Gazettevol46no16july2correctissuu

Page 1

GAZETTE

July 2, 2014 Volume 46 Number 16

Publication Mail Registration No. 40062527

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

p3

Step it up Memorial’s resident mountaineer has taken one million steps across Nepal.

p6

p12 2

Equal access Students with physical disabilities

Enduring words Books created in reaction to

discover an accessible environment at Memorial.

a Baghdad bombing are on display at the QEII.

Powerful champion

Business student breaks world records, claims international title By Susan White-MacPherson

Josh Hancott

has returned from South Africa

as a world champion. The 20-year-old bachelor of business administration student broke four world records and won three gold medals and one silver medal at the International Powerlifting Federation’s world championships June 4 in Johannesburg, South Africa. “It feels really good, now that it’s finally set in,” he said. “I didn’t even know how to feel, but now it feels good. I’m happy.” Mr. Hancott competes in the 74-kilogram weight class of the junior category. In powerlifting, athletes vie to lift the most weight in three disciplines: squat, bench press and deadlift. Winners are declared in each discipline and the highest combined score determines the overall winner. Mr. Hancott won gold in the squat with a world record submitted PHOTO

lift of 552 lbs. He earned silver in the bench press with a lift of 352 lbs., and set a world record of 578 lbs. on his second attempt at the deadlift. On his third attempt, he broke his own world record and earned gold with a lift of 597 lbs. His combined score was 1,502, yet another

CLASS ABOVE

Josh Hancott is pictured above at the moment he won the International Powerlifting Federation’s world championships in his weight class in Johannesburg, South Africa, last month.

world record.

See CHAMPION story on page 4

WW100 commemoration program launched President Gary Kachanoski

officially

physical commemorations; and library, archives and

launched WW100, Memorial University’s commemora-

other resources. The Living Memorial Commemoration

tion program, to a full house in the Music building last

Fund has been established to support these activities by

month.

empowering the university community and partners to

“After the dark days of the First World War, Memorial

create engaging projects and events.

University College was founded as a living memorial so

The president pointed out that while the campuses

that in the freedom of learning, the sacrifice of those who

in St. John’s have several physical monuments to the

fought might not be forgotten by future generations,”

men and women who served, other university sites do

said Dr. Kachanoski. “From this unique origin the uni-

not. He announced that by 2019 suitable memorials will

versity has inherited a responsibility to remember and

have been erected at other major university locations,

the steering committee’s role would be to guide and

commemorate those who lost their lives in active service.

including Harlow Campus in England and the recently

assist, rather than dictate or prescribe.

Thus, on the eve of the 100th anniversary of the events

acquired Battery property.

that sparked the First World War, we come together to launch WW100.”

“While the committee has received nine proposals for

Finally, the president noted that heritage preservation

funding, there are more than 40 commemoration proj-

is a priority at Memorial. The university is home to a

ects in progress within the university community,” said

An overview of WW100 plans were presented by Dr.

number of unique collections, and there is an ongoing

Dr. Ashworth. “Details on the fund, an ideas bank, the

Kachanoski. Dr. Luke Ashworth, chair of the First World

need for archival space to steward donations of rare or

WW100 visual identity, an anniversary calendar and

War commemoration steering committee, and com-

original content. The university, therefore, is in the early

other useful information can be found on our website,

mittee member Bert Riggs, head, Archives and Special

planning stages to develop a new facility to house the

so I encourage everyone to visit periodically to explore

Collections, Queen Elizabeth II Library, provided more

diverse archives in Memorial’s care.

what’s planned during the months and years to come.”

details.

Dr. Ashworth noted that a great many ideas came for-

Please visit www.mun.ca/WW100 or the Facebook

commemorative

ward during the consultation process, as befitting an

page, Memorial University’s WW100 Commemoration

activities in three broad areas: academic programs;

institution that values freedom and discovery, and that

Program.

The

university

will

undertake


Alumni representatives elected to Board of Regents By David Penney

The Office

of Alumni Affairs and Development

“These two indicators demonstrate a strong level

“The board will benefit from such a qualified and

recently confirmed the successful candidates for the

of interest and commitment to our university,” said

diverse group,” said Iris Petten, chair, Board of Regents.

six elected alumni positions on Memorial’s Board of

President Kachanoski. “A willingness to volunteer at

“I know they will each bring a high level of expertise and

Regents. Four new representatives and two incumbents

this level is extremely significant and it shows that

a fresh perspective to the business that we do. New board

will begin their three-year term on Sept. 1, 2014.

our alumni are deeply invested in Memorial’s success.

members see how they can contribute to Memorial’s

Colleen Galgay-Johnston, Katharine Hickey, John

I thank all those who put their names forward and

prosperity in a very tangible way — so it’s an exciting

Hogan and Denis Mahoney are new to the board, while

extend congratulations to both our new and returning

opportunity for both our new and current members.”

Kimberly Keating and George Tucker are returning for a

board members.”

second term.

Ms. Petten also expressed her appreciation for the

The Board of Regents is responsible for the man-

work of the outgoing board members.

It was a record-setting year for the Board of Regents

agement, administration and control of the property,

“We are extremely grateful to Pegi Earle, Dr. Rex

election. Forty eligible candidates put their names for-

revenue, business and affairs of Memorial University.

Gibbons, Dr. James Hickey, Susan Murray and Dr. Luke

ward for nomination and Memorial alumni cast a total

The entire board is comprised of 30 members, with six

Pike. They have made a difference at Memorial and I

of 9,853 votes. The number of nominees and voting

of those positions soon to be occupied by the newly

want to thank them for their dedicated service to the

returns were the highest to date.

elected alumni representatives.

board and our university.

your next project By Amy Tucker

to find an alternate use or an environmentally friendly

Special to the Gazette

way to remove this waste from our site. Additionally, we

GAZETTE

would like to find ways to reduce the scrap that we are Yaffle.ca is Memorial’s online connecting tool. One of its most

currently producing, which would decrease the amount

significant jobs is to provide a way for people from outside Memorial

of waste into the future.”

to ask for research help. With hundreds of community-suggested

The scrap materials from six years of the manufactur-

opportunities to choose from, your next project is just a click away.

ing process are currently being stored in more than 200

Here’s one …

wooden crates outside the company’s facilities.

The opportunity:

The project:

Dynamic Air Shelters Ltd. (DASL) is a Newfoundland

“We would appreciate if someone from Memorial could

and Labrador incorporated company with production

research manufacturing best practices which could

facilities in Grand Bank. The firm manufactures air

help us to reduce waste, as well as financially viable

inflatable structures for four distinct markets — blast-

possibilities for removing waste materials from our site,”

resistant shelters for the oil and gas industry, industrial

said Mrs. Dominaux. “We recognize that the current

shelters for the construction industry, iconic structures

situation is a short-term solution, and we want to find

for the promotional sector and temporary shelters

a long-term, environmentally conscious way to reduce

for emergency and first responders. The products are

and reuse waste.”

distributed to customers throughout North America.

