Oct. 15, 2014 Volume 47 Number 04
Publication Mail Registration No. 40062527
GAZETTE A M E M O R I A L U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E W F O U N D L A N D P U B L I C AT I O N
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MYSTERY SOLVERS Memorial researchers dive to the bottom of an underwater mystery in Smith Sound, Trinity Bay.
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VITAL SIGNS New report provides a comprehensive look at key quality of life indicators in Newfoundland and Labrador.
NANO-SCIENCE New solid state sensors are being
developed to detect oil contaminants in harsh marine environments.
New residence complex named Macpherson College By Laura Barron
Memorial University has officially named the new residence complex on its St. John’s campus. The 500-bed facility has been named Macpherson College and its two wings are Cluett Hall and Shiwak Hall. The names chosen for the new complex commemorate the efforts of three Newfoundlanders who served during the First World War. The complex, Macpherson College, was named for Dr. Cluny Macpherson, who invented the gas mask used by British/Newfoundland troops, and whose family farm once occupied the land on which Memorial’s St. John’s campus sits today. Cluett and Shiwak Halls are named for Frances Cluett, one of Memorial’s earliest alumnae who served with the Chris Hammond photo
Voluntary Aid Detachment, and John Shiwak, an Inuit hunter who came to be known as one of the best snipers in the British forces. The names were chosen after extensive consultation, and align with the broader commemoration activities within Memorial’s WW100 program. The state-of-the-art residence was developed with
the Macpherson, Cluett and Shiwak families look on as Dr. Gary Kachanoski,
president and vice-chancellor, officially names the new residence Macpherson College, with Cluett Hall and Shiwak Hall as the east and west wings of the complex, respectively.
students’ comfort, convenience, accessibility, safety and security in mind.
See residence page 3
Northern exposure
University of the Arctic leadership set to visit Memorial and share northern knowledge and expertise We are happy to see Memorial’s energy for engaging in
By Jennifer Batten
the North.”
C-CORE photo
UArctic,
The in-flight view on the way to Petermann Ice Island.
an international consortium of northern
Dr. Gary Kachanoski, president and vice-chancellor
universities, colleges, research institutes and other
of Memorial University, currently serves on the UArctic
organizations committed to higher education and
board and is pleased to be hosting the group made up
research in the North, will bring its annual board of
of senior representatives from member institutions.
governors meetings to Memorial University and St.
Every year, the UArctic board meetings are hosted by
John’s next week. While visiting the province, experts
a different member organization involved in research,
with UArctic will present at two concurrent sessions for
education and collaboration in the North.
students, faculty, staff, researchers and administrators
“Memorial University is leading significant research
in the Memorial community with an interest in UArctic
and education initiatives in Northern regions,” said Dr.
programs and partnership opportunities.
Kachanoski. “Our physical location on the edge of the
“Memorial University is an important partner in the
North Atlantic provides a rich, living laboratory right
development of the North and the Arctic and we look
outside our front door. Memorial has earned national
forward to discovering new and exciting opportunities
and international distinction in a variety of fields,
to work together,” said Lars Kullerud, president of
including Arctic technology, and we are pleased to
UArctic. “The mission of UArctic is to empower the
showcase some of our unique resources and capabilities
people of the circumpolar North by providing unique
with the UArctic Board.”
educational
and
research
opportunities
through
collaboration within a powerful network of members.
See northern page 5
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT BERT RIGGS (BA(Hons.)’77, B.Ed.’77, MA’12) has a story
example. In 1998 I was fortunate to meet James Steele,
to tell. In fact, he’s got thousands. As head of Archives and
whose father and uncle both served in the Regiment.
Special Collections at the Queen Elizabeth II Library on
His uncle, Lieutenant Owen William Steele, was
Memorial’s St. John’s campus, Mr. Riggs is dedicated to the
killed at Beaumont-Hamel. I had read a beautiful
research, collection and documentation of the history of
collection of letters written by Lieutenant Steele that
Memorial University and Newfoundland and Labrador. At
were donated to the archives. So when I met James,
the heart of that history lies the Newfoundland Regiment
his nephew, there was suddenly a human face to that
and the stories of over 6,000 men who enlisted during
story. Over the years I’ve developed friendships with
the First World War. Gazette contributor David Penney
a number of people who are directly connected to
spoke with Mr. Riggs about his work and what inspires him
the Regiment. When people share their history and
to preserve and share the stories of the Regiment.
actually give papers, photographs and other items to our collection they are placing an important part of
DP: How did you get started at Memorial?
their life in our trust. It is very personal.
BR: After I graduated with my first degrees from
DP:
MUN in ‘77, I worked for about three years with
Commemoration Program.
Tell
me
about
Memorial’s
WW100
was really how I got my first ‘in’ as an employee at
BR: We are marking the centenary of the First World
Memorial. That experience helped me get a short,
War with a range of activities over the next five years.
grant-funded position that came up in 1984 with the
I’ve been fortunate to be on the steering committee
Centre for Newfoundland Studies (CNS) to organize
for World War I commemorations, which has been
the Smallwood papers. That led to other contracts and
appointed by President Kachanoski to co-ordinate
eventually a permanent position as archivist at the
commemorative activities on all our campuses and
CNS when Nancy Grenville retired in 1989. In 2005
also assist others with their ideas and proposals. If
the archives was established as a separate unit and I
we value the sacrifices that the men who served in
was successful in seeking the headship of that unit. In
the Royal Newfoundland Regiment and in other
that role I also became an academic staff member and
fighting forces made, we owe it to them to be ready
began lecturing with the Department of History and
to commemorate their lives. We need to find out as
Department of English.
much about each of them as we can, to bring them back to the land of the living where they can become
DP: Why are the Newfoundland Regiment and its
a part of our lives, our memories and our legacy to
history important to you?
future generations.
BR: Quite simply, it’s at the core of our identity as
DP: How do you feel about the naming and
a province and a university. What happened to that
dedication of the new student residence buildings
generation of young men and women in going to war
on the St. John’s campus?
Bert Riggs
GAZETTE A M E M O R I A L U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E W F O U N D L A N D P U B L I C AT I O N
shaped our history. And it’s the reason why Memorial University came into being.
Chris Hammond PHOTO
the Encyclopedia of Newfoundland project and that
BR:
Absolutely
delighted.
It
is
an
incredibly
important part of the WW100 commemoration DP: You also have a personal connection to the
program – a wonderful dedication to the memory
Regiment, correct?
of three individuals from very different walks of life who made major contributions in their own way. I
BR: Yes. I never knew my mother’s father, he died
think Frances Cluett would be amazed if she were
of tuberculosis at 36, but in the first picture I saw of
here today, to see the legacy she created. She was
him he is wearing a Regiment uniform. He was part of
a very humble woman who came from the small
that last contingent in training who were ready to go
fishing community of Belleoram, and she was a
but never went overseas. That photograph is an early
heroine to many people. What she did wasn’t for
memory for me.
personal reward or accolades but simply to serve, to help others. People like Frances Cluett, John Shiwak,
But on another level, what I would describe as a
Cluny Macpherson – these are very appropriate
personal connection has also evolved. I’ll give you an
individuals for our students to look to for inspiration.
Editor Graphics Kelly Foss Mike Mouland
Regular Contributors
Courtenay Alcock Laura Barron Jennifer Batten Melanie Callahan Nora Daly Krista Davidson Paula Dyke Kelly Foss Pamela Gill Sharon Gray Jeff Green Janet Harron Jill Hunt Diane Keough Classified Advertising Kelly Hickey
NEW from
Newfoundland and Labrador Studies Essays on the Great War
A Special Publication of essays from Newfoundland and Labrador Studies in Commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of WWI Because they rest in grim Gallipoli; Because they sleep on Beaumont Hamel’s plain; Because beneath the ever-flowing main Their bodies find a grave eternally Till the Last Call…. — Robert Gear McDonald
Available October 2014 isbn: 978-0-9781840-2-5 | paperback | 312 pages | $20.00
www.mun.ca/nls/
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
2
Jackey Locke Virginia Middleton Cathy Newhook Michelle Osmond David Penney Marcia Porter Kristine Power Dave Sorensen Melissa Watton Meaghan Whelan Susan White Heidi Wicks Laura Woodford Photography Chris Hammond
Advertising Mandy Cook Telephone: 709 864 2142 Email: mandyc@mun.ca Next Gazette deadline Oct. 29 for Nov. 5 publication. The Gazette is published 17 times annually by the Division of Marketing and Communications at Memorial University. Material in the Gazette may be reprinted or broadcast without permission, excepting materials for which the Gazette does not hold exclusive copyright. Gazette, Room A-1024 Memorial University of Newfoundland St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7 Telephone: 709 864 2142 Fax: 709 864 8699 Email: mandyc@mun.ca ISSN 0228-88 77 With the exception of advertisements from Memorial University, ads carried in the Gazette do not imply recommendation by the university for the service or product.
www.mun.ca/gazette
Memorial engineering students repeat scholarship win By Jackey Locke
For the second year
in a row, two
a financial one for students like Mr. Loveless and
undergraduate engineering students from Memorial
Ms. Jerrett.
are the recipients of the Peter Kohler Scholarship.
