Wider Horizons Spring 2024

Where the heart is

{ VOL. 17 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2024 }

Wider Horizons is Lethbridge College’s community and alumni magazine, which is dedicated to educating, engaging and delighting our readers through compelling stories and images about our people, places, ideas and experiences.

Each January, May and September, Wider Horizons is mailed to alumni and friends of the college, distributed in the community and available on campus.

Readers who would like to receive an e-version of the magazine, comment on a story, change their address or remove their name from our mailing list should email the editor at WHMagazine@lethbridgecollege.ca.

Alumni looking to connect with the college can email alumni@lethbridgecollege.ca.

Lethbridge College’s Vision: PREPARING LEARNERS. SHAPING COMMUNITIES.

Publisher: Dr. Brad Donaldson

Editor: Lisa Kozleski

Art director/designer: Dana Woodward

Cover photo: Rob Olson

Photographers: Rob Olson, Shawn Salberg, Samuel Young

Illustrators: Eric Dyck, Bryce Many Fingers/Singer, Tanner Fletcher

Writers: Melanie Fast, Tina Karst

Proofreader: Jennifer Yanish

Distribution: Amy Taylor

College staff contributors: Taylor Bourret, Kristy Clark, Leeanne Conrad, Ryan Hammell, James Harrison, Melissa Johnson, Greg Kruyssen, Lawrence Krysak, Lanae Morris, Ron Ostepchuk, Derek Rischke, Stephanie Savage, Dawn Sugimoto, Allyssa Tuck, Heather Zimmerman

Located on the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, Lethbridge College is committed to honouring the land from a place of knowing. We invite you to watch our territorial land acknowledgement online at learn.lc/land-acknowledgement

When I think of the places I have called home in my life, my mind first goes to the houses.

There was the Florida bungalow where I was born, the split-level 1970s special when my family spent a few years in Utah, and the woodsided house in the mountain town where I did most of my growing up, the one with the spectacular view of Pike’s Peak and the aspen shimmering in the front yard. Next came student housing – dorm rooms and shared spaces filled with second-hand furniture and book-filled milkcrates. Then came my first “grown-up” house, the little logging cabin at the base of Mount Rainier where I edited the weekly paper. From there it was a blur of apartments, duplexes and houses, leading to my current house just down the road from my desk at Lethbridge College.

The thing about all of these houses is that it’s the people inside who make them feel like home. It was the big brother waiting for me at the bungalow, the dad who built the treehouse in the backyard of that split-level, and the mom who read endless piles of books to me and nourished my love of the written word wherever we lived. It was my roommates who stayed up late solving all of the world’s problems, and my husband heroically removing the terrifying cockroaches in our first Philadelphia apartment, and listening patiently as I read my “big” newspaper stories out loud to make sure they sounded OK (something he still does 29 years later).

It was the neighbours who dropped food by our duplex for months after our son was born, shocked that we would think of having a baby living so far from family. It was the crowded table at our twin daughters’ first birthday party, the holiday dinners and last-minute pizza nights, the piles of teenagers hanging out on the back deck, and the joyous dancing of the dogs when the kids walk into the house after we pick them up at the airport. All of these people over all of these years made these places home to me.

This issue of Wider Horizons features stories of home and the people who make it so special. You can start with the story of three English language learners who made the difficult decision to leave one home to safely build a new one in Lethbridge, and follow that with reflections from a new grad whose illustrations showcase the natural beauty of Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot territory). And don’t miss the short stories of 10 students and new grads on the sights, sounds, smells, feelings and tastes of home.

One thread that connects all of these stories is the same one you’re finding in my message this issue, which is that for so many of us, home is much more than any building. It’s the people we find there.

We’d love to hear of the ways Lethbridge College felt like home to you during your time as a student. As much as we love Centre Core, the Barn and the view from the Garden Court, we know Lethbridge College is more than its buildings. If you want to celebrate the people who made this place special to you, please email us at WHMagazine@lethbridgecollege.ca. We’d love to hear your stories.

Lisa Kozleski Editor

SEEN ON CAMPUS

Photo by Samuel Young

The college community came together in March for Uni-Tea, a celebration of our campus’s vibrant cultural diversity. The event included delicious food and engaging activities, including the henna hand-painting shown above. In 2023-24, students from 68 countries attended classes at Lethbridge College. To keep up-to-date on all the great activities happening on campus, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Sharif Muntasir shares his recipe for chicken biryani, a recipe that reminds him of his childhood and family in Bangladesh.

SWIFTIE BOWL

Lethbridge College experts analyze North America’s biggest media spectacle

IT’S AN INTERSECTION OF FOOTBALL, POP CULTURE, SOCIAL MEDIA AND POLITICS, AND ON FEB. 11 WE ALL HAD A FRONT-ROW SEAT.

Story by Tina Karst | Illustration by Tanner Fletcher

The relationship between pop superstar Taylor Swift and Kansas City tight end Travis Kelce was on full display as the Chiefs beat the San Francisco 49ers 25-22, in an overtime thriller, in Super Bowl LVIII.

Their romance (and Swift’s appearances in NFL stadium suites) dominated social and traditional media over the past several months and had even been a popular talking point for in-game broadcasters.

“I think people are really into it because they seem to come from different worlds, though I don’t know that they necessarily do,” says Dr. Brent Cottle, Pop Culture instructor and chair, General Arts and Science at Lethbridge College. “Swift has been very open about her past relationships, and they’ve all come from a similar sort of world – actors or people from popular music – but Kelce is different, and people are fascinated with it.”

Add to the mix political partisanship, emerging conspiracy theories to explain their romance, and social media platforms that give fans, more than ever before, a sense of connectedness, and it’s easy to see why the relationship has captured the attention of the masses, he says.

While sports purists may scoff at the spectacle (and bemoan broadcast coverage of the singer at Chiefs games), Cottle says the NFL itself is likely happy with the extra attention it’s getting from Swifties and anyone else curious about the couple.

“They’ll take any fans they can get,” he says. “The Super Bowl is kind of an example of that because everybody, even if they aren’t watching the game, will eat and drink and hang out with friends and watch the advertisements and the halftime show. It’s like an unofficial national holiday, even in Canada.”

Dr. Kevin Smith, dean, Centre for Business, Arts and Sciences, follows the NFL and is a dedicated Green Bay Packers fan. He says it’s almost impossible to avoid the hype surrounding Swift and Kelce as, “the buildup to any Chiefs game is now whether Swift will attend rather than the usual analysis.”

On the plus side, he says, “my daughter and I now have a shared interest to talk about, as I try to explain the rules of football to her.”

Another reason for the NFL to embrace the media attention, according to Cottle, is that it’s distracting people, if only temporarily, from the issues that are constant in football today – violence and the effects of violence.

Cottle, whose research has explored how NFL broadcasts can disassociate fans from the violence of the

“MY DAUGHTER AND I NOW HAVE A SHARED INTEREST TO TALK ABOUT, AS I TRY TO EXPLAIN THE RULES OF FOOTBALL TO HER.”

game, says spectators don’t fully understand how rough it is because they see so much of it through a television screen. As part of his research earlier in his career, Cottle travelled to several NFL games and asked players for their thoughts on how technological advances have affected the game and viewers’ interpretations of the images they see on TV.

“Roy Williams, who was a receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, said to me, ‘I wish there was a movie of me getting up on a Monday morning, and just how many aches and pains I have,’ but instead everybody gets this really slickly produced, really interesting, really dynamic video of what’s happening,” says Cottle. “I think that’s one of the reasons the NFL likes [the attention from the Swift - Kelce relationship] … this big pop cultural moment distracts people from thinking about whatever effects the game might have.”

It’s so distracting that in the leadup to the Super Bowl, the athletes’ achievements (including Kelce’s) were a secondary story.

“I feel slightly sorry for him,” says Smith. “Media have tended to overlook the fact that Travis Kelce is one of the best players of all time at his position.”

Even Super Bowl-related headlines, like Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes vying for his third championship, or 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (picked last in the 2022 draft and dubbed “Mr. Irrelevant”) making the final in his second season, took a backseat to the couple’s relationship, or as Cottle puts it, “North America’s biggest media spectacle.”

While Cottle doesn’t have a favourite NFL team, he says he watches the Super Bowl each year and simply cheers for a “really close game.”

Smith also watches, with or without Green Bay in contention. He says, “I only cheer for the Packers, but there are some teams I will always root against. I’m not biased — I don’t care who beats the 49ers.”

Super Bowl LVIII broke a U.Ss television ratings record as the most-watched program in a generation, with about 123.4 million viewers.

TOP TEN FROM THE DEN

Wider Horizons turned to the people who know the ins and outs of campus best – Lethbridge College employees – to get their picks of the top news stories from the past four months. Here’s what they had to say.

TIPS FROM LETHBRIDGE COLLEGE FITNESS EXPERTS

If your New Year’s resolutions included hitting the gym consistently, Lethbridge College’s fitness experts were ready to help you succeed. Cheryl Pyne, a fitness assistant and personal trainer in Recreation Services, offers nutrition, fitness and mindset coaching for students, employees and community members. When setting fitness goals, she says it pays to be realistic – to start small and dream big.

NEW ART RESEARCH PROJECT RECEIVES $360,000 GRANT

FAVOURITE HOLIDAY MOVIES

ARE

MORE THAN FUN

Holiday movies become part of family traditions not only because they feature “Christmas goodies” and well written, quotable lines. The best ones speak to something deeper and give us pause for reflection, says a Lethbridge College instructor, film buff and philosopher. Karl Rejman, who teaches the humanities in the Centre for Business, Arts and Sciences, says some holiday movies stand the test of time because they balance comedy with serious themes such as loneliness and a desire for togetherness.

COLLEGE HOSTS IRRIGATED CROP PRODUCTION UPDATE

Lethbridge College hosted 460 farmers, agronomists, students and members of the irrigated agriculture industry at the Irrigated Crop Production Update conference at the Lethbridge Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre in January. Hosted by Dr. Willemijn Appels and the Mueller Irrigation Research Group, this year’s conference welcomed presenters who shared their experience on irrigation water availability and supply, as well as best practices for managing irrigated crops.

Lethbridge College will receive $120,000 per year over the next three years for a new research project that will use art and Blackfoot worldviews to support marginalized populations as they reintegrate into the community. It’s the first time Lethbridge College has been a recipient of this federal grant, from the College and Community Social Innovation Fund. The college’s Centre for Public Safety Applied Research, through a partnership with the Ninastako Cultural Centre, will design, implement and evaluate the Community Integration Through Art – Pissatsinaskssini program.

MÉTIS SASH DAY CELEBRATED

Lethbridge College celebrated Métis Sash Day in November to honour the culture, history and contributions of the Métis community. Each year on Nov. 16, Métis people across Canada pay tribute to Louis Riel, a political leader who spent his life defending Métis rights.

EXPLORING VR: HACKATHON FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

High school students across Alberta had a chance in early May to show how extended reality (XR) technology can be used to benefit the real world with Hack and Seek: Alberta XR Career Quest. The fun, free and highly competitive event was presented by Lethbridge College and Stringam Law in collaboration with Bow Valley College, NAIT, Alberta Innovates and Digital Alberta and took place simultaneously at participating postsecondary campuses in Lethbridge, Calgary and Edmonton.

