fox-Wakefield, where he is also a partner. He’s also a member of the Law Society of Alberta, Law Society of Saskatchewan and Canadian Bar Association. “Lloydminster is the land of opportunity. Many of my peers who went to work in major centres have done well, but I don’t feel like I’m missing out. I get to work on the same stuff, but I’m not just a cog in a wheel to keep the machine running; I get to take

more of a lead on cases. Building my practice has been an awesome experience.”

knew I wanted to support the organizations that have helped me, Lakeland being at the top of the list.”

It’s the people, he adds, that keep him moving forward in this line of work, whether working with a client or collaborating with his peers. He not only credits the local bar association but the city of Lloydminster entirely.

Wakefield has been involved with several organizations, such as Big Brothers and Sisters of Lloydminster, the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation, and Lakeland’s university transfer advisory committee.

“We have a great staff who honestly do all the work and we get all the glory. I’m very grateful that I have strong, competent staff to lead the way here. Even with the pandemic, we’ve continued to grow and thrive.

“Some faces may change, but Lakeland’s spirit stays the same. Lakeland is near and dear to my heart because I know it wouldn’t have been possible without the college’s contribution to my ability to pursue my career goals. I find a recurring theme at Lakeland College between the staff and administration; they’re always looking to see what they can do better. It’s a conducive, supportive atmosphere to learning and excelling. It’s collaborative, and the students’ welfare is foremost at the front of the decision-making. Not that I’m coming up with great ideas, but I feel heard when I’m asked to offer input, and I’m happy to provide it.”

“Lloydminster is home to me. I grew up here, met my wife here and am now raising my family here. I also

Wakefield has also participated in numerous college events, such as the university transfer alumni social in 2020 where he shared his Lakeland experience with alumni and current students.

SPRING 2021

S R E L T RUS L L A B Y VOLLE n o i t i d a r t y a famil

old , the green and g ily m fa n so el N e For th stlers volleyball Ru e g lle o C nd la of Lake et h their veins. Jarr run deep throug s -year agribusines Nelson, a second r. eneration Rustle -g nd co se a is t, studen of tsteps of several o fo e th in ed w He follo e hen he put on th w s er b em m ily his fam time rsey for the first je l al yb lle vo rs Rustle 19. in September 20

Growing up on his family’s 200-head cow/calf farm by Veteran, Alta., Jarret's reason for choosing Lakeland did not originally include volleyball.

competed for the Rustlers volleyball teams from 1993 to 1995. Jarret also indicated his mom’s cousin Scott Mckenzie played volleyball for the Rustlers from 2001 to 2004.

“I chose Lakeland for the ag programming and the smaller classes,” Jarret said. “Making the men’s volleyball team and being able to continue on in a sport I loved in high school was just a bonus.”

“When I talk with my uncle and aunt, they ask me how things are going at college,” Jarret stated. “We kind of laughed when I told Aunt Kim that Peter Walsh, one of their instructors, also teaches me. Every once and a while, Peter will call me Todd, I guess I remind him of dad. The college is such a great environment where people know who you are, and it feels like everyone is there to help you.”

Jarret was introduced to volleyball at a young age. It was a sport both parents competed in at the post-secondary level. His mother Julie played for three years, from 1995 to 1998, at Mount Royal College. She was part of the Cougars teams that competed at the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association national championships for two out of the three years. Jarret's father Todd attended Lakeland from 1995 to 1997. He competed for the Rustlers while working towards his livestock diploma. Todd had a promising first year but was sidelined in his second season due to an injury. Jarret’s Aunt Kim (Hadwin) and Uncle Graeme (Thain) met at Lakeland College where they also

Todd coached Jarret through his entire secondary school playing years. He first coached the junior high team and then moved on to coaching the Consort boys’ volleyball team when Jarret moved on to high school. “Jarret was an easy kid to coach,” Todd commented. “Maybe because he felt he had to work harder being the coach’s kid, but I like to think it was because he had a strong work ethic.” When it came to trying out for the Lakeland team, Jarret did not have some of the highlevel playing experience that some of the others who tried out did, but the coaching staff must have seen something they liked. Jarret’s playing time was limited in his first year, but he still enjoyed his experience. “The group of guys on the team are just fantastic people they are like a second family,“ Jarret said. “This year with COVID-19, it has been challenging but I think our team is even closer as we have had to hold each other accountable to work harder and find different ways to stay in shape.” At this time, Jarret is unsure if he will continue with his education and enrol in the new bachelor of agriculture technology program, but he is enjoying both the classroom and volleyball experience right now. When asked if he believed he is a better player today than his dad was in his day, he hesitated and then said, “Well, I don’t know for sure but it is probably in my best interest right now to not answer that question if dad is going to read this. I can probably say though that we both enjoyed our time at Lakeland.”

Making the men’s volleyball team and being able to continue on in a sport I loved in high school was just a bonus.

Building resilient

wellness

arah Popil’s Lakeland College journey began long before she became its wellness advisor in 2020. She started out as a Lakeland student and took a winding journey to the position she holds now, one which helped her develop a deeper understanding of the various challenges facing students today and the many resources available to help them find their way. From Vermilion, Alta., Popil graduated from St. Jerome’s Catholic School without a clear idea of what she wanted to do. She went straight to work for four years, saving up to go to school and enrolling in Lakeland’s educational assistant program. “I went on practicum at the high school after my first semester,” Popil says. “They offered me a position and I knew it was too good of an opportunity to turn down, despite not having finished my program. Lakeland had just started offering online programming so I was able to finish my educational assistant certificate while working, which was the beginning of my education journey.”

The challenges of balancing full-time work and full-time studies were tricky but taught her a lot of the resiliency she would eventually return to Lakeland to share with new generations of students.

The most important thing I could say to students who need help but aren’t sure about reaching out is to just take that step. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

While working with high school students with learning disabilities, behavioural issues and other special needs, Popil discovered she had a talent for helping these students. Though passionate about her work, she was ready for a new challenge. “I had realized I had a knack for problem solving and helping students build their own skills,” Popil explains. “And as much as I loved it, I’m a big believer in growth and personal/ professional development. I would have loved to stay at the high school for the rest of my life, but I decided to earn my child and youth care diploma and pursue higher education.” Before she even finished her diploma, Popil enrolled in Athabasca University’s bachelor of professional arts program, with a major in human services. As she finished her diploma, she was already taking university-level courses at the same time.

“It was hard,” she confesses. “I worked my butt off. There were some moments where I just couldn’t see the end, but it’s so amazing when you finally get there. I learned so many hard lessons and certainly hit some walls. I think some of the difficult things I encountered help me understand the struggles other people can go through and it guides me in the work I do now. “Tough experiences do not discriminate, no matter who you are. How we choose to deal or cope with these losses is what either builds us up or hinders us. We can’t change the past and it’s important to place emphasis on the things that you can control rather than what you can’t. Surviving hardships can teach you important things about yourself and the world around you. Difficulties help you to strengthen your design, hardships will help you expand your empathy and with time, you will evolve and grow as a person.”

explains. “At first, I was focused on organizing and planning activities and events for students. I would go into classrooms and give presentations on stress management and coping, talking with students and helping them solve a variety of problems.” Popil focusses on helping students develop resiliency in all the dimensions of wellness – physical, mental, social, financial, academic and spiritual. She shares strategies and resources with students to help them navigate the challenges they are

Popil took the position in January 2020 and hasn’t regretted it. “Every single day looks different for me,” Popil

Popil does her best to work with students one-on-one when she can to help students feel connected, always keeping health and safety protocols in mind. The biggest challenge for her is knowing that she can guide students to the resources they need and the paths that might help them, but it’s up to them to put in the work and create their own motivation for change and self-efficacy. Her role is to be patient and to support them on that journey. The biggest challenge for the students, Popil says, is asking for help.