“We are very proud of Skyler and Toni. For students
First-year students Skyler Loveless from Seal
from Memorial to win this scholarship two years in
Cove, Fortune Bay and Toni Jerrett from Clarke’s
a row speaks to the caliber of our students,” he said.
Beach
from
“We believe it is important for all of our students
Atlantic Canada to receive this substantial award.
were
chosen
from
39
applicants
to aim for excellence and to have confidence in
Mr. Loveless will receive $50,000 over four years,
themselves. Financial awards like the Peter Kohler
while Ms. Jerrett will receive $5,000 for the 2014-15
Scholarship not only enable students to become
academic year.
more financially independent, but they also teach
The students, who both plan to study mechanical
the value of hard work and self-confidence.” Chris Hammond photo
engineering, are very grateful to Mr. Kohler for the awards. While they say the funding means eating better and increased time for their academics, it’s also about working hard at everything they do. “I was thinking about getting a part-time job, but was afraid of how it would impact my studies and now I don’t have to,” said Mr. Loveless. “I work really hard to get good grades. When some of my friends were playing sports, I was inside studying to
Last year’s recipients were Mark Elliott and Brandon Fitzpatrick. The Peter Kohler Scholarship is administered through the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia. It is a scholarship fund for engineering students in Atlantic Canada, and to be eligible, applicants must be enrolled full-time in an engineering program at
From left are scholarship winners Skyler Loveless and Toni Jerrett.
a university in Atlantic Canada. The scholarship is based upon academic standing and financial need
try and get accepted into engineering.”
and is eligible to be renewed by the award winner
“I feel all the dedication and hard work I put in
Andy
Fisher,
associate
dean,
undergraduate
throughout high school and with other activities
engineering, believes scholarships like the Peter
really paid off,” said Ms. Jerrett.
Kohler Scholarship have far greater impact than just
for up to four years, provided the student maintains a reasonable standing in his/her program.
Cont’d from RESIDENCE page 1 Some of the residence’s features include: study rooms, kitchen areas and storage rooms on each floor; laundry
assistants and an academic assistant. and
new labs, investment in education is all about offering
and lounge areas in each wing; wireless internet access;
Labrador provided an investment of $65 million
superior teaching and learning opportunities,” said
flat-screen TV mounts in every bedroom; an after-
for the construction of the 500-bed complex.
Dr. Gary Kachanoski, president and vice-chancellor,
hours check-in counter; eight single bedroom, barrier-
This investment is in addition to $45 million for
Memorial University.
free suites, complete with barrier-free washrooms;
renovation and refurbishment of existing residences
“These investments allow us to set the stage for
energy-saving lighting system; large, green courtyard
on the St. John’s campus, and $23.3 million for a
individual success now and for future generations of
space; security card access; security cameras and more.
new 200-room residence complex on the Grenfell
students and ultimately for the continued success of
Campus in Corner Brook.
Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Construction of the new residence began in
The
Government
of
Newfoundland
“Whether it’s building new residences or designing
September 2010. Macpherson College was designed
“As the new premier, I am honoured to be here today
“Every aspect of Macpherson College is designed
by John Hearn Architect Inc. and was constructed by
to take part in the naming ceremony of the new state-
to foster an environment suitable for learning,”
Ellis Don. The complex is Leadership in Energy and
of-the art residence complex Macpherson College,”
said Hillary Bellows, a student who lives in Shiwak
Environmental Design (LEED) certified at the silver
said Paul Davis, premier of Newfoundland and
Hall, Macpherson College. “Along with promoting
level, which reflects a commitment to sustainability
Labrador. “Our government continues to demonstrate
academic success, the residence experience guides
and green buildings.
its commitment to provide affordable post-secondary
students through the transition to independent
with
education and on-campus housing. More students are
living, helps us to develop communication and
independent living accommodations along with
Macpherson
College
provides
students
pursuing post-secondary education in Newfoundland
leadership skills and teaches us how to network
guidance and support from the in-house Residence
and Labrador than ever before and more are coming
socially with like-minded individuals. The proximity
Life team in order to encourage a successful
from other parts of Canada and around the globe.
to on-campus resources and volunteer opportunities
transition from life at home. Each wing of the
This new residence provides a home away from home
is another huge asset of living in residence.”
complex has a full complement of Residence Life
for many students as they embark on their academic
staff, including a residence co-ordinator, resident
careers and build memories that will last a lifetime.”
Sisters in Spirit
The stories behind the numbers
STUDENTVIEW Samantha Fitzpatrick
More
information
about
Memorial’s
student
residences can be found at www.mun.ca/hfcs/.
to quantitative data. After all, they are just numbers. But missing and murdered indigenous women are not just numbers. They are victims of systematic oppression. They are mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, and, more importantly perhaps, they are people in their own right
Saturday, Oct. 4, marked the ninth annual Sisters in
women constitute between 20 and 25 per cent of the
Spirit vigil, a ceremony to honour and remember Canada’s
100 cases of missing/murdered persons recorded since
Admittedly, I walked into that Saturday vigil thinking of
missing and murdered indigenous women, and to support
1763. According to one of the vigil’s speakers, Tama
the numbers. Despite my interest in the movement, I had
their families and all those directly or indirectly affected
Ball, statistics indicate indigenous women are three
not made a personal connection to it. Within moments
by this national tragedy.
with their own stories.
to four times more likely to go missing in our country.
of the vigil’s start, that all changed. Between a heartfelt
The Sisters in Spirit initiative was born in 2004 as a
Considering that indigenous peoples currently make up
poetry reading by vigil host Anita Kora, a breathtaking
response to the alarming numbers of missing and murdered
a mere three per cent of Canada’s female population,
performance of Strong Woman’s Song by women’s drum
indigenous women in Canada – numbers which seemed
the over-representation of these women as victims is
group, Eastern Owl, and Miriam Saunders’ personal
to have gone unnoticed by government and society as a
shockingly apparent, and yet government action and
experience of losing her daughter and granddaughter,
whole. Sisters in Spirit sought to address this issue through
social change are slow in coming.
I shared tears with many others in attendance and left
research and education in the hopes of inciting change.
The Sisters in Spirit initiative suggests that part of the
that room empowered by the stories of my sisters. With
In 2006, 11 vigils were held across Canada. In solidarity
issue lies in depicting our missing women as cold, hard
stories we connect. Through stories we give identity to the
with the growing movement, Memorial University’s
numbers. As Miriam Saunders, mother of Loretta Saunders,
numbers. Sisters in Spirit insists that we cannot allow our
Student Union (MUNSU) began organizing its own Sisters
suggested during the vigil, numbers are just numbers until
sisters to remain faceless any longer.
in Spirit vigils. This year, the MUNSU event had a fantastic
you have a face to associate with them.
turnout, with over 100 people in attendance. It was one of 216 vigils held across Canada. In Newfoundland and Labrador alone, indigenous
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
More often than not, it takes the face of someone you love in order for the message to get across, but it does not have to be this way. It is easy to remain indifferent
3
For more information visit www.nwac.ca or contact Memorial University’s Aboriginal Resource Office. Samantha Fitzpatrick is a fourth-year English major at Memorial. She can be reached at samantha_fitzpatrick@hotmail.com.
www.mun.ca/gazette
NOTABLE Dr. Fereidoon Shahidi, Department of Biochemistry, has recently received three awards in recognition of his research – the Babcock-Hart Award from the International Life Science Institute, North America (ISLI North America) and the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) jointly; the Stephen S. Chang Award from the American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS) and the Alton E. Bailey Award from the American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS). The awards were presented for outstanding and substantial
contributions
to
lipid
science
and
technology, muscle foods, natural antioxidants and functional foods and for advancing the understanding and application of science related to the nutritional Lori Lee Hollett PHOTO
quality and safety of the food supply; for outstanding and
exemplary
research
in
lipid
oxidation,
antioxidants, nutraceuticals and functional foods, and for outstanding contributions to lipid science and technology of lipids, respectively.