CONFERENCE’S BEST WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL ATHLETES ON CAMPUS

The top eight women’s volleyball programs in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) made their way to Lethbridge College in February for the 2024 ACAC Women’s Volleyball Championships presented by Alpine Drywall Ltd. This was the first time in college history the Kodiaks hosted the ACAC women’s volleyball championships. The winners of the championship – the Lakeland Rustlers – went on to win the National Championship in March.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATED

Lethbridge College celebrated Black History Month throughout February with activities and learning opportunities that highlighted the diversity of the Black community on campus and honoured the history and achievements of Black Canadians. Events included Culture Attire Days; meal kits supplied by the Lethbridge College Students’ Association; special meals in the Food Court; Black History Month Jeopardy and information booths in Centre Core; a movie night collaboration with the Lethbridge Public Library and Chinook High School; free Afro-fusion dance classes and more.

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$1 MILLION IN PROVINCIAL RESEARCH FUNDING AWARDED

Lethbridge College will receive $1 million in infrastructure funding from the provincial government to expand the capacity of its applied research in irrigation science. The provincial grant is in addition to $1 million in federal funding the college received last year from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). The combined $2 million from the provincial and federal governments will support smart irrigation infrastructure needs for the Mueller Irrigation Research Group at the Lethbridge College research farm, located just east of Lethbridge. 3

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Researchers address real-world issues with diverse sectors at industry events

Lethbridge College is collaborating with many industries in southern Alberta to address diverse issues such as drought and sustainability, agri-food expansion, and public safety using extended reality and innovative high-tech solutions. Through its partnership with the Regional Innovation Network of Southern Alberta (RINSA), the college has been hosting a series of Research in RINSA events. These events featured facility and lab tours, presentations, keynote speakers and networking sessions for targeted industries.

READ MORE AT LETHBRIDGECOLLEGE.CA/CARIE.

You can read all of these stories and more at lethbridgecollege.ca/news.

Thanks to our college colleagues who helped shape this list!

DEFENDING CHAMPIONS

Congratulations to the Lethbridge College Kodiaks men’s indoor track team, who defended their title in the 2024 Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) Indoor Track Championships.

The team finished with 101 points, four new ACAC championship and Lethbridge College records, and nine podium finishes. Congratulations also go out to the women’s futsal team and their silver-medal showing in the ACAC championships as well as the women’s indoor track team and their silver medal finish in the ACAC championships – the team’s best finish in program history.

Para-athlete first to compete at ACAC events for Kodiaks

Hunter Graves, a first-year General Arts and Science student, made Lethbridge College history as the first-ever para-athlete to take part in an ACAC event and compete in indoor track at the ACAC championships. Graves, who was born with spina bifida, began the sport in high school with his track and field team and, in his senior year, qualified for provincials before heading to the Canada Summer Games in 2017. He’s also played with the Lethbridge Steamers Wheelchair Basketball team for the past 10 years and he wants to show para-athletes the possibilities for competing.

Kodiaks Hall of Fame class of 2023 inducted

Two exceptional athletes, two distinguished coaches and a national championship team were inducted into the Lethbridge College Kodiaks Hall of Fame in January. Among those honoured were: the championship 2003-04 Kodiaks women’s basketball team; Trent Matson, who coached the golf team to nationals five times; Bertil Johansson, the most decorated coach in the ACAC who led the cross-country teams for 32 seasons; cross-country runner Mary Kamau; and volleyball player Travis Killian. Congratulations go out to all of these remarkable Kodiaks.

The Lethbridge College Kodiaks crowd cheers wildly for the following athletes, coaches and officials who have received honours this past season:

LETHBRIDGE SPORTS COUNCIL AWARDS

• Jamie Brown (Exercise Science 2023; Natural Resource Compliance 2020) and Cooper Williams (Wind Turbine Technician 2023) received Outstanding Senior Athlete awards.

• Instructor Francis Rankin received the Officiating Excellence award, while Environmental Science chair and instructor Gord Cox received the Volunteer in Sport award.

• Zane Chief Moon (Wind Turbine Technician student) received the Servus Credit Union Outstanding Sport Citizen award.

Back on the home court

When Rod Schmidt (Recreation Management 1979) connected with Wider Horizons last spring, he mentioned he’d be in Lethbridge over the summer en route to a Waterton reunion with his former Kodiaks men’s basketball teammates. He was also hoping to bring his now-adult daughters on a tour of the college and – if possible – reconnect with his former coach, Tim Tollestrup. In July, the two sat down to talk with the Wider Horizons team. Here are some highlights of their conversation.

ROD SCHMIDT: My first year here was Tim’s first year coaching and working as athletic director. I knew about the Tollestrup name, I knew southern Alberta was a solid basketball area and I was a little worried about making the team. But fortunately, Tim saw enough qualities in me that allowed me to play, and I ended up playing three years. As a coach, Tim got his points across in a slow, methodical way. He wasn’t a shouter and he knew his stuff. He was kind with us, thoughtful with us and he meshed our strengths with what he saw we could do.

TIM TOLLESTRUP: As a player, Rod was kind of hard-nosed. He was good defensively and worked for you. He’d leave it all on the court, and whatever you asked him to do he’d get done. Rod had kind of a fairy-tale story. He didn’t plan to come here, but his good friend, Glen Novak, talked him into it, and he took Rec Management. Then he ends up running the whole rec department in Regina. That’s the fairy tale – he comes here to play sports, does a great job, gets a diploma and goes back and has an awesome career.

ROD SCHMIDT: I think in a postsecondary environment, sports help to build a community and a sense of belonging. Bringing people together is important. It’s amazing what it can do – the pride it can build in a community. Coming to the college now and seeing the

beautiful spaces that have been built here and the programs that have been added is inspiring. You know, the time I spent here was amazing. But to see what it’s grown into and what it’s become – well, I’m proud.

TIM TOLLESTRUP: I was born and raised in southern Alberta in a little town named Raymond. I love the college and was fortunate to spend 30 years here – as athletic director, coach, business instructor and manager of this facility (the Val Matteotti Gymnasium). Probably the highlight of the whole career was making friends with all these athletes and then seeing them down the road somewhere. You know, when you’re at a place for 30 years, you might think you want out of there. But I never felt that way. I love this place, and it’s always great to return.

CCAA and ACAC ALL-CONFERENCE HONOURS

• Hannah Helton – women’s basketball CCAA All-Canadian; women’s basketball All-Conference South first team

• Courtney Deemter – women’s basketball All-Conference South second team

• Head coach Ken McMurray – women’s basketball South Division Coach of the Year

• Kohlbe Anderson – men’s volleyball South Rookie of the Year

• Nolan Moes – men’s volleyball All-Conference team

• Filip Karanovic – men’s basketball All-Conference South first team

• Mason Hoffman – men’s basketball All-Conference South second team

• Kyra Piekema – women’s soccer South Division Rookie of the Year

• Kenley Matishak, Nikki Stahl, Raeleen Vanden Dungen and Shelby Bach – women’s soccer All-Conference

• Head coach Sean Carey – women’s soccer South Division Coach of the Year

• Trey Lukye – men’s futsal All-Conference South

• Taylor Hrycun – women’s futsal All-Conference South

• Owen Stewart – ACAC men’s indoor track athlete of the year; men’s cross-country All-Conference; men’s indoor track All-Conference

• Gunnar Gibb and Orin May – men’s indoor track All-Conference

• Head coach Simon Schaerz – indoor track Coach of the Year

Rod Schmidt (left) and Tim Tollestrup connect on campus last summer.

by Dr. Brad Donaldson

by Shawn Salberg

The President’s View

I have lived on three continents, in three provinces and in 19 different residences that I could call home. As a result, if you asked me if home was a place or a feeling, I would have to tell you that home is where you belong.

In the world of athletics, a home court advantage is real – although of course it doesn’t ensure victory. But the advantage comes from that field, court or track being familiar and safe, where there are supporters on the sidelines to encourage and motivate you, cheering you on.

Belonging is a key element in our work here at Lethbridge College. And it’s not just a word, but a characteristic that came through over and over as we talked with the community about who we are and what we do. These conversations

shaped our new vision — Preparing Learners. Shaping Communities — and our new mission captures the idea that students, employees and partners look to Lethbridge College for learning, opportunity, and yes, belonging.

I have been told by many new employees they felt that sense of belonging as soon as they joined the college community, and I had the very same feeling when I arrived. Our new students feel that when they get here, too, and our graduating students tell us that coming back to campus is like coming home.

What is it about our college that the feeling of belonging is so pervasive and prevalent? I firmly believe it’s the underlying care that we have for each other, whether we are students, employees, alumni or friends. Whatever the next years and decades hold for our institution, we must retain

this commitment to caring. It is a responsibility we all have to each other. As the poet Maya Angelou wrote: “The ache for home lives in all of us.” It’s a desire of the human condition. We long to belong. And we celebrate that so many find that sense of belonging – of being home – at Lethbridge College.

President Dr. Brad Donaldson (centre) with organizers of Black History Month celebrations in February. Below, Peter Weasel Moccasin (right), the college’s Blackfoot grandparent, gifted Dr. Donaldson with a Blackfoot name in December.

Photo

Employee Excellence award winners announced

The college celebrated its Employee Excellence Award recipients in March for their dedication and exceptional service this past year. This year’s recipients are:

LEADERSHIP AND CREATING COMMUNITY:

• Liz Cernigoy, chair, Bachelor of Nursing

• Leeanne Conrad, director, Marketing, Communications, Alumni & Engagement

• Lisa Kozleski, senior writer and editor, Communications

• Teri Dyck, instructor, Practical Nurse

• Brad Taylor, associate dean, Centre for Justice and Human Services

• Justin Wynder, chair, Electrician and Carpentry Apprenticeship programs

LIFELONG LEARNING:

• Rosemary Shannon, chair, Massage Therapy

President Donaldson honoured with Blackfoot name

Lethbridge College President and CEO Dr. Brad Donaldson was honoured with a Blackfoot name in December. The name, Nináímsskaan isttokimaan/ Thunder Pipe Drum, was given to him by college Kaahsinnoonik (grandparent) Peter Weasel Moccasin (Miiniipooka/ Berry Child). Weasel Moccasin says his inspiration for the name came from Donaldson’s responsibility as a leader – to think of the well-being of others, to lead by example and to show by experience that you can overcome whatever challenges lie ahead. “Drums are very important,” says Weasel Moccasin. “It’s how we connect ourselves to the Creator of Life. When we hear those drums and the songs that come with them, it inspires us to heal, to overcome and to challenge again. It’s appropriate and deserving, and I hope he continues to do good work in the future.”

Congratulations to the following Lethbridge College community members for making a difference in their life, work and community. Here are some highlights of their successes:

Dawn Sugimoto (Communication Arts 1988), Communications manager, and Trudi Mason, Dean of the Centre for Justice and Human Services, were honoured as YWCA Women of Distinction in March. Mason was recognized in the Education and Mentorship category, while Sugimoto was recognized in the Community Leadership and Enhancement category.

A research project undertaken by Centre for Business, Arts and Sciences instructor Dr. Simon Schaerz and Exercise Science students Amanda Mohamed and Morgan Boyes, will be published in the Journal of Electronic Gaming and E-Sports.

