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Meet Dr. Dean Knight, archaeology professor and longtime convocation volunteer.
Wilfrid Laurier University • June 2008 VOL. 1 | NO. 1 | APRIL 7,2008
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CAMPUS | COMMUNITY | CONNECTIONS
Learn how voice professor Kimberly Barber helps her students hit all the right notes.
Nichols honoured at convocation
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Staff, faculty and students enjoy the Our Community, Our Laurier barbecue.
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Dean of Students Emeritus receives Honorary Doctor of Laws degree siasm and determination.” Nichols also spoke of the enduring relationships that Fred Nichols, Dean of Students Laurier fosters, an aspect of the Emeritus, was awarded an university that is particularly Honorary Doctor of Laws degree close to his heart. during Laurier’s spring convo“The knowledge, friendcation ceremony June 6. | | COMMUNITY CAMPUS CONNECTIONS ships and memories you have A tireless advocate for the found at Laurier will last you university for more than a lifetime,” he said. “I feel four decades, Nichols was personally privileged to have instrumental in establishing had 46 years of developing the Students’ Union and he friendships and memories here.” co-founded BACCHUS, an alcohol-awareness program that Nearly 2,200 students officially has spread to campuses across graduated from Wilfrid Laurier the country. University during seven convo“When I was deciding what cation ceremonies in early June, I might say to you today, I including the first graduates from remembered something I heard the Laurier Faculty of Education. many years ago that inspired me, Laurier conferred 202 and it seems to fit the occasion graduate degrees, 1,942 undergraduate degrees and today,” Nichols told the gradu25 diplomas. On average, 80 ating class from the Faculty of percent of Laurier graduates Arts. “The words might not be attend convocation ceremonies. exact but they go something “Convocation is the most like this: There are no great individuals, only great challenges important celebration of the academic year,” said Laurier that ordinary people are forced, president Dr. Max Blouw. “It by circumstance, to meet. is a time for the university May you greet whatever the community to commemorate challenges you face with enthuBy Stacey Morrison
Photo: Tomasz Adamski
VOL. 1 | NO. 1 | APRIL 7,2008 Photo captions can go in here
Fred Nichols, left, was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree. Hooder and Laurier alumnus Matthew Certosimo looks on.
the many accomplishments of students and faculty in achieving their academic goals. We are very proud of our new alumni and of the faculty and staff members who have supported them in achieving their success.” The ceremonies started the afternoon of June 4 for graduates of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, the Faculty of Education and the Waterloo Lutheran Seminary. The following day there was a morning ceremony for graduates of the School of Business & Economics, followed
by an afternoon event for the Faculty of Music. On June 6, two ceremonies were held for graduates of the Faculty of Arts, and on June 11, ceremonies were held on the Brantford campus for graduates of all programs. Oscar-nominated native actor Graham Greene received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree for his achievements on stage and screen. A member of the Oneida First Nation from the Six Nations community near Brantford, Greene is best known for playing the role of Kicking Bird
in the 1990 film Dances With Wolves. He has also appeared in films such as Thunderbird and The Green Mile, and in television series such as Northern Exposure. Other prominent Canadians receiving honorary degrees during the convocation ceremonies were former Laurier presidents and vice-chancellors Dr. Lorna Marsden and Dr. Robert Rosehart; former politician and current president and vice-chancellor of the University of Winnipeg, Dr. Lloyd Axworthy; and aboriginal composer, conductor and pianist, John Kim Bell.
Behind the scenes at convocation
Months of planning and hundreds of volunteers make each ceremony a success By Lori Chalmers Morrison Take more than 1,500 excited graduands, mix with about 3,000 proud family members, blend in 256 volunteers, and sprinkle
with hoods, robes, diplomas and a mace. Spread across seven ceremonies in three venues in two cities. Let sit for 2.5 hours. Is this a recipe for disaster? Not for university secretary
Hundreds of volunteers help make sure every detail is looked after.