Gordon Slade celebrates with his five-year-old granddaughter Reese Flynn following the presentation of his honorary doctor of laws degree at the Grenfell Campus fall convocation in Corner Brook recently.
PAPERS AND PRESENTATIONS
Dr. Hewitt described the potential health effects of ingesting arsenic, specifically inorganic arsenic,
your next project By Amy Tucker
including increased chances for certain cancers, and
Dr.
circulation and liver problems. However, he notes the
published The Challenge of the Lower Churchill. It
Jim
Feehan,
topic isn’t largely discussed.
appears as a chapter in the recent anthology First
professor
of
economics,
has
“This impacts everyone in the community, from the
Among Unequals: The Premier, Politics, and Policy
elderly to the young, but it is not being talked about
in Newfoundland and Labrador (McGill-Queen’s
as much as it should be,” he said. “Also, the issues
University Press, 2014), which was edited by Dr. Alex
need to be addressed using a more comprehensive
Marland (Political Science – Memorial Univeristy)
and robust approach.”
and Matthew Kirby (Political Science – University of Ottawa). Professor Feehan also recently authored
Special to the Gazette
The project:
Canada’s Equalization Program: Peering Inside the
Yaffle.ca is Memorial’s online connecting tool. One of its most significant
Dr. Hewitt acknowledges the help he has received
Black Box…and Beyond, which has been published
jobs is to provide a way for people from outside Memorial to ask for
from Memorial so far, and would like a researcher, or
through the University of Calgary’s School of Public
research help. With hundreds of community-suggested opportunities to
team of researchers, at Memorial to investigate the topic
Policy as SPP Research Paper, Volume 7, Issue 24,
choose from, your next project is just a click away. Here’s one …
further and take a coordinated and holistic look at the
September 2014.
water issues in Moreton’s Harbour.
The opportunity:
Raising awareness of the issue is important, but
Many rural communities throughout the province
also finding solutions that will work for community
have issues with their drinking water; a fact made clear
members is also an important factor. The potential
by the number of boil water advisories in effect at any
of existing health effects that people may have from
given time. But what if the problem is not alleviated
exposure to the contaminant could also be explored.
through
CLASSIFIEDS
Moreton’s
In addition, studying how industrial developments
Available immediately: Three-bedroom, living room,
Harbour is facing this challenge first-hand, as testing
may have an impact on arsenic levels is also important,
kitchen, fridge and stove, fenced backyard, parking for
has shown very high levels of arsenic in many wells
such as possible disturbances to the water system
two vehicles. Rent is $1,000 per month plus utilities.
throughout the area, some of which were over 100
caused by potential mining or oil projects.
Requires one year lease. Phone: 754-5445.
boiling?
The
community
of
times the acceptable level of Canadian standards.
“I know this is an issue; however, I am not an expert.
Unlike bacteria or other organic water contaminants,
I don’t have the practical experience or scientific
House for Sale. Located in the Pius X area and in
arsenic does not disappear after boiling.
knowledge to try and study this and come up with
walking distance to MUN; a two-storey, detached,
“If you are part of a municipal water supply, your
useful answers. But, hopefully someone at Memorial
older home on a quiet cul-de-sac. House has three
water is tested by government officials. However, it is up
can help us come to some understanding of how to
bathrooms
to homeowners to test their own private wells,” said Dr.
create a healthy drinking water system for everyone in
3,200 sq. ft. and four parking spaces. Electrical and
Daniel Hewitt, a family physician in Summerford, near
our community.”
plumbing upgrades in recent years. Patio deck and
and
six
bedrooms.
Approximately
storage shed. Opportunity to own real estate in a
Moreton’s Harbour. “Since people in Moreton’s Harbour have private water sources, the government urges them
Interested in learning more about this project, or the Harris Centre-
prime St. John’s area or use as a student rental. Asking
to test their wells. However, that can get expensive
RBC Water Research and Outreach Fund, which is opening in
$425,000. Go to www.town-country.ca for more info
when done correctly. Also, if they do find arsenic, then
February? The Harris Centre’s co-ordinator of knowledge mobilization
or contact Carol Cantwell at 690-0315.
they are faced with the challenges and costs of dealing
would be happy to tell you more. Call Amy Tucker at 709-864-6115 or
with it,” he added.
email amy.tucker@mun.ca.
CORRECTION In the Sept. 24 edition of the Gazette, incorrect information appeared in a photo caption on page 4.
Submitted photo
President Kachanoski is pictured shaking hands with Anne Husebekk, rector, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, not Mona Elisabeth Brøther.
Moreton’s Harbour, NL Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
4
www.mun.ca/gazette
Frameworks AT WORK: Memorial’s frameworks in action The three overarching frameworks guiding Memorial’s future direction — the Research Strategy Framework, the Teaching and Learning Framework and the Public Engagement Framework — are the result of several years of consultations with the university community and the people and organizations of Newfoundland and Labrador. This regular feature will help showcase the frameworks in action by sharing projects and highlighting the successes that are bringing them to life.
RESEARCH STRATEGY Talented faculty build upon Memorial’s reputation “In addition, their worthy distinction
By Krista Davidson
as international leaders helps build the
2000,
members
have
Memorial been
faculty
making
reputation of this university, which
a
unleashes countless opportunities for
dramatic climb on the national and
their peers and colleagues, as well as
international
our current and future students.”
academic
platform,
securing fellowships and positions
This
increased
presence
and
among the country’s most distinguished
recognition of Memorial’s faculty also
academics and professions.
supports
The
Royal
Society
of
the
university’s
CHRIS HAMMOND PHOTO
Since
Strategic
Memorial University faculty members with fellowships bring prestige and opportunities to the university community.
Canada
Research Intensity Plan 2014-2020,
(RSC), for example, has a rich 130 -
which has the ambitious goal to
year history with more than 2,000
“become one of the most distinguished
current members in their fellowship.
public universities in Canada and
Scholars, artists and scientists in
beyond.” The plan, to be implemented
since 2008, and a faculty member
Memorial has also seen an increase
Canada regard a fellowship in the
by the end of 2020, will take an
with Memorial’s School of Music and
of faculty inducted as fellows into the
RSC as one of the highest honours
integrated
Faculty of Arts.
Canadian Academy of Health Sciences
that can be attained.
all aspects of research at Memorial
To date, Memorial has 25 faculty
approach
strengthen
(CAHS). The Academy credits their
scholarship
The Royal Society has a powerful voice
fellows with having an outstanding
and creative activities. An increased
in arguing for the value of research.
performance
the RSC, with 15 of those occurring in
national
Memorial
Their co-authored position papers on
sciences in Canada. There have been
the last 14 years, a dramatic increase
certainly provides more opportunities
significant social issues make a more
11 fellows elected from Memorial since
in a short span of time.
to accomplishing this goal.
powerful impact than any individual
2005, six of whom were inducted in
scholar could.”
the last four years alone.
professional
and
academic
including
“But it is not just about prestige.
members who have been inducted into
“Induction into the RSC, and other
University,
to
presence
from
“There is no question that election
in
academic
health
peer-
to the Royal Society of Canada brings
Similarly, Memorial is increasing
While membership in these exclusive,
elected organizations, means our top
prestige to the individual scholars
its presence in other accomplished,
highly reputable organizations isn’t
scholars are sitting at the table with the
so honoured and to their university.
peer-elected
country’s influencers and policymakers,
I’m delighted, therefore, to see the
faculty
and helping them make informed and
Memorial University contingent of
were
valued decisions about our present
RSC members grow,” said Dr. Beverley
and future,” said Dr. Ray Gosine, vice-
Diamond,
a
comprises many of the country’s most
Memorial’s faculty and alum.
president (research), pro tempore.
Academy
of
fellow Arts
of
and
the
RSC’s
Humanities
groups.
five
the only measure of quality and
alumni
excellence in universities, it certainly
Canadian
is an indicator of the extraordinary
Academy of Engineering (CAE), which
talent, hard work and dedication of
members
inducted
In
2014,
and/or
into
the
accomplished engineers.
Cont’d from NORTHERN page 1 Memorial has been a member of
UArctic will take place at Memorial
noon until 2 p.m. and will give an
Marine Institute hosted the third-year
UArctic since 2006. Dr. Keith Chaulk,
University’s
on
overview of how faculty and researchers
students who were completing a bachelor
director of the Labrador Institute, is
Monday, Oct. 27. Open to students,
can engage with UArctic, with a focus on
of science in fisheries, providing them
currently
serving
John’s
campus
vice-president
administration and faculty, the first
course development. Presentations will be
with hands-on experience in the local
(Indigenous) with UArctic. In his role,
will take place in the Physical Education
made by Lars Kullerud, UArctic president,
marine sector that will transfer as credit
Dr.
to their program of study in Iceland.