Before accepting the position as wellness advisor at Lakeland, Popil worked as a social/ emotional coach with younger children for five years. “It was really hard to leave those children and the community I had built there. But if you see an opportunity, you have to go for it. I had a really positive student experience at Lakeland. There was so much support from staff who helped me succeed. They saw something in me and helped me nurture it. As a long-term resident of Vermilion, I really wanted to come back to Lakeland to work.”

“Many students are anxious and they’re finding it difficult to manage stress given all the uncertainty.”

facing, and offers referrals to other agencies that can give additional support, working alongside the campus counsellors. “My goal is to help students build resiliency. It’s helping them find their way, find the balance and happiness that lives within themselves. It’s building their capacity for overcoming difficulties, building mental toughness and skills.” Since the pandemic began, Popil has found an increase in student need, though the challenges they are facing remain the same.

“The most important thing I could say to students who need help but aren’t sure about reaching out is to just take that step. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. It’s an important part of self-care and change begins with you. Everybody’s going to experience something and it’s important that we have the ability to ask for help and receive the help we need. It’s okay to ask for help. It’s why we’re here.” Popil explains that self-care can be more than taking care of our physical bodies and treating ourselves well. “Wellness is about more than being free from sickness,” Popil says. “It’s a spectrum, finding an overall balance for your physical, mental, social, academic, environmental and spiritual wellbeing. It’s about the way we live our everyday life.”

SPRING 2021

ALUMNUS AMONG BEST DESIGNERS OF 2020

akeland College’s commitment to real-world learning opportunities have shaped many students and alumni, including award-winning alumnus Mark Cayen.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recently awarded Cayen, a Class of 2005 interior design technology alumnus, third place in the Large Traditional Kitchen category at the NKBA Design Awards in February. The NKBA’s October 2020 edition of their Inspiration + Innovation magazine also featured Cayen. “Winning third place means a lot because my design was recognized by my peers. This year makes this win unique because the event was virtual, and everyone was socially distanced. They would’ve looked at each design and evaluated it among themselves,” he says. “I love the kitchen. It has to be one of my favourite kitchens that I've ever designed.” Throughout his 15-year career, of which 12 years have been with Empire Kitchen and Bath (EKB) in Calgary, Alta., the senior design consultant believes he’s designed approximately 320 kitchens. "What I like about interior design is that no two spaces are ever the same and no two clients are ever the same.” As a design consultant, Cayen’s designs are well thought out and cohesive, from analyzing a space’s function to utilizing his specialty in custom cabinetry and coordinating with tile, plumbing and lighting. However, Cayen stressed that collaborating with other designers is key to a successful design, which he learned early on at Lakeland. “Lakeland’s instructors encourage collaboration, which is something I always tell people. There was an opportunity for individual and group work, which is how the job gets done in the industry. In the final months of the program, I also completed a practicum with Legacy Kitchens and that was an eye-opener of how the world works. “With this design, I met with the clients all the time, but I had other interior and kitchen designers providing feedback. Then, you have a cabinet maker and a team of installers bringing your design to life. A design might be perfect on paper, but what transpires into real life could be different. Working in a collective is something that I never considered when I enrolled at Lakeland but working with my instructors and classmates on projects was at the forefront. You need a lot of support to be successful in this line of work.” With EKB, Cayen continues to collaborate with Lakeland by offering practicum placements for Lakeland’s interior design technology students, including Emily Hartley. She graduated from Lakeland in 2019 and placed first in the 2019 NKBA student design competition for her kitchen design. “It is important to support the next generation of designers because we need to all work together and two minds are always better than one,” Cayen says. SPRING 2021

ALUMNA’S DREAM CAREER REALIZED AFTER TAKING RISKS This Lakeland College alumna’s career is soaring thanks to faith, taking chances and having a whole lot of heart.

t the northeast corner of 46 Street

and 52 Avenue in Lloydminster, Alta., there’s a worn bench that Delia Morgan-Tetz often occupied in the early years of her working

it was offered at the Vermilion campus in 2002. After a few years in the workforce, she earned an advanced business administration diploma as well as a bachelor of commerce through Athabasca University in 2007.

career. While she enjoyed her

After purchasing the house and renting it out to tenants for years, the

morning coffee and the occasional

economic downturn in 2015 gave

lunch break, she’d manifest visions of

Morgan-Tetz the push to retrofit the dwelling into 900 square feet of fun and move in her nomad business, Walkn on Water Toy Shop, which officially opened in July 2017.

owning the little white house situated across the intersection. “I used to stare at the house and dream about what I could do with it. It always bothered me that I didn’t own it, so I bought it when I had the chance,” says Morgan-Tetz. Morgan-Tetz graduated from Lakeland’s marketing program when 20

“I know there are so many more entrepreneurs like myself out there who have ideas and dreams. But I remember reading once that a dream is always a dream unless you put it into action. For years I was stuck in

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

the dream of never moving forward. There’s risk in it all, and you have to want to take the risk. I’m happy I did.” Before the little white house, MorganTetz established Walkn On Water at trade shows across the region. She then grew her business model and utilized an old school bus, which she would drive to summer events on weekends. This earned her the nickname Ms. Frizzle. Morgan-Tetz ran the business in a part-time capacity – consistently torn between making a living based on stability or a dream. “There’s safety in a full-time job with decent pay and benefits,” she says.

As the business grew, so did MorganTetz’s desire to be at the store. She hired part-time workers to help with the daily operations when she was at work and then worked in the evenings. “I had a full-time job making good money with health benefits, so dropping that to pursue this full-time took a big leap of faith. Hence why it’s called Walkn On Water. I’ve trusted God through this whole time.

It was so empowering to finally say I’m just going to trust God with all this and give this business my undivided attention.

“I wanted to give my full-time job 100 per cent, but the more the shop grew, the more my heart wanted to be there. It was so empowering to finally say I’m just going to trust God with all this and give this business my undivided attention.”

“I think that’s why my business is thriving because I’m here now. I can listen to what my customers want and see their reaction to the toys I put so much effort to bring in.” Even with expanding her business by opening a Wainwright, Alta. location in 2019, Morgan-Tetz says the business has never been better since the COVID-19 pandemic started. “There’s a huge push to shop local right now, and that has helped us. I’ve found people are looking for that intimate shopping experience, and people aren’t traveling to the bigger centres for special occasion gifts. I think we’ve been able to cater to that.”

The unique toy shop has always boasted an eclectic selection of toys, games, books and more because of Morgan-Tetz’s passion for people of all ages and her love for fun.

Morgan-Tetz says the homestead is almost at capacity and is excited about future opportunities to expand the current space.

Equipped with the learning opportunities from her grandparents’ and parents’ experiences running department stores, Morgan-Tetz is happy to be building on her family’s retail legacy and venturing out on her own.

decide this is what I’m going to do

“I didn’t wake up one day and for the rest of my life. I’m sure many entrepreneur stories are like mine and that we stumble into our careers with a passion. It’s amazing what happens when you put heart and logic together.” SPRING 2021

Ryan Baker was four years into a job when he realized he wanted to make a change.

hrough hard work, dedication and a little bit of luck, he made his dreams come true in 2020, opening Studebaker Industries Ltd., a repair shop in Mannville, Alta.