Jennifer Casey, who, along with a team of Laurier staff and volunteers has mastered the art of behind-the-scenes-organization that turns out a perfectly prepared convocation ceremony every time. “We should send students off in the same manner and with the same fanfare as we welcomed them when they came to Laurier,” says Casey. Planning for the next convocation ceremony begins almost as soon as the last graduate steps off the stage. Facilities are booked years in advance, and Casey’s recruiting and training process for hundreds of volunteers is ongoing. Faculty volunteers take on roles such as the bedel
(pronounced “beetle”), who leads the academic procession and presents the mace to the chancellor; the orator who reads out each graduand’s name; and the hooder, who places the ceremonial hoods over their heads. Further behind the scenes, staff volunteers oversee operations at Laurier’s Athletic Complex, the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex and the Sanderson Centre in Brantford, monitoring everything from sound system set-up, carpeting and the 200 to 600 chairs required for each ceremony. There are many unseen details, like the race to dismantle the stage and reassemble it at the next location, and the Olympic
torch-like transportation of the university mace from the last convocation ceremony in Waterloo to the Brantford campus. The traffic light is even extended at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex to help manage traffic flow. But for all the organization, it’s the unexpected moments that make convocation meaningful, like the football player who gets a volunteer to help straighten his tie and nervously asks, “Where’s my mom?” Like all good recipes, it’s the mix of ingredients that makes each ceremony a success. “Without the collective effort, we wouldn’t be able to successfully pull convocation off each year,” says Casey.
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June 2008
Laurier welcomes summer visitors
president’s message
Laurier spirit in action At Laurier, we speak often of the wonderful sense of community that this university enjoys. Well, it has certainly been on display during the past few weeks. There have been many opportunities to see the intensity of engagement of staff, students, faculty and alumni. Despite the rain, the Our Community, Our Laurier barbecue attracted a good turnout to celebrate the success of last year’s campaign and to kick-off the 2008 campaign. I am told that 460 persons contributed last year, collectively raising nearly $600,000 for the university. All universities require fundraising to maintain and enhance the quality of the learning experience, and it is a positive reflection on Laurier that our staff and faculty are so willing to lead by example. The Wilfrid Laurier University Alumni Association also leads by example. The association’s annual Awards of Excellence program honours alumni, faculty and staff who, through their actions and accomplishments, make a difference in the Laurier community and in the community at large. These are particularly meaningful awards because they go to the heart of what Laurier is about: excellence, engagement and a desire to contribute to the overall betterment of the community. I would like to extend my thanks to the association and my congratula-
More than 50 conferences will be held on campus By Tiffany Bradley
Photo: Jim Hertel
Dr. Blouw lines up for his lunch at the Our Community, Our Laurier barbecue.
tions to this year’s award winners. You can read about their achievements on page three. I also salute the many members of the Laurier community who braved rain and heat during the first week of June to participate in the annual Commuter Challenge. Laurier is embarking on a number of measures aimed at lessening the university’s environmental footprint, and the number of Laurier people who participated in the Commuter Challenge suggests there is a shared desire at this university to pursue more environmentally friendly practices. Finally, a few words about convocation. There is nothing like seeing the joy on the faces of graduates and their families to remind us of the importance of the work we do at this university.
I believe we provide our students with an excellent learning experience, and our students work very hard to make the most of it. They deserve our best effort, and we owe them nothing less. This was my first experience of Spring Convocation at Laurier, and I must say that I was deeply impressed. That the proceedings went off so smoothly, and that the students and their families so obviously enjoyed themselves, is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of the organizers and the more than 250 volunteers who supported their efforts. This year’s Spring Convocation was a truly inspiring example of the Laurier community in action. I thank and commend you all. Dr. Max Blouw President and Vice-Chancellor
With warmer weather and fewer students on campus, the summer months might seem a little more relaxed for many. But for Susan MacKenzie, conference coordinator at Laurier, it’s one of the busiest times of the year. According to MacKenzie, more than 50 different conferences will use the university as their venue of choice between May and August, drawing more than 5,000 visitors to the Waterloo campus. Conference sizes range from 30 to 800 people each, with the majority of participants using student residences as accommodations. “Using university campus space is becoming very popular as an economical choice for a conference location,” says MacKenzie. “Every amenity that a hotel would normally offer to its guests is available here, and
we have the advantage of being able to host larger groups than the local hotels.” Laurier offers a variety of residence styles to suit different preferences and budgets, several multimedia classrooms and unique meeting spaces, a first-class athletic facility, and catering through Food Services and the Students’ Union. Laurier will host guests from all over the world this summer. The Waterloo campus will open its doors to organizations such as the Ministry of the Attorney General, Perimeter Institute, the Ontario Curling Association, the Suzuki Institute, a Scottish Country Dancing group, and Franco-Ontario Soccer. “Laurier’s conference services works directly with the conference organizers as a ‘one-stop’ shopping service to coordinate all of their needs,” says MacKenzie. “We really make it easy for them to enjoy the Laurier experience.”