Chaulk
as
St.
and
building, room PE-2001, from noon to 1
and Dr. Kari Lane, UArctic vice-president
leadership related to the integral role
provides
guidance
p.m., and will focus on opportunities for
(research). To attend this session, contact
of Indigenous peoples in northern
students to study abroad or take courses
Moira Finn at mfinn@mun.ca.
education and research.
through UArctic member institutions. It
Since
Memorial
became
This fall, there are nine students from Greenland, Iceland, Sweden and Norway
involved
completing exchanges at Memorial as
“UArctic presents a unique opportunity
will be hosted by Outi Snellman, vice-
with UArctic, faculty members, staff,
part of the North 2 North exchange
for faculty, staff and students at Memorial
president (organization) and Dr. John
researchers and students have been
program organized by UArctic.
to
share
Eichelberger, vice president (academic)
involved in collaborations with the
UArctic has more than 170 member
expertise with renowned organizations
exchange
knowledge
and
with UArctic. To attend this session,
group and its member organizations. An
organizations in the eight Arctic countries
with similar priorities in the areas
contact international@mun.ca.
of Arctic research, development and education,” said Dr. Chaulk. Both
information
sessions
about
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
example of this collaboration are the six
and beyond. It is the North’s only truly
The second session, open to faculty and
exchange students from the University
circumpolar higher education institution
researchers, will take place in the Beatrice
of Akureyi last fall who benefited from
and one of the world’s largest education
Watts Boardroom, room IIC-2014, from
Memorial’s relationship with UArctic. The
and research networks.
5
www.mun.ca/gazette
Mystery solvers
Diving into the mysteries of Smith Sound By Jackey Locke
of Smith
200-metres of water.”
Sound, Trinity Bay, hold many mysteries.
For phase two, in early July, the AUV
Why did Smith Sound have a strong and
dove to the bottom of the ocean and
vibrant cod stock during the moratorium?
mapped
What happened to vessels that sank in the
20-metres altitude.
seabed
from
approximately
1890s during an ice storm? Are there really
“We used the multi-beam sonar again
internal standing waves, or seiches, in the
and improved the bathymetric map
waters and what drives them?
developed in phase one,” said Dr. Walker.
These are questions surrounding one of
“The closer the sonar is to the sea floor, the
the longest fjords along the coast of the
higher the resolution so we were able to see
island, questions that no one has been
images or obstructions very clearly. The
able to answer. A team of researchers
AUV has other types of sonar as well – a
from Memorial’s Marine Environmental
side-scan sonar and a sub-bottom profiler.
Research
Intelligent
The side-scan sonar sends signals from
Vehicles (MERLIN) is searching for those
Laboratory
for
the side of the vehicle to provide a three-
answers in hopes of uncovering the
dimensional picture of rocks, wrecks, etc.
mysteries of Smith Sound.
on the sea floor, which determines sizes
MERLIN researchers from the faculties
and shapes of rocks and other objects
of Engineering and Applied Science,
on the seafloor. The sub-bottom profiler
Science and Arts are using an explorer-
sends a signal into the sediment and can
class autonomous underwater vehicle
look into the mud to see things that other
(AUV) called DORA (Deep Ocean Research
sonars cannot detect.”
AUV). Dora the Explorer provides 3D
The MERLIN team wants to get a clear
images of the seafloor, information on the
picture of the sound’s seafloor, to know
seafloor topography and can even detect
if it’s rocky, sandy or muddy, and if it’s
shipwrecks on the ocean floor.
rocky, they want to know how big those
Preparing to launch Dora in Lower Lance Cove, Trinity Bay. Pictured are graduate student Katherine Macpherson and Research Lab Coordinator Ron Lewis.
Images courtesy of MERLIN
The deep waters
A side scan sonar image of potential shipwreck (circled). The target is approximately 10 feet wide by 60 feet long at a water depth of 655 feet. Rock type features and an outcropping are also visible.
During phase one, which took place
rocks are. This knowledge will help them
this past June, the AUV conducted a
understand why codfish were plentiful in
were able to use the data we collected
grab samples, which involves taking, or
preliminary multi-beam survey from the
Smith Sound during the moratorium.
to establish potential locations of
grabbing, actual samples from the sea
surface. The survey provided an accurate map of the bottom of the sound. “Existing only
charts
provide
the
shipwrecks that may have occurred
floor to determine the type of sediment
during the late 1800s, shipwrecks that
have allowed the team to develop a
remain a mystery today.”
preliminary habitat map. Initial side-
area
what type of sediment is on the sea floor,
soundings,
or
depth
for example mud, silt, rock or sand,” said
While the results of the survey are still
scan results have highlighted potential
at
measurements,
for
“The principal goal of our research was sea floor characterization, which tells us
locations,”
Dr. Walker. “Based on differing acoustic
being compiled and more work needs
shipwrecks that can be explored using
explained Dr. Dan Walker, lead researcher
point
responses, we can determine patches of
to be done, the team is very excited
remotely operated vehicles and future
of the project. “That’s fine for a ship or
mud or rock.
about what they’ve learned so far. Multi-
programs will, hopefully, increase their
boat at the surface, because it’s not in
“However, some members of the team
beam results, along with a subsequent
knowledge and expertise when using
danger of hitting anything in 150 or
have an interest in archaeology and
bottom ground-truthing program using
AUVs to explore deeper locations.
Ceremonial opening for Medical Education Centre By Sharon Gray
of scissors,
the ribbon was cut on Oct. 1 to mark the
official
opening
of
from Newfoundland and Labrador. Premier Davis said the Medical Education
Memorial
Centre will provide more opportunities to
University’s new Medical Education
train and develop top quality physicians
Centre.
right here in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The ceremonial ribbon cutting was done
by
Lieutenant-Governor
“Our government is proud to have
his
contributed nearly $22 million for this
Honour Frank Fagan and her Honour
project. The new learning tools offered at
Patricia Fagan; Paul Davis, premier of
the centre, coupled with the expansion
Newfoundland and Labrador; Steve
of the medical school class size, further
Kent, deputy premier and minister
builds on the Faculty of Medicine’s
of health; Dr. Susan Dyer Knight,
exceptional programming and success
chancellor of Memorial; Dr. Gary
in educating students from our province
Kachanoski, president of Memorial;
and around the world.”
HSIMS PHOTO
With a flourish
Cutting the ribbon to mark the official opening of the new Medical Education Centre. Centre is a state-of-the-art simulation
result in improved performance, quicker
Dr. James Rourke, dean of medicine
Dr. Kachanoski thanked government for
lab known as the Clinical Learning and
response time and increased confidence
and Janine Flaherty-Woodland, a first-
its support. “The Medical Education Centre
Simulation Centre (CLSC). The centre
and competence,” said Dr. Rourke. “In
year medical student.
is a milestone in the growth of the Faculty
amalgamates three support units that
the long run, this will improve patient
Centre
of Medicine at Memorial University.
include the standardized patient unit,
safety
is located on the first two floors of
The
Medical
That growth began in 2013 and we now
the high-fidelity simulation unit and the
communication and collaboration that
the Faculty of Medicine’s expansion
have two medical school classes with 80
surgical skills unit. Tours of the CLSC were a
is so critical to health-care delivery.”
building, located east of the Health
students – many of whom, if recent history
popular highlight at the opening on Oct. 1.