Environmental Science instructor Dr. Everett Hanna and lab technician Kelsey Gourlie published an article in Rural Living and Ag Extension on the effects of the avian flu.

Jason Donkersgoed, director of LC Extension, was appointed to the International Coaching Federation Coaching Education Global Board of Directors.

Heavy Equipment Technician instructor Tim Fyfe was recognized for his extensive work with the Canadian Ski Patrol, receiving three awards this past year.

LCFA/SA award winners recognized: Dr. Karla Wolsky, instructor, Allied Health, won the Teaching Excellence Award and Casey Bellemare, instructor, Child and Youth Care, was named Rookie of the Year.

Cook Apprentice Susan Cahoon placed second at the Young Chefs Provincial Qualifier held in February at NAIT in Edmonton.

Business instructor Chris Hotton was named Professor of the Year by the Prairie Baseball Academy, a student-nominated award.

CAMPUS KUDOS

CAMPUS NEWS

College continues to climb in Canadian college research rankings

Lethbridge College has placed 11th in the 2023 Research Infosource ranking of Canada’s top 50 research colleges, strengthening its reputation as a leader in applied research.

This is the third straight year Lethbridge College has been recognized as one of Canada’s fastest-growing research colleges. The college’s overall ranking, which is based on 2022 research, jumped from 16th in 2021 and 29th in 2020. The college was also named to the Research Infosource winners’ circle this year, placing second for Industry Research Income Growth in the fiveyear period from 2018 to 2022, with an increase of more than 1,000 per cent in research funding – a total of more than $34 million – during that timeframe.

During the latest ranking period, Lethbridge College’s Centre for Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CARIE) garnered more than $9.34 million in external research funding, an increase of 32 per cent in College Research Income Growth from 2021 to 2022. The college also ranked an impressive third in the College Research Intensity Dollars-perResearcher category for 2022. Some other categories where Lethbridge College leads among medium-sized colleges include:

• Paid student researchers –ranked eighth, with 47 student researchers in 2022

• Number of research partnerships –ranked 12th, with 56 active partnerships in 2022

• Completed research projects –ranked 17th, with nine projects completed in 2022

Congratulations to our retirees

The entire college community offers a heartfelt thank you and warmest congratulations to this spring’s retirees, 12 talented people who, combined, provided 222 years of service to Lethbridge College students and community. Warmest thanks and all good wishes go out to: Karen Arnold, Andrew Bowen, Faron Ellis, Becky Fitzgerald, Merle Fuller, Marianne Martin, Walter Michel, Connie Shigemi, Wayne Shimoda, Penny Takahashi and Laurie Viskup.

Business Administration grad named valedictorian

Annette Kampert, a Business Administration – Accounting student and active volunteer on campus and in the community, was named valedictorian for Lethbridge College’s Spring 2024 Convocation. “In addition to succeeding in the classroom, Annette is also an excellent classmate,” says James Reimer, chair of the college’s School of Business. “Not only is she concerned with her own grades, but she also cares about helping others. One could argue which is more important? Achieving high grades for oneself or helping those around us do better? Annette has ultimately found a way to do both!”

Kampert, who earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average, says she remembers being extremely nervous the first day of classes, but after the first few weeks, she felt comfortable and knew she had made a good choice. “Lethbridge is definitely bigger than a small town, but the college has a really big community feeling to it,” she says. “I never really felt out of place at the college. There’s a sense of belonging.” To current and future students, she has simple advice. “Embrace the experience,” she says. “This might be a once-in-a-lifetime thing. Try new things and enjoy the experience – your classmates, your instructors - enjoy everything.”

SUMMER LODGING AT LETHBRIDGE COLLEGE

Every summer between early May and mid-August, our residences are available for long- or short-term accommodation. They are perfect if you are planning:

• seasonal work, conferences or sports tournaments

• weddings, anniversaries or reunions

• home renovations or waiting for possession of a new home

Enjoy our modern, fully furnished single suites, two-bedroom suites or four-bedroom townhouses.

To learn more or to book your stay, email residence@lethbridgecollege.ca or call 403-329-7218.

Business Admin dinner will serve up career advice

The Centre for Business, Arts and Sciences at Lethbridge College will revive a once popular and influential networking event this fall to give students in its Business Administration – Accounting major an opportunity to connect with industry and potential employers. Thanks to an $18,000 grant from the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) Education Foundation, the School of Business will hold an Accounting Advantage Dinner in November and again in 2025. The students are seated with professionals for a memorable meal, seasoned with plenty of career advice, and the evening ends with more networking. Professionals with their CPA designation who’d like to participate in the Accounting Advantage Dinner in November can reach out to James Reimer (j.reimer@lethbridgecollege.ca) to express interest, or watch for more information this fall about how to get involved.

In Memoriam

The Wider Horizons team extends condolences to the families, friends and former colleagues of community members who passed away in recent months.

Melissa Reed Boogaart (Multimedia Production 2006), an operations assistant in the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Innovation, passed away suddenly on Nov. 28. She started working at the college in 2017 and her colleagues said her superpower was helping others.

Barbara Joyce Bond, who served on the Lethbridge College Board of Governors from 1978 to 1986, passed away on Nov. 23. Barbara was the daughter of Kate Andrews, the first chair of the Lethbridge Junior College Board of Governors.

Rod McLeod (Community Leader Award 2012, Child and Youth Care 2002), who served as the college’s Métis elder from 2012 to mid-2018, died March 30 at the age of 87. He was given the Blackfoot name of  Iistakata, which means “Dependable One,” during a campus event in 2012.

Gwyn Boogaart, administrative assistant in Culinary from 1998 to 2008, passed away Jan. 24. She was an artist who expressed her innate appreciation for beauty through paintings, gardening and more.

Aaron Brooks, an instructor in the Primary Care Paramedic program for almost a decade, died April 11. He was described as “an amazing instructor” and was highly respected by his colleagues, students and the community he served.

SITTING WITH AN IDEA

A Q&A WITH NEW GRAD BRYCE MANY FINGERS/ SINGER ON ART, COMMUNITY AND COMING HOME

Story by Lisa Kozleski | Photos by Rob Olson

Illustration by Bryce Many Fingers/Singer

Bryce Many Fingers/Singer (Mano’taanikapi/ First Grandchild) says he always loved to draw, but as a young person, he didn’t take it seriously or imagine it could turn into what it is today. But throughout his educational journey – including a stop at Lethbridge College, where he will receive his General Arts and Science diploma at May’s convocation ceremony – he kept working at it, trying new techniques and embracing new technologies. Today, he is continuing his education at the University of Lethbridge, studying art and psychology, and he hopes to work as a teacher one day. Wherever his journey takes him, he says he plans to keep creating art.

The Wider Horizons team commissioned Singer to create a piece for this home-themed issue of the magazine and asked him to share some of the stories of his life and work.

Tell us a little bit more about your path to Lethbridge College.

I grew up in the Bullhorn area of the Blood Reserve and did all of my education on the reserve. I went to ACAD (now the Alberta University of the Arts in Calgary) right out of high school and did that for a year, but it just wasn’t working for me. I took a lot of time off and had to figure a lot of stuff out for myself, and eventually wound up coming home. I started again and went to Red Crow College and then Lethbridge College where I started in the Indigenous Career Pathways program and then did General Arts and Science after that. I completed the program in December and started at the university in January, and I’ll receive my diploma from the college in May.

Do you have any stories to share from your college days?

During my time at the college, I got to know [instructor] Marcia Black Water (General Studies 2004) a lot better. She is family –her mother was my grandpa’s sister – and it was always nice to see a familiar face. We would talk for hours and it was just nice knowing that I could ask her for help if I ever felt lost or needed some guidance. She would always send me opportunities and keep me up to date on anything happening at the college. Marni Hope [the Indigenous student support and events coordinator], was also very kind. I would see her almost every day in the Niitsitapi Gathering Place, and I was very fortunate to get to know her. I also looked forward to when they would bring in [Kainai grandparent] Peter Weasel Moccasin. It was nice to hear him and meet the other Blackfoot students, and to have a little bit of community there.

Have you always enjoyed drawing?

Yes. When I was younger, I would just draw for myself. As I got older and started learning, well, it just goes back to that break I was talking about. There was a lot of stuff about my community I didn’t really understand yet. Then I started to get older and tried to figure out who I was in my community and that’s kind of how it started. And I started getting into Blackfoot literature, like Beverly Hungry Wolf – she’s one of my big inspirations. I am a huge fan of hers. [WH: Hungry Wolf is one of the first people from the Blood Reserve to attend Lethbridge College and received an honorary degree in 2011.] I even got a blessing from Beverly and her daughter when I was illustrating some of her stories. These Blackfoot stories are for everyone, and to have their blessing meant a lot. That’s kind of how I started to get into more Blackfoot art, as well as meeting other Blackfoot artists in the community.

How do you use technology in your work, and what are you working on now?

I always like to try different things. I like to get humbled every once in a while. I’m doing a print making course at the university right now and it’s like learning a new craft. It just really makes you start with nothing. But mostly I do illustration. I grew up reading a lot of graphic novels and comic books and that’s where I get my inspiration. And then because of the pandemic, I was just going through so much paper to try to perfect my drawing, that I had to buy an iPad and had to kind of learn to draw all over again. Today, I just prefer people come to me with stories, and it’s nice to collaborate with them.

What are your plans after university?

Eventually I’d like to teach. That’s just another part of me I need to explore. In our community right now, there is no therapist on the reserve or people who understand certain things we are going through, especially with the opioid crisis. I think I’ll always be making art and collaborations. I might try to go more down the road of illustrating for authors. I am a huge fan of Indigenous literature. I love the way people think and trying to bring their ideas to life for them.

Do you find you have a process to create your art?

I just have to be in a good space to create art. Sometimes I just need to be given an idea and then just sit with it for a while, and then when I least expect it, that’s when I start working. I’m always moving so I never have a specific place where I do my work. A lot of times I do my drafts at a coffee shop. My grandparents stay near the border, right in the prairies. It’s super quiet. That’s where I like to draft ideas and finally put the rest of the pieces together and make a final product.

Tell us about the artwork you have created for this issue of Wider Horizons.

The title of the digital artwork is “Red Dogs and Ears of the Earth.” Baby bison have apparently been called red dogs because of the orange-red coloured fur that they are born with before their darker brown fur takes over. Baby bison are often born in late March, and it is said that the prairie crocus plant, Kippiaapi, blooms in the spots where a baby bison was born. “Ears of the earth” is a phrase often used by [visual artist and naturalist] Annora Brown and Indigenous peoples as these flowers tend to appear in the spring and “listen for the first faint rustle of summer.” In the image, the other two plants are yarrow, Aohtoksoo’ki, and rosehips, Kiniiksi, which tend to appear in the summer and are very abundant in Kainai. In the background there are aspen trees, and the bison calf appears to be in a setting free from fences, cages and other boundaries, which many Indigenous peoples wish to become a reality again in the future.

How does this piece of art relate to home?

The image relates to home as it’s something we’re finally starting to see with the bison returning. Recent films like Singing Back the Buffalo and Bring them Home were mostly inspiration for the artwork. Both films centre on the cultural and environmental significance that buffalo have had on Blackfoot peoples and how their return ensures a positive future moving forward. In 2024, it will also be the 10th anniversary of the Buffalo Treaty, which I hear will be hosted by Kainai, so I was mostly just excited when making the image. Prairie crocus and sweetgrass are very important plants, and with the buffalo returning to more areas where they can flourish, such plants and more will be visible and abundant.