DASL has resources to put toward this project, and is

DASL prides itself on being an environmentally

eager to find a solution to the issue. The company hopes

responsible company. However, there is one issue it is

it can find a researcher or a team of researchers to help

struggling with.

with the process.

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

Editor Graphics Mandy Cook Helen Houston Regular Contributors

Laura Barron Melanie Callahan Nora Daly Paula Dyke Kelly Foss Elizabeth Furey Pamela Gill Sharon Gray Jeff Green Janet Harron Jill Hunt Diane Keough Jackey Locke Virginia Middleton Classified Advertising Kelly Hickey

“Our shelters are made of PVC-coated polyester, and while each of these components is recyclable separately,

Interested in learning more about this project? The Harris Centre’s

they are not recyclable when bonded together,” said

co-ordinator of knowledge mobilization would be happy to tell you

Renita Dominaux, operations manager, DASL. “We need

more. Call Amy Tucker at 709-864-6115 or email amy.tucker@mun.ca.

Cathy Newhook Naomi Osborne Michelle Osmond David Penney Marcia Porter Kristine Power Dave Sorensen Melissa Watton Meaghan Whelan Susan White-MacPherson Heidi Wicks Laura Woodford Sandy Woolfrey-Fahey

Photography Chris Hammond

Advertising Mandy Cook Telephone: 709 864 2142 Email: mandyc@mun.ca Next Gazette deadline July 15 for July 23 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.

DASL photo

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.

Dynamic Air Shelters Ltd.’s blast testing site in Suffield, Alta. Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

2

www.mun.ca/gazette


A great big walk

Marion Wissink photo

Human Kinetics and Recreation professor completes one million-step adventure

Dr. TA Loeffler navigating the Amphu Labsta Pass in Nepal. By Michelle Osmond

Kanchenjunga, Makalu Barun, Everest

as The Great Big Walk. It fit in perfectly

we couldn’t do the year before because of

On March 5, Dr. TA Loeffler set out

and Rolwaling, finishing the walk near

with her goals of reaching out to peo-

too much snow, so this trek allowed for a

on a trek of the High Himalaya in Nepal.

the highway that links Nepal to Tibet.

ple, encouraging them to be more active

second chance.”

The Human Kinetics and Recreation

Part of the adventure was The Great

and talking about the benefits of walk-

Dr. Loeffler says the only thing that

(HKR) professor, along with her partner

Big Walk, which involved using curric-

ing. The team posted its location, did an

really surprised her about this adventure

Marion Wissink from the Department of

ulum materials developed by HKR 4210

audio update on the day’s adventure and

was how hard it was to come home and

Computer Science and two other hikers,

students to engage elementary students

shared everything they learned about

stop walking.

left Newfoundland and Labrador with

in social studies, physical activity and

the landscapes and cultures it travelled

the goal of walking one million steps

geography. Local Grade Four and Five

through.

over 65 days and 600 kilometres in the

school children were able to regularly

“As always, I want my expeditions to

teaching needs required that I give that

mountainous country.

interact with the group, thanks to fund-

do more than me reaching a summit

up. Now that intersession is over, I hope

ing from Memorial’s Quick Start Fund

or traversing a country, so I decided to

to get back to more intensive walking

for Community Engagement.

combine the two: walking across a huge

and training. I loved the simplicity of life

As calculated by a handy FitBit device, 1,108,898 steps later — give or take one or two — their mission was accomplished.

“We walked to and from work for the first two weeks we were back but then

Dr. Loeffler is also the ambassa-

chunk of Nepal while trying to inspire

on the expedition: sleep, eat, walk, eat,

The trek started in Taplejung, Nepal.

dor for Recreation Newfoundland and

folks and children to be more active,”

walk, eat, write dispatch for students,

They gained more than 25,000 metres

Labrador‘s Find Your Fit campaign,

said Dr. Loeffler. “I was also deeply called

call in dispatch, set off spot device, eat,

in elevation and crossed four regions:

which was launched at the same time

to cross the Amphu Labsta Pass, which

sleep. Repeat 65 times.”

The World Cup comes to Memorial Expectant

soccer fans all over the globe have

been counting down impatiently for the best part of

STUDENTVIEW

four years to the kickoff of the world’s premier soccer

Darlington Mandondo

the university got a surge of positive energy from the World Cup kicking off. Memorial University during the summer is probably

showcase, the World Cup. The current edition of the

as serene a location as you will find anywhere, which

planet’s biggest sporting rendezvous has an added twist

made the soccer-mania all the more remarkable! The

this time in that it is being held in Brazil — arguably

celebrations that followed Brazil’s eventual triumph

events of the opening day festivities at The Breezeway

the most iconic soccer nation of all time, with its flair

over their hapless opponents was in every way remi-

led me to make two solid conclusions. Firstly, I learned

and finesse coming together to make it into the global

niscent of the cheers that greeted Canada’s Olympic

that sport is a very powerful force that can easily be

powerhouse it is today. Consider the coinciding of the

hockey final victory over the United States. I can only

used as common ground to bring together people from

World Cup with North America’s summer, then add to

imagine the possibilities if Canada had qualified for this

different walks of life. My second important discovery

that Brazil and Canada’s shared time zones — by com-

tournament!

from the jolly bunch that graced The Breezeway was

parison, English fans must wake up at 2 a.m. to watch

However, this was the least of the spectators’ worries

the games — and the stage is well and truly set for a

as students momentarily disengaged from the usual

month of thrills, spills, pomp and fanfare.

that moods are indeed contagious! There was not a single sullen soul in sight.

whining and grumbling about how all their profes-

Before I could ponder these matters any further,

Memorial was not to be left out of the festivities. A

sors seemed to connive to put all the midterms within

day two of the World Cup was already busy brewing

sizeable crowd thronged the campus bar, The Breezeway,

the same week. For that precious moment, small talk

a shocker as an unheralded Dutch outfit pummeled

for the colorful official opening of the tournament.

digressed from complaining about “buying that $200

Spain, the much-fancied defending champions, into

Swarms of vociferous fans were apparelled in their

textbook with no resell value just for that one paragraph

submission. Let the good times roll.

respective teams’ colors in anticipation of the open-

at the bottom of page five” or the mundane voicing of

ing fixture between the host nation and Croatia. The

disappointment at a summer which has flattered only

Darlington Mandondo is a third-year student in the bache-

event also comes hot on the heels of Canada’s Olympic

to deceive. To say the place came to a standstill would

lor of commerce program at Memorial. He can be reached at

hockey glory at the Sochi Winter Games. The buzz and

be an exaggeration, but it is certainly beyond doubt that

dnm355@mun.ca.