“I was working up by Smokey Lake. It was very cold, with heavy snow blowing sideways,” says Ryan. “I caught a glimpse of myself in the reflection in the window, and said to myself, ‘I don’t want to be here when I’m 30’.” That moment proved to be the catalyst that set him on the path to his career in equipment repair. His father had graduated from heavy duty mechanics at Lakeland College and Ryan had always had an interest in anything mechanical, so he followed in his father’s footsteps. He completed the heavy duty equipment program in 2009 and then finished the automotive program in 2012, becoming a Red Seal endorsed journeyperson in both trades by age 30. “Lakeland was excellent,” Ryan says. “The whole faculty at Lakeland and the Trades Centre were great. Everybody had a general attitude that we were all there to succeed. I also believe the awards program at Lakeland deserves recognition. The attitude of striving for excellence and being recognized for your efforts is what keeps students pushing for the best they can do. Without support, these programs won’t continue and they were a huge help when I was going to school with a young family and a subpar employment insurance program. I’m thankful to the sponsors of the program and encourage fellow alumni to get involved.” After graduating from Lakeland, Ryan and his wife Joanna launched their service truck small business StudeBaker Industries Ltd. in 2011. Along with running his service truck, Ryan joined the faculty at Lakeland in 2014 as an automotive career and technology studies (CTS) instructor. Though he enjoyed the opportunity to teach, balancing both proved a bit of a struggle. “It was a challenge, teaching CTS for a week at a time, for full days,” Ryan explains. “I’d put my day in at the college and spend another six hours after in the service truck working on my business.” In 2017, Ryan was forced to make a choice. His business was getting busier and splitting his time between Lakeland and his service truck wasn’t sustainable anymore.

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“I had to make a choice, pursue a career at Lakeland or finish what we started in 2011. I came to a fork in the road where I either had to stop answering the phone and taking on new clients or accept the way things were going and expand. Entrepreneurial spirit guided me in my choice.” He and Joanna decided to expand and Ryan left his position at Lakeland. After the owner of Frank’s Field Service outside Vermilion passed away and his sons were closing up the business, Ryan went to the shop to see if they were selling any equipment and tools. “I ended up walking away with a lease agreement on their shop yard space and all the tools in it,” he says. “Right there, in the span of a week, I went from being on my own with a service truck and no employees to suddenly leasing some space and needing to hire some employees. We hired two that first week and have been growing ever since.” Ryan and Joanna ended up working in that space for two years, though they knew within two months that they’d need something bigger. “We had potential to build,” Ryan says. “We started plans on building a new shop. It took two years to convince the banks we had a real plan and a vision. We just needed some help to get started.” In Dec. 2019, the financing came through and construction started in Mannville, finishing up in May 2020. StudeBaker and their employees have settled into the new shop. It’s already filled with repair jobs and passion projects, everything from airplanes to lawnmowers and pickup trucks, as well as restoration vehicles. “We repair anything with an engine, anything that moves. That’s what sets us apart from other repair shops – diversity. We’re not afraid to take on anything. I’ve always had the mindset that it doesn’t matter what the scale of the machine is, they’ve all got the same basic principles. It’s just a different application.” That willingness to take on any challenge is something Ryan picked up at Lakeland and one of the main philosophies of StudeBaker.

I came to a fork in the road where I either had to stop answering the phone and taking on new clients or accept the way things were going and expand.

“Lakeland really helped me learn to keep an open mind,” he explains. “It’s the mindset of a lot of the instructors I had the privilege of working with. You’re not expected to know everything, but as long as you can think your way through the principles and apply them to your situation, you can get through anything. That’s the mindset they gave me at Lakeland and that’s the mindset I continue to cultivate in our business. It’s done nothing but work well for us. We may not have done everything, but we are willing and able to learn anything.” SPRING 2021

DISTINGUISHED RECOGNITION

Each year, Lakeland College celebrates alumni who’ve made outstanding contributions or who’ve achieved major accomplishments after graduation. One alumnus per campus is selected annually and inducted as a distinguished alumnus. The 2020 distinguished alumni were to be celebrated at the Donor Celebration events in the spring. Garrett Hawgood, Class of 2011, was honoured at the Vermilion campus event in the spring. Leanne Hawes, Class of 2007, was unable to share her speech at the Lloydminster campus, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about Lakeland’s distinguished alumni at lakelandcollege.ca/alumni.

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We’re honoured to share Hawes’ speech in the Excel: “I am honoured and humbled to accept the Distinguished Alumni award for 2020. Lakeland College provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge and leadership on which I continue to build my success. I am thankful to the local Board of Directors, who chose me to be the first female CEO of Lloydminster and District Co-op. I am grateful to the Co-op team who rally behind our mission to serve our membership every day. I am proud to work for an organization whose purpose is to build communities through local employment, community giving, and sustainable and ethical business practices. With a young family by my side, worklife balance is not always easy, and there is no magic formula; trust me, I’ve tried to find it. The lesson I’ve learned with my position is simple: everyone has a story, and comparing your circumstance or situation (or balance) to anyone else’s is irrelevant. The world is a more beautiful place when empathy and kindness are received and given, to others and ourselves. ‘Ever to Excel’ is a phrase I have never forgotten. Striving for excellence is an essential value in leadership in today’s ever-changing world. I believe we all have the ability to be leaders regardless of our title or position. Leadership to

me means being a model of integrity, inspiring positive change and celebrating diversity. Success is not an endpoint on a map. It’s a journey built on collaboration, compassion and continuous improvement. There is a lot of uncertainty floating in our midst these days, but one thing I know for certain: the world needs optimistic leadership. Not the kind of optimism that is superficial, but the type that simply picks a place to start and moves forward one step at a time. Today’s leaders will need to be problem solvers guided by a sense of curiosity and optimism. Doreen Der and the late Phil Allen, two among many professors who stood out to me as great leaders during my time at Lakeland College. They demonstrated this by taking an extra moment to encourage students after class, asking about real-life experiences to enrich the learning experience and showing compassion in moments when balance seemed unachievable. I am so proud of the education I earned at Lakeland College. Many of my professional colleagues at Co-op are also Lakeland alumni. I can say without a shadow of a doubt the success we see as one of the largest and most profitable retail co-operatives in western Canada is supported by exceptional people who make up the framework and fabric of this post-secondary institution. Thank you for this honour.”

SPRING 2021

ALUMNI BENEFITS

Alumni Benefits We value Lakeland College Alumni! Check out alumni benefits at lakelandcollege.ca/alumni-benefits Update your information at lakelandcollege.ca/alumni-update

“External” Benefits:

TD Health & Life Insurance Thanks to the affinity program agreement between TD Life Insurance Company and Lakeland College, you can now benefit from premium savings on eligible TD Term Life Insurance policies.

TD Insurance As a trusted partner, the TD Insurance Meloche Monnex Program is dedicated to helping Lakeland College alumni get access to preferred insurance rates. These preferred rates are available on car, home, condo and tenant coverage.

AGI Compass When it comes to record keeping, inventory, ROI/breakeven, forecasting, managing multiple OEM’s, payroll, cashflow, taxes, accounting and profitability scenarios, AGI Compass brings them altogether onto one platform allowing you to make informed business decisions.

MBNA Credit Card Welcome bonus of 15,000 points or $75 cash back.