See more of Singer’s work at www.instagram.com/brycemsinger.

Bryce Many Fingers/Singer has always loved creating art. He created this piece “Red Dogs and Ears of the Earth” for this issue of Wider Horizons

“THE

IMAGE RELATES TO HOME AS IT’S SOMETHING WE’RE FINALLY STARTING TO SEE WITH THE BISON RETURNING.”

BRYCE MANY FINGERS/SINGER (MANO’TAANIKAPI/FIRST GRANDCHILD)

HOW A PERILOUS JOURNEY FROM COLOMBIA TO CANADA

ENDED IN HOPE FOR THREE ESL STUDENTS WHO NOW CALL LETHBRIDGE HOME

(From left): Mauren Gaitán Pérez, Johana Sabogal González and Alejandra Jiménez Pérez faced a risky journey from Colombia to Canada in 2022.

SANCTUARY

“IN OUR POSITION IT WAS DIFFICULT. WE HAD A LIFE IN COLOMBIA, BUT WE NEEDED TO CHOOSE. WE NEEDED TO GO, OR WE STAY IN COLOMBIA AND WAIT FOR DEATH.”

MAUREN GAITÁN PÉREZ

In the early days of January 2022, Alejandra Jiménez Pérez, Johana Sabogal González and Mauren Gaitán Pérez faced an impossibly simple choice.

They had spent years in their home country of Colombia organizing meetings, protests and workshops supporting the LGBTQ+ communities and causes. But now that work had provoked credible death threats from the “Black Eagles,” a paramilitary group that was known for targeting social leaders. Although the three young women shared the pamphlets containing death threats with local authorities, and then followed up with their ongoing concerns, nothing was done.

“My brother had been killed by the Black Eagles for his work,” says Gaitán. “In our position it was difficult. We had a life in Colombia, but we needed to choose. We needed to go, or we stay in Colombia and wait for death.”

So they left.

The journey they faced was risky – at one point they were literally lost in a desert – but with a cousin waiting in Lethbridge, the three eventually made their way to Canada. They arrived on Feb. 6, 2022. It was snowing. And although it took a few seasons to really feel it, it was a place that would soon feel like home.

Today, the three students are completing English as a Second Language (ESL) courses at Lethbridge College’s English Language Centre and making plans for continued education and careers in Canada. During their time at the college, they have been cheered on and supported by people like Karen Smith, the centre’s manager, as well as their instructors and fellow classmates.

“The journey of each of our students is so unique,” says Smith. “As I listen to the narratives of our students, particularly those from conflict-torn regions, I’m reminded of the immense fortitude within the human spirit. Their journeys, marked by trials unimaginable to many, stand as a testament to the enduring quest for personal and political freedom. Their resilience, their sheer determination in the face of hardship, transforms them into unsung heroes of our time.

“And in the stories of these three strong young women, I find not just a reflection of their experiences, but also a mirror to my own journey,” says Smith, explaining that as a lesbian who came out in the 1990s, she faced discrimination and threats. “I am grateful for the privilege of calling Canada home, a sanctuary of safety and respect. Yet, with each tale shared, I am reminded of the weight of responsibility, the choice to bear witness to their struggles, and to honour their courage by amplifying their voices. In their stories lies the collective narrative of humanity’s triumph over adversity, and it is a privilege to stand alongside them, learning, advocating and celebrating their strength of spirit.”

Story by Lisa Kozleski | Photos by Rob Olson

Jiménez and Gaitán are cousins raised like sisters, and Jiménez and Sabogal are former spouses who remained very good friends. “She is like a member of my family,” says Gaitán of Sabogal. “I introduce her like my cousin. My family loves her. My mom says she is like a daughter, and my grandma says the same.”

Their journey from Colombia to Canada is laid out in clear and painful detail in the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada’s Notice of Decision following their hearing for refugee protection on Aug. 28, 2023.

At the hearing, the three women testified that they feared persecution by Las Aguilas Negras – the Black Eagles – who started making harassing telephone calls in 2019. In 2020, they began to receive pamphlets that listed their names and the word “DEATH” by each one. The pamphlets said they were leaders who needed to be eliminated as part of the Black Eagles’ “so-called democratic social cleansing,” and because they are open LGBTQ+ people who have been active in advocating and promoting LGBTQ+ interests. The three also participated in national protests and marches on various social causes including against poverty and the economic challenges faced by Colombians.

In the spring of 2021, the three women filed their first complaint with the Attorney General’s office, but got no reply. Then in September 2021, Jiménez’s cousin – who lives in Lethbridge – travelled to Colombia to visit family. The three friends took the cousin out to a bar one night where they experienced an anti-LBGTQ+ act, which distressed the cousin. This “was the door to a conversation where we described the moment of life we were having because of our sexual orientation,” wrote Jiménez in the testimony shared at refugee hearing. “It was at this moment where she suggested the possibility of leaving the country to safeguard our lives.”

The harassing text messages, calls and intimidation continued, and by January 2022, Jiménez, Gaitán and Sabogal filed a second complaint with the Attorney General’s office. Again, there was no response. And so, on Jan. 31, they left. Their journey took them from Bogotá to Mexico City to Mexicali, where a “coyote” agreed to transport them across the

border. That person handed them off to another van, and the people there began “to insult us, threaten us with firearms and put us in another van without telling us where we were going,” testified Jiménez. “These people left us abandoned in the middle of the desert with seven other people.”

“I think all the time that maybe we would die in the desert,” says Jiménez in an interview at Lethbridge College earlier this year. “In the desert we are lost for six hours. And we are walking, but I didn’t know the way.”

“We crossed the Brava River [Rio Grande] twice,” adds Gaitán. Making their way out of the desert “was a miracle,” Gaitán adds. “We are a miracle.”

Officers from U.S. Customs and Border Protection picked up the group in American territory at 2 a.m. on Feb. 2, 2022, and took them to Yuma, Ariz. They were initially placed in a detention centre for one night, and then Jiménez and Gaitán were taken to a shelter, while Sabogal was taken to a cell for 24 hours. The next day, the three were reunited at the shelter. On Feb. 5, Jiménez’s cousin was able to buy airplane tickets for the trio, and the next day they flew to Great Falls, Mont., where the cousin’s husband picked them up and drove them to Lethbridge.

“Our first day we slept for maybe 12 hours,” says Gaitán, “and we took a hot shower and had clean clothes and real food. And our first morning here, we woke up and it was like, ‘we are in a dream.’”

Challenges continued however, as the three only stayed with Jiménez’s cousin until their work permits arrived. But the manager at Bully’s Casino who hired them to work as maintenance people also helped them with the references needed to find housing. “She was an angel,” says Gaitán.

At about this same time, Jiménez, Gaitán and Sabogal came to Lethbridge College to ask about studying English and first met Karen Smith. While their work permits did not allow them to study, Smith “said she would keep her eyes on us,” says Gaitán. “When the refugee status came, we called and the next week we started our classes.”

In the interim, they spent about three months working at Bully’s before being hired for a second job working as packaging technicians at PepsiCo. Today, Gaitán is working full time as a pit boss at Pure Casino Lethbridge while Jiménez and Sabogal continue to work at PepsiCo. Eventually, all three are looking to continue their studies in Canada – Jiménez in psychology; Gaitán in art studies; and Sabogal in modern languages – and are eager to build careers in the community.

ARRIVING IN A FEBRUARY COLD SPELL, “WE THOUGHT THIS CITY WAS A GHOST CITY. BUT HERE I PUSH MYSELF IN MY FRUSTRATION. NOW I LIKE THIS CITY. IT GIVES ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO KNOW PEOPLE. I LOVE THE PEOPLE HERE.

I LOVE TO FEEL FREE.”

ALEJANDRA JIMÉNEZ PÉREZ

experience

(From left): Sabogal, Jiménez and Gaitán did not have much

with English before arriving in Lethbridge in February 2022.

None of the three students had much experience speaking English before arriving in Canada. The learning curve has been steep, all three say, especially as mature learners in their early 30s. But since starting classes in the second half of September, they’ve made great progress.

“I really like to study here at Lethbridge College, because I improve my English a lot,” says Sabogal. “I speak with my coworkers now. Before at PepsiCo I would only say ‘yes’ and ‘no,’ and now I speak with my coworkers and understand them. I speak with my classmates, and it is hard because we all have different accents. But I like this part of my life. Now I try to talk with people in the classroom and it’s so good.”

Lethbridge College started offering English as a Second Language in 1970 as a program for Tibetan refugees, and since then, the English Language Centre has welcomed thousands of students from all over the world, as well as newcomers to Canada, in a variety of different types and levels of programming.

THE PLACES WE CALL HOME

In the winter 2024 semester, Lethbridge College’s English Language Centre welcomed 165 students from 38 countries to learn English. Forty-two per cent came from Ukraine, nine per cent came from Syria and six per cent came from Somalia. The rest come from 35 other countries around the world. On average about 500 domestic and international students come to Lethbridge College to learn and improve their English language skills.

Today, the ESL program is offered three full semesters each year, with classes from basic to advanced English. Students benefit from Teachers of English as a Second Language (TESL)certified instructors, customized short- or long-term programs for groups of 20 or more and flexible start dates throughout the year. Over the last five years, about 1,500 students a year come from an average of 43 countries to learn English at Lethbridge College, with many of them going on to enrol in the college’s certificate, diploma and degree programs.

Jiménez, Gaitán and Sabogal say they would encourage other international students, refugees and new Canadians to study English at Lethbridge College. And despite the unconventional path they took getting here, Gaitán says she wouldn’t change a thing about their experience. “I think when we arrived here, we were different people,” Gaitán says. “And if I had the possibility to choose a different way, I think I would choose exactly the same way. These things that happened to us made us the human beings we are now.”

One of the biggest surprises for Jiménez, Gaitán and Sabogal is how quickly Canada in general – and Lethbridge in particular – have come to feel like home.

“When I started to live here, I was thinking I did not like the city, the language, the people,” says Jiménez. Arriving in a February cold spell, “we thought this city was a ghost city. But here I push myself in my frustration. This is really important for me. Now I like this city. It gives me the opportunity to know people. I love the people here. I love to feel free. I miss my country, my family and my mom. But I feel good here.”

Sabogal says when she was young, she liked to study different countries and was always intrigued by Canada. “I always dreamed to know the snow,” she says. “But when I arrived in my situation, I didn’t enjoy the snow. When I arrived, I didn’t feel that this is my home. But now I like to go outside and feel the snow, and I say, ‘this is my home now.’ And my family is the most important part of feeling at home.”

Starting in July 2025, the English Language Centre will offer a new summer program called A’pao’ohkoissksinnima (exploring). Students can spend three, four or seven weeks in Canada studying English and exploring the region’s natural beauty while learning about Blackfoot culture and history. Learn more about this and other ESL programs at lethbridgecollege.ca/elc.