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

3

www.mun.ca/gazette


National association honours MI senior leader By Naomi Osborne

The

Fisheries

Marine

accomplishment must be specific and

development of CACEE over the past 20

Institute was pleased to host the welcome

definable and it may constitute one sin-

years and his exemplary contributions

reception

gle act or a number of cumulative activi-

nationally and internationally earned

ties over several years.

him the nomination and honour.

for

the

and 2014

Canadian

Association of Career Educators and Employers (CACEE) conference, where

“I am more than humbled by this

Passionate about the practice of career

one of its senior leaders was recognized

award,” said Dr. Shea. “It is hard to be

development in Canada and beyond, Dr.

with a prestigious award.

recognized individually for anything, as

Shea has been instrumental in develop-

Dr. Robert Shea, associate vice-pres-

everything I have done in career devel-

ing the Atlantic regional advisory board

ident, academic and student affairs, at

opment, nationally and internationally

and over the years he has held board posi-

the Marine Institute, was named the

has been the result of my work in teams.

tions at both regional and national levels.

2014 recipient of the CACEE Moe Ktytor

“So, while this award has recognized

In identifying the need for the asso-

Award, commonly referred to as the con-

me it is truly an award to the hundreds of

ciation to acknowledge and celebrate

ference’s “Oscar.”

people I have worked with over the many

quality research in the field, CACEE

The award of merit, which is not pre-

years I have been teaching, researching

established the Rob Shea Research Award

sented on an annual basis, is intended

and working in the field of career and

in 2009. The award aims to identify

to recognize an exemplary contribu-

human resource development.”

significant research in the areas of career

tion to CACEE. The contribution or

Dr.

Shea’s

involvement

in

the

practice and school-to-work transition.

Dr. Rob Shea

Con’t from CHAMPION on page 1 “I just trained so hard for it, visualized

years to come. Where I’m a role model,

it so many times, that when it came true,

I have to try to keep getting people into

I couldn’t stand,” he said. “I fell to my

the sport [and] not let things get to your

knees and cried, I was just that happy.

head. Some people get to the top and

What made me proud was the fact that

then they can’t handle the pressure,” he

I was only known as being a squatter

said. “I think I’m going to be alright.”

before this, and now I’m known as being an all-around athlete.” Mr. Hancott started powerlifting three years ago and competed in his first contest in June of 2011. “When I first got in it, I just got in for fun. I thought it would be pretty cool.

Mr. Hancott has two more years of

[But] when I realized I had the poten-

eligibility in the junior category and

tial to win the worlds, I just kicked it in

intends to go for another world cham-

another notch.”

pionship berth in 2015, where he hopes

Mr. Hancott earned the respect of his competitors during the competition and

Josh Hancott

“I just trained so hard for it, visualized it so many times.”

to claim that missed gold medal in the bench press.

has become a role model for his team-

“It’s no big deal. I’ll get it next year,”

mates as well as those just starting out

he said, adding: “I’m hoping to defend

in the sport.

my world title next year and for years to

“[I have] a lot of responsibilities for

NOTABLE

come.”

VISIT US ONLINE www.mun.ca/gazette

Dr. Shelagh Rogers, an honorary degree recipient of Memorial, was appointed the University of Victoria’s 11th chancellor May 29.

&

PAPERS PRESENTATIONS

obituarIES

At the past annual meeting of the Canadian

a panel review of Dr. Scott Johnston’s recently

Walter James Samson

Philosophy of Education Society (Canadian Society

published book Kant’s Philosophy: A Study for

Walter James Samson, a retired staff member of

for Studies in Education/Congress of the Humanities

Educators. Dr. Kelly’s paper is titled On the Prospect

Facilities Management, passed away June 19, 2014.

and Social Sciences) held at Brock University, St.

of Virtue. Dr. Okshevsky’s paper is titled The Role of

He was 61.

Dr. Darron Kelly, Faculty of Education, and Dr. Walter Okshevsky, Faculty of Education and the

the Categorical Imperative in Moral Judgment and

Department of Philosophy, presented papers in

Catharines, Ont., May 2014,

Education: Reflections on Johnston’s Incorporation

Edward Duggan

Thesis. Dr. Johnston, Faculty of Education and the

Edward Duggan, a retired staff member with

Department of Philosophy, replied to his critics.

Technical Services, passed away June 21, 2014. He was 69.

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

4

www.mun.ca/gazette


a comprehensive exploration of the needs of these students on Memorial’s campuses nor the readiness to embrace a larger international population. Memorial’s

Frameworks at work: Memorial’s frameworks in action

international student enrolment is growing steadily. In 2013-14, approximately 1,800 students or 10 per cent of the total student population and 25 per cent of graduate students came from international locations. This study intersects the three university frameworks — Teaching and Learning, Research Strategy and Public Engagement — and is presented at a critical time in terms of planning and visioning at Memorial.

The three overarching frameworks guiding Memorial’s

“The report stands to inform Enrolment Plan 2020,

future direction — the Research Framework, the Teaching

the Strategic Research Intensity Plan and, arguably

and Learning Framework and the Public Engagement

of the most intrinsic value, the Internationalization

Framework — are the result of several years of consultations

Plan,” said Dr. Philpott. “As an institution, considering

with the university community and the people and

the breadth of ongoing planning, we need to adopt

organizations of Newfoundland and Labrador. This regular

an internationally informed lens when viewing these

feature will help showcase the frameworks in action by

plans in order to be ready to better serve students and

sharing projects and highlighting the successes that are

truly excel as a distinguished university.”

bringing them to life.

Implementation of the report’s recommendations is

The cover of a new report supporting international students at Memorial.

intended to provide more comprehensive support for international students, provide greater intercultural opportunities for domestic students and strengthen

TEACHING AND LEARNING Strengthening the value chain By Sandy Woolfrey-Fahey

A recently

released report will inform more

Memorial’s intercultural competency. challenges. Their report, titled Strengthening the Value

The report will also serve to inform the teaching and

Chain: Supporting International Students and Building

learning community as it continues to identify priorities

Intercultural Competence at Memorial University,

for effective strategies to support an inclusive and

summarizing research findings and was submitted to

responsive campus, as recommended by the Teaching

Dr. Doreen Neville and Albert Johnson, TLF co-leads.

and Learning Framework.

“Our research concluded with 67 recommendations

This is the third study arising from the TLF

addressing seven priority focus areas,” said Ms.

recommendation to support vulnerable learners at

comprehensive supports for international students at

Kennedy.

arrival

Memorial and proceeded by examining data, holding

Memorial.

challenges, accessible and affordable housing, financial

150 individual consultations with faculty and staff at all

vulnerability, English as a second language support,

three campuses, conducting several focus groups with

Philpott and Karen Kennedy, on behalf of the Teaching

social

students and completing an extensive literature review

and Learning Framework (TLF), conducted a pan-

organizational structure.”