New deans appointed Wilfrid Laurier University has appointed two new deans to its Brantford and Waterloo campuses. Dr. Bruce Arai has been officially named the dean of Laurier’s Brantford campus. His four-year term begins July 1. Arai, who began at Laurier Brantford as associate dean in 2003, has served as acting dean since 2005. During this period, he has taken a lead role in campus development, with a focus on expanding the academic offerings on campus. One of Arai’s goals for Laurier Brantford is to continue to develop new and innovative
programming to help the campus remain a desired destination for students from across the province and country. “One of my top priorities is continued program development,” said Arai. “We currently have a nice combination of practical and theoretical programs, and an expanded academic mission will allow us to continue to establish ourselves as a quality institution.” On the Waterloo campus, Dr. Colleen Willard-Holt has been appointed the inaugural dean of the Faculty of Education. Her five-year term begins July 1. Willard-Holt began her career
as a secondary school teacher of students with special needs. She later became an associate professor of education at Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg, and most recently held the position of director of initial teacher certification programs, which is equivalent to department chair. “Dr. Willard-Holt brings a breadth of experience to the position as dean,” says Sue Horton, Laurier’s vice-president: academic. “She spent 15 years as a teacher and administrator before completing her PhD. This variety of experience is vital for an inaugural dean.”
InsideLaurier is published by The Department of Public Affairs Wilfrid Laurier University 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3C5
InsideLaurier Volume 1, Number 3, June 2008
Design: Erin Steed
InsideLaurier (circ. 2,000) is published nine times a year by the Department of Public Affairs. Opinions expressed in InsideLaurier do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or the university’s administration.
Contributors: Tomasz Adamski, Tiffany Bradley, Kevin Crowley, Scott Harris, Jim Hertel, Mallory O’Brien
Printed on recycled paper.
Editor: Stacey Morrison Assistant Editor: Lori Chalmers Morrison
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InsideLaurier welcomes your comments and suggestions for stories. Tel: (519) 884-0710 ext. 3341 | Fax: (519) 884-8848 Email: insidelaurier@wlu.ca
Send us your news, events & stories
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June 2008 people at laurier
Laurier economist Dr. Sue Horton’s solution for addressing child malnutrition was ranked as the top proposal for solving the world’s biggest challenges by an expert panel of economists, including five Nobel Laureates, as part of the Copenhagen Consensus 2008. The proposal suggests that providing micronutrients for 80 million children who lack essential vitamins in the form a vitamin A capsules and a course of zinc supplements would cost just $60 million a year, and result in a yearly benefit of more than $1 billion. Dr. Eileen Wood, a professor in the Psychology Department, is the recipient of Laurier’s
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For a complete list of announcements visit www.wlu.ca/hr
Research Professor Award, which recognizes meritorious research performance. Nominated by her department, Wood receives a $5,000 grant and one year off teaching and service responsibilities to conduct research. “I’m thrilled,” she says. “It’s an incredible opportunity to focus on research and develop a program of research for the coming years.”
Lirondel On JuneHazineh, 1, Paul Davock research retired coordi- after a distinguished 28-year nator, career Faculty at Laurier. of Social HeWork. joined the university as the psychology field placement program’s first coordinator, placing hundreds of students in community organizations each year. In 2006, he became director of the new Centre for Community Service-Learning (CSL). CSL grew under Davock’s guidance, placing 2,000 students in 156 organizations in two years, and receiving a Volunteer Impact Award. He was also a psychology instructor, reviewed research ethics applications and served on many non-profit agency boards.
Brent LaBrosse, alumni relations officer, Alumni Relations.
New appointments: Nicole Boumans, research assistant, KPE. Jennifer Caldwell, communications and design specialist, Development.
Colin Reiner, technical support specialist I, ITS.
Wendy ZufeltBaxter, director: annual and planned giving, University Development.
Gwen Sharp, associate registrar: records, Office of the Registrar. Changes in staff appointments:
Mallory O’Brien, writer, Public Affairs.
