Vol45%2315 gazette june5

June 5, 2013 Volume 45 Number 15

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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Risk assessment

Memorial researchers release findings on potential impacts of genetically modified fish interbreeding with related species.

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Worthy candidates

Reducing poverty Nursing faculty focus on improving social work and health services in Vietnam.

The Gazette wraps up its coverage of spring convocation 2013 with a complete collection of honorary orations.

History made

chris hammond PHOTo

Memorial University Chancellor Susan Dyer Knight tips her bonnet at her special installation ceremony during spring convocation at the St. John’s Arts and Culture Centre May 28. During her address to convocation, Dr. Knight said she accepted the historic post — Memorial’s seventh and first female chancellor — “with a full heart.”

In the field

ongoing support of Memorial and the stu-

with the opportunity to participate in

dents we serve.”

international field courses that serve to

“Geoscientists are integral to the suc-

increase the depth and breadth of student

Hibernia enhancing geosciences field school program

cess of the oil and gas industry,” said Jamie

By Kelly Foss

Long, president, HMDC. “Our employees

“Our field schools are the cornerstone

experiences.

look forward to sharing their experience

of our undergraduate programs in geology

Management and

graduates are highly sought after by indus-

with Memorial students by participating

and geophysics,” said Dr. John Hanchar,

Development Company Ltd. (HMDC) is

try and academic institutions around

in the field school field trips, which are an

head, Department of Earth Sciences. “As a

contributing $420,000 to enhance the

the world because of the high calibre of

important component for students.”

fundamental part of the experience-based

field experience of students and staff

the geoscience program,” said Dr. Gary

The Department of Earth Sciences’

learning environment we cultivate, field

at Memorial University. The funds will

Kachanoski, president and vice-chancel-

undergraduate programs strive to take

schools serve to inform and contextualize

support the Department of Earth Sciences’

lor. “This generous gift will enable the

full advantage of the spectacular geolog-

the classroom experience.”

core field schools, the development

Department of Earth Sciences to increase

ical setting of Newfoundland, utilizing

The first two-week field trip using the

The Hibernia

of a new environmental geology and

student participation by offering addi-

field locales across the island that sam-

HMDC funding has concluded. Twenty-

geophysics field school and field safety

tional field school opportunities and

ple a diverse suite of geological prov-

two undergraduate students, two faculty

leadership training opportunities.

eliminating financial barriers. On behalf

inces. They also provide the third- and

members, a graduate student and a staff

of the students, I thank HMDC for their

fourth-year

member visited areas of geological inter-

“Memorial University earth sciences

undergraduate

students

est in southern California and Nevada to view geological features analogous to what was present in Newfoundland and Labrador more than 500 million years ago. Plans for next year’s field trip to Chile and Bolivia are already underway.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Memorial’s earth sciences undergraduate students,” said Bronwyn Moore, one of chrs hammond PHOTO

the students who participated in the trip.

“The field school gave us the chance to experience the vast geology of California and Nevada under the guidance of Memorial professors. Future trips like

From left are Bronwyn Moore, Dr. John Hanchar, Jamie Long and Dr. Christopher Loomis.

these will undoubtedly be the highlight of many students’ academic careers.”

submitted photo

Memorial alumni celebrate in Calgary In his address, Dr. Kachanoski commended the com-

By Jennifer Batten

mitment of Memorial’s alumni community in Calgary.

Alumni and friends

in Calgary gathered

“Every year when my wife Teresa and I come to Calgary

recently at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in the city’s downtown

for this wonderful event, we have the opportunity to

core to celebrate Memorial University and Newfoundland

reconnect and catch up with supporters and friends of

and Labrador.

Memorial, as well as meet many new friends, including

Performer Andrew James O’Brien

Dr. Gary Kachanoski, Memorial’s president and

recent graduates who have traveled to Alberta to pursue

vice-chancellor, was joined by many of Canada’s top

career opportunities,” said Dr. Kachanoski. “We meet

“Newfoundland and Labrador is blessed with rich and

energy executives and more than 200 alumni and friends

and talk to many different individuals, all with different

diverse natural resources,” said Ms. Fehr. “Few jurisdic-

for the annual dinner. The event was an opportunity for

stories to tell. But, of course, the one thing that is com-

tions in North America can match the immense value of

alumni to reconnect with old friends and colleagues, net-

mon is a shared passion for Memorial University and for

our vast resources — oil, gas, hydro, wind and other energy

work and hear about the exciting initiatives happening at

Newfoundland and Labrador.”

sources. Energy is an essential part of our lives today, and

Memorial today.

Nalcor Energy was a partner in the event, and was

will be a significant part of our future. Anchored by a

The evening took on a lighthearted, celebratory tone

represented by Christina Fehr, manager of commer-

strong vision, Nalcor is progressing with its plans to man-

with a musical performance by rising stars Andrew James

cial and strategy, Nalcor Oil and Gas, who spoke about

age Newfoundland and Labrador’s energy resources for

O’Brien and Catherine Allan, and the humorous storytell-

Newfoundland and Labrador’s vast energy resources and

the benefit of future generations — as per the mandate

ing and sharp wit of actor and comedian Jonny Harris,

the role that Nalcor plays in strategically managing these

given to us in the provincial Energy Plan.”

emcee for the occasion.

assets for the economic benefit of future generations.

The project:

obituaries

The beginning stages of the research project would be

Maurice Good

threefold.

Maurice Good, a retired faculty member in the Division of Fine Arts’ theatre program at Grenfell

“Right now we are seeking preliminary research

Campus, passed away on May 10. He was 80.

which would inform us if medicinal herbs would be viable to grow in the climate and conditions of this region,

your next project

By Amy Tucker Special to the Gazette

which ones would work best and what herbs have a

Jaafar Moussa Falih

strong demand in the market,” said Ms. Layman.

Jaafar Moussa Falih, a student in the general science program at Grenfell Campus, has passed away. A

She is also interested in learning about the experi-

memorial service was held in Montreal, Que.

ences of other growers.

“It would be interesting to know about others’ experiences in growing these plants in the province, and learn

Yaffle.ca is Memorial’s online connecting tool. One of its most

about what worked or did not work for them.”

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

Right now, Ms. Layman is unsure of the strength of

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

the markets for these herbs, and does not know whether

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

they would be locally, nationally or internationally

Here’s one …

based. However, she notes that the market seems to be

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

growing as people are turning to alternative medicines,

The opportunity:

and there could be potential to tap into large markets in

Carew Services Ltd. is a locally owned landscaping

Europe and Asia.

company based in Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, just outside

In addition to this research, the company is also

of St. John’s. Doreen Layman has been contracted

interested in examining the secondary processing of

by the company to look into what can be done with

the herbs they plan to grow. Research is needed on what

approximately 100 acres of agricultural land they own

options exist for secondary processing, and if creating

within the town.

internal facilities would be a viable option.

“We’re looking into growing medicinal herbs, as there is not much grown here, and it seems to be an expanding market,” she said.

Editor Graphics Mandy Cook Molly Baker

Courtenay Alcock Laura Barron Jennifer Batten Rebecca Cohoe Melanie Callahan Nora Daly Paula Dyke Kelly Foss Pamela Gill Sharon Gray Janet Harron Jill Hunt Jackey Locke

Ms. Layman sees this as a beneficial project for her community.

“Buying locally produced food is becoming increas-

Ms. Layman notes that there are already plants growing

ingly important to people. Also, an active agricultural

that may have medicinal properties, such as the dande-

venture would employ people for seeding and har-

lion, which was brought over by Europeans for medicinal

vesting, along with the potential for employment in

purposes. The company is also interested in exploring the

processing.”

possibilities of growing common herbs such as ginseng, echinacea, St. John’s wort and herbal teas. However, the

Interested in learning more about this project? Amy Tucker, co-ordinator

company needs research on various aspects of this ven-

of knowledge mobilization at the Harris Centre, would love to tell you

ture before moving forward.

more. Call her at 709 864 6115 or email her at amy.tucker@mun.ca.

Regular Contributors

Peter Morris Cathy Newhook Shannon O’Dea Dawson Naomi Osborne Michelle Osmond David Penney Marcia Porter Kristine Power Dave Sorensen Meaghan Whelan Susan White-MacPherson Laura Woodford

Classified Advertising Photography Kelly Hickey Chris Hammond

Lori Lee Hollett Advertising Mandy Cook Telephone: 709-864-2142 Email: mandyc@mun.ca Next Gazette deadline June 19 for June 26 publication.

The Gazette is published 17 times annually by the Division of Marketing and Communications at Memorial Uni­versity.

Doreen Layman photo

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.

Carew Services Ltd.’s 100 acres of agricultural land in Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s.