During this past academic year, researchers Dr. David

“These

integration,

include

pre-arrival

intercultural

and

competency

and

and environmental scan.

university study looking at students who are vulnerable

Memorial has examined internationalization at

based on cultural differences and/or second language

several points in its history. But there has never been

To read the report, visit www.mun.ca/teaching andlearning/?p=989 .

Course shells bring courses online and on campus By Elizabeth Furey

Memorial

University’s Learning Management

on-campus course section scheduled in Banner is auto-

The site also has a series of editable pages where

System, Desire2Learn (D2L) underwent an upgrade this

matically assigned a D2L course shell, which can be

instructors can add their own course-specific content.

past April, resulting in a number of specific improve-

activated by the assigned instructor or with the support

The pages are stylized and designed to meet accessibil-

ments around the communication and content tools

of DELTS’ client support team.

ity standards, and can be easily edited using the editor

that make the system more user-friendly for both instructor and student.

“Faculty can use their course shells to engage their

within D2L.

students in discussion outside the classroom,” said

“This course starter kit provides a great starting point

“We are very pleased with the outcomes of the

Ruth Hickey, manager, course design and maintenance,

for faculty looking to support their on-campus teach-

D2L upgrade,” said Susan Cleyle, director, Distance

DELTS. “They can also add readings, lecture notes and

ing,” said Ms. Hickey.

Education, Learning and Teaching Support (DELTS).

incorporate learning objects into their materials.”

“The improvements make the system much easier to use and display a cleaner interface.”

Support for using the course starter kit is available

To help first-time users find their way around D2L,

within the shell itself, but faculty members are wel-

DELTS has created a D2L course starter kit, which

come to contact DELTS for one-on-one support or to set

The new and improved system may be just what

includes standard student-focused information, such as

up a departmental session for other interested faculty.

attracts more instructors to activate their course shells

how to navigate and use D2L, how to access library sup-

Contact Colleen Collett at ccollett@mun.ca or 864-

once the new calendar year starts in September. Each

port and links to university academic regulations.

6940 for more information.

(AUCC) and Community Foundations of Canada (CFC)

working with partners that support post-secondary

are proud to partner with the Government of Canada

education through scholarships and bursaries. It will

and the Rideau Hall Foundation in the program, which

use existing networks in Canada and throughout the

was announced recently by Prime Minister Stephen

Commonwealth to raise the profile of the program and

Harper following a meeting at Rideau Hall with

communicate its value and engage with universities

Governor-General David Johnston and Jean Chrétien,

and community partners to enhance the program and report on its results.

Investing in Canada’s next generation of leaders New Canadian

Queen Elizabeth II Diamond

former prime minister of Canada. The initiative will

Jubilee Scholarships will help develop the next

provide up to $40 million in scholarships in its first five

generation of innovative leaders and community

years.

builders, both locally and globally, say Canada’s universities and community foundations. The Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

CFC will use its philanthropic expertise to steward, invest and disburse the funding to participating

As the technical leader of the Canadian Queen

universities across Canada. A special purpose charitable

Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarships program,

trust will be created to hold the funding and will be

AUCC will draw upon its wealth of experience in

governed by an independent committee.

5

www.mun.ca/gazette


Equal opportunity Creating an accessible learning environment By Laura Barron

Coming to university

can

be an overwhelming experience for any new student. For students with disabilities, the transition from high school to university can seem all the more daunting. First-year student Monica Oake has used a wheelchair since she sustained injuries in a car accident as a small child. Ms. Oake came to Memorial from the small community of Long Island in central Newfoundland, which has a K-12 school population of just four students. For Ms. Oake, transitioning to a university with more than 18,000 students was a significant adjustment. Despite the shift, Ms. Oake says she felt welcome and supported at Memorial. She and her parents applaud the services available, as well as the individuals and teams who helped to accommodate her throughout her studies. “The accommodations have made things easier for me,” she said. “Everyone, the lab instructors, professors and the Blundon Centre, have been super accommodating.” As

part

of

her

introduction

to

Monica Oake

Memorial, Ms. Oake and her parents met with the team at the Glenn Roy Blundon

travel throughout campus, and helped

While the Blundon Centre provides

equal opportunity to achieve their edu-

Centre, a division of the Counselling

to familiarize her with the on-campus

services and supports for students with

cational goals. Students at the Grenfell

Centre. The Blundon Centre provides

resources. The Blundon Centre, led by

disabilities year-round, it also works to

Campus can contact the Learning Centre

and co-ordinates programs and services

manager Ruth North, also collaborated

accommodate students with temporary

and those at Marine Institute can get in

that enable students with disabilities

with an occupational therapist, the car-

disabilities.

touch with Disability Services.

to maximize their educational poten-

pentry shop in Facilities Management,

tial. Their team also works to increase

the

“Everyone, the lab instructors, professors and the Blundon Centre, have been super accommodating.”

First-year engineering student Evan

Memorial’s Blundon Centre, in part-

and

Kearley broke his leg just prior to the

nership with individuals and teams

the Department of Biology to exam-

beginning of his first semester. As he

across the university, is committed to

ine classrooms and labs in order to

prepared to begin Orientation 2013 in

student success. Memorial’s students,

ensure Ms. Oake’s wheelchair could be

a wheelchair, unaware of the supports

faculty and staff are working together

accommodated.

available on campus, the Office of the

to support inclusive education based on

Registrar let Mr. Kearley know that the

the principles of equity, accessibility and

Blundon Centre could help. A last-min-

collaboration.

Department

“People

are

of

Chemistry

incredibly

supportive

across our campuses,” said Ms. North. “There are faculty and staff who have

ute email to the Blundon Centre helped

“Memorial is a great place to study,”

invested a lot of time, interest and con-

to prepare him for orientation and for

said Ms. North. “We offer services that

cern, and who genuinely care about

his first semester. For Mr. Kearley, the

are comparable to those offered at cam-

creating an accessible learning envi-

Blundon Centre made it possible for

puses across the country and beyond.

awareness of inclusive values among all

ronment for students. Also, in the new

him to participate and to travel between

We offer a wonderful, supportive team

members of the university community.

Accommodations

classes.

of people here who genuinely care about

In the spring and summer of 2013, prior

Disabilities Policy, there is more of an

For new and current students, Ms.

to her first semester last fall, the Blundon

emphasis on partnership and collabora-

North recommends they get in touch with

For more information on the Blundon

Centre gave Ms. Oake two personal tours

tion in providing accommodations. It’s

the Blundon Centre as early as possible in

Centre and the Accommodations for

of the St. John’s campus. The tours

not just the Blundon Centre —  it’s a col-

order to facilitate accommodations for

Students with Disabilities Policy, visit

included several routes for Ms. Oake to

laborative effort.”

students with disabilities so they have an

mun.ca/blundon .

for

Students

with

students.”