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“Internal” Benefit Ed2Go Continue your education and save

Diploma Frames Your diploma is important so frame it! Get 30% off your purchase.

Career & Employment Services Lakeland helps alumni connect with employers lakelandcollege.ca/SEC-job-postings

Job Postings are open to alumni Visit our job board and see what jobs our connected employers have to offer.

Residence While visiting either campus you can save 15% on your stay.

Links to Job Boards

Power Hour: Spark your creativity FREE sessions for alumni. Stay tuned for sessions coming up Fall 2021.

Check out what other job boards across Canada have to offer.

Online Resources Lakeland Gear Shop and show your Lakeland pride and enjoy 30% off. lakelandcollege.ca/bookstore

Events Booking

Career Fair & Job Fair Free events throughout the year. Plans are underway for Fall 2021.

Find links to several helpful sites related to everything from interview tips to salary negotiations.

Receive 15% off your next event on either campus.

SPRING 2021

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

Long-time donors create

F I R ST AWA R D FOR

NEW PROGRAM Prospective students weren’t the only ones eagerly anticipating the approval of Lakeland College’s bachelor of agriculture technology program.

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ore than a year before the Government of Alberta approved the degree program, Bryan and Sharon Perkins committed to creating a student award for the program. “I’ve been very interested in the bachelor of agriculture technology program since I first heard about it while I was a member of the board,” says Bryan. He served on Lakeland College Board of Governors from 2013-2020. A day after Lakeland announced the program approval in January, Bryan phoned Lakeland’s Community Development department to finalize the Bryan and Sharon

Tax credits lower the real cost of

CHARITABLE GIVING Endowment will fund awards in perpetuity

To ensure the awards continue after they’re gone, the Perkins established an endowment fund with Lakeland in 2018. They’ve increased the fund through cash contributions and a recent stock donation. A planned gift of a $60,000 life insurance policy will grow the endowment after Bryan passes away. “Our goal is to keep building the endowment fund. We want it to be self-sustaining and have the funds in place to continue supporting these awards after we’re gone,” says Bryan.

Perkins Bachelor of Agriculture Technology Award. It is available to two students in the crops stream. This is the first award established for the degree program. In addition to their new award, the Perkins fund two other awards: Bryan and Sharon Perkins Agricultural Award (two recipients) and Bryan & Sharon Perkins Double Diploma Award (two recipients). During the 2021-22 academic year, the six recipients of their awards will receive $1,100 each. “For Sharon and me, farming and agriculture are our way of life, our source of income, and, perhaps more importantly, the chosen fields for our children and grandchildren as well,” says Bryan, noting that they live on land homesteaded by his grandparents in 1908. “Agriculture is an exciting field. It offers so many challenges and so many opportunities – it keeps your feet on the ground. We’re pleased to do our part to support students interested in this industry.”

While they’re building the endowment for the future, they realize the tax advantages now. They received a charitable receipt for the cash surrender value of the life insurance policy. The Perkins are charitably receipted annually for the premium payments they make on the policy. In donating the stocks, the Perkins also received a charitable tax receipt for the fair market value when they transferred them to Lakeland. Transferring the shares directly to Lakeland allowed them to avoid paying capital gains taxes. That way they actually got two tax benefits rather than if they had sold the stocks and donated after-tax proceeds. “When it comes to charitable giving in Alberta, everything over $200 provides a 50% tax credit. When we include Lakeland in our charitable giving and donate $1,100 for one of our awards, the government in effect contributes $550 of the award. If we can donate to help students and get the tax credit, we’re happy to do so,” says Perkins. University of Alberta students also benefit from their generosity. The couple met at the university in the late 1960s, where Bryan earned a bachelor of science in agriculture and Sharon a teaching certificate. They created an endowment to fund the Perkins Family Bar None Award. Bryan and fellow alumni also developed the Agriculture Class of 1969 Bar None Leadership Award. The most rewarding part of being a donor is hearing from the Lakeland students who receive their awards, says Bryan. “To learn about their goals and their plans is so enjoyable. It makes me feel good about the future of agriculture. It makes me feel that anything that we’ve done to support their goals is worthwhile.” FALL 2020

Donors lead the way, ensuring Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. will exceed $11 million goal Because of our donors’ generosity, students have access to more opportunities and services.

CAMPAIGN PRIORITIES

Thanks to the generosity of more than 1,000 donors, Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. will be the most successful fundraising campaign in Lakeland College’s history.

Expanding student success

Growing results-oriented research

Your gift to this area helps create new student awards, strengthens Rustlers athletics, increases student leadership opportunities, supports Indigenous initiatives, and enhances programs supporting all aspects of health (physical, mental, social and financial).

Applied research is embedded in coursework and beyond at Lakeland. Your gift supports projects, best-in-class facilities and technology and helps fund the expertise needed to drive research forward. The Agriculture Technology Centre, home to the new bachelor of agriculture technology program and agriculture technology research, will also be strengthened by your gift.

Visit lakelandcollege.ca/leading-learning for more details. 30

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he campaign began in 2016 with an initial goal of $10 million, which was increased to $11 million in 2017. More than $12 million has been raised to date as the campaign nears completion on June 30.

The fundraising initiative is focused on three priorities – expanding student success, empowering the next leaders in agriculture, and growing results-oriented research. “Our donors are leading the way through their support of this campaign,” says Mike Kotelko, chair of the campaign leadership team and a member of Lakeland’s Class of 1982. As of the end of April, 1,096 donors have given 2,967 gifts. “Because of our donors’ generosity, students have access to more opportunities and services. They’re learning in new and modernized facilities. And research capacity has grown at Lakeland, with the primary goal of advancing real-world agricultural productivity and sustainability,” says Kotelko. He also thanked the campaign leadership team for generously volunteering their time and talents to help make the campaign a success. The fundraising goal was exceeded thanks to individuals, families, businesses, foundations and organizations making donations and supporting fundraising events such as the Rustlers Golf Tournament, President’s Gala and Feast on the Farm. Alumni, students, community members and Lakeland employees are among the donors. “We’re grateful to everyone who has contributed to the campaign to help our students thrive and become confident, collaborative graduates. Great things happen when we pull together,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, the college’s president and CEO. “For those who haven’t made a gift yet, there’s still time to be part of this historic campaign. You can play a leading role during this exciting time of transformation for Lakeland College.”

You can

LEAD THE WAY Your gift to Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. ensures the problem solvers, innovators, leaders and hard workers continue to benefit from the highest quality education and leadership opportunities. With your support, Lakeland students access the funding and support services they need, learn in modern facilities where hands-on learning opportunities are everywhere, and tackle research projects that matter. Ways to give: • make a one-time gift of cash that reflects your class year • sign up to be a monthly donor • provide a gift-in-kind of land, equipment, livestock or other property • donate securities or life insurance • leave a legacy by including Lakeland in your estate plans To learn more, please contact: Stacey Ruller Development Officer, External Relations Lakeland College 780.872.3080 stacey.ruller@lakelandcollege.ca To give to Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. you may:

Empowering the next leaders in agriculture Your gift allows Lakeland to expand its land base, and build and modernize facilities to strengthen the Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland. It’s in these spaces and places where Lakeland students explore new ideas, test different systems, apply new technologies and collaborate with classmates, instructors and industry to bring their education to life. Thanks to donors, new programming opportunities have also been created.