In addition to the Clinical Learning
Sciences Centre. The additional space
is any indication, will soon spread out to
Through simulation in many forms,
and Simulation Centre, the new Medical
has already allowed the Faculty of
the far corners of the province to start
students develop preparedness and insight
Education Centre includes expanded
Medicine
their practice, which is great news for rural
that can only come from practising real-
and updated lecture theatres and small
Newfoundland and Labrador.”
life scenarios in a controlled environment.
group learning rooms, and educational
to
Education
increase
the
entering
class size from 60 to 80, with all of the additional 20 seats reserved for students
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
At the heart of the Medical Education
“Experience in the simulation lab will
6
and
promote
the
teamwork,
support units.
www.mun.ca/gazette
Pharmacists help patients kick ‘butt’ By Heidi Wicks
Every 11 minutes
a Canadian dies as a result
of tobacco use (Health Canada). The dangers of smoking are no secret – cardiovascular and lung disease, cancer, spontaneous abortions, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, premature aging and more. Despite declining national rates, one in six Canadians still smoke. “A cigarette is the only drug I know that is guaranteed to kill at least half the people who use it,” said Dr. Leslie Phillips, School of Pharmacy, who recently pledged to start counseling her patients on smoking cessation. The pledge follows the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists (CSHP) 2015 Initiative – a campaign that focuses on ‘a vision of Pharmacy Practice Excellence by 2015.’ She
researched
completed
online
smoking
cessation
continuing
literature
education
and
programs,
including the Canadian Pharmacists Association’s QUIT: Quit Using and Inhaling Tobacco. about smoking, assess their willingness to quit and motivate them to do it, and how to assist in the cessation process. She planned the information she would cover in each visit, and which supplementary materials she would require. “I work in a mental health practice and perhaps the most significant non-psychiatric health issue facing my clients is smoking, so it’s logical for me to want to expand
Chris Hammond photo
Then Dr. Phillips created a plan on how to ask patients
(L-R): Karen Brown and Dr. Leslie Phillips.
my knowledge in this area,” she said. “When smokers quit, the health benefits to our population are immeasurable.
pharmacy students to perform counseling. She hopes
“Even though the majority of smokers want to quit, many
Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to make this happen.”
to offer a student-operated traveling “Quit Clinic”
are not routinely approached by a health care professional,
next summer.
and only about 20 per cent of people who have tried
Her colleague, Karen Brown, was a smoker for over 40 years and agreed to act as “a guinea pig, of sorts.” The
“We could go around to family practice settings and offer
quitting have used a smoking cessation aid – despite that
pair began working together in February 2014. She has
the service,” she said. “As of this October, the Newfoundland
smoking cessation medications double, and in some cases
been a non-smoker ever since.
and Labrador Prescription Drug Program will be subsidizing
triple, the chances of abstinence. Since pharmacists are the
Ms. Brown confessed she experienced some sleepless
the cost of some prescription smoking cessation products,
most accessible health care professionals – and pharmacies
nights in the early weeks. It was difficult to resist her
and this year’s Pharmacists Association of Newfoundland
across Canada do offer these services – the benefits of
triggers – coffee and being with friends who smoked. But
and Labrador Annual Conference put out a request for
offering such a service in this province are vast.”
she soon adopted the one-day-at-a-time mentality.
pharmacists to speak about smoking cessation. It also fits
“As a day turned into a week, then a month, I started feeling proud to think of myself as a non-smoker. I
The benefits are certainly there as far as Ms. Brown is
in well with the movement towards an expanded scope of
concerned.
practice. It’s an opportune time to offer this service.”
“I so enjoy that I can breathe without having a rattle,
remember seeing my doctor for the first time since
While some resources for smoking cessation do
my coffee tastes wonderful, and life is easier now. I’m
quitting and blurting out, ‘I’m a non-smoker!’ I felt a
exist in Newfoundland and Labrador, Dr. Carlo Marra,
not always looking at my watch wondering when I can
huge sense of accomplishment.”
dean, School of Pharmacy, believes that there are
go for my next cigarette and I no longer look around
opportunities for pharmacies to offer more personal
the room hoping to find another smoker. Right now I
and hands-on quit strategies.
cannot imagine smoking again.”
Dr. Phillips plans to encourage her fellow pharmacists to be more proactive in smoking cessation, and train her
New report captures Vital Signs of the province By Cathy Newhook
Vital Signs report,” said Jennifer Guy, chair of CFNL. “This report marks the beginning of an ongoing discussion about the health of our province. We want to bring community organizations and leaders into the discussion and use this report as a way to work together to build stronger communities.” The report looks at 13 different quality of life indicators rich and poor, safety, health, learning, housing, youth,
of 100 people, there would be 49 males and 51 females.
newcomers, arts and culture, environment, population,
Their average age would be 44, with a life expectancy of
economy, belonging and leadership and transportation.
78.9 years and 40 would live on the Northeast Avalon. Five
“Taking a regional approach to the report was critical
would live in Labrador. There would be 57 people between
for us in this first edition,” said Dr. Rob Greenwood,
the ages of 25 and 64 and 15 younger than 15-years-old.
executive director, Harris Centre. “For lots of issues, we
This information, and much more, can be found in
can’t tell the real story without telling the regional story.
Vital Signs, the province’s first annual report on key
We have a large province and each region has its own
quality of life indicators in Newfoundland and Labrador.
unique set of strengths and challenges. The real value of
The Community Foundation of Newfoundland and
this type of work comes from looking at the information
Labrador (CFNL) recently released the report, in
from a regional perspective.”
submitted PHOTO
across 12 different regions in the province: the gap between
If Newfoundland and Labrador was made up
The cover of Vital Signs, the first annual report on key quality of life indicators in Newfoundland and Labrador.
partnership with the Harris Centre, at a launch event
The aim of the report, Dr. Greenwood explains,
with community stakeholders and expert contributors.
is to give community organizations, policy makers
As part of a unique partnership with TC Media, the full
and individuals information that will enable them to
report was also printed as an insert in every copy of The
build on their strengths, address challenges and make
decisions, prompt partnerships and inspire action in our
Telegram and appeared in each of TC Media’s regional
informed policy decisions.
communities.”
papers across the province.
“Lots of the information in the report is not new
The report can be viewed online at www.vitalsignsnl.
As part of Community Foundations of Canada’s national
– we know we have an aging population, we know
ca. It was made possible with support from Oceanex,
Vital Signs program, the report provides a comprehensive,
we have high rates of diabetes in this province – but
Telus, Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador,
reader-friendly look at how Newfoundland and Labrador
having the information all together in one place gives
Crosbie Group Limited, FFAW-UNIFOR, Memorial
communities are faring in key issue areas.
communities a tool to build on,” said Ms. Guy. “We hope
University’s Faculty of Medicine and Choices for Youth.
“We are so pleased to be presenting the province’s first
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
this report will provide insight, fuel discussions, inform
7
www.mun.ca/gazette
Making a difference
Food futures
Student contingent works to change a few lives at a time in Honduras
FARM to host roundtable on food systems By Janet Harron
The Food Advocacy
Research Network at
Memorial (FARM) is celebrating World Food Month with a discussion on Oct. 22 focused on the future of Newfoundland and Labrador’s food system. Designing NL Food Futures: A Roundtable Discussion will feature speakers from various areas of the province’s food system who will share their own visions of what our food system will be, or should look like, by the year 2025. Participants include chefs Todd Perrin of Mallard Cottage and Andrea Maunder of Bacalao, farmers Evan Murray and Mary Lester, food security educator Kirstie Jamieson, and graduate student Chloe Poitevin of the Too Big To Ignore project (small scale fisheries). Submitted photo
“The purpose of the roundtable is to reveal the complexity of the Newfoundland and Labrador food system; it has many angles that need to be better understood if we are to create a healthier, accessible and sustainable food system in the future,” said Dr. Lynne Phillips, dean of arts and FARM
(L-R) Maria Pinto, Alyssa Fleming and Jordan Chapman having fun with a Honduran health practitioner.
committee chair. “We hope that the roundtable will also show the food system is something in which we all play a
“We saw things that we would never expect to see here
By Marcia Porter
(in Canada), things that we would have gone to the doctor
They didn’t go
part, even if only as eaters, and in which we all have certain responsibilities – this is called food citizenship.”
for right away,” said Ms. Chapman. “We saw people with
The lunchtime event takes place from 12 to 2 p.m. at the
but helping about 600 of Honduras’ poor felt pretty good
blood glucose levels over 20 − normal usually ranges
North Bank Lodge in Pippy Park on Oct. 22. A light lunch
to a contingent of nursing students.
between 4-6 − blood clots, kidney failure and liver failure,
will be available, courtesy of Mallard Cottage and Bacalao.
people who were sent to hospital right away.”
This event is free but registration is required. Please email
expecting to change the world,
“It was so rewarding,” said Jordan Chapman, who, along with 29 nursing, medicine, pharmacy and science
The student contingent was Memorial’s first Global
jharron@mun.ca to register. Designing NL Food Futures
students, spent 10 days this past summer setting up and
Brigades chapter, which is a student-led organization that
is supported by the Public Engagement Framework of
helping staff a health clinic that operated out of a small
works in four countries, including Honduras. It’s better
Memorial University.
village school in rural Honduras.
known to American university and college students.
