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U weekly
 

Monday, April 15, 2013

Update: President Mahon's Apr. 11 Meeting with the Minister of Enterprise and Advanced Education

Last week I, along with the other 25 presidents of Alberta’s post-secondary institutions, met with the Deputy Premier and Minister of Enterprise and Advanced Education, and other officials from the Ministry, to discuss the future of Campus Alberta and the letters of expectation issued to us shortly after the provincial budget.

While we have not yet arrived at a position of absolute clarity, I am pleased that the presidents and the Minister have agreed to embark on a collaborative approach to work through these issues. Read more here

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Budget Message IV – Update from President Mahon on the Budget Adjustment Process

At the Community Update held on March 27, 2013, I committed to developing a values-based process to guide the University through the operating budget adjustments that we as a community must participate in.

In his presentation, our Provost, Dr. Andrew Hakin, outlined the process through which those values will be determined and endorsed, and the timeline under which we would conduct this process.

The values that will guide us are those that we, as a community, have collectively developed over multiple years, through many inclusive, collegial processes.

They are a distillation of the values that are the foundation of our Strategic Plan, our Academic Plan and our Research Plan.

Most importantly, the values are reflective of our community, and have been endorsed by both governance bodies of the University, the General Faculties Council and the Board of Governors.

While much work has been done to develop the 2013/14 University budget, there is much yet to do.

Using these values as a compass we will over the course of the next month develop and debate options and ultimately bring forward the 2013/14 consolidated budget for the University of Lethbridge.

Using the pre-existing budget development entities and processes I expect to make a recommendation to the Board of Governors to approve the 2013/14 consolidated budget in mid-May to allow the Comprehensive Institutional Plan (CIP) to be submitted to Enterprise and Advanced Education for the May 31 deadline. Get additional details here. 

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Reaffirming our Values: A University Response to the 2013-14 Provincial Budget

Our Strategic priorities remain priorities independently of the financial challenges our University encounters.

To take us to our desired future the University will pursue its established strategic directions and identified priorities.

Our first order of business is to enter into a process that will address our required reductions. 

To do this our institutional values will be reaffirmed and will be used to guide and influence all budget related decisions and processes that lie ahead. Additional information here

We commit to maintaining the forward vision of the University of Lethbridge

Our people define our University and are our greatest strength

High quality is central to all that we do

Access to our University is a foundational value

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Latest Pension and Benefits News Now Available

The Pension & Benefits April 2013 Newsletter is available for viewing on  the Human Resources website.

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Food Services / Catering Services Transition Update

As we approach the changeover from Sodexo to Aramark at the end of April, Sodexo Catering will be gearing down operations. Please review the timelines for the transition period, here.

ARAMARK Catering on Campus Launches  May 1

Erin English is the new contact for catering services requests as of May 1. She has produced a quick overview of the process for catering orders  as the transition to Aramark becomes effective May 1. Please visit this website for more information.

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Living Well at the U of L

The latest Comfort Zone newsletter is now available on the Wellness website.  

‘Be(e) Amazing Race’ early bird registration begins soon!

This year our Bee Heart Smart will be taking a new route, starting with Aerobiquerque, New Mexico!!  Get your teams geared up and ready to travel across the continent for good health!!  The Challenge will be May 1 – June 9.

May 4, 2013 – Steps for Life Walk

In conjunction with NAOSH week, the U of L ‘Luxy Loafers’ will be walking for Families of Workplace Tragedy. This year we would like to have lots of U of L folks to help us pay tribute to Curtis Dodd who was fatally injured at the U of L residence construction site last fall.  If you would like to join the team, sponsor a walker, or would just like more information please contact Suzanne at wellness@uleth.ca  http://stepsforlife2013.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1060706     

Helen Schuler Nature Centre – annual Coulee Clean up, April 22 – May 12. 

Contact wellness@uleth.ca if you would like to volunteer to help clean up the University coulees.

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Pure North S'nergy Foundation sessions confirmed until December 

Please email universityoflethbridge@purenorth.ca or call Ryan at 1-403-984-5214 to register or for more info.  Here is the last notice about Pure North if you would like more information. Please note as of Jan 2013, there is a registration fee for ‘non-vulnerable’ participants.

May 1 -- 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.  Markin Hall

June 19  -- 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Markin Hall

Sept. 25  -- 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.  Markin Hall

Dec. 4 -- 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.  Markin Hall

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Sport and Recreation Services Activity Guide and Summer Programming Schedule Now Available

It is never too late to start thinking about summer camp programming and  wellness activities for you or your family. Check out the varied opportiunities in our  Spring and Summer Activity Guide, available here.

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U of L appoints Dr. Craig Cooper as new Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science

Dr. Craig Cooper  is the new Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science.

“It is with great pleasure that we are able to announce Dr. Cooper as our new Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science today,” says Dr. Andrew Hakin, provost and vice-president (academic).

“We had a number of outstanding applicants for this role but Craig quickly emerged as the ideal candidate to succeed Dr. Chris Nicol.

The appointment committee was very enthusiastic in its support of Craig and I’m confident that his innovative ideas and enthusiasm for the Faculty will play a key role in helping shape the direction of our University over the next five years.”