Mail a cheque made payable to Lakeland College to: Lakeland College External Relations 5707 College Drive Vermilion, AB T9X 1K5 Contribute online at lakelandcollege.ca/donate Make your donation over the phone, call Stacey at 780.872.3080

SPRING 2021

A MESSAGE FROM LAKELAND COLLEGE’S

President

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

akeland College is preparing to welcome students back to campus for the fall 2021 semester. Our goal is to have our campus community at our Vermilion and Lloydminster campuses this fall if it is safe to do so. With guidance from provincial health authorities and the Ministry of Advanced Education, we will ensure any required health and safety protocols are in place so that our students can fully benefit from the most hands-on education in Canada.

On behalf of Lakeland, I thank everyone for doing their part to keep our campus community safe this year. We were successful in providing a blended program delivery that allowed more than 90 per cent of our students to engage in in-person learning activities. Approximately 60 per cent of our total course hours were delivered on campus and in person. In March, we welcomed a full cohort of students in our emergency services technology program to our Emergency Training Centre at the Vermilion campus. Firefighting students arrived on campus in mid-April. Students in these programs will complete their hands-on training on site thanks to the COVID-19 protocols we have in place. Despite everyone’s best efforts though, in early April Alberta Health Services (AHS) declared an outbreak at the Vermilion campus. Their investigation shared there was evidence that these cases spread as a result of isolated off-campus social gatherings. We worked with AHS to provide voluntary on-site testing. Alberta health inspectors visited our campus to review our protocols and procedures and found them to be more than sufficient for on-campus learning. To prevent the risk of transmission though, classes were moved online for several programs. We increased cleaning and disinfecting in our residences, and closed common areas on campus. We provided assistance to students who had to isolate on campus as well. Just as we had all year, we took every measure we could to protect the health and safety of our campus community. We’re grateful for the support of AHS as we worked with them to monitor and respond to the situation. As of April 30, there is one active case on campus. Throughout the year, our work to ensure on-campus labs, lectures and activities received positive reviews from our students. In a survey I conducted earlier this year, 89 per cent of students shared that they were satisfied with their program. Overwhelming, 96 per cent of students responded that they would recommend Lakeland to others, while 100 per cent of our apprentices shared they would as well. Lakeland is one of only two colleges in Alberta this year to offer full-time, face-to-face trades training for apprenticeship and pre-employment students. I’m very proud of our Lakeland team for the work they’ve done this year to ensure our students continue to benefit from a quality education. And I am proud of our students – they are resilient and focussed on their goals. Together, we’ll continue to provide the best educational and campus experience possible this fall. We’ll continue to share updates as they become available at lakelandcollege.ca/covid19. Thank you,

Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart President and CEO Lakeland College

SPRING 2021

LEARNING IN ACTION

BRINGING

BAND IN THE SAND HOME Student organizers turned Lakeland College’s annual Band in the Sand into a streamed concert series everyone could enjoy throughout the month of March. COVID-19 made the traditional Band in the Sand experience – 2,000 people attending a live concert at Lakeland’s Equine Centre – impossible last fall. The agribusiness students tasked with planning the event as part of a class project decided to get creative and Band in the House was born. “People were excited to see that we persevered and adapted to the circumstances that we were faced with rather than just treat the event like something that couldn’t happen this school year,” says Jessa Dumkee, project lead for Band in the House. After completing an animal science technology diploma, Dumkee enrolled in the agribusiness program and built her skill set with this immersive student-managed project. “We weren’t trying to compete with what Band in the Sand usually is, instead we created a new opportunity for everyone to connect. Fostering a sense of community is more important than ever this year, and we had very positive responses from the students.” The temporary, pandemic-driven rebranding saw a series of live and pre-recorded performances streamed digitally every Thursday evening in March.

! s e v i l l a i c o s r u o e v a s 34

BUILDING CONFIDENCE IN THE FIELD STUDENTS SHOWCASE SKILLS IN virtual competition Five Lakeland College business students competed against 50 of the province’s brightest post-secondary business students in the first virtual Alberta Deans of Business Case Competition. While the competition was hosted in a different format, the virtual experience didn’t hinder what Mary Novick describes as a worthwhile opportunity to put their business knowledge to the test. “It definitely brought the best in all of us. I surprised myself that I could sit for eight hours and power through the case. It forced me to think outside the box and be creative,” says the second-year business administration student majoring in accounting. The team of Novick, Jeru Lopez, Fernanda Martinelli, Gabriella Fea and Maxime Lebo, were tasked with developing a case for Servus Credit Union. They had eight hours to apply a diverse blend of business knowledge in marketing, management, finance, accounting, and human resources to research, analyze, and articulate recommendations to a group of judges.

ands-on learning is a key aspect of Lakeland College’s environmental sciences programs, and not even a global pandemic could keep students from getting their hands dirty during Field Week in the fall.

Laura Andrews, a second-year wildlife and fisheries conservation major, was relieved to learn that lab activities could proceed this semester. She chose to come to Lakeland specifically because of the hands-on learning opportunities. “It was so important to me that we’d still get to have the chance to experience hands-on activities this year with the health and safety protocols. I was nervous at the beginning and wondering what it would look like, but Lakeland has done an amazing job organizing it and making sure everyone is safe. In every lab and even during Field Week, health and safety was always put first, and I really appreciated that.”

AGRICULTURE

With proper health and safety protocols in place, students went beyond the classroom to refine their skills in a variety of labs that had them trekking through fields, wetlands, lakes and rivers in search of plants, wildlife, soil and water.

Lakeland College agribusiness students learned how to be informed, passionate champions of the industry through their Agvocacy project.

“Field Week was really good, I did things I never thought I could and it really opened my eyes to new opportunities,” Andrews says.

With support from the team’s sponsors—Metrix Group LLP and Newcart Contracting—and Lakeland business staff and faculty, Lakeland’s business case team put in more than 70 hours of virtual practice by completing case studies and delivering mock presentations. Red Deer College hosted the 2021 competition in March. In the last 16 years, Lakeland has placed in the competition five times.

Taking action and advocating for

Working in groups, students produced advocacy and educational media on key topics to help inform the public about the nuances of it. For students Maddison Penner and Sanne Hansen, it was an excellent opportunity to put their learning into action. “It’s so important to any agricultural program to be able to talk about all topics and that we know how to find the resources to inform ourselves on them,” Penner, second-year agribusiness student from Vanderhoof, B.C., explains. “Now we have experience looking for proper sources to find the facts behind discussing or defending agriculture, compared to just using our own opinions. It’s really valuable.” Penner’s group was tasked with showcasing animal handling and did so with both a video and an article portraying proper animal handling methods as well as the financial benefits of them. Her group pooled their resources, using video clips they had already taken on their own operations, including some drone shots, and working with the purebred animals at Lakeland’s Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland for additional footage. “A lot of people who don’t have the same connection we do to a farm or livestock operation might not see it as passionately as we do,” Penner says. FALL 2020

STUDENT-LED TAX SERVICES OFFER BEYOND THE CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE In a year that’s been like no other, Lakeland College students continued to adapt and persevere so they could apply their education in real-life work settings.

SMF celebrates dairy cow’s

FIFTH PLACE GENETIC POTENTIAL O

ne of Lakeland College’s dairy cows placed fifth in the 2020 WestGen Pursuit of Excellence Barn Cow competition’s 3+ lactation category.