Retirements: Carmen DiFelice, temp custodian, Physical Resources. Wendy Harris, office assistant II, Academics Office. Kent MacLennan, acting director, University Development.
After 20 years of serving staff, faculty and students with a smile, “lunch lady” Bev Kit retired in April. Some of her fondest memories include her interactions with students and invitations to music recitals, and Fashion ’n Motion. Her impact on the Laurier community was recognized nationally when she was featured as one of the reasons to attend Laurier in the Maclean’s annual guide to Canadian universities. Kit’s retirement plans include travelling to Arizona and North Carolina to visit family, as well as spending more time with her granddaughters. Best wishes for Bev can be left at www.wlu.ca/tribute/profile/bevkit.
David Prang, director of student services, Laurier Brantford. Pauline Wong, associate registrar: awards, Office of the Registrar.
Jim Hyslop, lead-hand carpenter with the Physical Resources Department, is retiring after 25 years of service. Jim has designed, fabricated and installed many pieces of furniture and furnishings for departments across campus.
Do you have a professional or personal milestone that you would like to share with the Laurier community? Email your announcement and photo to insidelaurier@wlu.ca.
Photo: Scott Harris
Laurier installs John A. Pollock as seventh chancellor Wilfrid Laurier University officially installed local businessman and philanthropist John A. Pollock as chancellor during the university’s June 4 convocation ceremony. The university’s board of governors, with support of the senate, approved the appointment, which took effect March 31. Pollock succeeds the Honorable Robert (Bob) Rae, who served as Laurier’s chancellor since September 2003. Pollock becomes the seventh chancellor of Wilfrid Laurier University since the university became a public institution and was renamed in 1973. “Like Wilfrid Laurier University itself, our seventh chancellor’s roots are firmly planted in Waterloo Region but, again like Laurier, John Pollock’s reach extends well beyond these local roots to touch the rest of the country and many parts of the world,” said Bev Harris, chair of Laurier’s board of governors, in her citation. Chancellors generally serve for four years and can be appointed to a second term. As chancellor, Pollock will provide leadership and guidance to the campus community through involvement in various aspects of university life. The chancellor presides over
What are you reading
?
Name: Jennifer Brickman Job Title: Bookstore Supervisor, Laurier Brantford Book Title: Haiti: Hope for a Fragile State Author: Yasmine Shamsie (editor) and Andrew S. Thompson (editor)
What are you are reading What you
?
WLU Press prints this book and both of the editors are professors at Laurier. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I travelled to Haiti this past winter to do mission work with orphans at HBS (Hopital Bon Samaritan) in a city called Limbe. Co-editor Andrew Thompson was at HBS 10 years ago and it was great to have his perspective on Haiti both from the book and other personal observations.
listening to?
Photo: Tomasz Adamski
Laurier president Dr. Max Blouw, left, congratulates John Pollock as he is officially installed as the university’s new chancellor.
graduation ceremonies and officially confers all diplomas and degrees. He is a member of the board of governors and the senate, and serves on the senate honorary degree committee. Pollock, 72, is the third generation of his family to run Kitchener-based Electrohome Ltd., a company founded by his grandfather in 1907. He joined Electrohome in 1962, was elected president in 1971 and is now chairman, president and chief executive officer. He earned a Bachelor of Applied Science from the University of Toronto and an MBA from Harvard University. He has also received Honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from
both Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Waterloo. He also has a strong sense of social commitment, and has supported many non-profit organizations over the years. In his address to graduates, Pollock emphasized the importance of giving back. “I would encourage each of you to set objectives that go beyond your own gratification, objectives that will allow you as a new and upcoming citizen to be both personally successful and at the same time make a contribution in time, effort and resources to the betterment of society,” he said. Pollock lives just outside of Cambridge with his wife of 40 years, Joyce.
What are you listening to? Name: Gail Roth Abbot Job Title: Development Officer, Annual Giving CD Title: Detours Artist: Sheryl Crow
Two of my favourite songs from this collection are Peace Be Upon Us and Gasoline. I have listened to her over the past 13 years and seen her in concert. I enjoy her lyrics and music, whether she is playing the piano or guitar.
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June 2008
NEWS
What’s new and notable at Laurier
living beside the city transit terminal,” said Sharpe, who rode his bike to work. Said systems analyst Rick Magnotta: “It feels great to get exercise every morning, and every time I ride by a gas station I laugh out loud!”