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

2

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‘Given his all’

Saying farewell to the vice-president (research)

By Meaghan Whelan

In

his

spring

convocation

address,

Dr.

Gary

Kachanoski, president and vice-chancellor, thanked Dr. Loomis for his service to Memorial.

papers and presentations in the area of spinal pharmacology of pain.

“Chris has a love and passion for research and truly

“Dr. Loomis has led the research portfolio at Memorial

understands how important it is to support others in

for many years, spearheading the significant growth of

pursuit of their research aspirations,” said Dr. Ray

our research activities. Between that and the valuable

Gosine, associate vice-president (research). “I have

leadership Dr. Loomis provided when he served pro

enjoyed working closely with Chris in a variety of roles.

completed his

tempore as president and vice-president (academic), and

He has been an exceptionally supportive boss, a won-

term as vice-president (research) on May 31, 2013,

earlier as dean of pharmacy, as a teacher and researcher

derful colleague and a trusted friend.”

concluding a decade of service that has indelibly shaped

of considerable note, he has given his all to Memorial.”

Dr. Christopher Loomis

research at Memorial.

His teaching, research and leadership have been recog-

Dr. Loomis said he is proud of the growth of research during his time as vice-president.

Under his stewardship, Memorial’s research capac-

nized with numerous awards. Last fall, he was inducted

“I’m proud of what my team, the Memorial commu-

ity, impact and reputation advanced dramatically. He

as a fellow in the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences

nity and our partners, have accomplished together.

guided the research portfolio through an astounding

and also received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond

We’ve built a culture of research founded on excellence

period of growth, from $40 million in 2001–02 to more

Jubilee Medal in recognition of his sustained and sig-

and integrity,” he said. “I leave confident that Memorial

than $100 million in 2012–13; forged new partner-

nificant contributions to higher education in Canada.

is well-positioned for even greater success.”

He maintained an active program of funded research

After stepping down as vice-president (research), Dr.

Memorial’s first Research Strategy Framework to guide

and graduate student supervision throughout much of

Loomis plans to take a short break before beginning

the university’s future direction.

his time as a senior leader, and he has authored many

some special projects during his administrative leave.

chris hammond PHOTO

ships with government and industry; and developed

Dr. Ray Gosine, at left, and Dr. Christopher Loomis at a reception celebrating Dr. Loomis’ service to the Memorial community.

Losing interest in Canadian politics

The ultimate solution is not to abolish the Senate,

STUDENTVIEW

as some politicians and voters are suggesting. We need

Joshua Duff

a Senate; many do act on our behalf and in an honest manner. Instead, we need to see justice served, whether

A few naughty senators

have been

it is termination of employment or a forced resignation.

carelessly making withdrawals from the taxpayers’ piggy

Even having more open discussions to show the step-by-

bank. This handful of representatives is responsible for

for Canadians was when he looked down at his phone

step processes that are being made and that the public’s

abusing tax dollars by making false claims regarding

and recited a statement claiming that once all his infor-

interests are being served during them could encourage

their living expenses. What is more troubling is that a

mation is released, Canadians will conclude that his

Canadians to become more active with politics.

recent committee report was adjusted to be more lenient

“actions do not merit criticism.” He was remorseless and

on one of these senators: Mike Duffy. How these people

I was shocked! I thought, “He doesn’t even care what he

Canadians’ confidence in this country’s government. I

are able to justify their actions will remain a mystery to

did, nor will Canadians’ opinions matter to him.”

feel that Canadians have become exhausted with their

us.

These

would

be

small

steps

toward

restoring

An eerie chill crawled over me after listening to him

politics. Many have chosen to not concern themselves. I

This scandal has politicians sitting in the hot seat at

on CBC, and after following similar stories that are cir-

keep hearing a popular saying when I speak with friends,

the mercy of their peers, the media and perhaps soon the

cling other politicians, I noticed that many will try their

colleagues and family: “It doesn’t matter to these politi-

RCMP. It also hits home with many Canadians because

hardest to remain within politics despite the fact that

cians what I have to say.”

of the sense of betrayal. It is also likely that this will fur-

they have wronged us in an unlawful way.

ther distance voters from this country’s politics.

When the media asked Duffy if he was going to resign,

What is democracy in this country if the demands of many are being made of someone — who Canadians did

Joshua Duff is a fourth-year student majoring in political

he snickered, “Pfft.” When asked if he will remain in

not have the option of electing to represent them — to

science and English language and literature at Memorial

the Senate he replied sardonically, “Of course. I’m a

exit the house permanently, are being ignored? As a

University. He can be reached at jrd218@mun.ca .

senator. Why wouldn’t I?” The ultimate slap in the face

result, I feel that more voters will leave the political arena.

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

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www.mun.ca/gazette

Potential impacts of GM fish interbreeding with related species

By Kelly Foss

A new paper at

Memorial

by researchers

University

illuminates

an over-looked avenue for ecological impacts should genetically modified (GM) animals unintentionally escape containment.

The

paper,

titled

Hybridization

Between Genetically Modified Atlantic Salmon and Wild Brown Trout Reveals Novel

Ecological

Interactions,

was

released recently in the Royal Society journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B. The lead author is former Memorial undergraduate student Krista Oke, who did her honours thesis with Dr. Ian Fleming of the Department of Ocean Sciences. In addition to Dr. Fleming, the other co-authors are Dr. Peter Westley and Dr. Darek Moreau, former PhD students at Memorial.

“Interest in the use of GM animals and currently the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is evaluating the environmental risk of GM salmon produced

by AquaBounty Technologies for aquaculture production,” said Dr. Westley.

“Substantial work has shown the risks of GM salmon interacting with members

P. Westley photo

for human consumption is mounting,

Hybridization between GM salmon and brown trout (pictured) is an avenue for environmental impact and potentially a route for foreign genes to jump between species.

&

of their own species, but what has not been done before, and what our paper

of a GM animal and a closely related

between GM animals and wild coun-

sought to do, was to investigate what

species needs to be considered in risk

terparts, though even the likelihood

would happen if a GM salmon should

assessments.”

of significant ecological effects due to

Dr. Westley adds that the results pro-

hybridization will be low given rates of

vide empirical evidence of the success-

hybridization in nature. Things may be

The researchers successfully interbred

ful first steps towards incorporation of

increased slightly through escapes of

GM salmon with wild brown trout, two

foreign genes into the genomes of new

domesticated farmed fish.

escape

and

interbreed

with

closely

related brown trout.”

naturally hybridizing species, and saw

“Ultimately,

species.

we

PAPERS PRESENTATIONS Medical

agree

with

Dr.

historians

Connor,

John

Clinch

Jim Professor

“Although we think it’s highly unlikely,

AquaBounty’s proposed plan and efforts

of Medical Humanities and History

if GM hybrids are then able to breed with

to ensure containment and sterility so

of Medicine, and

“The GM hybrids grew really fast,

a brown trout, the foreign growth gene

GM salmon can’t interbreed — not only

Connor,

faster than non-GM salmon and they

could potentially jump between species

with their own species, but other species

humanities, have recently published

survived well enough to out-compete

via hybridization,” he said. “Broadly

as well. Sterile, all-female populations in

a number of papers related to various

and reduce the growth of non-GM

speaking, our study shows that hybrid-

land-based facilities with redundant bio-

centennial anniversaries in the history

salmon in semi-natural conditions in

ization between species is a potential

logical and physical containment would

of

the lab,” said Dr. Westley. “These results

route for new environmental impacts

considerably reduce the likelihood of

Canadian

emphasized that potential interbreeding

and

such environmental risk.”

(CMAJ) celebrated its 100th anniversary;

the offspring indeed carried the modified gene.

novel

avenues

for

interactions

Dr.

medicine.

of

Throughout

Medical

Jennifer

Dr. Jennifer

professor

medical

2011

Association

Connor’s

essay

the

Journal titled

CMAJ Instruction of Authors in the 20th Century: From Literary Style to Vancouver Style, was recently published.

The year 2012 celebrated the centennial anniversary of the death of Lord Joseph Lister, renowned for his development of antiseptic treatment in surgery.

Both

Drs. Jim and Jennifer Connor gave invited lectures at a commemorative conference at Lister’s former university, King’s College London, titled Learning from Lister: Antisepsis, Safer Surgery, and Global Health. Since this 2012 conference, Dr. Jim Connor was invited to give an address on the same topic at a special convocation at McGill University that awarded honorary doctorates to the principals and vice-chancellors of Edinburgh and Glasgow universities.

In 1912 the Medical Council of Canada was established, thanks to the hard work of Newfoundland-born Sir Thomas Roddick. Dr. Jim Connor’s CMAJ article about this, titled A Compliment to Canadian Medicine: Sir Thomas Roddick Addresses the British Medical Association in Montreal, has just appeared as an early release publication.