The win gave the Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland (SMF) dairy unit something to celebrate. “Because of COVID-19, there are not a lot of in-person dairy shows happening, so this was definitely a really good opportunity for us,” says Molly Sayers, public relations coordinator with the SMF dairy unit. The SMF dairy unit oversees much more than the care, feeding and milking of their 290-head dairy herd. They manage the health, production and longevity of the herd through genetic advancements. Placing in the top 5 is verification that their work around genetics and breeding is paying off as the herd develops improved genetic potential.

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“The competition was based on conformation – the cow’s genetics and how she looks,” Sayers explains. The online competition accepted entries from Western Canada in different categories depending on the maturity of the cow and how many times she had calved. The dairy SMF unit entered two cows in the first lactation category and one in the 3+ lactation category. It was that cow, Vermilion Manifold Darian EX 90, who placed fifth in her category. She is also the newest cow to receive an Excellent classification in the barn this year. “To find good candidates to submit, we studied their

Students in Lakeland’s business administration diploma accounting major once again offered free tax services for seniors, students, low-income families and newcomers to Canada with some new conditions. “This year was a little different because we collected client tax information at drop-off locations around Lloydminster,” says Julia Cawley, a business administration student who is volunteering at the tax clinics for a second time. “It’s still a fantastic experience to give back to the community while getting hands-on experience for the real world. Being able to take my education and put it to good use by giving back to the community is fulfilling,” In groups of three, students prepared tax returns on Saturdays throughout March and April.

Medicine walks become valuable

wellness resource With COVID-19 guidelines in place at the college, Lakeland’s Indigenous Support Services sought alternative activities that supported students’ wellbeing. Three medicine walks were held in the Vermilion Provincial Park in September. They were facilitated by Indigenous Support Services and guided by Knowledge Keeper Ivy Houle (Opikinawasin) and Elder Vyna Fluney. Students learned about traditional, medicinal and cultural practices for wellness and guidance, including introducing the four directions interpretations, followed by a walk to pick healing plants such as buffalo sage. Elizabeth Koehler-Lenko, a second-year child and youth care student, recommends attending a medicine walk when the opportunity arises.

mammary systems and capacity, as well as capacities. We looked at how much rib she has, how wide she is, how deep her body is. It was pretty exciting that one of our cows placed fifth in her category,” says Sayers. “We haven’t done any showing in the new facility yet, so it was nice to be involved in something like this. It was also a really good opportunity to promote Lakeland’s dairy major and SMF program.”

“I’m not Indigenous, so it was a wonderful opportunity to get insight into a group that I might work with in my career. It’s one thing to read about it, so it’s great when we can get insight through experience. Since I’m Jewish, it was fascinating to learn about Indigenous beliefs and be able to put it in perspective through my own beliefs,” says Koehler-Lenko. She was one of about 12 students to participate in one of the medicine walks. SPRING 2021

CAMPUS NEWS

Lakeland College develops

FIRST BACHELOR OF AGRICULTURE TECHNOLOGY DEGREE

akeland College is offering Canada’s first degree in agriculture technology. Developed to enable students to keep ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of agricultural technology, Lakeland’s bachelor of agriculture technology program offers real-world experience with the latest agricultural equipment, software, hardware and digital devices.

Starting in September 2021, the two-year, post-credential program consists of full-time studies at the Vermilion campus and experiential learning practicums off campus, all designed to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and agricultural management and production systems. “Our new degree program will produce graduates who can effectively use emerging technologies and the data they produce in commercial agriculture to provide important answers on return on investment,” says Michael Crowe, Lakeland’s vice president of academic and research. Students will delve into crop and livestock farming and smart agriculture as a management system, including data collection and analysis as well as the use of interpretative tools and programs such as robotics, geospatial tools, artificial intelligence and others. They’ll also learn how to analyze and troubleshoot industry-leading hardware, software and data platforms. Students will operate and adapt the technology and data systems on Lakeland’s Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland. 38

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MORE NEW PROGRAMS FOR FALL 2021

Lakeland will offer three other new programs this fall: agricultural sustainability diploma, post-bachelor certificate in commercial agriculture production and an applied environmental sciences certificate. The three new programs will feature hands-on learning opportunities and will be offered at the Vermilion campus. “We’re excited to expand our program offering for September. Each program provides practical training in areas where these industries need qualified professionals ready to put their education into action. We know our students learn best through action, which is why each of our new programs offers experiential learning opportunities that will equip them for success,” says Crowe.

“Graduates of the program will bring unique skill sets into the workforce by blending both agriculture production and agricultural technology expertise. Industry feedback indicated there is a shortage of agricultural professionals who can interface between the two disciplines – our degree program will fill that gap,” says Josie Van Lent, dean of the School of Agriculture Technology and Applied Research. “We greatly appreciate the support and help from industry in the development of this program.” Students will specialize in either crops or livestock technological applications. Practicums will be completed at agriculture data companies, technology and equipment manufacturers, crop input service providers, private agronomist service companies, breeding and genomic companies, and other related agriculture industries. Graduates will find employment in a variety of agricultural production fields. The bachelor of agriculture technology program is the culmination of several years of consultation, research and development, says Crowe. It was established in response to demand from industry and students. More than 40 agricultural organizations and companies were consulted during an independent industry needs assessment. A student survey indicated strong interest in a degree program as well. Students in the bachelor of agriculture technology program will complete their on-campus studies and hands-on training in Lakeland’s new Agriculture Technology Centre. The 8,000-square-foot building at the Vermilion campus will be an on-farm lab where students gain experience working with new ag technologies and analyzing new data-sets. For more information or to apply, visit lakelandcollege.ca/AgTechDegree.

Harris wins international gold for

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES Finding innovative ways to help students become better learners has earned Karen Harris a 2020 Gold Award of Excellence from the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics (WFCP). Harris, the learner success strategist at Lakeland College, won gold in the Student Support Services category in November during the WFCP’s online awards ceremony. The category celebrates excellence in provision of services that support students throughout their college experience. “Karen’s work with students is renowned throughout Lakeland. Rather than a cookie-cutter approach, she pulls from her extensive tool kit of strategies and techniques to meet the needs of students and help them succeed,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College. “I’m very proud of Karen and all she’s done for our students and thrilled that her contributions are being recognized by the WFCP.” The most popular tool Harris uses to destress students and get them in the right mindset for learning is poi balls. Harris has worked with almost 1,000 Lakeland students in individual and group sessions since becoming the college’s learner success strategist in 2017. “I love working with students and helping them identify who they are as learners. Learning is very instinctual for each person. By knowing more about ourselves and how we react to situations, not only does learning become easier, so too does life,” says Harris, who has worked in education for more than 35 years. Before joining Lakeland in 2015, she taught in secondary schools in Kitscoty and Lloydminster. During the online ceremony, recipients were recognized in eight categories, based on the international value of the award-winning institutions, individuals, and programs, as well as their achievements, benefits to students, and innovation. WFCP received 113 award nominations from across the world. Of the finalists, only four were from Canada. Harris was Canada’s lone gold recipient. Other finalists in the Student Support Services category were from institutions in China and the United Kingdom. The WFCP Awards of Excellence are presented every second year. In 2016, Lakeland received a bronze award for leadership development. In 2014, the college won silver in the college-industry partnership category for its commitment to involve industry in the Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland. SPRING 2021

NEWCOMERS WELCOMED TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS Lakeland College Board of Governors welcomed four new public members. “We are pleased to welcome our new members to our Board of Governors. They bring a wealth of expertise, experience, knowledge and connections with them and our Lakeland community is enriched with their presence,” says Scott Webb, chair of the Lakeland College Board of Governors. The four new public members are Brent Fischer, Jessica Kelly, Lloyd Snelgrove and Adam Waterman. Visit lakelandcollege.ca to learn more about the Board of Governors and its members.