Gaitán agrees. “When we arrived here, it was so different. I missed my food, I missed my language,” she recalls. “But now I feel this is my home. Some days when I wake up, I think this is the smell of my home, this is the weather of my home. I find here the quiet life I like. Because we were from a big city and it’s like Toronto – the traffic is terrible, and it’s noisy and it’s so different here. We went to Montreal a few months ago to celebrate the birthday of Alejandra, and I thought ‘this is fine, but oh my goodness I miss Lethbridge so much.’

“I think the huge thing for me to feel at home is my family,” she adds. “Because I can’t imagine my life here without them. That is the most important thing for me.”

“WHEN I ARRIVED, I DIDN’T FEEL THAT THIS IS MY HOME. BUT NOW I LIKE TO GO OUTSIDE AND FEEL THE SNOW, AND I SAY, ‘THIS IS MY HOME NOW.’ AND MY FAMILY IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF FEELING AT HOME.”

JOHANA SABOGAL GONZÁLEZ

(From left) Jiménez, Sabogal and Gaitán all say that Lethbridge now feels like home.

LETHBRIDGE COLLEGE’S NEWEST AND SOON-TO-BE-GRADS REFLECT ON THE

TASTES, SOUNDS, SIGHTS, SMELLS AND FEELINGS OF THE PLACES THEY CALL

HOME

What feels like home is different for every one of us. It could be the smell of coffee, pine trees or the prairie grasses; the sight of mountains, skylines or rolling country roads; the feeling of wind, freshly caught fish or sand under the feet; the sound of a piano, cicadas or equipment in a workplace; and the taste of a million different delicious foods.

But what feels like home is also the same for many of us. Home is the people who make the coffee, who drive with us on the country roads, who embrace us in hugs, who play the piano, and who make or share those favourite meals. When we are with our people, we are home.

WIDER HORIZONS ASKED SOON-TO-BE AND NEW GRADS WHAT SAYS HOME TO THEM. KEEP READING TO SAVOUR THEIR DIVERSE, DESCRIPTIVE (AND OFTEN DELICIOUS) RESPONSES.

Story

Lisa Kozleski

by

| Photos by Rob Olson and submitted

“ [ COFFEE IS ] A SCENT THAT REMINDS ME OF MY MOTHER, AND TO ME MY MOTHER IS HOME.”

One food that says home to me is fried potatoes, because growing up we spent a lot of time with our grandmother Siisiinakii and she always made two big pans of fried potatoes to feed all her many grandchildren in the mornings and it always fed everyone. It just brings me back home to the community of Moses Lake. One view that says home to me is the view of Chief Mountain. It’s always had significant meaning to me as I remember the story my father shared with me as a child. As someone who was not supposed to make it through birth, my dad always shares the story of his journey to Chief Mountain with offerings and his best shirt to ask for strength for myself and how he made an offering to Creator to keep me around for a long time so that I may grow up to become someone great. Laughter says home to me, because when we grew up around our cousins and relatives, we heard laughter and it’s only right in Indigenous communities that the humour

is captured through the walls of each home. We are people of humour, you will always see Indigenous people laughing their humorous auntie laughs, is what we call it. When I see the many Pendleton print tables around the college, it reminds me of home because we as Indigenous people always have a Pendleton up on our walls or draped over the backs of a sofa. To this day, I have one draped over my sofa. One smell that says home to me is the smell of coffee through the halls, because growing up, that was the one scent that we smelled waking up every morning for school. It’s a scent that reminds me of my mother, and to me my mother is home. She is my safe place.

MEGAN GROS VENTRE BOY

(IINAKII/BUFFALO WOMAN)

CRIMINAL JUSTICE – POLICING 2024; WILL START BACHELOR OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM IN FALL 2024

IF HOME HAS A TASTE AND A SCENT, IT WOULD BE THE COFFEE. IT REMINDS ME TO BE GRATEFUL FOR A GOOD NIGHT SLEEP, AND WAKING UP TO LIVE A NEW DAY. COFFEE FEELS EVEN MORE LIKE HOME IF I AM DRINKING IT WHILE WATCHING THE SUNRISE BY THE BEACH OR LAKESIDE, SINCE I GREW UP ON AN ISLAND WHERE I SPENT A LOT OF MORNINGS WATCHING THE SUN RISE FROM THE HORIZON.

AYRTON TABUNO BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION – ACCOUNTING 2024

“I AM ORIGINALLY FROM UKRAINE, BUT LETHBRIDGE HAS BECOME MY HOME OVER THE PAST YEAR AND A HALF. LETHBRIDGE FEELS LIKE HOME BECAUSE IT SHARES SIMILARITIES WITH MY HOMETOWN—IT’S SMALL AND COZY. THE PARKS AND COULEES HERE EVOKE A SENSE OF FAMILIARITY AND COMFORT.”

ANNA ZARUBINA EXERCISE SCIENCE 2024

Pan fried elk or deer steaks say home to me because it is a family-honoured tradition after a successful hunting trip! The southern Alberta landscape says home to me – lakes, rivers, coulees and mountains. This is a unique place and it will always be my home. The sound of our air compressor at the shop says home to me. We use it all the time, so the sound is comforting. A big hug from my fiancé feels like home because I feel safe and protected. And the smell of community lunches that we have at work say home to me! There’s nothing like having a group lunch after working hard all morning! I consider my workplace home. I am surrounded by a work crew who are respectful, easy to work with and happy to help. I trust all of the people I work with fully. We have to work closely together a lot of the time since we are a small crew. The people are what make it feel like home.

“I WAS BORN IN LETHBRIDGE BUT I WAS RAISED ON MY RESERVATION. KAINAI IS MY HOME AND ALWAYS WILL BE.”

BRANDON CASH SINGER (IMITOIYII/DOG

“A

SOUND THAT SAYS HOME TO ME IS THE CONSTANT CHATTER OF BUGS IN THE LONG GRASS ALONG THE COULEES.”

Iwould consider the prairies and coulees to be my home. To me, you really can’t beat seeing rolling hills stretching all the way out to the Rockies. The food that says home to me most is elk cutlets. My grandparents have a farm in the area and my dad would always go out hunting on weekends. I would sometimes get to help out with cutting meat, which was always great bonding time for my family. It’s also breaded, fried meat so you can’t go wrong. The Oldman River winding through coulee trenches is one of my favourite views of home. It reminds me of camping with family, as well as many good times floating down it with friends. A sound that says home to me is the constant chatter of cicadas and other bugs in the long grass

along the coulees. Young me used to be terrified thinking that their chirps were the sound of a rattlesnake, but now they are a comforting buzz. A touch that says home to me is the prickly sting of trying to de-burr your pants after walking through the wrong patch of long grass. It brings me back to memories of camping and playing in fields. A smell that says home to me is the smell of ozone before it rains. I love to look out at distant storm clouds as they roll in, and this smell always lets me know when it’s time to be on the lookout.

NIC YAGOS BACHELOR OF NURSING 2026

“ONE SOUND THAT SAYS HOME TO ME IS THE BEAT OF THE DRUM.”

One touch that says home to me and why is a good hug. I have always been the type of person who enjoys a nice, friendly hug. My grandma raised me, and her hugs made me feel like you were always safe and warm at home. The smell that says home to me is the smell of smudge: as soon as I smell burning sweetgrass, sage, sweet pine and cedar, it grounds me and reminds me that no matter where I may be, Mother Earth will always be my home. One food that says home to me is dry meat because growing up, I always went hunting with my late dad and my grandma: we hunted deer, elk and moose. In my house, we would always have dry meat hanging up to dry, dry meat cooking in the oven or boiling to make a soup. Whenever I eat it, I get nothing but good memories that come to mind about the good old days. When I see Ninastako (Chief Mountain), no matter which direction I am coming from: the

North, the South, the East or the West, I know I am home when I see that mountain. In the morning, I look out my dining room window to a beautiful view of the Chief. My family and I have had a connection with the beautiful sacred mountain as long as I can remember. One sound that says home to me is the beat of the drum. I hear the beat of the drum: it reminds me of the connection I will always have with my late mother, Ralna Crow Eagle, and Mother Earth. Hearing the beat also reminds me of my late father, Vernon Bob Brave Rock: he taught me how to dance to the different drum beats at pow-wows.

STEPHANIE CROW EAGLE/BRAVE ROCK (NATOYI KSISSKATAKI/HOLY BEAVER)

CULINARY CAREERS 2011; GENERAL ARTS AND SCIENCE 2024

“ MY FIRST HOME IS GHANA, AND I HAVE COME TO CONSIDER LETHBRIDGE AS MY HOME AS WELL. THE FOOD THAT TAKES ME HOME IS CALLED FUFU (A DOUGHY STAPLE FOOD) AND PEANUT SOUP WITH GOAT MEAT. WHY FUFU? BECAUSE ASIDE THAT IT IS SO TASTY, IT IS A FOOD THAT TRADITIONALLY REQUIRES COMMUNITY AND COLLABORATION TO MAKE.”

STEPHEN ADU CRIMINAL JUSTICE – CORRECTIONS 2024

“ANYWHERE I AM WITH MY CHILDREN AND HUSBAND FEELS LIKE HOME TO ME. RICE AND BEANS SAY HOME TO ME – IT IS THE MOST TRADITIONAL FOOD IN BRAZIL. THE VIEW OF MY CHILDREN SAY HOME TO ME, AS DOES HEARING MY FIRST LANGUAGE, PORTUGUESE. THE HEAT OF THE SUN IS A TOUCH THAT SAYS HOME TO ME, AND SO DOES THE SMELL OF BEANS BEING COOKED.”

LUCIANA FERREIRA CHILD AND YOUTH CARE 2024

Iconsider the Kainai reserve and the Rocky Mountains to be home. The food that says home to me are Indian tacos. When my family would make them, we each had a part. Some of us made the frybread, while some of us cut up the veggies, and someone made the chili. Sometimes we’d even forget the salsa and sour cream, so someone had to go buy them. So, every time I have an Indian taco I think of my family. Nothing says I am home more than seeing Chief Mountain. When I moved into Lethbridge to go to school, I missed the beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains. I feel lucky on the days that it is clear enough to see Chief Mountain from Scenic Drive.

The smell of sweetgrass and coffee will always be the smell of home to me. Growing up I was lucky to see my parents’ routine. They would wake up, make a pot of coffee, and smudge with sweetgrass before they did anything else. The smells would dance around the house until we all left for the day.

KARIZA MANYCHIEF (SIIPIKITSTAKII/NIGHT OFFERING) BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION – MANAGEMENT 2024

“BACK HOME IN THE NORTHWEST TERRITORIES WILL ALWAYS BE KNOWN AS HOME, BUT WHEREVER I FEEL I AM MOST HAPPY AND SURROUNDED BY PEOPLE I LOVE IS WHERE I CONSIDER HOME – AND I CONSIDER LETHBRIDGE TO BE ONE OF THOSE PLACES. DOWN HERE IN LETHBRIDGE, THE VIEW OF THE LANDSCAPE IS A SIGHT THAT FEELS LIKE HOME TO ME.”

COLE LOUTIT

BACHELOR OF APPLIED ARTS IN JUSTICE STUDIES 2024

“HOME IS WHEN YOU CREST THE HILL ON HIGHWAY 3 [ AND SEE ... ]

THE TRESTLE BRIDGE ON THE RIGHT!”