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

4

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CONVOCATION 2013 Friday, May 10, 10 a.m., corner brook

Oration honouring GARY FRED GRAHAM In the outer darkness of space,

Summer Music Festival.

far beyond the orbit of Pluto, sails the vessel Voyager 2.

This is his public side. There is, however, a more private

Travelling at a speed of 17 kilometres each second, it is

side as well. This shows a man of deep compassion for oth-

headed in the direction of the Dog Star Sirius, a destination

ers: volunteering with numerous charitable groups, and to

it will reach in a quarter of a million years. This spacecraft

this day, spending at least four mornings a week at the local

carries a precious cargo: a gold-plated copper disc; engraved

long-term care facility where he tends to the needs of the

on it a distillate of all that it means to be human, a greeting at

residents.

some unimaginably distant time and place, a bridge between

Chancellor, this nomination has been supported by doz-

human and alien.

ens of letters from people whose lives were touched in pro-

Much of the content of this disc is music from across the

found ways by Gary Graham. One former student, inspired

world: panpipes from the Solomon Islands, Johnny B. Goode

by him to make music his life’s vocation, continues to look

performed by Chuck Berry. And of course, there are the clas-

for ways of establishing strong and lasting links between

sics: from Beethoven, Mozart and Bach. And what could

aptitude for music. Through his unceasing efforts, he has

“my music and my community,” his letter concludes with

be more fitting? “Beethoven tells you what it is like to be

changed the musical culture of Western Newfoundland.

the observation: “The full scope of what Gary Graham has

Beethoven,” wrote Richard Adams in his Hitchhiker’s Guide to

Gary Graham, or Mr. G., as he is affectionately known by

given to Corner Brook is beyond words. It is a world unto

the Galaxy, “and Mozart tells you what it is like to be human.

his countless students, grew up in Avonport, near the Fundy

itself, one that has been opened to so many in so many dif-

Bach tells you what it is like to be the universe.”

shore of Nova Scotia and graduated from Acadia. In 1966

ferent ways for so many years.”

Music is one of the keys to understanding what it is to be human. The mystery is that we do not understand music: we

he came to Corner Brook to assume the position of music teacher at Herdman Collegiate.

In 2004 Gary Graham received the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2009 the theatre of the Corner Brook Arts

don’t know what it is, and how or why as a species we came to

In 1969 he entered a postgraduate program in musical the-

have music in our blood and bones. “Without music,” wrote

atre at McGill University, returning to Corner Brook three

the philosopher Nietzsche, “life would be a mistake.” Indeed,

years later. Since then, Gary Graham has been a transfor-

In a breakthrough experiment carried out last year at the

in the words of Bud Davidge of Simani, “nothing makes the

mative musical presence in the region. He has mentored

Max Planck Institute for Human Development, two research-

old world right like music and friends.”

thousands of students through the public school system;

ers demonstrated that when people make music together,

and Culture Centre was named the Gary Graham Theatre, and earlier this year, he received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal.

Nowhere is this sentiment truer than right here in Western

hundreds more have had the opportunity, through private

their brain activity synchronizes. And so, at this deep neuro-

Newfoundland. Some years ago, the late Dr. Ken Braye, a

lessons, to develop their musical gifts, in many cases leading

logical level, we observe what we have long known at a social

music festival adjudicator from the University of Western

them to professional careers in opera, on the concert stage,

level: music builds community.

Ontario, was heard to wonder “why Corner Brook is such a

and as music educators or administrators.

unique pocket of musical excellence, not only in quantity but also in quality.”

Chancellor, Gary Graham has, for almost 50 years, built a

He is the founding director of the Blow-Me-Down Singers,

musical community here in this region, enriching the cul-

now known as the Chorale, served as choir director of sev-

tural lives of three generations in life-altering ways. I am

Chancellor, the answer to this question stands here on

eral school-based elementary choirs and was musical direc-

proud to present to you, for the degree of doctor of laws,

this stage today in the person of Gary Graham. For almost

tor of both the Stephenville Theatre Festival and Theatre

honoris causa, Gary Fred Graham.

five decades, this remarkable man has been tireless in teach-

Newfoundland and Labrador. For the past several years, he has

ing the young and mentoring those with an interest and

served as the chair of the board of directors of the Gros Morne

Georg Gunther University orator

wednesday May 29, 10 A.m., st. john’s

Oration honouring Robert eDwin simmonds When Bob Simmonds

was first made chair of

Queen’s Counsel in 2001, he was, for four years from 2008,

the Regents there was considerable consternation on this

annually named one of the best criminal lawyers in Canada.

campus. Was he to serve as defence lawyer for the university

This was in recognition of his remarkable work in defence

or prosecutor for the government? You will remember,

of those wrongfully convicted where, in a number of local

Madam Chancellor, that he was appointed in the darkest

trials, he and his partners made legal history by the thor-

days of the university; appointed at a time when the premier

oughness and the quality of their work. He has also given

had publicly condemned this institution for failing to serve

long service to the John Howard Society for which, despite

the province; when the premier, in an unprecedented move,

a punishing professional workload, he always found time to

had rejected our candidate for president. We were all aware

work on committees or provide advice and for which he was

of Simmonds’ capacity to defend the indefensible – those

given the society’s Humanitarian Service Award. In all this

whom the public, and the authorities, had long determined

he is driven by an awareness of the need to see those con-

to be guilty. So into that category of criminal operation we

victed not as an irretrievable loss to society but as human

slotted ourselves and waited for the day when Maximum Bob

been done before, he created a bridge between the Senate

beings with the potential for reform and recovery. It might

would appear to defend us.

and the Regents. In the midst of the university’s greatest

be noted that this was also the spirit which motivated him to

But then we had to be concerned about how he would

governance crisis, he undertook a potentially thankless task

chair the Regents — we clearly were in need of reformation

defend us. Madam Chancellor, you in your short time among

and put the university back on track with a renewed sense of

and recovery from our sad state.

us, have observed how orderly and decorously is the way in

confidence in its future.

Chancellor, we commonly see justice represented as a fig-

which the university conducts itself: never a raised voice, nor

It is interesting though that, for a somewhat flamboyant

ure blindfolded (to indicate her impartiality) holding a set

a rude word. What place was there at Memorial for one who,

public figure who goes about garbed as a cross between a

of scales (to indicate her desire to wisely weigh the claims

so we are told by The Telegram, during a court case “slammed

biker and a Mafia don, it is difficult to get any real informa-

of litigants). Bob Simmonds, though, saw that justice could

a broken-off baseball bat on the table … told the crown

tion on him. It is as if he is playing the game of hiding in

often be blinded by the desire of the authorities to close a

prosecutor to shut up, called the complainants liars and

plain sight. The normal sources, student yearbooks and the

case a consequence of which was that the scales were set out

loudly interjected throughout proceedings.” Such thuggish

like, were of little help and of his five-year sojourn here at

of balance and justice was brought into disrepute. I present

behaviour could only disturb the even tenor of our ways. It

MUN there is nothing in The Muse, only a photograph in the

to you for the degree of doctor of laws, honoris causa, he who

certainly was not going to help us find a new president. Yet

Cap and Gown. So what is known? That Bob Simmonds crept

took the blindfold off justice in order to balance those scales,

Simmonds came, he presided at our councils and gave an

into this university in 1970 and, after a somewhat rocky

the man who helped set the university on a confident new

undertaking to represent the university in all arenas. For a

start, found his field, graduating in 1976 with the University

course, Robert Edwin Simmonds.

man whose word is his bond, whose integrity is legendary,

Gold Medal for Business. He then proceeded to Dalhousie

he did what he promised and more — he did what had rarely

from which he took his law degree in 1979. Appointed

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

5

Shane O’Dea Public orator

www.mun.ca/gazette

CONVOCATION 2013 wednesday, May 29, 3 p.m., st. john’s

Oration honouring Rick Hillier Never before in the history of Newfoundland and

politician that: You just can’t handle the truth.

Labrador has such a small community in Newfoundland given

But he knew instinctively the necessary alliance in a democ-

so much to so many. Two individuals from Campbellton, Notre

racy between military strategy and public policy.