Career planning at home in Labrador By Emma Sharkey

and careers in science and engineering,

Special to the Gazette

with an emphasis on how their educa-

of

tion and careers can take place in or near

industry, government and non-profit

The students were unanimous in their

their home communities.

organizations, including the Labrador

agreement that the conference increased

Partnership,

their interest in science and engineering.

Women Engineering

in

Science

Newfoundland

and

With

speakers

from

post-secondary

a

variety

institutions,

campus, the students were introduced to a wide range of career possibilities.

and

WISE NL worked with each school

Aboriginal

Training

Labrador (WISE NL) hosted 15 male and

in Labrador with Grade 10-12 students

Memorial

University’s

Aboriginal

The group said it appreciated the access

female Aboriginal students from across

to encourage attendance from as many

Resource Office, the College of the

to new and more detailed information

Labrador at a conference in Happy

communities as possible. The confer-

North Atlantic (CNA), Altius Minerals,

about

Valley-Goose Bay recently.

ence had representation from Red Bay,

the Labrador Institute, the Torngat

including geology, medicine, wildlife,

Wabush, Nain, Postville, Natuashish and

Secretariat, Stantec and Nalcor, as well as

chemistry and biology.

Goose Bay.

a tour of CNA’s Happy Valley-Goose Bay

The goal of the conference was to encourage students to consider education

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

6

specific

topics

of

interest,

www.mun.ca/gazette


Careful stewardship

Colony of Avalon receives Faculty of Arts’ community award By Janet Harron

The Colony

of Avalon Foundation has been

Newfoundland and Labrador Community Research Engagement Award. Nominated by Dr. Barry Gaulton, the Colony of Avalon Foundation was cited for the two decades of close collaboration and partnership its volunteer members have enjoyed with faculty members in the Department of Archaeology. “The board and staff of the Colony of Avalon are

Chris Hammond photo

named the 2014 recipient of the Faculty of Arts’

Pictured from left are archaeologists Dr. Jim Tuck and Dr. Barry Gaulton at Ferryland in 2011.

honoured by this award, and thank Dr. Gaulton for the nomination,” said Des Costello, chair of the Colony

“The Colony of Avalon Foundation actively contrib-

community,” said Dr. Lynne Phillips, dean, Faculty

of Avalon’s board of directors. “The Colony of Avalon

utes to my ongoing research program at Ferryland,”

of Arts, and chair of the Community Research

continues to fulfill its mission of investigating and pre-

said Dr. Gaulton, who has managed the project since

Engagement Award Committee. “The 20-year partner-

serving the archaeological site in Ferryland through its

2005 following the retirement of Dr. Jim Tuck. “Since

ship Dr. Gaulton described in his nomination letter is

partnership with Memorial University. What we have

2005 the foundation has been successful in acquiring

an outstanding example of co-operation between the

achieved together over the years is remarkable.”

$546,000 in operating funds dedicated to the hiring of

university and community and is exactly the sort of

Memorial first became involved in the archaeological

local field assistants and laboratory technicians. These

engagement we are highlighting with the Community

investigation of Ferryland in the mid-1980s. The com-

well-trained staff members allow me to implement my

Research Engagement Award.”

munity-based, not-for profit foundation was founded in

excavation plans and achieve my research goals.”

1994 in an effort to preserve and promote the archaeological remains in the community.

The foundation also serves as a careful steward of the over two million archaeological objects unearthed

Dr. Phillips presented the award to board member Maureen Sullivan at Ferryland’s interpretative centre on June 27.

In the subsequent 20 years, the colony and members

during excavations and currently housed in a dedicated

The Faculty of Arts’ Newfoundland and Labrador

of the Department of Archaeology have enjoyed a sub-

collections room at the interpretative centre. From an

Community Research Engagement Award (www.mun.

stantial partnership, which has resulted in employment

academic perspective, the foundation has assisted, both

ca/arts/engagement/crea.php) was established in 2013

for over 30 people from the Southern Shore each season,

directly and indirectly, in the successful completion of

to recognize a community or place within the prov-

as well as an interpretative program enjoyed by approx-

graduate student research. As a result, the archaeolog-

ince of Newfoundland and Labrador which has been

imately 17,000 visitors each year. The archaeological

ical site at Ferryland has contributed tremendously to

an instrumental partner in research completed by an

site, interpretation centre, 17th-century kitchen and

the training of a new generation of archaeologists.

arts faculty member(s) and/or graduate student. The

heritage gardens of the Colony of Avalon are anchor

“This partnership truly fits the criteria for this

research must have taken place within the last five years

attractions and have led to the development of new bed

award — the Colony of Avalon enabled Dr. Gaulton’s

and have made a positive difference in the community.

and breakfasts, restaurants and other amenities.

research and his research in turn has benefitted the

Artful giving Student raising funds for children with disabilities through art By Heidi Wicks

FACEFORWARD A CLASS ABOVE Because

pharmacists

are the most accessible

health-care professionals, many people choose the career because they love helping others. Parinita Verma, Class of 2015 and the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacist Senior Student Representative, is honing her compassion and reaching beyond her role as a future pharmacist to include philanthropist. She became involved in the Easter Seals Newfoundland and Labrador — a program that maximizes the abilities

A Parinita Verma original work.

of children with disabilities  —  after hearing positive stories from children and parents participating in the

2012 Provincial Youth Venture’s Excellence in Artistic

my artwork, especially family and friends, I decided to

program.

Design award.

challenge myself further with artistic design and started

“The best part is being involved with the children,”

“I decided to organize this event for Easter Seals this

my second venture. I love painting because it allows me

she explained. “There was one sweet four-year-old

summer. I’ve donated pieces of my artwork to sell off in

to connect with my creative side and relax my mind, as

girl Claire who has cerebral palsy and epilepsy, and

an online auction, and all proceeds go to Easter Seals.”

well as create artwork that really means a lot to individ-

is currently on the assessment list for selective dorsal

The online auction features over 35 of Ms. Verma’s

rhizotomy surgery. She has been involved in Easter Seals

original art, as well as two paintings by artists Angie

for about three years and attends their music therapy

Woodman and Radhika Verma, Ms. Verma’s sister.

program, which brings her so much joy.”

“I’ve always been interested in creating artwork,” she

uals who request and purchase paintings.” Ms. Verma hopes to continue with Easter Seals after she graduates, and hopes to make this year’s initiative an annual event.

Ms. Verma has been so affected by the organization

said. “After spending six years with the Youth Ventures

View and bid on Ms. Verma’s artwork by visiting

that she decided to launch her own fundraiser via her

program with my Henna Body Art Creations business

Abstract Painting Auction! on Facebook. The auction

business, Parinita’s Abstract Paintings, which won the

and upon the encouragement of those who appreciated

closes Aug. 8.