Lasagne tastes like home to me – my mother-in-law makes a great lasagne. We have made Lethbridge our home now! That may change depending on what career options I am lucky enough to have but we do really love Lethbridge now. Home is when you crest the hill on Highway 3 eastbound and start heading downhill before you are struck by the view of the world’s longest and tallest metal trestle bridge so picturesquely on the right! But a view that reminds me of my first home is right when Highway 2 northbound finally splits into Macleod Trail and Deerfoot Trail and you are hit with the many kilometres-wide glow of the city that suddenly appears. It means we are almost home to see family. The sound to me that says, “I am home now” is when I come home and am greeted

by the excitement and yelling of my kids! They aren’t too cool for me yet! But a sound that reminds me of my first home is the sound of the clanging and jangling of horse racing and the many sketchy carnival rides of the Calgary Stampede. I love the touch of a worldclass Bow River rainbow trout – there is no more superior fish than the trout and if the trout from the Bow could tell stories.... A smell that reminds me of my first home is the smell of the crisp mountain streams and air, being lucky enough to have world-class mountains minutes from my home for most of my life!

BRADLEY KNIBBS NATURAL RESOURCE COMPLIANCE 2024

INGREDIENTS

For Chef MD Sharif Muntasir (Culinary Careers 2019; current Cook Apprentice), biryani is the dish that reminds him of home. He grew up in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, and left at the age of 19 to pursue his passion for cooking. “We always have biryani at any family get-together or celebration,” he says. “As I don’t have any family in Canada, sometimes I cook chicken, beef or lamb biryani and eat it with my girlfriend. The aroma from the biryani reminds me of my childhood and all my family members back at home.”

Muntasir says he “didn’t know how to hold a knife properly” before coming to the college, and that the program prepared him well for industry. He currently works as a cook/chef at Earls Lethbridge and as a food service supervisor for Compass Group at the University of Lethbridge, and he was eager to share his favourite recipe with the readers of Wider Horizons. “The most satisfying aspect of my work is cooking for my customers,” he says. “It really makes me happy when customers love my dishes and give compliments to the host/hostess.”

Story by Lisa Kozleski | Photos by Rob Olson

METHOD

FIRST STAGE

1.1 pounds boneless chicken thighs or breast (bone-in is possible too)

3 tbsp .................................................................... plain yogurt

1¼ tbsp ginger garlic paste

½ to 1 tbsp garam masala (or biriyani masala)

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp ground turmeric

½ to 1 tsp red chili powder (to taste)

SECOND STAGE

2 cups ..................................................................... basmati rice

THIRD STAGE

3 tbsp vegetable oil

1 bay leaf

1 thinly sliced onion

4 green cardamoms

6 cloves

1 inch cinnamon stick

1 star anise

¾ tsp jeera (cumin seeds)

LAST STAGES

Handful chopped cilantro

Handful fried crispy onions

To enjoy the creations of Lethbridge College chefs, make a reservation at the Garden Court Restaurant by calling 403-320-3230. Bon appétit!

1. Make a few slits on all the chicken pieces and place them in a large bowl. Then add the marinade ingredients listed in the first stage and mix well. Cover and set aside for at least 45-60 minutes; you can also let it rest overnight in the refrigerator.

2. Rinse basmati rice well (at least three times) and then cook as directed in a rice cooker or pot.

3. Prepare to cook the chicken by heating oil in a heavybottomed pot. Add the items listed in the third stage. When the onions are translucent, add the marinated chicken and sauté about five minutes.

4. Lower the heat. Cover the pot and cook until the chicken is soft, tender and completely cooked through. Check doneness by pricking the chicken with a fork or knife. It has to be just cooked and not overdone. Add more salt if needed.

5. Add cilantro to the chicken and get ready to assemble the biryani.

6. Preheat the oven to 350F.

7. In an oven-proof pot or dish, ladle a layer of chicken and gravy (sauce) in the bottom of the pan. Add a layer of rice. Cover with 1 tbsp of cilantro and 1 tbsp of crispy onion. Repeat this layering process at least three or four times.

8. Cover the pot/dish, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes.

9. Before serving, garnish with more fried onions and cilantro.

10. Serve with a large rice paddle, making sure each portion gets chicken from the bottom and rice from the top in layers. Enjoy!

{ Chef MD Sharif Muntasir }

CHICKEN BIRYANI

Where are they now?

Makers, Doers and Thinkers

Celebrating the Lethbridge College alumni who are building community and making their mark in memorable ways.

FEATURING:

Heidi Gravelle

ʔa·kuqⱡi piȼak paⱡkiy Horn Spoon Woman

Distinguished Alumni 2024, Bachelor of Applied Arts –Correctional Studies 2005

SHARING THE SUCCESSES OF OUR ALUMNI

IN THEIR CAREERS AND THROUGHOUT THEIR LIVES.

Makers, Doers and Thinkers Featuring

From completing her degree at Lethbridge College while raising her family as a single parent to leading her community as Chief of the Tobacco Plains Indian Band (Yaq it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it), Heidi Gravelle has never let adversity stand in the way of personal growth and service to her community.

For this reason, and countless more, Gravelle has been named this year’s Distinguished Alumni. “I had to experience everything that I did, in order to be who I am today,” she says.

Outspoken, compassionate and committed to the wellbeing of vulnerable children, Gravelle worked extensively with social agencies in Lethbridge, Saskatoon and British Columbia. Despite suffering her own hardships, she was an unwavering supporter and empathetic listener to families and children affected by trauma and addiction.

While completing her Bachelor of Applied Arts –Correctional Studies degree, Gravelle worked in a specialized parenthood home mentoring four Indigenous children. This experience sparked her passion for working with youth, and after graduating from Lethbridge College, Gravelle continued on this path, becoming a voice for many who had been silenced.

Desiring a better life for herself and her three sons, Gravelle moved to Saskatoon and became executive director of the White Buffalo Youth Lodge, serving Indigenous and nonIndigenous youth in the city. In a few short years, Gravelle turned the underfunded and in-debt organization around, to where it was fully funded and fully staffed. While in this position, she also completed a certificate in professional directorship, a credential that would serve her well in the next stage of her career.

Feeling a pull to return home to her community in Tobacco Plains near Grasmere, B.C., Gravelle made the move in 2018 and became director of Health, Wellness and Community Services – a portfolio that involved identifying health, education and social priorities for on- and off-reserve members.

In 2019, she followed in the footsteps of her grandmother, Elizabeth Gravelle – the first female First Nations Chief to be elected in Canada – and became Chief herself. She was re-elected in 2023. Gravelle says her grandmother encouraged

her to run for Chief, telling her, “It is so easy to move from your heart and your truth into what is expected of you.” Gravelle says she continues to apply this wisdom when carrying out her leadership responsibilities.

Scott Manjak, chief administrative officer of the Tobacco Plains Indian Band, echoes that sentiment. He says Gravelle is leading the way for her community and taking unprecedented steps toward self-governance for the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it First Nation, not because she has to, but because it’s the right thing to do. “Through her ability to understand the trauma and lateral violence that exists in First Nations communities as a result of colonization, Nasuʔkin (Chief) Heidi leads by ensuring that the priority is improving the lives of community members,” says Manjak. “Nasuʔkin Heidi is not only leading the health and healing of her community, but she is also a strategic and driving force in the way her nation is advancing the rights and interests in B.C., Canada and industry.”

Understanding that reconciliation also means working with leaders from all levels of government, Gravelle is committed to finding a path of healing for all citizens who reside within the traditional territory of the Tobacco Plains Indian Band. “Great leaders lead by example,” says Manjak. “This shines in Nasuʔkin Heidi as she courageously brings forward initiatives that are transformational for her nation. Never one to shy away from a difficult conversation or direction forward … she engages in opportunities to support and build a culture of care and compassion.”

Story by Tina Karst | Photos by Nicole Leclair Photography

ALUMNI UPDATES

We love hearing from Lethbridge College alumni! You can find additional updates online at widerhorizons.ca.

To submit your news to share with your classmates and the college community, drop us a note at WHMagazine@lethbridgecollege.ca.

2024

Matthew Henry Bachelor of Applied Science in Conservation Enforcement; Natural Resource Compliance 2022

Matthew is the newly appointed conservation officer for the North Thompson region of British Columbia. He was featured in a November article in the North Thompson Star/Journal, where he said: “It’s great to wake up in the morning and feel that you can make a difference, even if it’s just on an individual level with the people you meet every day. That is one of the parts of the job I like the most, meeting different people. It’s always interesting. It’s great to see all the people out on the land recreating. Most often they are pleased to see us out there as well.”

In addition, in March, the Canadian

Federal Wildlife Officers Association announced that Matthew received the 2023 Canadian Federal Wildlife Officers Award of Excellence. The award is presented annually to a Natural Resource Compliance student who shows enthusiasm and excellence in their studies related to the work of federal wildlife officers.

2023

Gerry Campbell-Greer General Arts and Sciences

In November, Gerry presented a heartfelt gift to the college – a handstitched blanket called “My College Journey.” The blanket features several symbols depicting Gerry’s experience at Lethbridge College, such as the stitching of LCSA, a place he was always welcome at and inspired to be a part of. The word “Oki” can be found in each of the four corners, and he used the colours of the medicine wheel to honour the importance the number four plays in many aspects of Indigenous culture. The blanket will be displayed in a case on campus – a location is still to be determined. Gerry is now enrolled at the University of Lethbridge where he is studying history, archeology and political science. He was also featured on the Autism Goes to College podcast, Episode 28: Going for his degree in Canada.

Barrt Maayen

Agriculture Science

– Agriculture Business

Barrt was one of two mentees chosen to participate in the founding year of the Young Farmer Mentorship program. Supported by Canadian Pacific Kansas City Rail, the program encourages young farmers to be informed and involved with agricultural policy. Barrt was born and raised in southern Alberta and has been a member of the Lethbridge Coaldale 4H beef club for eight years. He works for a cattle and irrigated crop operation in the Coaldale and Lethbridge area.

Nicolas Rabl

Digital Communications and Media

Nicolas provided communications support for Curling Canada at the 2024 World Wheelchair Curling Championships. He provided on-the-ground support for two weeks as Canadian athletes vied for podium positions in the four-person and mixed doubles events. The event is the same one that held the 2017 World Junior Curling Championships, where Nicolas joined Team Canada as its alternate player and got to experience U-21 curling on the biggest stage.

2022

Bruce Cleland

Wind Turbine Technician

After graduating from the wind turbine technician program, Bruce began working with Vestas as a technician and has been working across Canada on different platforms of turbines.

Ashlyn Herron

Bachelor of Ecosystem Management

Ashlyn is currently working toward a Master of Science degree in Biology from the University of North Dakota and studying the effectiveness of grasslands restoration on songbird abundance.

Lethbridge College celebrates other alumni award recipients

CAREER VIRTUOSO • Leta Pezderic

As the Grassland Stewardship manager for the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s Alberta Region, Leta Pezderic (Fish and Wildlife Technology 2003, Renewable Resource Management 2002) has been pivotal in supporting NCC’s initiatives, particularly in conserving and stewarding Alberta’s grasslands. She works to educate and bring awareness to the importance of conserving nature, developing and implementing innovative Stewardship Credit programs, collaborating with ranchers and partners and more. Most recently, she helped facilitate a conservation easement for the 55,000-acre McIntyre Ranch south of Lethbridge, the largest private conservation initiative in the Canadian Prairies. She loves to capture nature’s beauty through photography, and her work can be found online under River Run Photography.