Dame Bay, one a 21-year-old soldier, John Clarke, gave 222 days

We at Memorial University have benefited from his celeb-

of valiant, honourable service to his country before he died in

rity, his integrity and his conviction. He has raised the pro-

Flanders in 1917; the other, his descendant, stands here today.

file of Memorial University even higher and has led one of

General Rick Hillier gave 35 years of courageous, distinguished

the most successful fundraising campaigns, contributing over

military service to his country and, fortunately for us,

$60 million to this community. Always accessible, he imbued

continues to bring valiant leadership and honour to Canada

Memorial with a culture of respect, and a drive for excellence.

and his alma mater, Memorial University, which was built as

Characteristically, he kept things simple and direct, having no

a living memorial to all those soldiers from communities all

of terrorists against innocent civilians, and the failure of gov-

time for elaborate management structures and never-ending,

over Newfoundland and Labrador who sacrificed their lives in

ernment to supply essential military resources. Never before

self-replicating committees. As he said, when you want to get

a foreign field for our freedoms.

has a general told us that Ottawa was as much a war zone as

a job done, it is sometimes better to beg for forgiveness than

Kandahar.

permission. For him, universities are about people, not about

Never before, Madame Chancellor, has a university orator’s job been so redundant. Who here has not followed the career

We shall not forget his singular leadership in dealing with

of this charismatic and dedicated soldier? Rick made his best

the guerilla tactics employed to thwart public, visible repatria-

Never shall we forget his disarming frankness. At convoca-

choices early in life and had the tenacity and passion to hold

tion ceremonies for Canadians killed in Afghanistan. The fate

tion ceremonies, he urged students to remember how much

fast to them. He was nine years old when he contacted the

of so many First World War soldiers, returning unheralded

they owed Memorial and that if they ever forgot to be loyal and

recruiting office in Gander and met the young bridesmaid who

along half-known roads was not going to be the fate of the

true to Memorial, they would really make his day, for he knew

later became his wife. He always wanted to be a soldier and

heroes under his command. No, General Hillier simply stated :

where they lived and would come and get them.

he always wanted to marry Joyce. His values were nourished

We ain’t gonna do that. It’s as simple as that.

by his parents and his community: his clear-eyed optimism, grounded in but not defeated by adverse reality, his deter-

And the soldiers came home embraced by thousands of cheering Canadians along the Highway of Heroes.

protocols or processes.

Today, you are presiding over the changing of the guard. But in fact there is no change for both you and Rick will always stand on guard for our province, our country and our students

mination that individuals can make a difference, his belief

We shall not forget Rick Hillier’s passion and his compas-

that people matter and his sense of humour in taking aim at

sion — insisting that the soldiers in one of the most danger-

President Hamid Karzai called Rick Hillier a real friend of

bureaucrats and prime ministers.

ous war zones in the world had the comforts of home, food

Afghanistan and the former king of Afghanistan honoured him

as they take their place in the world.

Armed with principles and passion, Rick Hillier rose rap-

and laughter, sport and entertainment, while they were over-

with his country’s highest award. President Gary Kachanoski

idly through the ranks of the Armed Forces from his first reg-

seas. He set up Tim Hortons in the desert, flew in Rick Mercer

also regards Rick as a true and invaluable friend and the Senate

iment, the 8th Hussars, to positions of high responsibility in

and Mary Walsh — and most important of all brought in the

has named him to this university’s highest honour. I ask you

Germany, Canada, and the United States, advancing to high

Stanley Cup to the soldiers in Afghanistan. He was the sol-

to confer on him today, the degree of doctor of laws, honoris

command in NATO’s Multinational Division in Bosnia and

dier’s general, as well as being the consummate professional

causa, for his lasting legacy as a humane, ethical and inspiring

in the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.

soldier. Diplomatic when it mattered with people who mat-

leader in both the military and the academy, and as a living

Ultimately, when he was just 40 years old, he was appointed as

tered, he was mindful of the mutually beneficial relationships

testament to what Memorial University stands for, and what

general and chief of the defence staff in 2005.

between military and political leaders, and the necessity of

Memorial students can do.

Never before has a general spoken so openly about the

always talking clearly, accurately, and directly with each other.

grim realities of a soldier’s life, about the detestable actions

There may have been times, when Rick Hillier wanted to tell a

Dr. Annette Staveley Deputy public orator

Thursday, May 30, 10 a.m., st. john’s

Oration honouring Joseph Louis Rotman There are many

who would argue that the

dynamically involved in a vast array of Canadian cultural

businessman is a radically different creature from the artist.

bodies, educational programs, research institutions, and char-

In his quest for profit, they might say, the businessman relies

itable organizations, several of which bear his name. Most

on cool rationality and objectivity; while in the quest for a

recently, Joe has devoted himself to the innovation agenda

masterpiece, the artist is guided by imagination, empathy,

within Canadian life sciences research and related public

and if he is lucky, otherworldly inspiration. Capitalism, they

policy, to forging connections between the worlds of science,

might say, is fundamentally dehumanizing, reducing the

business, and government that enhance both discovery and

person to an economic function. Art, however, is a celebration

its commercialization. He has played vital leadership roles for

of individuality, a uniquely human expression. Commerce is

corporate boards, governing councils, and other entities too

about money, about the material world; the arts are of the

numerous to cite here, though in true Renaissance style, they

heart, and of the spirit. I submit to you, Madam Chancellor,

who held the whole universe in his mind and hands when he

range in focus from the Canada Council for the Arts to the

that the man we are honouring here today — one of this

looked at a canvas, or, like Michelangelo, who saw the angel

Canadian Institutes of Health Research to his current chan-

country’s most successful businessmen — challenges this

slumbering in the block of marble, Rotman was driven for-

cellorship of the University of Western Ontario.

simple distinction.

ward by a vision of what might become, and impelled to work

In 1962, lured by the notion that where there is risk there

tirelessly and creatively to realize it.

We are not the first, nor I suspect will we be the last, to honour this extraordinary man for his artful blend of busi-

is opportunity, Joseph Rotman abandoned his PhD program

This artistic energy would enable Joe to establish many

ness and public service. He is already an officer of the Order

at Columbia University — possibly the only thing in his life

successful companies over the years, in a variety of lucra-

of Canada and a companion of the Canadian Business Hall of

that he has not seen through — to launch a prosperous career

tive industries. But these financial triumphs are not, Madam

Fame. He has received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement

as an entrepreneur. From his father, who had emigrated from

Chancellor, quite why we are here. For Joseph Rotman is no

Award from Life Sciences Ontario, and, with Sandra, the

Poland to Toronto and sold coal from a cart until he had saved

self-interested member of the one per cent; he is no greedy

Outstanding Philanthropists Award from the Association of

enough to put a horse in front of that cart, Joe had learned

dragon sitting atop his horde. And neither is he one to sit

Fundraising Professionals.

that real value is less about what you can have than what you

idly by, writing cheques for causes. Rather, he is fuelled by

The time has now come, however, for Memorial to add to

can build and create.

both a deeply ingrained sense of responsibility to community

these accolades. Madam Chancellor, not only for being a da

We may see such an entrepreneur as a kind of artist, in

and country and a relentless commitment to innovation and

Vinci of the boardroom, for mastering the art of the deal, but

the manner, perhaps, of a great Renaissance polymath like

social improvement. He is a man of action, a man of engage-

also and even more so for his inspired and profoundly human-

Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo. These iconic figures

ment, a man with an open and generous heart.

ist approach to civic entrepreneurship and to his vision of a

were inspired by the humanist faith in unlimited potential,

The Rotman brand of philanthropy embodies the true

unquenchable curiosity, and irrepressible spirit. And so too

meaning of the word as a love of humanity, a desire to nour-

was Joseph Rotman, whose ventures must have all begun with

ish and enrich the human condition. He and his beloved

this kind of faith, this sense of possibility. Then, like da Vinci,

wife Sandra have made financial contributions and been

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

6

healthy and robust Canada, I ask you to confer the degree of doctor of laws, honoris causa, upon Joseph Louis Rotman.