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

7

www.mun.ca/gazette


Talking and listening By Janet Harron

A love for

talking and listening has made jour-

nalism a perfect fit for Alyson Samson, a native of Port Union, N.L., and the recipient of the 2014 CBC Radio Peter Gzowski internship. The arts student graduated in May with a double major in English and communication studies. She says she didn’t so much realize she was interested in journalism until she found herself in the middle of it while writing stories for the university’s student-run newspaper and volunteering at Memorial’s radio station, CHMR. “I started writing an article for the Muse here and Heather Barrett photo

there because I thought it would be fun to get out and talk to musicians and artists I admired,” she said. “It was really just a legitimization of my curiosity. I love to talk, and I love to listen to peoples’ stories, so it just became a very natural fit for me. If you’ve got five minutes I’ll be sure to get your life story.” Ms. Samson credits CHMR’s news director Colleen Power for being a huge influence on her career and for

2014 Gzowski intern Alyson Samson hard at work at CBC in St. John’s.

encouraging her pursuit of the Gzowski internship. She was hired in the MUCEP student employment program

On her second day she took a road trip to Ferryland,

broadcaster concerns her and she hopes the Gzowski

to work as assistant news director and ended up on air

conducted her first interview, returned to the studio,

internship will be preserved regardless of the ongoing

interviewing members of the local arts community.

edited her story and then wrote a script.

budget cutting.

“When I found out I received the internship, well first I believe I hyperventilated, and then I called my mom, and then Colleen,” she recalled.

“It was the best learning experience they could have given me,” Ms. Samson enthused. A typical day at the CBC consists of looking for stories

After spending a week in Toronto for training with

online, attending meetings, script writing, audio cut-

the other four Gzowski interns — one each from Trent,

ting, and — Ms. Samson’s favourite activity — getting

McGill and Simon Fraser  —  Ms. Samson has been

out and talking to people.

“thrown in head first” at the CBC bureau in St. John’s.

“It offers amazing opportunities for people to explore a career that otherwise may prove challenging to break into — particularly for those of us who did not pursue journalism degrees from the start.” Ms. Samson is currently considering applying to journalism schools after her internship ends in August.

The current financial situation at the national

“Awards and scholarships allow students to focus on their studies rather than on part-time jobs or the stress of funding their education,” added Dr. Zerbe. “It lessens their debt burden when they graduate, and it provides an incentive for current students to maintain a high academic standard. In short, the people in this room — teachers, support staff, students, alumni and members of the business community — are all working together to ensure the future prosperity of this province by supporting the success and education of our students.” Krista

Lewis,

a

first-year

master

of

business

administration student and recipient of the Peter Gardiner Award for International Study, said at the event that this scholarship will help her participate in an international exchange in New Zealand this September. “Whether you’ve helped make an international exchange possible or support a student’s MBA career,

Andrew Benteau, second from left, and Danny Mills, on the right, received scholarships from Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro Corporation, represented by Megan Greenslade, far left, and Aimee Igloliorte.

you’ve made a difference, perhaps bigger than you realize,”

she

said.

“Education

and

international

experiences are some of the best gifts one can give — gifts that move others, build a sense of community, and elevate the world from mediocrity to greatness. You have

‘A way of paying forward’ Business faculty hands out $200,000 to students

all inspired me and I look forward to the day when I can pay it forward and give back to future students and world travellers.” Eleanor Swanson, founder of the Greg Campbell Memorial Business Award and Greg Campbell Memorial Business Scholarship, gave remarks on behalf of donors at the event.

By Susan White-MacPherson

“This event is an opportunity for us to recognize

“My late husband, Greg Campbell, was a proud

Memorial’s business faculty handed out $200,000

our students for their tremendous accomplishments

Memorial business student, very involved in the life of

in awards, bursaries and scholarships to deserving

academically and also in the community,” said Dr.

the university,” said Ms. Swanson. “He died suddenly in

business students recently.

Zerbe. “To today’s winners, your work and dedication

2000 and I wanted to preserve his memory. I thought of

does not go unrecognized or unrewarded and I offer you

this scholarship fund as Greg was a great supporter of

my congratulations.”

young people and believed strongly in the importance

That amount  —  an increase of $30,000 over last year — was provided to 126 students in recognition of their academic success and community involvement at

Dr. Zerbe also thanked the donors for their generosity,

an event that brought together donors, faculty members

which makes the awards and scholarships program

and students at the RBC Atrium June 6.

possible.

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

8

of education. He would see this as a great investment in the future, a way of paying forward.”

www.mun.ca/gazette


Canadian Academy of Engineering honours alumni, faculty and staff By Krista Davidson

The Canadian

Academy of Engineering (CAE)

inducted a number of Memorial alumni, faculty and staff into its ranks at its 2014 annual general meeting and symposium in St. John’s June 26. Of the 49 fellows and two honorary fellows to be inducted into the CAE, five have strong ties to Memorial University. Dr. Ray Gosine, associate vice-president (research); C-Core; Earl Ludlow, president and chief executive officer, Newfoundland Power; Gilbert Bennett, vice-president, Lower Churchill Project, Nalcor Energy; and Ross Peters, former dean of engineering, Memorial University, were honoured. “These individuals not only have close ties to Memorial University, but they are also inextricably linked to their communities through their professions,”

dennis flynn photo

Charles Randell, president and chief executive officer,

Pictured are 25 of the 26 fellows from throughout Canada who were inducted into the Canadian Academy of Engineering in St. John’s June 26.

said Dr. Richard Marceau, vice-president (research), and president, CAE. “During their career, they have consis-

The CAE is the national institution through which

non-profit organization established in 1987. Members

tently demonstrated high calibre work and exemplary

Canada’s most distinguished and experienced engi-

of the CAE are nominated and elected by their

service, made innovative leaps in the areas of education,

neers provide strategic advice on matters of critical

peers to honorary fellowships, in view of their distin-

energy, marine and the environment, and continue to

importance to Canada.

guished achievements and career-long service to the

provide invaluable leadership to the wider community.”

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

The CAE is an independent, self-governing and

9

engineering profession.

www.mun.ca/gazette


Research, teaching and the future of pharmacy It was something of an adventure for the School of Pharmacy’s

HW: The pharmacy profession has some big changes

new dean to depart the warmth of Canada’s West Coast

in its future, with pharmacists having more respon-

to the rain, drizzle and fog in the east. But for Dr. Carlo

sibilities as part of their practice. Can you talk about

Marra, who began his term on June 1, the people are proving

some of the lesser-known responsibilities and the

warm enough to compensate for the weather. However, there

expanding roles of pharmacists in health care?

was much more to his move, as Gazette contributor Heidi

CM: In many provinces, pharmacists administer injec-

Wicks finds out.

tions such as vaccinations, offer drug store clinics that include blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol testing,

HW: Before joining Memorial, you were actively

give presentations to community organizations on med-

involved with some high-profile research orga-

ication use, perform medication reviews to ensure that

nizations via your role at the University of British

patients are prescribed the right medications and are

Columbia. Will you continue to develop these rela-

taking them as they should, extend prescriptions, pro-

tionships in your new role?

vide smoking cessation counselling, offer safe disposal

CM: I will most definitely be continuing to contribute

of expired medications, advocate with government for

to research. Both the Arthritis Research Centre and the

client medication coverage, and so much more.