“This was about having a chance to help people and
Students worked for a week alongside their Memorial
change things a few lives at a time,” she said. “We were
colleagues, Honduran students their own age and also a
kind of skeptical at first. I mean, how could we make a
Honduran doctor, dentist and translator. They provided
difference? We were only a few people.”
medicine and medical supplies and hired the local medical
small, makeshift clinic drew adults and children of all ages from small villages and communities in the region, which is about four hours outside the capital of Honduras.
team using funds raised during the previous school year. “It was really cool to see everyone come together,” said Ms. Conrad. “In nursing you need to work as a team.”
submitted PHOTO
But there’s nothing quite like first-hand experience. The
Ms. Chapman, Ms. Conrad and many other students are
“It really surprised me that there were people who
planning their return to a different part of Honduras next
walked for hours barefoot just to get to a clinic,” said
summer. With a growing interest in the Global Brigades
student Jess Conrad. “We were open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
program, they hope to set up medical and water brigades.
and the temperatures were 40-degrees plus. People waited
Contact Jordan Chapman at jdc763@mun.ca for more
in line for hours and didn’t complain at all.”
information.
FARM presents a discussion on Newfoundland’s food future Oct. 22 at North Bank Lodge.
Nursing students pair up for peer mentoring I can help. I can tell (Tim) about things
During last year’s national CNSA
like our courses and clinicals. I can tell
conference in Vancouver, when nursing
him how awesome it is here. This would
students from across the country met
have been a nice program to have when I
to network and share ideas, nursing
was a new student.”
delegates discovered a real desire among
Judging by turnout for this information marcia porter PHOTO
session, there’s a high level of interest in
(L-R) First-year nursing student Tim Mayer and Anush Nozori, in his second year at the School of Nursing, have paired up for the new peer mentoring program.
nursing students for peer mentoring. “This
program
is
about
making
the peer-mentoring program among first-
connections,” said Ms. Downey. “Often
years and more senior level students.
in first semester some students don’t
“One of the big things we noticed as
succeed and they drop out. Why? We
fourth-year students is the culture of
want to help them make their experience
nursing school is very different from that
as positive as possible.”
of other faculties,” said Emilee Downey, a
“Anyone who’s in nursing understands
member of the Nursing Society and one
there are a lot of stressful things in nursing
of the members of the Canadian Nursing
school,” said Megan Carey, a fourth-year
Students’ Association (CNSA) who helped
student who also worked on development
develop the program.
of the new program. “It’s such a big
mentor in the school’s brand new peer
“We rely heavily on our classmates
mentoring program. Mr. Noziri is from
over our four years and (near the end of
The peer-mentoring program also has
Lecture room 256 in the School of
Tajikistan by way of New York; his mentee
the program) you always hear fourth-
a faculty advisor who serves as a resource
Nursing buzzed with the sound of student
is first-year Tim Maher from the Goulds.
years say, ‘We are one big family here.’
for students. Over the year, Prof. Lynn
By Marcia Porter
voices.
transition, especially from high school.”
“I love being involved with the
So we thought, why not bring these first-
Cooze will evaluate the program to see
Into the chatter walked Anush Noziri, a
university,” said Anush. “I love helping
years together and help them make the
if it lives up to expectations and meets
second-year nursing student and new peer
people and since I am a second-year student
transition, help them adapt.”
student needs.
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
8
www.mun.ca/gazette
Chris Hammond PHOTO
Go Abroad assistants Sana Ghouri and Leyong Loro and Go Abroad coordinator Natalie Spracklin, along with other members of the Go Abroad Fair Team, exhibitors and volunteers, put off a successful event on Oct. 1 in the Landing.
Projects to study Labrador Sea’s role in Earth’s climate system By Kelly Foss
de Young led a team, including Dr. Ralf
“It doesn’t reach the very bottom in
Bachmayer, Faculty of Engineering and
the Labrador Sea,” he explained. “There’s
is
Applied Science, and Dr. Evan Edinger,
nowhere in the North Atlantic where
at the centre of two international,
Department of Geography, to the region
water reaches the bottom. Bottom water
multimillion dollar projects to get a
to deploy moorings along the shelf and
is formed in the Antarctic. That then
better understanding of the role of the
into the deep ocean. These moorings
percolates through the global ocean.
Labrador Sea in the Earth’s climate
and mobile platforms will remain in
“The ocean is not like a lake where
system.
Memorial University
place and collect data over a period of
typically everything turns over. Because
The Ventilation, Interactions and
at least four years. They also flew ocean
it is so much deeper, many kilometres
Transports Across the Labrador Sea, or
gliders across the shelf break, collecting
VITALs, is a pan-Canadian initiative,
real-time data, which will help other
which
11
teams, including Dr. Entcho Demirov,
Canadian universities, multiple federal
includes
scientists
from
also of the Department of Physics and
government laboratories, and industrial
Physical
and foreign partners.
numerical modelling phase.
Oceanography,
during
The glider used in the VITALs project being deployed through the OSNAP array from the CSS Hudson.
the
deep, and stratified with temperature and salt, the ocean is more complicated. The
Dr. de Young is also the only Memorial researcher involved in the
what
and
international
the
Labrador
in
regulates
carbon
dioxide
the
exchange between the ocean and the
Subpolar North Atlantic Program, or
atmosphere in one of the places where
carbon and heat exchange with the
OSNAP, which is also partly occurring
it’s most dynamic.
atmosphere.
in the Labrador Sea.
interactions
are
in
a logical place to try and understand
Sea including its uptake of oxygen, These
Overturning
happens
He says that makes the Labrador Sea
The research network is attempting to of
only
and the Labrador Sea.”
understand and model the functioning vulnerability
overturning
particular places: Greenland, Antarctica
“Clearly carbon dioxide is tied to
poorly understood and actively evolving
This program is designed to provide
under changing climate conditions.
a continuous record of the full-water
Researchers believe new observations
column circulation, which sees surface
and modelling will help determine
currents taking warm water in one
what controls these exchanges and how
direction while the deeper colder water
they interact with a varying climate,
circulates in another. Understanding
providing better information for future
these currents and their impacts on
climate prediction.
weather and climate in the North
circulation over the years and decades
emitted anthropogenically goes into the ocean.
the whole climate change question, because
This image shows the tracks the glider took in July and August of 2014.
“The Labrador Sea is one of the
Atlantic will begin this summer with
to see if climate-related influences can
the deployment of an array of sensors
be measured from that circulation.”
water forms,” explained Dr. Brad de
and floats which will collect data over
Young, Department of Physics and
the next several years.
Oceanography.
dioxide
levels
continue to rise in the atmosphere, and over the last 100 years the ocean has taken up a fair bit of the carbon dioxide,” said Dr. de Young. “About a third of the carbon dioxide that’s
three areas on the planet where deep
Physical
carbon
“There’s evidence now the uptake
Dr. de Young says the two projects
by the ocean is slowing down. The
are complementary. While one looks
question will logically be what happens
“Which
“This project is looking at deep
at the very large scale circulation
to global climate change warming if the
means it’s where the deep ocean
circulation in the North Atlantic,” said
character of the North Atlantic, the
atmospheric concentrations increase
breathes the atmosphere. We want to
Dr. de Young. “There is a circulation
other focuses on what happens in
more quickly because the uptake by
measure how that happens and what
called
overturning
this particularly intense region of
the ocean slows down? And that’s the
the scale of it is.”
circulation, which is the large-scale
convection − convection being where
expectation. The rate of increase of
climate-driven
has
the water cools at the surface to such
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere does
and
a hundred-year timescale. We want
an extent that it sinks down to the near
seem to be speeding up, but we cannot
numerical modelling. This summer, Dr.
to measure the variability of this
bottom part of the ocean.
say why for sure.”
Memorial’s role is focused on the deployment
of
instruments
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
the
meridional
circulation
that
9
www.mun.ca/gazette
Donations come full circle
Memorial’s United Way payroll campaign kicks off this week with impacts close to home By Michelle Osmond
Adam Pike
is 12 years old. His mother describes
him as a kind boy who loves video games and hanging out with his friends. Sounds like a typical 12-year-old. But when Adam was four, he was diagnosed with a brain Pike. The day her son was diagnosed was “one of the hardest days of my life.” “We were told that Adam had a brain tumour; it was cancer and it had to be removed as soon as possible,” she said. “We were in shock and disbelief that our child was so sick. We didn’t know what the future was going to
submitted photo
tumour. His mom is Memorial University employee Lori
From left are Memorial University’s Lori Pike and her son, Adam.
hold for Adam. All the dreams you have as a parent for your child are immediately put on hold and your focus is
son, Lucas,” explained Ms. Pike, who is associate director
“Camp lets our kids forget about cancer and just be kids
on getting him though the next round of treatment and
of budgets with Financial and Administrative Services.
and have fun,” she said. “Camp Delight for Adam is
ultimately well again.”