Jennifer Lokash University orator www.mun.ca/gazette

CONVOCATION 2013 thursday, May 30, 3 p.m., st. john’s

Oration honouring Susan Harvey Patten You may recall as a little girl reciting the Brownie

Newfoundlanders, so it is not surprising that Susan kept her

promise. Although Brownies today recite a revised version, you

directorship a secret; not even her neighbours knew why she

probably recall the version that went, “to do my best: To do my

flew off to Ottawa every few months. But, upon reflection, let

duty to God, the Queen, and my country, to help other people

us acknowledge that decisions during her tenure have con-

every day, especially those at home.”

tributed to a banking system that is today the envy of many

Our honorary graduand is certain to remember this recita-

countries. Madam Chancellor, she understands banking and

tion, as she has been involved with the Guiding movement

she knows how to write a cheque: I contend that Susan Patten

since joining as a young girl and more recently serving as

is deserving of the Life Skills badge.

provincial commissioner and treasurer of the Guide’s World

Let us also bestow the Home badge, acknowledging Susan’s

Association. Chancellor, I present to you Susan Patten, who

commitment to preserving the family home, a home pur-

today will receive Memorial University’s highest honour but

chased by her grandfather, where she was born and continues

who would no doubt feel more comfortable in a Girl Guide hat, shirt and sash than the floppy hat and flowing robes with which we have festooned her.

to live, and where she and her husband Charles raised their Susan’s love and commitment to Newfoundland was appar-

four children. This is a home large enough that the boys as

ent in her early years. Take the occasion of her arrival at board-

teenagers could sneak in late on Saturday nights … as long

We understand that the requisites for an honorary degree are

ing school in Quebec at age 12. She had been plucked from

as they were seated in the family pew at St. Thomas’s come

strenuous and Susan has been found worthy by the Senate of

the province that she loved — and from her Girl Guide troop,

Sunday morning, no one was the wiser.

this university, but let us determine the measure of this woman

too — not for any sin or lack but only because she needed

And, we must not forget the Angler badge in recognition of

by the most stringent of standards: those of the Brownies and

braces and the nearest orthodontist was in Quebec. There,

Susan’s passion for fishing on the Gander. We should also add

the Guides.

upon hearing the news that Newfoundland was to become a

the World Traveller badge, to recognize her frequent travels not

So, first let us examine how well Susan has fulfilled the

province of Canada, amidst her schoolmates’ congratulations,

only to Las Vegas (oddly, the Girl Guides does not bestow a

Brownie promise: to help other people, especially those at

Susan cried. Then, upon graduation, her choice of verse in her

badge for playing the slot machines) but also trips with her

home.

yearbook reflected that absence from home had not dimin-

grandchildren, to expand their horizons and to survive with

Susan’s contributions include those as a businesswoman. She

ished her passion: “Be Newfoundland what it will, With all its

stoic resolve Andretti-like driving manoeuvres by granddaugh-

chairs the board of the family business, started 148 years ago

faults I love it still.” (It should also be noted that the yearbook

ters down switchback roads in New Zealand.

by her grandfather, Alexander Harvey, and which now includes

predicted that Susan would end up either cleaning fish on the

Harvey’s Home Heating, A. Harvey Marine Base and Browning

harbour or as mayor of St. John’s.)

Harvey, the province’s only bottler of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians’ drink of choice: (no, not Lamb’s), Pepsi!

Finally, let us present the Citizen Badge: for demonstrating that a successful business can also be a good citizen and further-

Madam Chancellor, there is no doubt of Susan’s love for

more for her personal commitment to community, through

home and her commitment to directing a family business

philanthropy and volunteer work; for her work as chair of the

She and her sons and grandchildren form the third, fourth

that contributes to our province. She has indeed fulfilled the

Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal and the Canadian Mental

and fifth generations to work at the company and each genera-

brownie promise! Now, we must examine the mettle of Susan

Health Foundation and for her unheralded compassion that

tion has recognized that it is the obligation of a business to sup-

Patten against the most rigorous of Guiding standards; which

has touched many citizens of Newfoundland and Labrador,

port the community in which it operates. This extends beyond

badges should be awarded, to adorn the sash of her guiding

unbeknownst to many of them.

providing employment for hundreds of Newfoundlanders and

uniform?

Susan Patten’s sash is resplendent with well-deserved badges

Labradorians; who has not seen the Browning Harvey Pepsi

First of all consider the Life Skills badge, awarded to a

banner at charity events throughout the province? Or, seen

Guide who “knows what types of bank accounts a person

groups of employees like Harvey’s Angels engaged in com-

may open and can show how to complete a cheque.” Many

And, Madam Chancellor, if there is room for one last hon-

munity events? And, the family is invited to just about every

charities can attest that Susan knows how to write a cheque.

our, I ask that you confer upon Susan Harvey Patten, business

fundraising gala; one might suggest it is for their generosity as

And, when it comes to understanding banking, let us add

leader, community leader and philanthropist, the degree of

much as their good looks. Susan Patten’s passion for business

that she is a past director of the Bank of Canada. Chancellor,

doctor of laws, honoris causa.

success is inextricably driven by commitment to family and

when Susan was director the central bank rate was at an all-

community.

time high. These high interest rates were not popular amongst

for her contributions to the intertwined institutions of community, family and business.

Dale Foster University orator

Friday, May 31, 10 a.m., st. john’s

Oration honouring margot grant reid I ask you to visualize a warm Newfoundland

effect that change.

summer’s day and a little family outing in the car. Children

Miss Ross, having completed her nursing studies in Halifax,

in the back, father at the wheel, mother beside him in what is

came to Newfoundland in 1951 as the wife of local business-

so indecorously called “riding shotgun.” But in this case less

man, Ian Reid. With his encouragement, and that of her father-

indecorous and closer to the truth than that idyllic picture

in-law, she became involved in the Canadian Cancer Society

might suggest. They drive through the pleasant countryside

and, for over 60 years, she, with Ian, was at the forefront of the

until mother espies a clump of pussy willow in a roadside

battle against cancer. It was as a dynamic and forceful fund-

garden. The children are dispatched from car to gather

raiser that she had her greatest impact on the society. She moved

branches of the desired plant and encouraged to be quick, quiet

from door-to-door collection to initiating the highly-successful

and invisible. Why the need for subterfuge? Well, the plant is

Daffodil Campaign. She was also directly involved with patients

on private property; the removal of the plant is theft. But it

in post-hospital care and helped develop educational programs

should be noted that it was theft for a higher good. The mother

on cancer for the schools, informing students of both the causes

was making decorative wreaths to sell for the Canadian Cancer

and the risks of the disease. From 1982–84 she was president

Society and these willow branches were an essential of those

she readily recognized and inspired in others. When Terry Fox

of the Newfoundland division of the Canadian Cancer Society

wreaths. Now we have to ask what might have happened had

came here to start his run for cancer in 1980, Margot Reid saw

and also served on the board of the national Cancer Institute.

someone in authority or the owner appeared. Would the mother

not an eccentric or quixotic quest, but a remarkable assertion

Her volunteer commitment also included long service on the

have abandoned her children and fled with the willows? Those

of the human spirit. And the young women she drove out from

board of the Janeway and on the Newfoundland Medical Board,

of you who know her children (as noisy and lippy a bunch as

their indolent Saturday morning beds to witness the event on

as well as the boards of the Community Services Council, the

one might meet) might well have counselled abandonment.

that dull April day still recall not just his commitment but her

symphony and the art gallery. Named Jaycee Citizen of the Year

But what if those children had gone on to distinguished careers

recognition of its lasting value. Margot’s perspective left an

in 1973, YM-YWCA Woman of Distinction in 1988, a member of

and had this early theft thrown up at them in later life? At least

indelible mark on the lives of those women in their own subse-

the Order of Canada in 2001 and of the Volunteer Hall of Fame

one might have had a ready reply: he could have said he was a

quent service to the community. She is, as one of them has said,

in 2012 she has given a life of remarkable service. Chancellor,

politician in training.

an “energizer” of people and organizations. Whence its roots? It

I present to you for the degree of doctor of laws, honoris causa,

Now, Madam Chancellor, this little tale is a clear demonstra-

may have some ancestral strain for her people, the Rosses, emi-

Margot Grant Reid.

tion of the determination of the woman who stands before you.

grated to Nova Scotia in the early 19th century from Rogart in

It illustrates Margot Reid’s determination to pursue a goal — a

the distant Highlands of northeastern Scotland. Like her, they

determination visible through all her life. And a determination

were people who saw a need for change and who worked to

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

7

Shane O’Dea Public orator www.mun.ca/gazette

CONVOCATION 2013 Friday, May 31, 3 p.m., st. john’s

Oration honouring barbara bettine Barrett “Dear little land, I came to you a stranger, Just a frail barque washed up upon your shores, With outstretched hand you gave me kindly welcome And took me in through widely open doors.”

Corner Brook, Barbara kindled and stoked the flame of interest in local theatre. Wherever she settled, Barbara Barrett encouraged, mentored and nurtured young people to develop the confidence, self-determination and skill to take and embrace the stage or work behind the scenes.

Madam Chancellor,

these words capture

The roadways of life often lead people to the big city.

how many immigrants are welcomed by the people of

Barbara and Arthur followed that route in 1973. Arriving

Newfoundland and Labrador. This poetic excerpt was

in St. John’s, Barbara seized every opportunity to promote

penned by a war bride who came to our shores following the

theatre. Often working for a pittance or as a volunteer, she

Great War. The poem is a tribute to the nation and the people

steadfastly stimulated numerous individuals and community

memorialized in this university’s name.

groups to showcase the richly coloured fabric of our culture.

Ena Constance Barrett, the acclaimed Newfoundland

Barbara effectively engaged people, especially young peo-

poet, settled in Curling after World War I. Years later, her

ple, to participate in numerous performance opportunities

son Arthur joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and was

where they grew in experience, self-awareness and confi-

stationed in England during the Second World War. While

dence. Indeed, whether you realize it or not, many of you in

there, he met and fell in love with a charming young air raid

this auditorium have been touched in some way by Barbara

warden who loved to go to dances and attend theatre.