DEAN RECEIVES INTERNATIONAL AWARD FOR COMMITMENT TO SERVICE Chris Senaratne, dean of the Emergency Training Centre, was presented with the 2021 Johnny G. Wilson Memorial Award in recognition of his lifetime of advocacy and commitment to the fire service. The international award is presented to a person who has dedicated a significant part of their life to the advocacy of professional qualifications in the fire service through accreditation and certification. It is one of two awards presented at the ProBoard’s annual conference, held virtually on Jan. 11. “It was a surprise and I am truly humbled to be awarded the prestigious Johnny G. Wilson Memorial Award by the ProBoard, an international fire service accreditation body,” says Senaratne. “Demonstrating professionalism through a commitment to the field, maintaining sound working relationships with colleagues, and a consistent standard of ethics among other considerations have been central tenets I have strived for throughout my career of close to 30 years. To now be recognized for these same principles is a considerable honour that I’m immensely grateful for.”

NP has donated $90,000 to Lakeland College’s Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. in support of programming and research initiatives focused on agriculture technology. A portion of MNP’s gift will help fund equipment for the Agriculture Technology Centre at the Vermilion campus. This facility will be home to the college’s new bachelor of agriculture technology program that starts this fall.

MNP donates to grow ag tech programming & research 40

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

“We are excited to help educate students in this program, who will play a critical role in the digital transformation of our Canadian farms,” says Stuart Person, Senior Vice President, Agriculture at MNP. Applied research will also receive a boost from MNP’s generosity. Half of the funding will support research projects that will help producers better understand and use new agriculture technologies. “MNP recognizes the contributions of Lakeland College to the education of people in the agriculture industry, especially those alumni who are the next generation of producers and advocates,

APPLIED RESEARCH

GROWS L

WITH NEW AGREEMENT

akeland College’s applied research portfolio is growing thanks to the governments of Canada and Alberta.

Lakeland received a $1.9-million grant to transition two critical agriculture research programs. This investment in research also expands research capacity and teaching opportunities for the next generation of researchers in Alberta. The agreement allows the college to grow and leverage its existing research capacity. This will make way for new learning opportunities for instructors and students as well as more collaboration with industry. The three-year agreement supports Lakeland taking over pulse agronomy and beef production systems programs in Alberta. “Through these investments in science and research, we are helping to keep our pulse and beef producers on the cutting edge. This agreement with Lakeland College will support producer-led research priorities in these industries, while cultivating the next generation of agriculture researchers. A win-win,” says MarieClaude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. and those that we work with now as they continue to take on bigger roles in their own operations and within the industry. Lakeland has always been acknowledged as a staple across the prairies and given MNP’s history in agriculture and our prairie roots, this is a natural fit,” says Scott Dickson, Director, Livestock Services and VP Hutterite Services at MNP. “Our thanks to MNP for their investment in these important initiatives at Lakeland. Our Agriculture Technology Centre will be a central hub for collecting and analyzing production and sustainability data generated across our Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland. Students, faculty and researchers will use the facility as they work to increase the efficiency and quality of livestock and crops through the development and adoption of new ag technology,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, Lakeland’s President and CEO. “Together, we’ll continue to advance real-world agricultural productivity and sustainability in commercial agriculture.”

The pulse agronomy program is a mixture of extension and pulse research projects across Alberta that facilitates the growth of the agriculture and food industry and enhances rural sustainability. The beef production systems program focuses on livestock disease and pathogens, pain mitigation strategies and production efficiency, including beef forage, feed rations and genetics. “This agreement is another exciting step for farmer-led research. Agriculture will continue to have a bright future in Alberta with cutting-edge research and research excellence. The pulse and cattle industry will benefit having this research housed at Lakeland College,” says Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry.

SPRING 2021

CYC PROGRAM receives accreditation

akeland College’s child and youth care diploma program has earned accreditation from the Child and Youth Care Educational Accreditation Board of Canada.

Accreditation acknowledges Lakeland as a provider of quality post-secondary education in the field of child and youth care. The accreditation is effective Feb. 17, 2021 to Feb. 16, 2028. “Receiving accreditation from the Child and Youth Care Education Board of Canada is an acknowledgement of Lakeland’s commitment to excellence in the delivery of our program and assures our students that they are receiving the highest standard in child and youth care education,” says Joanne McDonald, Lakeland’s chair of human services. “Child and youth care is an essential part of Lakeland’s human services department, and learning to support and encourage young people in our society is critically important.” Offered at Lakeland since 2001, the program can be completed in person or online. It provides real world learning with four practicum placements over the duration of the diploma. Lakeland offers one of three accredited child and youth care diploma programs in Alberta and one of 12 across Canada.

COLLEGE JACKETS NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE Shelby Bygrove, an animal science technology student, is joined by her great uncle Raymond Bygrove, Class of 1960, in a photo to mark the completion of her program. Both are from Hillmond, Sask. Don’t Shelby and Raymond both look great in their college jackets? We’d love to see more pictures of people rocking their Lakeland gear. Send us a photo of you wearing your college jacket and we’ll post it on our Alumni Facebook page. Email it to raelean.hickson@lakelandcollege.ca

LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

CLASS NOTES

5. For Kelsie McCabe, Lakeland College’s first animal assisted wellness graduate, finishing the program is just the beginning of her journey to understanding the human-animal bond. A life-long animal lover, McCabe was interested in exploring more about the ways animals can contribute to wellness after she graduated from Lakeland’s child and youth care program in 2012. When Lakeland announced an animal assisted wellness certificate program in collaboration with the Dreamcatcher Animal Assisted Wellness Academy in 2018, she was quick to enrol. Read McCabe’s feature story: lakelandcollege.ca/feature-stories Cayley Peltzer is putting her passion and education to use. The double graduate wrapped up her four-year Lakeland experience with an agribusiness diploma (2017) and animal health technology diploma (2020). Now, she’s excelling as a full-time registered veterinary technologist at Bow Valley Veterinary Group. “I’m caring for a variety of large and small animals like beef and dairy cattle, and cats and dogs. I'm putting my education to use,” Peltzer shared.

Kenneth Stoop, Class of 2009 dairy production, and his wife Kaitlyn are celebrating their new arrival – their fourth child. Baby Ethan was born on Feb. 28, 2021.

He joins proud siblings Fletcher (5), Nicole (3) and Jackson (1). The Stoop family operate a 175 cow-calf operation and farm 1,600 acres south of Virden, Man.

4. The unique blend of heavy oil and power

engineering and a diverse and immersive learning environment are what attracted David Milroy, Class of 2020, to Lakeland’s heavy oil power engineering program. Now a turbine plant operator at Heartland Generation, Milroy’s transition from Lakeland to full-time employment was seamless. Read more at lakelandcollege.ca/feature-stories

Long story short, when a seed is planted, it grows into a plant. For Ryan James, earning his two environmental sciences diplomas from Lakeland – first majoring in conservation and restoration ecology (CARE) and his second in environmental conservation and reclamation (2014) – was the kernel that he cultivated into a bachelor of science in environmental and conservation sciences degree from the University of Alberta in 2019. Today, James works for the Government of Canada at Natural Resources Canada as a silviculture afforestation program technologist. He researches the use of willow and poplar as short rotation woody crops for biomass and bioenergy, and for phytoremediation of sewage, wastewater and soil. SPRING 2021

10.