COMMUNITY LEADER • JP Gentile

JP Gentile (Recreation Management 1996) has been a familiar face at Lethbridge College for more than 27 years. He was hired as an assistant in the campus recreation office after graduation, was promoted a year later to the coordinator position, and after that – campus recreation manager, the role he still holds today. JP provides recreation opportunities for students that include sports leagues, tournaments, drop-in activities and planned activities like skydiving, dance lessons, ski trips and more. He has also led initiatives outside of campus recreation, including the coordination of last spring’s Canstruction event, spearheading the Lethbridge College Students’ Association clothing drives, and organizing a student-run concession for Kodiaks games.

RISING STAR • Bryan Pachal

As founder of Effect Therapy Health Centre in Lethbridge, Bryan Pachal (Massage Therapy 2018) has pioneered a comprehensive approach to health care in establishing the largest complementary health clinic in the area. After completing business administration and finance studies in British Columbia, Bryan’s passion for holistic health led him to Lethbridge College, where he laid the groundwork for his future endeavours. After graduation, Bryan established Effect Therapy Health Centre, which has expanded from a standalone three-treatment-room massage therapy clinic to a 12-treatment-room health centre. He focuses on business development, fostering community relationships and enhancing client experiences. Bryan supports future professionals by recruiting LC grads and welcoming practicum students to his centre.

ALUMNI AT WORK – The City of Lethbridge

N

early everywhere you turn at the City of Lethbridge, you’ll find Lethbridge College graduates. They occupy diverse roles across many departments – from project managers and communications specialists to firefighters, the people doing payroll and more. While an exact number is not possible to track down, City employees estimate that hundreds of the 2,000 people who work at the City in various roles have studied at or are connected to Lethbridge College.

“The roles these grads hold at the City is a reflection of the depth of talent cultivated at Lethbridge College,” says Raquel Burston (Administrative Office Professional 2019), a talent development partner who works on the People and Culture team. “Within the City of Lethbridge, a dynamic workforce, including a significant cohort of Lethbridge College alumni, is shaping our community.”

Earlier this year, employees were encouraged to show their postsecondary pride during “Wear Your School Colours Day,” and some of the participants wearing Lethbridge College’s green and blue gathered for the photo below.

“This event not only showcased alumni pride but also strengthened the sense of community within our organization,” Burston adds. “We are incredibly proud to have such a passionate and dedicated group of people working at the City of Lethbridge. We celebrate the impact our staff and our proud Lethbridge College alumni have in shaping a resilient, vibrant and forward-thinking community.”

Some of the hundreds of City of Lethbridge employees who are connected to Lethbridge College include (L-R): Nick Kuhl, Sharla Draffin, Andrea Knecht, Raquel Burston, Tara Grindle and Perry Stein (member of the Lethbridge College Board of Governors).

Ken Lastuka

Architectural Animation Technology 2022; Virtual and Augmented Reality 2020; Multimedia Production 2019

Many young designers dream of working at Microsoft – and Ken Lastuka is now living that dream. He recently joined The Coalition – a Microsoft-owned, Canadian video game developer. Part of Xbox Game studios based in Vancouver, The Coalition is responsible for developing and managing Microsoft’s signature Gears of War game series.

“I was given great consideration for this job opportunity due to my experience in both game development and real-world architecture,” Ken says. “I’ve been able to lend my expertise to ensure buildings are correct and representative of the era and interior aspects such as stairwells are structurally accurate.”

Ken says his instructors and experiences at Lethbridge College, including working as an intern in the Spatial Technologies Applied Research and Training (START) Centre, helped him get to where he is today. He also credits his Alvin Reinhard Fritz Architect Award, a scholarship given to students in the Architectural Animation Technology program, with propelling his career to new heights. “Had it not been for the great people I met, I likely would not have had the confidence to apply for my previous position and now my position at Microsoft,” Ken says. “I was also a student ambassador at Lethbridge College, and I’m extremely grateful for my time there.”

2021

Tannis Chartier

Therapeutic Recreation – Gerontology

Tannis was featured in an article from the University of Lethbridge, where she is in her third year of the Therapeutic Recreation program, about how she has continued and expanded a program she launched when she was a student at the college in 2020, providing meaningful opportunities for unhoused people. Called Resilient Rec YQL, the program provides events like bingo nights, movie nights, karaoke nights and more for unhoused people.

Udari Walgama

Practical Nurse

Udari sent Wider Horizons this update: “I completed my final practicum in a rural-acute care setting at the Raymond Health Centre. Immediately upon graduation, I got an opportunity to work at Legacy Lodge (Supportive Living facility) as an LPN, starting the first step in my dream career. I then changed gears to join St. Micheal’s following a year of my nursing practice at Legacy Lodge. As an individual who loves to learn and be challenged, I returned to the University of Lethbridge to obtain my Bachelor of Nursing degree to become a Registered Nurse. During the process of obtaining my credentials to receive my nursing degree, I got the opportunity to become a team member working as an LPN at the Chinook Regional Hospital in the Geriatric Assessment and Rehabilitation (GARU)

Department. I have embarked on an amazing journey in 2021 and I am very certain that my two-year study at Lethbridge College was an inspiration in moving me along this path to where I am now. I owe much to Lethbridge College for granting me the credentials, which have in turn given me a career for a lifetime.

2020

Cobe Cobarrubias

Criminal Justice – Policing

Cobe joined the Taber Police Service’s Regional Community Standards Unit in November. In a Taber Times article, he said he got into policing because he wants to be a role model for younger generations and also for the community of Filipinos, as he wants to represent them.

Jean Galandy

Child and Youth Care

Jean was selected to be a speaker on the topic of “Trauma informed Care through an Indigenous Lens” at the 2023 Unity Conference for child and youth care in Dublin, Ireland.

Shae Guy

Criminal Justice – Policing

Shae is the County of Barrhead’s new community peace officer. In a February article in Town and Country Today, Shae said: “I am excited to work with the RCMP, my counterpart at the Town of Barrhead, to help make the community a better and safer place.”

Torrell Red Iron

Criminal Justice – Policing; current Bachelor of Justice Studies student Torrell was one of 35 constables sworn in to work with the Edmonton Police Service last fall. According to an article in the Edmonton Sun, his career has been shaped by being Métis and the son of an RCMP officer. Torrell was also featured in a December article in Blue Line, Canada’s law enforcement magazine, where he acknowledged that his life “wasn’t always sunshine and rainbows.” However, he noted his current position gives him the ability to move forward and shape a future where interactions align with how families would want to be treated by police officers or fellow citizens.

Seth Slomp

Digital Communications and Media

Seth is working at Red Deer Polytechnic as the Athletics communications strategist. Seth says he co-led the recent Make Some Noise for Mental Health campaign at RDP and the school won the top prize of $1,500 which was donated to the Students’ Association Food Bank.

2017

Nick Nielsen

Digital Communications and Media

Nick works as the play-by-play broadcaster in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League with the Richardson Pioneer Weyburn Red Wings, as well as the office and public relations manager for the Weyburn Red Wings. He manages social media, sponsorship, broadcasting, volunteer coordination and more. He was featured in a November article in Sask Today, where he said: “Originally, I was planning on being a TV news anchor but I tried it for a month with my college practicum and it wasn’t really for me. I caught the play-by-play bug in college and when I got my first radio gig in 2017, I became the voice of the Big Six Senior Hockey League for the next season and really got to hone my skills there.”

2016

Alex Opoka

Criminal Justice – Policing

Alex was one of 35 constables sworn in to work with the Edmonton Police Service last fall. According to an article in the Edmonton Sun, his family immigrated to Edmonton from Uganda when he was 12, and he’s looking forward to giving back to the community that welcomed him.

2015

Nicole Thomas

Therapeutic Recreation, Unit Clerk, Early Childhood Education

Nicole has worked at St. Michael’s Health Centre in Lethbridge for the past seven years. She is currently working as a unit clerk in palliative care.

2013

Amber Bennett

Business Administration – Accounting

After graduating from Lethbridge College, Amber continued on to complete her degree in Business at the University of Lethbridge. She has been the office manager at Integrity Dental for the past five years and says, “I absolutely love it!”

2012

Mathew Macdonald

Professional Golf Management

Mathew is the new pro/manager at the Olds Golf Club. He was featured in a January article in Mountain View Today, where he said some of his goals in the new role are to heighten the course’s profile and awareness through social media, and to encourage membership and participation among young adults.

Ryan Uytdewilligen Communication Arts

– Broadcast Journalism

Ryan has published a children’s book called This Is Not My Story, which follows a writer and his main character who set out on an inventive search for

the ideal plot. The book was featured in an article by Chapters4Change, an organization created to help dismantle racism and discrimination, which notes that the narrative provides a glimpse into the artistic process of writing, emphasizing dedication and collective effort.

2009

Bryan Friesen Engineering Design and Drafting Technology

Since graduation, Bryan has been working consistently in the engineering and design field. He spent time as a technologist for AGI in Nobleford, Alta. and was responsible for developing and prototyping new agriculture equipment. Bryan then moved into construction and worked as a project manager for Ward Bros. Construction for eight years. Recently, Bryan has been working with the City of Lethbridge’s Facility Services department on various projects involving city facilities, roof replacements, renovations and lifecycle upgrades.

Quinn Ohler Communication Arts – Broadcast Journalism

For more than a decade, Quinn fearlessly tackled important issues as a general assignment reporter and anchored the Global News Hour at 11 in Edmonton. Earlier this year, she took on a new role as the Health Matters and Noon News co-anchor at Global, keeping Albertans informed and inspired about health and wellness issues.

2006

David Guenther

Communication Arts – Print Journalism

After graduation, David pursued his passion for photography, finding success in both wedding and commercial photography. Within years of his graduation, he was named one of the Top 25 Wedding Photographers in Canada by Weddingbells Magazine, and also then ventured into the commercial photography space, working with clients like Nike, Mercedes-Benz, GMC, J Crew, FujiFilm, Mazda, and Lonely Planet. David set himself apart by using a unique visual storytelling documentary style technique that allows the audience to connect not only visually but emotionally to his work.

2005

Joe McFarland

Communication Arts

– Broadcast Journalism

Co-founder and contributor to Alberta Dugout Stories and host of Alberta Dugout Stories: The Podcast, Joe was named alongside his “side hustle” business partner, Ian Wilson,

at No. 118 on the Canadian Baseball Network’s list of Most Influential Canadians in Baseball. Joe says it’s “an absolute thrill and honour” to be included on the list. Building on the success of Alberta Dugout Stories, the pair recently launched Saskatchewan Dugout Stories. Joe also works full-time as a media relations and communications specialist at the University of Calgary’s Schulich School of Engineering.

Hugo Van Liere Business Administration

Hugo is currently the director of Business Development Southern Alberta at ATB Financial.

Matt Kennedy

Bachelor of Applied Arts

– Correctional Studies

Matt is a security intelligence officer with Corrections Canada.

Catherine Champagne Justice Studies

Catherine is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Southern Alberta Regional Victim Serving Society.