Within months of arriving in Newfoundland, Mrs. Barrett

Barrett’s guiding hand, because what she achieved transcends

After the war, Arthur arranged for his own war bride and

offered lessons in dancing and deportment to the young chil-

the 1,000-plus productions she helped produce in this build-

young daughter to join him in his home town. This is how

dren of Curling. Not long after, she arranged a performance

ing and in its basement theatre now renamed in her honour.

Barbara Barrett “washed up” on our shores and was welcomed

of her rising young stars, and this marked the beginning of

Barbara recognized the abundance of talent in our youth,

through our “widely open doors.”

her vocation in producing, directing, teaching and cultivat-

but her greatest achievement is in the creation of opportu-

ing the performing arts across what is now the Province of

nities where they could share their gifts and innovations

Newfoundland and Labrador.

and cultivate their self-confidence to succeed whether as an

Casting discretion and modesty aside, Barbara Barrett publicly and openly admits to having two love affairs. The first is with her cherished husband Arthur, who is her soul mate,

Someone else may have been discouraged by regular moves

constant companion, chauffeur and most faithful and ardent

that were necessitated as Arthur climbed his own ladder of

supporter. Her second passion is theatre.

success with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, but

Madam Chancellor, for her early recognition of the

amateur or professional performer, teacher, lawyer, doctor or diplomat.

In post-war Newfoundland, Barbara was quick to recognize

Barbara embraced each move as an opportunity to share

talent that surrounds us and for her unceasing support,

the rich talent of our people, but was bemused by their lack

her love and enthusiasm for the stage with others. While in

mentoring and nurturing of our youth through the per-

of exposure to theatre. Although theatre was inculcated in

Gander, Barbara and Arthur welcomed the birth of their son,

forming arts, I am pleased to present Barbara Barrett for

Barbara’s British upbringing, public performances of stage

but Barbara also joined with others to create and direct the

the degree of doctor of laws, honoris causa.

productions in rural Newfoundland were relatively uncom-

Avion Players, a theatre group that continues to this day.

mon. Barbara Barrett set out to change that.

Donald W. McKay University orator

In subsequent moves to Stephenville and then back to

Researcher wins prestigious award for excellence in ocean sciences

chris hammond photo

By Kelly Foss

Fisheries and Oceans Canada has recognized Dr. Paul Snelgrove for his achievements in ocean sciences.

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Fisheries and Oceans Canada

multidisciplinary facets of ocean sciences

announced Dr. Paul Snelgrove, a professor

while working for Canadian institutions

with the Department of Ocean Sciences

or for the benefit of Canadian science.

and Department of Biology, and former

Candidates are evaluated on their impact

Canada Research Chair in Boreal and Cold

on Canadian marine science through sci-

Ocean Systems, has received the 2013

entific accomplishment and for their lead-

Timothy R. Parsons Medal.

ership through teaching and mentoring.

The award, which was established to

Dr. Snelgrove was chosen based on his

recognize achievement in ocean sciences,

work with the Census of Marine Life, a

was announced at the annual general

global network of researchers engaged in a

meeting of Canadian Meteorological and

10-year initiative to assess and explain the

Oceanography Society in Saskatoon, Sask.,

diversity, and abundance of marine life in

on May 26.

the oceans in the past, present and future;

“One of the nicest aspects of win-

and with the Canadian Health Oceans

ning this award is to see the list of peo-

Network (CHONe), a strategic network

ple who have previously received it,” said

focused on biodiversity science for the sus-

Dr. Snelgrove. “They are people who have

tainability of Canada’s three oceans.

been real movers and shakers in Canada.

“They said my work on the Census of

It’s an outstanding group of scientists. I

Marine Life, on CHONe, and my general

was also delighted my colleagues thought

research contributions impressed them as

it appropriate to nominate me.”

really helping in interdisciplinary science

The Parsons Medal, named for Dr.

and bringing the Canadian science com-

Timothy Parsons, is awarded to research-

munity together,” he said. “I was quite sur-

ers for distinguished accomplishments in

prised, and pleased to receive the award.”

8

www.mun.ca/gazette

Community collaboration Nursing faculty help boost capacity, address poverty in Southeast Asia

By Marcia Porter

When Dr. Lan Gien paid a visit

School of Social Work to establish under-

to Vietnam last fall, the School of Nursing

graduate social work programs. “Social

faculty member brought eight boxes of

services were considered a charity pro-

books and a colleague from the school

vided by government officials or others

with her.

with no professional preparation.

The books, about nursing and social

“Now there are 48 universities and

work, were snapped up almost as soon as

colleges providing baccalaureate social

the boxes were opened.

work programs, and at least 80 people

The workshops that Drs. Gien and

with master’s degrees. Some of them have

Caroline Porr gave as part of their visit

completed or are working on their PhDs.”

were just as popular.

“People really wanted to learn,” said Dr.

part of phase two of the project that is

Gien, an award-winning professor who

aimed at building capacity among social

grew up in Vietnam and left when she

workers and others involved in poverty

was a teenager on a scholarship to study

reduction.

nursing in the United States. Dr. Gien was

During the first part of their visit to

also recently awarded the title of profes-

Vietnam, the pair developed and deliv-

sor emeritus, an honour that recognizes

ered a five-day qualitative health research

her distinguished career at Memorial’s

training course at the University of

School of Nursing.

Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam

Since 2002 Dr. Gien has led a Canadian International

Development

Agency

(CIDA)–funded project to help reduce

National University, in Hanoi for nurses, social workers, graduate social work stuFollowing their stay in Hanoi, the

lion by improving social work and health

women travelled 1,500 kilometres to

services.

the city of Dalat for a second week of

project was to help improve social work education and establish a degree program in social work.

Dr. Caroline Porr, left, and Dr. Lan Gien, centre, meet representatives from partner agencies involved in a CIDA-funded project in Vietnam, at the district branch of the Department of Population Health in Dalat.

dents and social work educators.

poverty in the country of about 90 mil-

A key focus of the first phase of the

submmitted photo

Dr. Gien’s latest visit with Dr. Porr was

workshops at the Training Centre for

mental health services.

Population Health.

“It was such a wonderful experience

The interdisciplinary approach was new

teaching in another country,” said Dr.

The focus for these sessions was mental

for the group, and one they embraced,

Porr. “Vietnam is beautiful and the people are warm and hard-working.”

health. A range of professionals, including

said Dr. Porr. Following their two weeks

“When we started there were no

ministry of health officials, psychiatrists,

of successful workshops in the coun-

schools offering social work education

medical doctors, nurses, social workers

try, Drs. Gien and Porr returned to St.

in Vietnam,” said Dr. Gien, who worked

and educators, was brought together to

John’s, with requests to return for future

with partners in Vietnam and Memorial’s

develop a community-based model of

collaboration.

‘Distinguished group’

Making research easier: new Research Data Centre in QEII

that the RDC will increase Memorial’s research profile

Statistics Act. Only researchers with approved projects,

and help produce future generations of researchers with

who have also been sworn in under the Statistics Act,

expertise important to Canada.

will be allowed access to the information due to the

“The RDC will attract prolific research-oriented faculty and graduate students to Memorial,” he said. “Now we are in a distinguished group of Canadian universities offering this type of access.”

By Kristine Power

A new Research

confidentiality and security rules governing access to this kind of information.

“Security and privacy are of the upmost importance,” said Dr. Walsh.

According to Deatra Walsh, statistical assistant in the

The RDC is planning to host a symposium in the fall

Data Centre (RDC) is about

RDC, the conceptual, empirical and analytical skills

semester for faculty, students and the wider community

to open its doors in Memorial’s Queen Elizabeth II

that students will develop when dealing with this type

to highlight and profile the advantages of having this

Library. The centre is the culmination of many years

and amount of data will have great transferability to

kind of access.

of planning and preparation and is the first of its kind

the job market.

in the province. It will give researchers access to vital

For further inquiries, contact rdc@mun.ca.

RDCs must operate within the provisions of the

statistical data that would have once required an outof-province trip. They will now be able to access, on campus, a vast array of data that can be customized and reshaped to individual research needs.

The RDC is part of an initiative by Statistics Canada, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and a consortium of universities aimed at helping improve and support Canada’s social research capacity and policy research.

“The opening of this Research Data Centre in June demonstrates Memorial’s commitment to fostering a culture of research excellence through partnervice-president (research). “The Research Data Centre program involves a network of interested stakeholders facilitating increased data utilization for the greater good. Memorial has an important role to play in this initiative.”