Laurier embraces the Commuter Challenge Members of the Laurier community got their exercise in early June while supporting the annual Canadian Commuter Challenge, which aims to reduce vehicle emissions and traffic congestion. Instead of driving a vehicle alone to work, participants walked, cycled, rollerbladed, carpooled or took public transit from June 2 to 6. Members of the university shared their thoughts on why the Canadian Commuter Challenge is important to them. “It’s good for the environment and it feels good to get some exercise every day,” said Ginny Dybenko, dean of the Laurier School of Business and Economics. Bob Sharpe, associate dean of Laurier’s Faculty of Arts, agreed. “As a family unit, we were no longer prepared to pay the high cost of owning a car — gasoline, insurance, repairs, monthly payments — when we were
Erich Schultz Collections Endowment hits $100,000 milestone The Erich Schultz Collections Endowment, a fund established in the late 1990s to enhance the library’s permanent collection, has reached the $100,000 mark. Named in honour of Laurier’s first librarian, the income generated from the endowment has allowed the library to purchase 89 books focusing on the humanities and social sciences. The new books cover a wide range of disciplines, including economics, political science, history, literary criticism, drama and film. “By enabling the library to acquire resources otherwise unavailable to us, the Erich Schultz Collections Endowment is enriching our collections significantly, and thus increasing their value to current and future students and faculty in vital and important ways,” said Sharon Brown, university librarian. Laurier employees in China office safe after earthquake Laurier’s China office is secure and its two employees are shaken
but safe after a powerful earthquake devastated much of the region in May. The earthquake originated in Sichuan’s Wenchuan County, about 330 kilometres from the city of Chonqing where Laurier’s partner universities are located. Registering 7.9 on the Richter
scale, the earthquake has killed more than 60,000 people. In Chonqing, buildings were shaken violently and aftershocks rattled the city. “I have been in communications with our two employees, Nikita Zhu and Ruth Chen, and the Canadian Consulate,” said
Peter Donahue, director of Laurier International. “Everyone is safe but frightened by the experience.” The Chinese Confederation of Sichuanese has established the China-Sichuan Relief Fund. Donations are being accepted at the Bank of China branches across Canada.
Photo: Scott Harris
CAMPUS COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
From left: Arthur Stephen, Sonny Kumpf, Mary D’Alton, Dr. Edward Wang and Dr. William McTeer.
The Wilfrid Laurier University Alumni Association’s Awards of Excellence honoured several members of the Laurier community. Arthur Stephen, special advisor to the president, received the 2008 Schaus Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions by a staff member. He has served in numerous capacities at Laurier over the past 35 years. Dr. William McTeer, who was instrumental in developing the core curriculum for the Kinesiology and Physical Education program, was presented with the Hoffman-Little Award for teaching excellence. And Dr. Edward Wang, a professor in the Mathematics Department, is this year’s recipient of the Faculty-Mentoring Award, which honours outstanding support and mentoring of Laurier students. Also receiving awards were Student Alumna of the Year, Leah Verouden; Honarary Alumna Mary D’Alton who sits on Laurier’s board of governors; and Alumnus of the Year Sonny Kumpf.
Experts discuss Aboriginal education Laurier Brantford conference examines
By Kevin Klein Leaders in the development of Aboriginal education gathered at Laurier Brantford in May to discuss positive practices for student achievement during a one-day conference called “Critical Issues in Aboriginal and Post-Secondary Education.” Hosted by the Aboriginal Student Services Office and the Indigenous Studies program, the conference was designed to promote a dialogue between those who are working towards Aboriginal student success. Over 50 attendees, ranging from professors to student services staff from institutions across Ontario, were on hand to share knowledge, and most of all, hope. “Our students need hope, need opportunity and need relevance in their learning,” said keynote speaker Rebecca Jamieson, recipient of the 2007 Order of Ontario for her work as a leader and educator in the First Nations community. “Our students are 4
capable if they are given the chance and they will succeed and contribute.” One of the biggest barriers facing native students, according to Jamieson, is their low secondary school graduation rate. Without an increased graduation rate, there is limited participation of diverse groups in postsecondary education, including Aboriginal, low income and firstgeneration students. “Neither economic nor social progress can be made without more diverse participation,” she said. “This is about quality of life, and it must involve a diversity of programs.” George Kennedy, Laurier Brantford’s Aboriginal student services coordinator and conference organizer, agrees. He thinks the problems need to be addressed at a young age. “Primary, junior and high school education could reduce discrimination by incorporating Aboriginal history, content and knowledge into the curriculum,”
Photo: Kevin Klein
positive practices for student achievement
Rebecca Jamieson, recipient of the 2007 Order of Ontario, speaks about the barriers facing Aboriginal students.