Dr. Carlo Marra

been very important in developing my research pro-

HW: Do you feel that pharmacists can help alleviate

HW: Speaking of the future and expanded scope of

gram over the past decade. I would very much like to

costs in the health-care system?

practice, I understand that the School of Pharmacy

seek opportunities for our school to collaborate with

CM: Yes, in a variety of ways. Through medication man-

is about to embark on a complete curriculum rede-

these and other prolific groups.

agement, pharmacists can ensure the appropriateness

sign, to accommodate an entry-to-practice level

of therapy and help with non-adherence. And through

doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program? Can you

HW: You will not only be the dean, but also a

regular monitoring for safety and effectiveness, phar-

tell us what that means?

professor. What will you be teaching?

macists can help improve health outcomes. By doing

CM: As of 2020 all pharmacy schools in Canada will be

CM: I would like to teach some lectures in the pharmacy

these things, the health-care system could be used more

required to offer the Pharm.D. program, which allows

research and evaluation courses where my epidemiology,

efficiently and serious adverse events could be avoided.

new pharmacists to have the highest level of educa-

Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation have

health outcomes and epidemiology expertise could be

tion that exists for pharmacists. As the program is now, HW: Do you see many differences in the way

students complete a bachelor of science in pharmacy,

pharmacists operate in British Columbia versus

and then complete the one-year Pharm.D. program at

Newfoundland and Labrador?

another institution. We are hoping that starting in the

epidemiology mean?

CM: B.C. has had a few of the expanded scope items in

fall of 2017, avoiding unforeseen delays, that Memorial’s

CM: It studies the patterns, causes and effects of health

practice for a few years. It is exciting to see and be part

School of Pharmacy will also offer this program. Our

and disease conditions in defined populations. It also

of Newfoundland and Labrador adopting these new

faculty member Dr. Lisa Bishop is leading this process.

helps inform policy decisions — it’s the basis of public

items into practice regulations, thus increasing phar-

It’s a very exciting time for the school and I’m thrilled

health, really. By identifying risk factors for disease, it

macists’ scope of practice.

to be here for it.

an asset. HW: For those of us who may not know, what does

targets for preventive health care.

Setting the bar high, accurately

Third unit at Memorial achieves globally recognized standard for quality management By Krista Davidson

A famous American poet once mused that “it takes less time to do a thing right than to explain why you did it wrong.” Doing things the right way has become an art form for the Department of Technical Services, so much so that they are only one of three Memorial units to achieve ISO 9001:2008 registration. The Marine Institute and Distance Education, Learning and Teaching Support are the two other Memorial University units that have achieved the status. received this past February, is a globally recognized standard for quality management that delivers on high customer service. The prerequisites to earning the registration take tremendous dedication spanning years. Since 2010 the department has been implementing procedures and processes to ensure all standards are met. This includes

Chris Hammond photo

The ISO 9001:2008 registration, which the department

Pictured are members of the Department of Technical Services.

procedures for management responsibility, resource management,

equipment

teaching aspects of the university,” said Jim Titford, quality

maintenance, traceability, continual improvements

instrument

calibration,

assurance project manager, Department of Technical

Mr. Meaney also credits the support of Dr. Richard

and corrective action. Every aspect of the operation

Services. Mr. Titford joined the team in 2010 and has been

Marceau, vice-president (research), in the department’s

is rigorously documented. For example, certification

working toward the registration since that time.

achievement.

by the Canadian Welding Bureau took place to ensure consistent quality.

“Each of our 74 employees has played an instrumental

this registration would not be possible.”

“Dr.

Marceau’s

unrelenting

support

for

the

role in this accomplishment,” said Rick Meaney,

Department of Technical Services is a testament to his

“The investment in time and resources in this process

director, Department of Technical Services. “Without

commitment to delivering the highest quality possible

will play an important role in the scientific research and

their support and attention to detail, working toward

to our staff and researchers.”

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

10

www.mun.ca/gazette


OUTANDABOUT

URBAN BIRD

Pictured is what is believed to be a pigeon’s nest — complete with two small eggs — on the ground outside the entrance to the Chemistry-Physics building on the St. John’s campus. Krista Davidson, communications co-ordinator in the Office of the Vice-President, captured the image on Wednesday, June 25.

For more on these events and other news at Memorial, please visit

Monday, July 7

Sunday, July 13

www.today.mun.ca

Human-coyote Interactions: Risk Perception and Education

Floral Art Show at Memorial University Botanical Garden, 10

Evaluation in a National Park, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., IIC-2014,

a.m.-4 p.m., 306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: Memorial University

Wednesday, July 2

Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation, Sponsor: School

Botanical Garden, Floral Design Group of the Newfoundland

Backyard Composting, 3-4 p.m., 306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor:

of Graduate Studies

Horticultural Society

Changing Constructions and Policy Implications of Population

Friday, July 18

Ageing in a Multicultural Society, 10:30-11:30 a.m., ER-4002,

Blood Donor Clinic, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., University Centre,

Sponsor: School of Social Work

The Landing, Sponsor: Canadian Blood Services

Practice, 10:30-11:30 a.m., ER-4002, Sponsor: School of Social

Using Administrative, Survey and EMR/EHR Data for Health

Saturday, July 19

Work

Research and Health System Use in N.L., 12-1 p.m., room 2J619,

Eighth Annual Rose Show at the Garden, 12-5 p.m., 306 Mount

Health Sciences Centre, Janeway, Sponsor: Faculty of Medicine

Scio Rd., Sponsor: Memorial University Botanical Garden, John

City of St. John’s, Multi-materials Stewardship Board, Memorial University Botanical Garden

Thursday, July 3 Immigrant Transnationalism: Implication for Social Work

Cabot Rose Society

Clinical Epidemiology in Cancer Prevention: Where I’ve Been and Where I Hope to Go, 12-1 p.m., room 2J619, Health

Tuesday, July 8

Sciences Centre, Janeway

Let The Data Speak!, 1-2 p.m., EN-2022, Sponsor: Department

Monday, July 20

of Computer Science

Eighth Annual Rose Show at the Garden, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.,

Friday, July 4

306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: Memorial University Botanical

Blood Donor Clinic, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Bruneau Centre for Research

Wednesday, July 9

and Innovation, Sponsor: Canadian Blood Services

Pyrolysis Bio-oil as a Renewal Fuel and Source of Chemicals: Its

Garden, John Cabot Rose Society

Production, Characterization and Stability, 1-3 p.m., IIC-2014,

Tuesday, July 21

Utilizing Transcriptional Models to Interface Epigenetics,

Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation, Sponsor: School

Niche Partitioning in Sympatric Greenland Cod (Gadus ogac)

Energetics and Therapeutics in Breast Cancer, 1-2 p.m., Junior

of Graduate Studies

and Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua), 1-3 p.m., IIC-2014, Bruneau

Common Room, R. Gushue Hall, Sponsor: Immunology and Infectious Disease Group

Centre for Research and Innovation, Sponsor: School of 32nd Annual Alumni Golf Tournament, 7 a.m.-3 p.m., Terra

Graduate Studies

Nova Golf Resort, Port Blandford, N.L., Sponsor: Johnson Inc.