Dr. Abdie Kazemipur, academic director of the RDC and professor of sociology at Memorial University, says

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

chris hammond photo

ship and collaboration,” said Dr. Christopher Loomis,

From left are Dr. Abdie Kazemipur, Dr. Deatra Walsh, Dr. Christopher Loomis and Dion Collins.

9

www.mun.ca/gazette

Safety onboard

Marine Institute’s stability simulator wins national award

By Naomi Osborne

Introduced

just six months ago, the Marine

Institute’s (MI) Fishing Vessel Stability Simulator (FVSS) is already getting national recognition.

The FVSS recently received an Award of Merit at the 2013 Canadian Network for Innovation in Education Conference in Ottawa, Ont., in the category of Excellence and Innovation in the Integration of Technology in a

New dean for the School of Human Kinetics and Recreation

“We are extremely honoured to receive this distinguished award,” said Carey Bonnell, head, MI’s School of Fisheries. “This was a true team effort with all of our partners and a joint recognition for the tremendous amount of effort that has gone into the development of submitted photo

By Michelle Osmond

Formal or Non-Formal Educational Program.

Dr. Heather Carnahan

this program.”

The project is a joint collaboration between the Canadian Council of Professional Fish Harvesters (CCPFH) and MI. The multimedia content and user interface was produced by Memorial’s Distance Education, Learning and Teaching Support, MI’s Centre for Marine Simulation and Virtual Marine Technology, a simulation

Dr. Heather Carnahan has been appointed

In 2006 Dr. Carnahan joined the Faculty of Medicine

the new dean of Memorial’s School of Human Kinetics

at the University of Toronto as full professor. During

The FVSS is the first of its kind to demonstrate the

and Recreation (HKR).

solutions company.

this time, she held numerous leadership positions at the

fundamental principles of vessel stability using a desk-

Dr. David Wardlaw, provost and vice-president (aca-

university and its affiliated hospitals. She has also been

top computer. The interactive learning tool is receiv-

demic), believes that HKR is headed in a positive direc-

acting director of the Wilson Centre at the University

ing positive reviews from students and instructors at

tion in terms of growth and research and notes that Dr.

Health Network and graduate co-ordinator of the

the Marine Institute and other educational institutions

Carnahan’s highly relevant experience will have a great

Graduate Department of Rehabilitation Science.

across Canada.

impact on the success of the school.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Carnahan has

Fish harvesters can download the program for free from

“I’m delighted to welcome Dr. Carnahan to the

received many distinctive awards, including the Award

the Canadian Council of Professional Fish Harvesters’

Memorial University community,” said Dr. Wardlaw.

of Distinguished Service from Research Quarterly for

website at www.fishharvesterspecheurs.ca/simulator.

“She is a highly accomplished individual who brings

Exercise and Sport, where she also served as section edi-

The unique approach to training provides a rich

a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this important

tor, and a Young Scientist Award from the Canadian

learning resource for fish harvesters to interact with

role. I would also like to thank Dr. MacKinnon for serv-

Society for Psychomotor Learning. In 2004 she had the

the material, testing what they learn in simulated fish-

ing in the role of acting dean of HKR over the past 11

honour of being named one of Maclean’s magazine’s

ing operations. The ultimate goal is to provide fish har-

months. We very much appreciate his leadership and

Most Popular Professors at the University of Waterloo.

vesters throughout Canada with the means to learn the

his dedicated service to the school in an important

From 1992–97, Dr. Carnahan was consulting editor for

concepts of fishing vessel stability, apply them to virtual

transitional year between permanent deans.”

the Journal of Motor Behavior and, more recently, associ-

vessels and to subsequently save lives.

Dr. Carnahan is a professor of occupational science

ate editor of the International Journal of Learning.

and occupational therapy at the University of Toronto

Dr. Carnahan’s research history is extensive and

where she is a research scientist with the Women’s

varied. She has presented at hundreds of conferences

College Hospital Research Institute. She is currently

nationally and internationally, and has published more

the interim vice-president of education at Women’s

than 100 papers related to her findings.

The CCPFH and Marine Institute continue to promote and support the FVSS and its importance as an educational program for all harvesters.

“Safety starts with knowing the fundamentals of vessel stability and understanding how a vessel can react,

College Hospital, director of the Centre for Ambulatory

Dr. Carnahan holds a bachelor of physical education

not just relying on experience or feel of the boat,” said

Care Education and holds the BMO Chair in Health

from McMaster University and a PhD in kinesiology

Mr. Bonnell. “The safety of the vessel and its crew should

Professions Education Research at the Wilson Centre.

from the University of Waterloo. Her PhD was followed

be first and foremost in any fishing enterprise.”

Her previous positions include assistant professor and career scientist in physical therapy at Western

The FVSS project was funded by the Department

by an NSERC post-doctoral fellowship in psychology at

of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Canadian Centre for

Western University.

University and professor with the Department of

The recommendations of the search committee

Fisheries Innovation, Atlantic Canada Opportunities

Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo, where she

were accepted by Dr. Gary Kachanoski, president and

Agency, Research and Development Corporation of

attained the rank of full professor. While at Waterloo,

vice-chancellor, and approved by the Board of Regents

N.L., Transport Canada, the National Search and Rescue

Dr. Carnahan served as the associate chair of graduate

on May 27. Dr. Carnahan’s appointment is effective

Secretariat New Initiatives Fund (SAR-NIF) and the

studies for kinesiology.

Sept. 1, 2013, for a five-year term.

Newfoundland and Labrador Professional Fish Harvesters

&

Certification Board.

News notes Listed below is a selection of the funding opportunities for which information has recently been

IMMINENT DEADLINES

received by the Office of Research Services. For links to further information on these items,

Aug. 1

visit Grant Funding Opportunities on the Research website at www.mun.ca/research/funding/

July 5

opportunities/index.php.

Canadian Blood Services

Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation

• Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) Basic Research, Applied Research and Experimental Development projects

• CIHR Mental Health Network

July 31

– Post-doctoral Fellowship Program

– Research Grants

Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

• CIHR Dissemination Events

– Research Grant (Letter of Intent)

Rhodes University

• CIHR Operating Grant – Canada-China Human Vaccines • CIHR Operating Grant – Registration (mandatory) • CIHR Planning Grants • CIHR Team Grant – HIV Cure Research

– Hugh Le May Fellowship

Aug. 7

– Rhodes Post-doctoral Fellowship

National Multiple Sclerosis Society (U.S.)

– Hugh Kelly Fellowship

– Research Grants

• CIHR Team Grants – Mental Disorders • NSERC Discovery (Individual, Team, Subatomic Physics) Grants – Notification of Intent (mandatory) • NSERC Idea to Innovation (I2I) Grants • SSHRC Insight Grant Notice of Intent (Mandatory) • WCB Research and Workplace Innovation Program 2013

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

10

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

Monday, June 10

Wednesday, June 19

www.today.mun.ca

MUN Med Monte Carlo Charity Selection, 9 a.m.–11:50 p.m.,

Gardening with Hostas, 6:30–8:30 p.m., 306 Mount Scio Rd.,

Sponsor: Faculty of Medicine

Sponsor: MUN Botanical Garden

NSERC Community Engagement Visit, 9 a.m.–12 p.m., IIC 2014,

Exercise and the Aging Brain: Debunking Old Man Strength

A Public Lecture: Inventing Victorian Race?, 7–9 p.m., Suncor

Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation, Sponsor: Natural

Using fMRI, 1–2 p.m., Health Sciences Centre, Theatre D,

Energy Hall, Sponsor: Department of English

Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada

Sponsor: Division of BioMedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine

Thursday, June 6

Tuesday, June 11

Nature Programs at MUN Botanical Garden, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.,

Battery Blitz, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., SN 1104 (Science loading bay),

Contain Yourself! The Art of Growing in Containers, 6:30–8:30 p.m.,

306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: MUN Botanical Garden

Sponsor: Sustainability Office

306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: MUN Botanical Garden

Wednesday, June 5

Sunday, June 23

Spring Has Sprung Family Program, 1–3 p.m., 306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: Alumni Affairs and Development

Healthy Lifestyle Group, 12:30–1:30 p.m., UC 5000, Sponsor:

Assertiveness Training Course, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., location TBA,

Wellness Program

Sponsor: Human Resources

Friday, June 7

Wednesday, June 12

MEOPAR Research Funding Opportunities – Discussion,

Chromosomes, Aging and Cancer, 10:10–11:10 a.m., Junior

Privacy Training, 9:30–11:30 a.m., SN 2000, Sponsor: Information

9–10:30 a.m., IIC 3001, Bruneau Centre for Research and

Common Room, R. Gushue Hall, Sponsor: Division of

Access and Privacy Protection Office

Innovation, Sponsor: SafetyNet Centre for Occupational Health

Tuesday, June 25

and Safety Research

BioMedical Sciences, Discipline of Oncology

Thursday, June 13 MicroRNAs and Other Non-coding RNAs in Cancer: From

13th Annual Seniors’ Day at MUN Botanical Garden,

Research to Medicine and Something More!, 2:40–3:40 p.m.,

10 a.m.–3 p.m., 306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: Friends of MUN