he said. “It is never too late to open people’s eyes and minds.” The conference also discussed the Indigenous Studies program at Laurier Brantford and its impact on campus climate. Dr. Gary Warrick, Dr. Susan Hill and Dr. Carole LeClair, all professors within the program, discussed an approach to Aboriginal pedagogy and the establishment of the program. LeClair talked specifically about the goals of the program, which are to
expose, educate and enlighten. policy framework; and a She also outlined the four discussion of current research principles in her classroom: on Aboriginal education respect, reciprocity, relevance by PhD candidates Christy and responsibility. She says it is Bressette and Sabrina Saunders. through programs like this, and “This was a unique opportunity integrating Aboriginal content to hear from the key players in into other courses, that students the advancement of Aboriginal gain a more complete worldview. education,” said Kennedy. Other session topics included “Participants will take with them the knowledge of what has been understanding the rights and successful, and hopefully what responsibilities of Aboriginal culture on campus; First Nation, is to come to their own communities and institutions.” Métis and Inuit education
June 2008 coffee with a co-worker
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A look at staff and faculty across campus
Archaeology professor digs volunteering Name: Dr. Dean Knight Job: Archaeology professor and longtime convocation volunteer. Laurier employee since 1971.
Photo: Jim Hertel
Where you can find him: Surrounded by artifacts in his cozy Regina Street office. How he takes his coffee: I don’t drink coffee. Tea then? No, and I guess it’s too early for Scotch!
How long have you been teaching at Laurier? Forever, almost! Thirty-seven years, actually. I started in 1971 and became full time in 1976. Why did you become involved in convocation? I think faculty should try to participate. It’s one of those times that’s very important for students. It’s a big day for their families who travel long distances to be here. What convocation roles have you had over the years?
Volunteering as an assistant marshal, Dr. Dean Knight organizes students in proper order to go on stage at convocation.
marshal. I like it because it keeps me busy and makes the day go much faster. I get students organized in proper order to go on stage. It can be a challenge! Once they’re in line, things go very quickly. Are there any superstitions associated with convocation? No superstitions. The nice thing about it is the tradition. It’s a rite of passage. Students come in as students and leave as graduates. What is the story behind the hoods?
They probably wore them because where they lived was so cold. Now they’re ornamental. Different colours and piping represent different schools and degrees. Faculty members wear the hoods of their own graduating school. How has convocation changed over the years?
Every once in a while you see a 40- or 50-year-old graduate who has worked on a degree part time and persevered through raising a family. I did teach a 72-year-old woman once — she took my summer field course. I was a bit worried about her at first, but by the end of the summer she was jumping over fences. I’m not sure if she graduated or not.
When I started volunteering 25 years ago, there were only 3,000 students and one ceremony. We knew all the students and their families.
Are there any honorable degree recipients that stick out in your mind?
Do you recall any really young or old graduates?
Canadian Olympic rower Marnie McBean (in 1999) was so excited and bubbling with enthusiasm. She kept moving
I’m usually an assistant
The hoods are medieval. They’re based on monks’ costumes.
coming Events
For a complete list of events visit www.wlu.ca/events
across the stage. The whole thing was quite touching. It was her enthusiasm — she wasn’t caught up in being staid and professorial. What do you like most about volunteering at convocation? I enjoy being there and seeing my students go on stage knowing that they’ve worked hard to get their degree, and that it means something to them. It’s too bad their limelight is only 20 seconds! It doesn’t reflect their accomplishments — they’ve worked hard to get there.
By Lori Chalmers Morrison
Tips for office ergonomics
2008 STLHE Conference: A World of Learning When: June 18 - 21 Where: University of Windsor
This free festival features live country music, lots of food and fully licensed beverage areas. Rain or shine.