Saturday, July 5

An Introduction to Graduate Studies at Memorial University,

Second Annual Mystery Garden Tour, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Memorial

3-4 p.m., online webinar, Sponsor: School of Graduate Studies

University Botanical Garden, St. John’s and surrounding area, Sponsor: Memorial University Botanical Garden, Friends

Friday, July 11

of MUN Botanical Garden, Landscape Newfoundland and

Optimal Link Adaptation for Multicarrier Communication

Labrador

Systems, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., IIC-2014, Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation, Sponsor: School of Graduate Studies

CLASSIFIED

Sunday, July 6 Second Annual Mystery Garden Tour, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Memorial

Saturday, July 12

University Botanical Garden, St. John’s and surrounding area,

Floral Art Show at Memorial University Botanical Garden,

Sponsor: Memorial University Botanical Garden, Friends

12-5 p.m., 306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: Memorial University

Desperately seeking a copy of a 1967 Cap and

of MUN Botanical Garden, Landscape Newfoundland and

Botanical Garden, Floral Design Group of the Newfoundland

Gown yearbook. Please call 722-2513.

Labrador

Horticultural Society

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

11

www.mun.ca/gazette


Judge a book by its cover

tragedy, the bombing of a street market in Baghdad and the killing and maiming of people who just happened to be there on that day. Focusing on a particular incident – one of the many bombings that happened and continue to happen

Limited-edition artists’ books share messages of peace

in Iraq – gives the tragedy a human face, one that can easily be lost in the flow of news reports, statistics and political rhetoric about the conflict. The second is that this particular bombing was not just an attack on people, it was an attack on culture. The response organized by

By Kristine Power

the Al-Mutanabbi Street Coalition is the

There is a

book in the Queen

response of a literate culture which has at

Elizabeth II Library (QEII) in the shape of

its heart creativity, not destruction.”

an artist’s hand called Witness.

The works encompass a variety of

Its pages are comprised of a printed

styles including accordion-folded books,

New York Times article translated in as

flag books, pop-up books, books in boxes

many different languages as Google will

and scrolls and employ a wide variety of

allow. The pages are charred, dirtied and

media such as wax, metal, mirror, roof

dyed to look as though the book has sur-

shingles, gold leaf, ribbons, ash, thread,

vived a bombing. The effect is haunting.

sand paper and even velvet. They defy

The viewer is transported to a place of

traditional perceptions of what a book is.

chaos and fear through the imaginary

“Often what artists’ books try to do is

portal of a book.

to somehow embody in the structure of

Witness is part of an exhibit of 45

the book the message or content of the

limited-edition artists’ books from 10

text,” said Mr. Warner. “There are all

different countries currently on display

kinds of structural elements in a book

in the library from the Al-Mutanabbi

that communicate information. Artists’

Street Coalition. This international arts

books look to harness these elements in

coalition continues to sponsor creative projects in response to the horrific car bombing on Al-Mutanabbi Street in

Witness by Miriam Schaer, is part of an exhibit of artists’ books from 10 different countries currently on display in the QEll Library.

Baghdad, Iraq, that killed 30 people and

the service of the text. The books in the Al-Mutanabbi Street exhibit manage to do this with great style.” The exhibit is on display from June

wounded more than 100 on March 5,

by Miriam Schaer, contains the New York

2007.

librarian in the QEII Library.

20-Aug. 31 on the third floor of the

Times’s coverage of the bombing, an

“There are two aspects to the exhibit

QEII Library. For more information

The street, named after 10th century

article retold in different languages to

which stand out to me over and above

on the roaming exhibit, please see

Arab poet Al-Mutanabbi, is famous for

evoke remembrance, says Patrick Warner,

the qualities of the individual books,” he

w w w.a l-muta nabbist reetsta r tshere-

its booksellers and book market. Witness,

exhibit curator and special collections

said. “One is that it draws attention to a

boston.com .

Off-road lessons

Engineering students place well in international racing competition

By Jackey Locke

Team Memorial

Baja finished

frame. With the new design, we were

52nd out of 90 universities at the Baja

able to decrease the weight of the car by

SAE competition in Peoria, Ill., June 4-7.

20 pounds which means it’s capable of

While it was the fifth consecutive year that Team Memorial competed at this

going faster.” Despite delays in the redesign process,

international racing event, it was the

the team is pleased with how the car per-

first competition for this year’s vehicle.

formed. The team’s best event was accel-

Baja SAE consists of three regional

eration with a 29th place finish.

competitions that simulate real-world

With a stronger re-designed car, the

engineering design projects and their

team is hoping for improved placements

related

at next year’s competition.

challenges.

Engineering

stu-

dents are tasked to design and build an

“It was a big learning experience for

off-road vehicle that will survive the

us to set the goals of when we needed to

severe punishment of rough terrain and

design it and when we needed to start

sometimes even water. The event also

fabricating,” said Jumana Joury, 2014

produce what he believes is the strongest

included competitions in acceleration,

team member and 2015 co-captain.

Memorial Baja to date.

hill climbing, manoeuvrability, suspen-

“We

sion and traction and endurance. “We redesigned the entire car and were literally putting it together on the

also

case-hardened

our

The Baja team works on the car during the endurance race. “The car really is fundamentally well-designed,” he continued. “This is

own

“The highlight this year was watching

the strongest car yet. All the adjustments

gears — a process we learned about in

the car go around the manoeuvrability

they made from last year and all the

class. It was a great experience to be able

track,” he said. “It had been moving

forethought that went into it made for a

to apply it.”

under its own power for approximately

sound car that with a little more testing

way to the competition,” said Alex Clark,

Dr. Geoff Rideout, a mechanical engi-

15 minutes at that point, and we watched

and development should finish in the

2014 team member and 2015 co-cap-

neering professor and teacher sponsor

a lot of cars experience technical diffi-

top 20 next year.”

tain. “We redesigned the front and back

for the team, says the team members

culties on the track. Our car completed

suspensions, chassis, gear box, brakes,

came together leading up to the event to

the entire course twice without incident.

Gazette | Wednesday, July 2, 2014

12

For more about Team Memorial Baja, go to www.memorialbaja.com .

www.mun.ca/gazette


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.