“Events such as the annual Christmas party gave the
the best week of the year.” Candlelighters also provide
families a chance to catch up and be there for each other.
families with things such as a diagnosis kit with financial
“By supporting United Way, you are helping families during their most difficult time.”
support, biweekly coffee breaks and survivor scholarships
An organization called Candlelighters, which provides support to families who have children diagnosed with cancer, was an important part of the help Ms. Pike and her family received. Candlelighters is one of the many community organizations
supported
by
the
United
Way
of
Newfoundland and Labrador. Over the next few weeks,
for post secondary education. Now, Ms. Pike gets to help other families. She got involved with Candlelighters because she wanted to give back. She’s the treasurer, a Parent Camp Delight representative and Night of Delight co-chair.
Memorial employees have the chance to give to the
Even the food cupboard at the Janeway helped us by
“When a child is diagnosed with cancer the entire
United Way through the payroll deduction campaign. It’s
having soup, snacks and coffee so we did not have to
family is affected,” said Ms. Pike. “By supporting United
the third year for the campaign and last year Memorial
leave our child to get something to eat.”
Way, you are helping families during their most difficult
employees committed over $28,000.
The United Way has also supported Camp Delight, a
time. The Candlelighters strive to provide programs and
“When Adam was diagnosed the Candlelighters were a
seven-day camp for children who have been diagnosed
support for the entire family during the treatment years
support to me; my husband, Jason; Adam and our other
with cancer, their siblings and their bereaved siblings.
and beyond.”
OUTANDABOUT
Thursday, Oct. 16
Open Call Photo Shoot at the Marine Institute, 12-2 p.m., Lobby, Marine
The Work of Music at the Canadian War Museum, 7-9 p.m., IIC-2001,
Institute. Sponsor: Office of the Vice-President (Research)
For more on these events and other news at Memorial, please visit www.
Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation. Sponsor: Department of
today.mun.ca
Sociology, Research Centre for Music, Media and Place
Wednesday, Oct. 15
Fundamentals of Project Management, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., B-4019. Sponsor:
Public Mourning, The Nation, and Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings,
Gardiner Centre
Open Call Photo Shoot at Grenfell Campus, 1-2 p.m., Arts and Science Extension Atrium, Grenfell Campus. Sponsor: Office of the Vice-President
12-1:30 p.m., A-4049D. Sponsor: Department of Sociology Speaker Series Memorial University
(Research)
Panel on American Politics Today, 9-10:10 a.m., SN-2036. Sponsor: The Work of Music at the Canadian War Museum, 7-9 p.m., IIC-2001.
Department of Political Science
Sponsor: Department of Sociology, Research Centre for Music, Media and Blood Donor Clinic, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Lobby, Bruneau Centre for Research
Friday, Oct. 17
Place
and Innovation. Sponsor: Canadian Blood Services
Surgical Shape Shifting: Transgender Embodiment in Nina Arsenault’s Probing and Observing Cortical Circuits in Mice During Stroke Recovery,
The Silicone Diaries, 1-2 p.m., SN-4087. Sponsor: Department of Gender
Trudeau Foundation Scholarship information session, 3-5 p.m., Junior
10-11 a.m., 1M101, Medical Education Centre, Health Sciences Centre.
Studies
Common Room, R. Gushue Hall. Sponsor: Memorial University
Sponsor: Division of BioMedical Science Dietary Arginine Availability and Creatine Accretion: Is Creatine
Application to Graduate School: Tips and Strategies, 3-4 p.m., Online
Marketplace in Bolivia, 12-1 p.m., SN-2033. Sponsor: Faculty of Arts
webinar (www.mun.ca/become/graduate/webinars/). Sponsor: School of Graduate Studies
Supplementation Necessary for the newborn? 1-2 p.m., SN-4015. Sponsor: Department of Biochemistry
MUN Cinema Series: Obvious Child, 7-8:30 p.m., Cineplex Theatre, Avalon Mall. Sponsor: MUN Cinema
Scheduling on a Single Machine Under Time-of-Use Electricity Tariffs, 1:30-2:30 p.m., B-3010. Sponsor: Faculty of Business Administration
100 YEARS OF THE INTERNATIONAL GRENFELL ASSOCIATION AND THE DELIVERY OF HEALTHCARE IN NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR: A SYMPOSIUM
The Rooms, 9 Bonaventure Avenue, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The impact of British physician-missionary Sir Wilfred Grenfell (1865-1940) was widely recognized during the first half of the twentieth century. Grenfell’s life-work in Newfoundland and Labrador began in the early 1890s with the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen. By 1914 the International Grenfell Association (IGA) was formed to focus on his work in this region. This one-day symposium will explore the historical significance of Grenfell, the IGA, and the delivery of healthcare in Newfoundland and Labrador over the last century and address issues concerning the present and the future. The keynote speaker, Dr. Ronald L. Numbers, of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is an expert in medical history and the missionary experience. Other speakers include author Anne Budgell, former IGA physicians, specialists from The Rooms, and scholars from Memorial University. Funds are provided by a Canadian Institutes for Health Research grant in the history of medicine to the Memorial University organizers of the symposium. All are welcome, with refreshment breaks provided.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Symposium on 100 Years of the International Grenfell Association, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., The Rooms. Sponsor: History of Medicine and Medical Humanities
Sunday, Oct. 19 Multiple Sclerosis information session, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Comfort Inn Airport Hotel. Sponsor: Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
Monday, Oct. 20 The Blue Castle: If Tarzan was a Labrador fur trader and Jane was from Manhattan, 8-9:30 p.m., The Orbit Room (downstairs at the Rocket Bakery). Sponsor: Department of Gender Studies
There is no registration fee. For further information contact, jconnor@mun.ca or 709 777 8729.
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
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Lori Lee Hollett photo
Celebrated dance artist and choreographer Karen Kaeja spent several sessions with students, community dancers and other partners at Grenfell Campus
as part of her residency as Memorial University’s first dancer-in-residence. Here, Ms. Kaeja addresses the crowd following a session at the Grenfell Campus Art Gallery. Following her time at Grenfell, Ms. Kaeja worked with Creative Gros Morne. She will spend two weeks at the St. John’s campus in December.
Digital and Social Media for HR Professionals, 9 a.m.-
Spirit Parade, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Main Dining Hall.
MUNdays Sunday Skate, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014, 4-6
Critical Race and Anti-Colonial Theory Discussion
5 p.m., B-4019, Sponsor: Gardiner Centre
Sponsor: MUNdays
p.m., Jack Byrne Arena. Sponsor: MUNdays
Group, 12:30-2 p.m., ER-4002. Sponsor: 2014-
Tuesday, Oct. 21
MUN Cinema Series: Calvary, 7-8:40 p.m., Cineplex
Monday, Oct. 27
Theatre, Avalon Mall. Sponsor: MUN Cinema
MUNdays Dining Etiquette Workshop, 6-9 p.m.,
2015 Critical Race and Anti-Colonial Theory
Running ED-2030B
Effective (McCann
Seminars, Centre).
9:30-11:30 Sponsor:
a.m., DELTS,
Professional Development Experiences for Educators
Activating Knowledge and Partnerships: Opening
Discussion Group
The Landing, UC, 3rd Floor. Sponsor: MUNdays
Friday, Oct. 24
Friday, Oct. 31 Celebrating Women… And More! 8-9:30 p.m., D.F.
Kindness Friday, all day, everywhere. Sponsor:
UArctic Info Session, 12-1 p.m., PE-2001. Sponsor:
MUNdays
International Centre
a Different Discourse on Scholarship: Margaret
Cook Recital Hall. Sponsor: School of Music
Energy Regulating Hormones and the Development
McLean, 4-6 p.m., Main Auditorium, Health Sciences
Fill the Square, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Paton College. Sponsor:
Law for Managers, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., B-4019. Sponsor:
of Obesity and Diabetes, 1-3 p.m., IIC-2014,
Centre. Sponsor: School of Nursing
MUNdays
Gardiner Centre
Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation.