Enjoy live jazz by world-class musicians in an outdoor setting. For more information visit www. uptownwaterloojazz.ca.
• Even the most comfortable posture should be changed periodically.
• Swivel your chair to face your next task instead of twisting your body.
• Tilt your chair seat and backrest to vary posture.
The 28th annual STLHE conference will explore the assumptions, practices, challenges and possibilities of internationalization, broadened world-views and the impact of globalization trends in post-secondary settings. For more information visit www. mcmaster.stlhe.
3rd Annual WLUSU Golf Classic When: June 24 11 a.m. registration Where: Grey Silo Golf Course Cost: $105 (includes cart, range, dinner and prize).
OWL Whitewater Rafting Weekend When: July 11-13 Where: Foresters Falls, Ontario Cost: $165-$215
• Position your computer monitor so your line of vision is parallel to the window.
• Take short breaks frequently to avoid prolonged static postures. • Ensure your arms are close to your body while using your computer’s • Alternate work at the computer with mouse. non-computer tasks.
Fred Nichols Charity Golf Tournament When: June 19 11 a.m. (registration) 6 p.m. (reception at Turret) Where: Rebel Creek Golf Club, Petersburg Cost: $110/person To register: onecard.mylaurier. ca/events/mylaurier-events/ fredNichols.htm. This annual tournament brings together students, staff, faculty, alumni and friends of the university for a fun round of golf. Proceeds help fund two student bursaries in honour of former Dean of Students Fred Nichols. Space is limited to 144 participants. UpTown Country When: June 21 2 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Where: Regina Street parking lot, Waterloo Cost: Free
All proceeds go towards Shinerama. For more information visit www.wlusu.com. Brantford International Villages Festival When: July 4 - 7 Where: Various locations, Brantford Cost: $7 passport, $5 day pass, children under 13 free Experience four days of ethnic food, cultural displays, fun and entertainment. For more information visit www.brantfordvillages.ca. WLU Pension Plan & Retirement Planning Information Sessions When: July 7 9 a.m. Where: TBD Contact: Elizabeth Miller at emiller@wlu.ca. UpTown Waterloo Jazz Festival When: July 10 – 13 Where: Uptown Waterloo Cost: Free
All staff, faculty and friends are invited to attend an unforgettable weekend rafting the 12-kilometre Rocher Fendu rapids of the Ottawa River. For more information visit www. wlu.ca/rafting.
• Adopt a work pace that is regular and reasonable for you. • Periodically look away from the screen to a farther distance.
For more information about proper office ergonomics and to download a workstation checklist, visit the Health Canada website at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.
• Stretch regularly and perform relaxation exercises.
5th Annual Book Camp When: August 11 - 15 Where: Carnegie Hall, Laurier Brantford Cost: $75 To register: www.kidscanfly.ca A creative writing day camp for children between the ages of 10-15 years who love to read, write or draw. Authors, illustrators and other professionals will be on hand to mentor your budding novelist or artist. Waterloo Busker Carnival When: August 21 - 24 Where: King Street, Waterloo Cost: Free Enjoy entertaining performances by buskers, music, a community barbecue, face painting and much more. Visit www.waterloo-buskers.com. 5
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June 2008
In the classroom
A look inside the lecture hall
Hitting the right notes Professor: Kimberly Barber Class: Practical Study, Faculty of Music Description: Individual tuition in voice; weekly master class.
A mezzo-soprano, coordinator of Laurier’s voice program and faculty member since 2002, Kimberly Barber began her career as a member of the Canadian Opera Company and has performed with many opera companies, including the Paris Opera and New York City Opera. She works largely one-on-one with voice students, teaching vocal techniques, repertoire and diction. “I would describe my teaching as holistic, student-driven and affirming,” says Barber. “A large part of what I do involves deep learning on all levels: aural, kinesthetic and visual.” Barber often asks students to give constructive criticism about their peers, and will sometimes play audio or video examples of great singers for motivation. “I hope they begin to grasp that every one of us has something unique and valuable to offer as human beings and as artists, and that singing and music-making are not so much about product as about process.” By Mallory O’Brien
Laurier voice professor Kimberly Barber, right, provides individual instruction to a student.
Photo: Dean Palmer
Our Community, Our Laurier barbecue
Staff, faculty and students celebrate a successful $600,000 fundraising campaign
Photos: Jim Hertel
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