2004

Tracy Park Communication Arts

– Advertising and Public Relations

Tracy says, “I’m currently a stay-at-home mom of four busy kids. I have two small side hustles doing graphic design work [Tracy V Graphics] and making hand painted magnets [Parks & Crafts]. And I’m starting to think about returning to work since it won’t be long until my youngest is in school full-time.”

2002

Kenneth Andrew Engineering Design and Drafting Technology

Kenneth is currently doing drafting and project management work for Purcell Timber Frame Homes based out of Nelson, B.C.

Founded by Monty and Shelly Sailer in 1980, Southland Trailer Corp. is now in the hands of their three sons – Jason, Ryan and Scott Sailer – who have grown the north Lethbridge company from about 70 team members in 2012 to more than 500 today. While it’s not possible to get an exact number, operations team lead Scott Sailer estimates that hundreds of those team members are grads of Lethbridge College’s certificate, diploma and apprenticeship programs. From Welding, Construction and Culinary to Business Administration, Multimedia and more, the Southland team is filled with some great LC grads.

Teamwork is at the heart of operations at Southland, which is the largest trailer manufacturing company in Canada. “The challenge here isn’t building the product,” says plant manager T.J. Dow (Welding Apprentice 2008). “It’s about building people. It’s people, processes and then product. And if you work that way, it doesn’t matter what you’re building – you can be building trailers, pencils or rocket ships – and as long as you put your people first, the product will always be amazing, because the people care.”

Southland Trailers is rooted in an efficient system with vertical integration. The material processing department supplies all six plants for production before final assembly. The logistics team then consolidates trailers to form loads for dealer groups throughout Canada and the United States.

Lethbridge College Board of Governors Chair Mike Marcotte, board member Joshua Day Chief (Environmental Assessment and Restoration 2013) and other Lethbridge College colleagues took a tour of the Southland facility in January. “It was a true pleasure to see our alumni in action in so many diverse roles,” says Marcotte. “And we appreciate the contributions partners like Southland Trailers are making in welcoming our apprentices and grads to their teams.”

In addition to meeting with Scott Sailer (pictured below at centre with Marcotte and Day Chief), some of the grads they met that day included: webmaster Randy Hiebert; graphic designer Tyler Davies; material production designer Ashley Tolman; as well as Chef Sarah Jolley and her team Ashley Bodell, Kacey Nee, Susie Wiebe and Martha Braun.

ALUMNI AT WORK – Southland Trailers

2001

Mandy DeCecco-Kolebaba Communication Arts

– Broadcast Journalism

Mandy (Kiim”aa”pii”akii/Compassionate Woman) was awarded the YWCA Women of Distinction Award for Leadership and Empowerment in March. Born and raised in Calgary, Mandy came to Lethbridge College and after graduation went on to receive a Bachelor of Fine Arts – Multidisciplinary degree from the University of Lethbridge and a master’s degree in counselling psychology. She established Collaborative Strategies Consulting Inc., which over the last five years has provided mental health support and strategic management solutions to business owners and leaders.

Mandy also founded the Alberta Counselling and Leadership Collective (ACLC), where she provides mental health support to individuals in the Indigenous community who are facing active addictions. In addition, Mandy has been a dedicated member of the Lethbridge Rotary Club for nearly two decades, spearheading numerous local and international projects aimed at creating positive change. This is just the tip of the iceberg as she also serves on the board of directors for the Lethbridge Hurricanes, Canadian Mental Health Association South Region, and Farming Smarter. Mandy is also an instructor with LC Extension and part of the Family Ties clinical team.

1998

Christine Lang Engineering Design and Drafting Technology

Christine completed her practicum requirements at Gas Liquids Engineering and was hired on after graduation. She began as a junior piping drafter/ designer. Later, Christine accepted a position with Upside Engineering as an intermediate pipeline designer and then moved up to senior pipeline designer. In 2010, she started at Cornerstone Engineering as a senior piping designer and is now the drafting manager and a partner in the company.

Dawn Watt

Civil Engineering Technology

Dawn began working as a draftsperson and civil engineering technologist in Lethbridge. She says she “met an Australian man and moved overseas” and started working for Coffey, a geotechnical engineering firm with a testing laboratory. Dawn worked her way up into management positions and eventually was offered a management buy-out of the testing labs. Dawn says she is now the CEO and majority owner of more than 20 civil construction materials labs in Australia –the first (and so far, only) female CEO in the industry in Australia.

1995

Mike Lokken Criminal Justice

In January, the RCMP Depot Division bid farewell to their outgoing Commanding Officer and formally welcomed Chief Superintendent Mike Lokken to his new role. After graduating from Lethbridge College, Mike received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Great Falls. Throughout his career he has worked in a variety of units and communities including Manitoba, Nunavut, Alberta, and now Saskatchewan. This diverse experience allows him to bring a unique and knowledgeable perspective to the division.

“As Commanding Officer of Depot Division, I humbly accept this most significant role at such a pivotal time in our history. Depot is the oldest division in the RCMP and the foundation of learning, a foundation of culture, and the foundation of the future of the RCMP. The modernization actions we are taking now and will continue to take, will contribute to building an even more effective, healthy, and inclusive RCMP into the future.”

1991

Lana Miller Environmental Science – Watershed Management

Lana tells Wider Horizons that she spent about 20 years working in environmental labs before moving into an administration role. She is currently between jobs and enjoying some downtime with her husband, who she says also graduated from the Environmental Science program. Lana says the couple still keeps in touch with a handful of others who they met at college and that, “everyone is doing amazing.”

Kathy Sassa Nursing 1991, Distinguished Alumni 2018

Kathy spent the past 25 years as a leader and innovator in health care in southern Alberta. Her passion for educating health care professionals shows in her work as a surgical clinical educator as well as the highly specialized intensive care unit clinical educator with the Associate Chief Nursing Office at Chinook Regional Hospital. She recently stepped into the role of Alumni Advisory Council Chair at Lethbridge College, and the team is thrilled to have her on board.

1990

Adrien Chartier

Environmental

Science

– Watershed Management

Adrien worked for the Alberta Research Council in the early 1990s and since then, for a number of environmental consulting firms as a soils and terrain specialist. Adrien then returned to school for a master’s degree and now works part-time as a sessional instructor of Environmental Science at Yellowhead Tribal College and as a casual senior soil and terrain specialist and reviewer for two engineering and environmental consulting firms.

1984

Carmelle Steel

Drafting Technician

Carmelle is currently the manager of Volunteer Resources and Spiritual Care for Alberta Health Services South Zone.

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If you’d like to change your mailing address, receive an e-version of the magazine, comment on a story, or remove your name from our mailing list, please email the editor at WHMagazine@lethbridgecollege.ca. Email is the best way to reach our team; however, if a phone call is best for you, please call 403-320-3202 ext. 5778.

Jim sent Wider Horizons this update: “Looking back to 1977, I asked my guidance counsellor in high school which college I would have to attend to get my postsecondary education to become an Alberta Fish and Wildlife Officer. His answer was NAIT in Edmonton. I applied and was rejected due to full enrolment at that time. I took the rejection hard as this was the job I had dreamed about for many years. As it turned out NAIT was more for forestry-type jobs. I applied at Lethbridge College and was accepted for the winter semester starting January of 1978. It was the best thing that could have happened to me. I was an average student in high school, but LCC piqued my interest as courses were so relevant to what I wanted to learn about. I loved learning at Lethbridge College and loved the instructors. My education and summer experiences prepared me for the interview process with Alberta Fish and Wildlife. I was hired as an officer in Barrhead in October of 1981. I was stationed in five districts throughout my career, and finished my officer career of 38 years as an inspector in Lethbridge in 2019.

In the fall of 2019, I had a tremendous opportunity to return to Lethbridge College and help instruct lab components of resource enforcement for three years, including field investigation techniques, case management and operational procedures. I was inspired by the enthusiasm and dedication of the students.

It was especially inspiring to see several of them become Fish and Wildlife officers in provinces across Canada. During the five-year period after retirement, I wanted to write a book about some of my unique adventures as a Fish and Wildlife Officer in Alberta. In December 2023, I published a book titled Alberta Game Warden – Behind the Badge of 172. Some of the eight chapters – which include 34 true stories – include Nine Lives of this Officer, Notable Enforcement Cases, Stupid Criminals, Adventures with Bears, Family Wildlife Adventures, Humour in Uniform and Guard of Honour. Two days after the launch of the book, a college student contacted me and said this book gave him some exciting insight into the job of a resource protector. Today, I still enjoy nature, being in the fresh air and hiking with my wife Joyanne and daughter Kaitlyn. There is not a November that goes by that I don’t look at what a guy is doing parked on the side of the road carrying a rifle into the field. Old habits die hard. For that student who contacted me, I envy that he will be just starting his career and he will have countless stories and adventures to tell his children – a career with a different story to tell at the end of each day.”

Jim Mitchell

THE LAST WORD

Illustrated by Eric Dyck

The Buchanan Library, (Niitsitapi’ksimstaan/Real Thinking), has been serving students since Lethbridge College first opened its doors in 1957. Whether you’re looking for traditional print materials, electronic resources, digital equipment – from laptops to phone chargers – a 3D printer or sewing machine, or just a quiet place to think, the library has it all. Wider Horizons asked a student and two recent grads to share what they love about the space and why it’s important to them. Here’s what they had to say.

The staff are so welcoming and supportive, and I enjoyed working with them closely while I was on student council to advocate and promote cost-effective and innovative ways for students to learn content without breaking the bank. It’s constantly full of students studying – either in a group or independently with their headphones on – with books and computers sprawled across the tables and coffee cups in hand.

Niculina Jensen

Health Care Aide 2019; Practical Nurse 2024

The Buchanan Library is a foundation of my successful experience at the college. The warm and welcoming atmosphere and the dedicated staff who supported me played a huge role in my success at college. I spent countless hours in my favourite window seat, reading, writing and studying. The research guidance of Ina Baczuk, Buchanan Library information services specialist, broadened my horizons and contributed significantly to my academic journey.

Chealsa Mertz

General Arts and Science – Psychology and Sociology 2022

The Buchanan Library provides the space and tools for students to achieve their goals. Since 2010, when I enrolled in Open Studies, I have acknowledged the importance of this space for the campus community. The atmosphere reflects a calm, quiet environment and its quality design creates spaces for learning that are cutting edge. Library staff interact with students and exchange ideas, and it motivates me to focus on my journey of learning.

Eizak Amawi

General Studies – Canadian Studies 2020

NEXT ISSUE: The last word is yours...

Harnessing the wind

Did you scale the training tower or work on a 140,000 kilogram nacelle as a student in Lethbridge College’s Wind Turbine Technician program? If you got your start in the one of the fastest growing technologies in the world by learning in our state-of-the-art lab, we want to hear from you! Email your stories (200 words max) to WHMagazine@lethbridgecollege.ca , and we’ll share them in our next issue. We can’t wait to read your submissions!

SUMMER CAMPS

Give your kids a summer they’ll remember. We have a summer camp for everyone –challenging, creative and confidence-building experiences for youth of all ages.

GET ALL THE DETAILS AND REGISTER TODAY AT:

RETURN UNDELIVERABLES TO:

Lethbridge College Communications Office

3000 College Drive S.

Lethbridge, AB T1K 1L6