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9. Biglieni, Class of 2005 livestock production and Class of 2006 agribusiness, are now a family of four. Together with big sister Collins Anna, they welcomed Gavin Robert to the world on Jan. 22,

Bree Harris (left), Class of 2017 heavy oil power engineering, shares a connection to Lakeland with her family, including mother Linda (centre), who graduated from Lakeland’s academic upgrading program and then office administration in 2004, and sister Louisa Peechow (right), Class of 2018 child and youth care. To honour their connection, they’ve received generation alumni pins. Joshua Langill, Class of 2020, came to Lakeland hoping to find opportunities to excel in a dynamic industry: real estate appraisal and assessment (REAA). Before Langill even graduated from the business administration diploma program’s REAA major, he secured a position as administrator for the town of Maidstone, Sask. Amanda (née Kushner) Kelly, Class of 2001 herd health and 2002 animal health technology, and husband Brad Kelly celebrated the arrival of their son Carson Kelly in December 2019. Already sporting Lakeland gear, Carson is bound for Lakeland in the future. Anthony Biglieni, Class of 2006 agribusiness and crop technology, and SarahJayne (née Stoop) LAKELAND COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE

2021. While currently on maternity leave, SarahJayne is an administrative assistant with the Faculty of Arts Student Services Office at the University of Regina. Anthony is the general manager for Region 1 with Pattison Agriculture. Hebert, Class of 2005, and John Morris, Class 10. Ben of 2006, played in the final of the 2021 Tim Hortons Brier on March 14 in Calgary. They were members of Team Wild Card #2 which was skipped by Kevin Koe. Pictured are BJ Neufeld (third), Hebert (lead) and Morris (second). The team lost 4-2 to Brendan Bottcher and his Alberta rink. Hebert and Morris completed the firefighting training program at the Emergency Training Centre. Photo courtesy of Curling Canada/Michael Burns

11.

Corey Bloder and Maxi Biederstadt not only credit Lakeland as the place where their romance blossomed, but also the place of incredible learning and networking. The Class of 2014 alumni were featured in Canadian Cattlemen in February.

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.

Leone (Lee) Andrew

Joan Gratz (née Aplin)

Spouse of Bill Andrew, Class of ’40, Agriculture 2 in 1

Class of ’52, Home Economics 2 in 1

Ken Baker

Robert Murray Gratz

Former Board of Governor, 2010-17

Staff, 1959-73

Vera Beaudette (née Bacon)

Irvin Greenwood

Class of ’76, Secretarial Arts

George Arthur “Art” Boggs Staff, 1960-89

Joyce Booker (née Harper) Class of ’66, Commercial

Edgar Booth Class of ’47, Agriculture 2 in 1

Mary Bowie (née Johnson)

Class of ’48, Agriculture

John “Tom” Haddock Class of ’68, Agriculture

Eugene Ollenberger Class of ’66, Agriculture

Norma Park Class of ’76, Secretarial Arts

Clarence Petherbridge Class of ’51, Agriculture 2 in 1

Derek Read Class of ’68, Agriculture Animal Sciences

Edwin “Bill” William Hart

Marc Renaud

Class of ’52, Agriculture

Class of ’08, CofA - Firefighter

Brian Headon

Edward “Ed” Schneider

Class of ’67, Agriculture

Staff, 1977-93

Gordon Hughes

Allan Shenfield

Class of ’60, Agriculture

Class of ’49, Agriculture

Shauna Hurley

Walter Skripitsky

Class of ’47, Home Economics 2 in 1

Class of ’16, Veterinary Medical Assistant

Class of ’52, Agriculture

Elizabeth Brimacombe (née Barr)

Reinhold Kuhn Class of ’79, Ag Systems Technician

Spouse of Oswald Sokoloski, Class of ’61, Agriculture

Sherry Loonstra

Catriona “Cate” Stewart-Hunter

Class of ’94, Animal Health Technology & Class of ’95, Herd Health Technology

Class of ’82, Interior Design

Class of ’48, Home Economics 2 in 1

Jeffrey Classen Class of ’09, Welding 2nd Yr

George Cooper Class of ’30, Agriculture

Mary Cooper

Lillian Macahonic (née Slywka)

Sharon Sokoloski

Steven Todd Class of ’08, Business Administration

Glen Vekved

Spouse of George Cooper, Class of ’30, Agriculture

Class of ’49, Home Economics

Class of ’61, Agriculture

Jean Marler

Beth Cowan

Spouse of Reg Marler, Class of ’48, Agriculture

Mary Worobec (née Hoyda)

Spouse of Dave Cowan, Class of ’57, Agriculture

Lila Engberg Staff 1949-51

Roy Galloway Class of ’51, Agriculture

Class of ’48, Home Economics

Evelyn McCrae Spouse of Kenneth McCrae, Class of ’48, Agriculture

Arlee Murray Class of ’09, Carpentry

To submit to Class Notes or In Memoriam, please contact Raelean Hickson: raelean.hickson@lakelandcollege.ca or 780.871.5526. SPRING 2021

Remember When... Before social media, our Lakeland College alumni created yearbooks to document their collegiate experience. This photo is from the Class of 1971 yearbook. In fact, this is the yearbook staff! Recognize anyone? Seated, from left to right: Sandy Kohlruss, Beth Ronaghan, Lyla Dvornek. Standing: Mr. E. Wiebe, Judy Kneller, Gwen McLachlan, Mr. A. Klar, Chris Karwandy, Julie Manca. A message from the 1971 yearbook team: This yearbook is really the only composed medium which we can look back through, years from now, and recall the often happy and sometimes sad memories that mean so much to all of us. Call the book the “Who’s Who of College Life” if you will and use it to recall to mind those friends you may never see again. Most of all, use it to remember that the months spent at Vermilion College were really “the happiest days of your lives.” In closing, we, the Yearbook Staff, wish you all the best of luck in the future with the hope that each and every one of you finds the true meaning of love, peace and happiness in this troubled world. Share your memories and let us know what adventures you’ve had over the years! Visit lakelandcollege.ca/alumni-update to fill us in.

Jolene Bekolay, Class of 2020 business administration, was pleased to share the generational alumni pin she received with her mother Lynda (Bannerman) Bekolay, Class of 1987.

CALLING ALL

ALUMNI!

• Are you interested in being more involved as a Lakeland College alumnus? • Do you want to be involved in bringing other Lakeland College alumni together? • Would you like to reconnect with your classmates? If you answered YES, then our Lakeland College Alumni Association is looking for someone like you! Make the connection and become involved with your Lakeland College Alumni Association. Contact Barry McCarty at 780.632.7433 to learn more.

SPRING 2021

Each year, Lakeland College inducts two outstanding alumni – one from each campus – as a Distinguished Alumni, and recognizes two community members with an honorary credential. Do you have someone in mind? Nominate them today! Nominees should exhibit one or more of Lakeland’s values, as well as meet other criteria. To submit your nominations, visit: • lakelandcollege.ca/nominate-alumni • lakelandcollege.ca/nominate-citizen For more information, call 780.871.5732

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Lakeland College Community Development 2602 59 Ave. Lloydminster Alberta T9V 3N7 Canada Post Publication Mail PM40009099

Excel Spring 2021

Articles inside

Remember When

Class Notes

Campus News

Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign

Learning in Action

Alumni Benefits

Donor Spotlight

16

Class Champions

Distinguished Recognition

Message from Lakeland College’s President