Junior Common Room, R. Gushue Hall, Sponsor: Division of

Botanical Garden

CLASSIFIED

BioMedical Sciences

Friday, June 14 Saturday, June 8

Relationships Between Epigenetic Silencing, Tumour Suppression

Making an Alpine Trough Workshop, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., 306

and Ribosome Biogenesis, 11 a.m.–12 p.m., Health Sciences

**Pet Friendly** Three+ bedroom home for rent in

Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: MUN Botanical Garden

Centre, Theatre D, Sponsor: Division of BioMedical Sciences

quiet neighbourhood West End, St. John’s. Close

Rhododendron Festival, 2–4 p.m., 306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor:

Saturday, June 15

yard, new front and back decks; hardwood floors;

MUN Botanical Garden

Nature Programs at MUN Botanical Garden, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.,

long driveway. F/S, W/D, DW. Large rec room can

306 Mount Scio Rd., Sponsor: MUN Botanical Garden

be used as additional bedroom. One year lease.

to schools, bus route, Bowring Park. Large fenced

Sunday, June 9

1650/POU. Call 709 699 9419 or email gaylward@

Rhododendron Festival, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., 306 Mount Scio Rd.,

Monday, June 17

Sponsor: MUN Botanical Garden

Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase (nNos) and GPR30: Novel

nl.rogers.com

Regulators of Endothelial Inflammation, 10:30–11:30 a.m., Health Sciences Centre, Theatre B, Sponsor: Division of

Church (The Kirk), Sponsor: Oxfam Canada

BioMedical Sciences

chris hammond photo

Special Concert for Oxfam, 2–3 p.m., St. Andrew’s Presbyterian

Logy Bay facility re-opened to the public

The Department of Ocean Sciences’ Marine Public Education Program re-opened June 1 and will run until Labour Day weekend. The program, which is located at the Ocean Sciences Centre in Logy Bay, includes an outdoor touch tank, an outdoor observation platform to view a captive population of harp seals and marine interpreters to answer questions. The program operates seven days a week from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m.

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

11

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‘Eye-opening experience’ Undergraduate studies committee meets at Grenfell Campus for first time

By Melanie Callahan

Grenfell Campus hosted

Community-University Expo 2013 con-

Memorial University’s Senate Committee

ference,

on Undergraduate Studies (SCUGS).

Centre and Grenfell Campus Gallery stu-

The event marked the first time in the

Navigate

Entrepreneurship

dent graduation exhibits.

submitted photo

In May,

history of Memorial University that the

“The meeting also provided a practi-

major academic decision-making body of

cal opportunity for committee members

the Senate met in Corner Brook. SCUGS

to have the opportunity to network in

is the governing body that approves new

an informal way with their colleagues in

courses and changes to existing courses,

related areas here at Grenfell,” said Dr.

2013 Alumni Honour Award recipient David Kelly

and makes recommendations to Senate

Janes. “While on campus, each SCUGS

concerning new and existing academic

member met with one or more depart-

programming and academic policies.

mental counterparts at Grenfell and

Top entrepreneurs

“This

SCUGS

meeting

at

Grenfell

discussed possible partnerships, collabo-

Campus was symbolic, as committee

rations and opportunities, which will be

members who participate in the academic

mutually beneficial to both campuses.”

Business faculty to hand out awards at Partners Celebration

decision-making process were made more

“It was an incredible and beneficial

aware of the realities, growth and poten-

experience for all of us who attended,

tial of our campus,” said Dr. Matthew

and money well spent,” said Bert Riggs,

Janes,

Academic

the committee’s chair. “Given our suc-

Two

members

used their skills and experience to serve

Studies Committee and a faculty member

cess, the university should consider more

of the St. John’s business community

their communities. Their success is an

at Grenfell Campus.

such meetings more often. It will be an

will be honoured by the Faculty of

inspiration for us all.”

chair

of

Grenfell’s

By Susan White-MacPherson

prominent

While in Corner Brook, SCUGS mem-

eye-opening experience for all our cam-

Business Administration at its annual

bers were given a detailed tour of Grenfell

puses and help in bringing us closer

Partners Celebration on June 27.

Campus, including a visit to some new

together as one university.”

Mr. Kelly is a graduate of the bachelor of commerce class of 1968. Following a

David Kelly, board member of Verafin

35-year career in the Canadian technol-

features including the observatory and

The meeting in Corner Brook was

Inc., will receive the 2013 Alumni

ogy industry, he financed and framed

telescope, new extension and the environ-

made possible by a proposal to the Cross-

Honour Award. Patrick O’Callaghan,

the money laundering detection issue

mental labs and new residence complex

Campus Initiatives Fund by Dr. Janes and

president and CEO of East Coast

that led to the creation of Verafin Inc.

which are still under construction. They

Dr. Shannon Sullivan of the Faculty of

Catering, will take home the Gardiner

in 2003.

were also informed of activities on cam-

Science.

Centre’s Newfoundland and Labrador 2013 Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Lori Lee Hollett photo

pus, such as the upcoming international

SCUGS members pose at Grenfell Campus in May.

Mr. O’Callaghan began his career in the hotel industry in the 1960s

Partners is the Faculty of Business

before starting East Coast Catering in

Administration’s annual celebration

1984 to meet the rising demand for

of the business community, bringing

catering services in the offshore oil

together members of the faculty, stu-

industry. The company has grown to

dents, alumni and community to pay

service markets in Labrador, Western

tribute to those who have achieved

Canada and Ireland. Mr. O’Callaghan

excellence in business while using their

has focused on his employees through-

skills and expertise to contribute to

out his career, remaining committed to

their peers and communities.

diverse hiring practices and a policy of

“We are honoured to celebrate this

promoting from within and by provid-

year’s award winners at our annual

ing training, education and resources

Partners Celebration,” said Dr. Wilfred

to foster a workforce of long-term

Zerbe, dean of the Faculty of Business

employees.

Administration. “David and Patrick are

Partners will be held on Thursday,

leaders in their fields who have shown

June 27, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the

initiative, innovation and dedication

Johnson GEO Centre. To purchase

throughout their careers to develop

tickets, contact Wanda Whelan at

diverse business interests and success-

709 864 2182 or business@mun.ca.

ful enterprises. On top of that, they’ve

Memorial to continue credit card payments for student fees Memorial

University expects to save about

The new fee comes into effect on July 1, 2013. The

Subsequent discussions with Moneris resulted in the

$550,000 by eliminating fees paid to credit card

fees-payment deadline has also been extended for this

option to charge a fee for use of credit cards. The com-

companies while still allowing students the flexibility

year’s fall and winter semesters to coincide with the last

mittee unanimously recommended the proposal from

of paying their student account fees with Visa or

day to add courses to allow students extra time to adjust

Moneris and the board approved this proposal at its

MasterCard should they so choose.

to the change. That date this fall is Sept. 18, 2013.

May 9 meeting.

Moneris, Memorial’s clearing house for credit card

Memorial’s Board of Regents decided in 2012 to

payments, will charge a 1.95 per cent convenience fee

eliminate the acceptance of credit cards for payment

to those who use a credit card to make payments on

of tuition and other student account charges as part

Memorial University will continue to accept credit

student accounts.

This fee may change at the discretion of Moneris; Memorial does not set this rate.

of its effort to find administrative savings with mini-

cards for other payments such as application fee appli-

Students still have several payment options at no cost

mal impact on academic programming and student

cation fees, residence application fees and residence

or low cost including online or telephone banking, pay-

activities. Service charges associated with credit card

deposits, parking fees, purchases at university book-

ment by mail using cheque, money order, bank draft or

payments have increased significantly during the past

stores and the Computer Purchasing Centre and dona-

wire transfer of funds, or payment in person by cash,

number of years.

tions without charging a convenience fee.

cheque or debit card.

A committee made up of academic and administra-

Some 30 universities across the country have dis-

International students who do not have a Canadian

tive units and student groups on the St. John’s campus,

continued the use of credit cards to pay fees, including

bank account for online or telephone banking can use

Marine Institute and Grenfell Campus was formed to

Dalhousie University, McGill, the University of Toronto

wire transfers, money orders or bank-certified cheques

examine the effect this policy would have on those pay-

and the University of British Columbia.

for payment of student accounts.

ing fees and to address concerns about this policy change.

Gazette | Wednesday, June 5, 2013

12

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