Matricellular proteins for the treatment of myocardial
Weight reduction and obesity management: Faculty
Google AdWords Fundamentals, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.,
infarction, 1-2 p.m., HSC, Theatre I, Pharmacy (Room
of Medicine Speaker Series, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Lecture
B-4019. Sponsor: Gardiner Centre
3444). Sponsor: Division of BioMedical Science
Theatre B, Faculty of Medicine. Sponsor: Faculty of
Sponsor: School of Graduate Studies
Health Care Leadership Forum: Navigating Change
Medicine Digital and Social Media Strategy and Tactics, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., B-4019. Sponsor: Gardiner Centre
Saturday, Nov. 1
Faculty of Arts Heidelberg Field School reunion, 5-7
Tuesday, Oct. 28
Through Leadership, 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Sheraton
Education Information Session, 2-3 p.m., SN-4068.
Hotel. Sponsor: Professional Development and
Sponsor: Academic Advising Centre
Conference Services, Faculty of Medicine and
p.m., Christian’s, 23 George Street. Sponsor: Faculty
Wednesday, Oct. 22
Gardiner Centre
of Arts
Foraging Strategies of a Pursuit-Diving Seabird in
Engineering Information Session, 1-1:50 p.m., SN4068. Sponsor: Academic Advising Centre
Just Get Out! 2014, 6-4 p.m., Brother Brennan
a Dynamic Marine Environment, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.,
Monday, Nov. 2
IIC-2014. Sponsor: School of Graduate Studies
Universal Design for Learning in Post-Secondary:
Environmental Education Centre, Salmonier Line.
Part Two, 2-4 p.m., ED-2030B. Sponsor: DELTS,
Graduate education for Memorial employees, 1-2
Sponsor: Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental
Functional Identification of Hippocampal Neuron
Professional
p.m., IIC-2014. Sponsor: School of Graduate Studies
Educators
Subpopulations Underlying Early-life Epilepsy,
Educators
and Department of Human Resources
Development
Experiences
for
10-11 a.m., Health Sciences Centre, Theatre B. Back to Business: Reunion 2014, 2:30-4:30 p.m.,
2014 Gairdner Lecture Speaker, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Main
RBC Atrium, Business building. Sponsor: Faculty of
Auditorium, Faculty of Medicine. Sponsor: Faculty of
Business Administration
Sponsor: Division of BioMedical Science
Tuesday, Nov. 3 Ten Thousand Villages Fair Trade Sale, 10 a.m.-7
UC Lounge, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., University Centre.
Medicine
p.m., The Landing. Sponsor: University Chaplaincy
Sponsor: MUNdays Back to Business: Class of 1989 Reunion, 4:30-6:30
Eliciting User Requirements for the Business
“HCV is cured. What do I do now?” 5-6 p.m., 1M101,
p.m., Guv’nors Pub, St. John’s. Sponsor: Faculty of
Touque Day, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., DELTS Office, ED-1032
Analyst, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., B-4019. Sponsor: Gardiner
Medical Education Building. Sponsor: Division of
Business Administration
and ED-2000. Sponsor: MUNdays
Centre
Saturday, Oct. 25
Health Circus, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Field House. Sponsor:
Digital and Social Media Strategy and Tactics, 9
CSEP 2014: Science on the Edge of the Continent,
Super TSC Night Concert, 7 p.m.-2 a.m., Breezeway
MUNdays
a.m.-5 p.m., B-4019. Sponsor: Gardiner Centre
8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Delta Hotel, St. John’s. Sponsor:
Bar, Memorial University. Sponsors: MBNA, Johnson,
School of Human Kinetics and Recreation
The Telegram, Steele Communications
Evidence of Teaching Effectiveness, 2-4 p.m., ED-
Tuesday, Nov. 4
5021. Sponsor: DELTS, Professional Development
Cyclic Block Designs from Skolem-type Sequences,
Experiences for Educators
11 a.m.-1 p.m., IIC 2014. Sponsor: School of
BioMedical Science.
Designing NL Food Futures: A roundtable discussion,
Halloween Howl Family Program at MUN ‘BOO-
12-2 p.m., North Bank Lodge, Pippy Park. Sponsor:
tanical’ Garden, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., MUN Botanical
Food Advocacy Research at Memorial (FARM)
Garden. Sponsor: MUN Botanical Garden
Graduate Studies
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Human
Kinetics
and
Recreation
Information
Democratic transitions in Nicaragua and Russia,
Thursday, Oct. 23
School of Pharmacy Class Reunions, 6:30-9:30 p.m.,
Session, 1-1:50 p.m., SN-4068. Sponsor: Academic
Understanding Synaptic Function and Dysfunction
Quidi Vidi Brewery. Sponsor: School of Pharmacy.
Advising Centre
Sunday, Oct. 26
Thursday, Oct. 30
Narratives, 1-2 p.m., SN-4087. Sponsor: Department of Gender Studies Speakers’ Series
in Huntington’s Disease, 10-11:10 a.m., HSC, Theatre B. Sponsor: Division of BioMedical Science
Scripted Skins: Women’s Tattoos as Embodied Life
President’s Golden Reception, 7-9 p.m., DF Cook
MUN Cinema Series: A Most Wanted Man, 7-9
Pancake Breakfast, 8-10 a.m., Main Dining Hall.
Recital Hall, Memorial University. Sponsor: Memorial
p.m., Cineplex Theatre, Avalon Mall. Sponsor:
Sponsor: MUNdays
University
MUN Cinema
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
12-1 p.m., SN-2033. Sponsor: Faculty of Arts
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Environmental protection on a nano-scale By Kelly Foss
Even a small amount of oil spilled in a marine environment can have a devastating impact. So small, in fact, that Memorial researchers are working at the nanolevel to create sensors for use in harsh environments. The
solid
state
sensors
being
created
by
the
nanofabricated sensor technology project have little or no moving parts. They can detect contaminants through a specialized material that the molecules can land on, sending signals to a reader which would make a spectroscopic measurement and determine what molecules are present, based on their particular vibration, and how much.
and Kelly Hawboldt, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “We are currently designing, developing and inventing new materials to get stronger more specific signals,” said Dr. Merschrod. “We have already created three new classes of materials that promote the binding of molecules and amplification of signals from these sensors, which is
Chris Hammond PHOTO
Chief investigators for the project include Drs. Erika Merschrod and Christina Bottaro, Faculty of Science,
Graduate student MunMun Sarkar is testing the wettability of materials used in the solid state sensor.
really exciting.” The sensors could function on a buoy or be attached
tested offshore yet, but we’re continuing to develop new
integrated and clean environment is very important,
to an AUV during surveys around an oil platform. They
materials for use in the real world and we’re also creating
because when you are working on a nanoscale, something
could also function on the platform itself, testing water as
a new field of highly qualified personnel, in terms of the
as small as a dust particle can be a huge contaminant,”
it comes off a platform and goes back into the ocean, as
students that we’re graduating.”
explained Dr. Merschrod.
part of the platform’s own monitoring practices.
She says one of the ultimate goals in developing
“A number of us at the university have been working
“By knowing the details of the chemical composition
this new technology is to have something that can
with nano-technology and nano-science and having a
of that water, not only can we prevent certain molecules
be manufactured here and sold around the world,
clean room where we can integrate the different materials
from going into the ocean that we don’t want there, but
stimulating the growth of a new industry in the province.
in one setting is certainly going to help us increase
oil companies can also make sure their processes are
Having graduates trained in these cutting-edge methods
capacity for this high-tech research at Memorial.”
working the way they think they are,” said Dr. Merschrod.
would be very important in supporting this new sector.
“Having something that can give an answer in real time
The researchers have received a grant from the Atlantic
will allow them to respond right away if a module is not
Canada
working properly.”
Opportunities
Atlantic
Innovation
Fund,
Dr. Merschrod believes the industry contacts provided by PRNL will give the team a huge advantage over other companies offering monitoring technologies.
with support from Petroleum Research Newfoundland
“All of the organizations who are members of PRNL are
The team has primarily been testing the devices in the
and Labrador (PRNL), the Research and Development
big multinational companies, and our partnership with
lab but has recently moved into more realistic tests in
Corporation and Memorial University. This investment
PRNL gives us access to direct contacts within this huge
the field, attaching them to an autonomous underwater
is providing new infrastructure and instrumentation
market,” she said. “We have a big advantage in being here
vehicle.
for the university in the form of a nanofabrication clean
in Newfoundland and Labrador where a lot of the action
room, which is currently under construction.
is and the community is still small enough that we can
“We did a test in Bonne Bay this past winter and that worked out well,” said Dr. Merschrod. “We haven’t
“Being able to make nanostructured materials in an
make those connections.”
VISIT US
ONLINE W W W.MUN.C A /GA ZE TT E
Gazette | Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2014
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