Cooper comes to the U of L from Nipissing University in North Bay, Ont. where he was a professor of classical studies and served as the Dean of Arts and Sciences since 2008. Learn more here.

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Dr. Ed Jurkowski appointed Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts

The Faculty of Fine Arts will be under the stewardship of a new Dean after the University of Lethbridge appointed Dr. Ed Jurkowski to the role, succeeding Dr. Desmond Rochfort.

“It is always exciting to announce the appointment of a new Dean, and it is especially gratifying to be able to promote someone from within the University of Lethbridge community,” says Dr. Andrew Hakin, provost and vice-president (academic).

“Dr. Jurkowski has been with the U of L for 17 years now and brings with him a wealth of knowledge, experience and a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities that face the Faculty of Fine Arts.”

Jurkowski has been at the University of Lethbridge since 1996 when he began a term appointment as an assistant professor of music in the Faculty of Fine Arts. Learn more here. 

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Dr. Harold Jansen Appointed Board of Governors Teaching Chair

Regarded as one of the country’s top political science experts, Dr. Harold Jansen is a leader in his field, respected for his vast knowledge of Alberta politics and government.

With research interests that speak to the future of politics and the influence that the Internet plays on political communication in Canada, Jansen is considered to be an active and innovative researcher, constantly pushing the boundaries of his discipline.

The University of Lethbridge is proud to recognize Jansen as the Board of Governors Teaching Chair for 2013. His two-year appointment will commence July 1, 2013. Learn more here

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Staff Appointments -- New Associate Registrar / Manager International Centre for Students

Charles Jorgenson – Associate Registrar

Charles Jorgenson has many years’ experience in the Canadian and United Arab Emirates higher education sector, including 15 years as Supervisor of Academic Services (Registrar) at the Higher Colleges of Technology in Al Ain. 

He is currently the Registrar at the Canadian University Dubai, United Arab Emirates. A former Albertan, Jorgenson holds degrees in Education and Science from the University of Calgary, among other professional qualifications.

Paul Pan -- Manager, International Centre for Students

Paul Pan is currently the Manager of the English Language Studies program at the University of Northern British Columbia.  He holds a Bachelors degree in Human Geography and a Masters degree in Business Administration, both from UNBC.  

Under Paul’s leadership, UNBC’s ELS program became the first EAP for-credit program in British Columbia as an innovative method to increase enrolment and retention of international students, which now number more than 500 per year at UNBC from a starting group of 14. 

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University recognizes faculty excellence

The University of Lethbridge recently honoured faculty and postdoctoral fellows across campus who received academic research awards of distinction, secured research funding or published their research findings in the last year. The U of L also recognized those who had books published within the last calendar year.  Get the list of recipients, here

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U of L Supports "Accelerate South 50" Event, April 30 and May 1

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Accelerate SOUTH50 is southern Alberta’s only entrepreneur and tech event where founders, business leaders, start-up entrepreneurs, advisors, investors, mentors and students converge to expand and support the entrepreneurial eco-system thriving in the region.

The Coast Lethbridge Hotel and Convention Centre will be a buzz of intellectual sharing on April 30 and May 1, 2013.

Don’t miss this opportunity to network and learn from the best.

Created and organized by Regional Innovation Network of Southern Alberta (RINSA), Accelerate SOUTH50 is geared to help entrepreneurs, founders of start-ups and seasoned business people access capital, gain exposure to global markets, cultivate talent, and identify, connect and communicate with experts in the tech and non-tech industries. Get additional details here.

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Gallagher, Waldner earn top athlete honours

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Championship thrower Kayla Gallagher and four-time Academic All Canadian basketball player Derek Waldner were named Pronghorn Female and Male Athlete of the Year respectively this past weekend as Pronghorn athletics held its annual Blue and Gold Banquet.

Over 275 athletes, administrators and special guests were in attendance for the supper and awards ceremony at the Lethbridge Lodge. The guest speaker for the event was former Pronghorn Dana Mckechnie. Read more here

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Lethbridge High School Students participate in 2nd Annual ‘Let’s DO Science Day’

Lethbridge high school students will participate in unique, hands-on science activities at the University of Lethbridge on April 30, 2013.

This day will not only be filled with many fun science activities for the enthusiastic students participating in this ‘Let’s DO Science Day’, but it will also inspire them to think about their future careers after graduating from high school.  

In the past months, several graduate student volunteers of seven different science disciplines have designed hands-on activities for high school students.

Overall, more than 20 graduate and undergraduate student volunteers will assist during the ‘Let’s DO Science Day’ to make this event a fun and inspiring experience for the high school students. Learn more here 

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Last Lecture always an ULSU highlight

People from all walks of life have had a teacher or mentor whose words of wisdom have made a profound difference in the way they view and respond to life’s challenges. Unfortunately, more often than not, those who inspire and encourage us aren’t always recognized.

That’s part of the reason the University of Lethbridge Students’ Union (ULSU) developed the annual Teaching Excellence Award (TEA).

For the last three years, students at the U of L have had the opportunity to nominate a professor, sessional staff or lab instructor, who has shown outstanding efforts to improve the learning experience of students, for this award.

This year’s Last Lecture speakers -- and Teaching Excellence Award Winners --  are Dr. Peter Dibble (chemistry and biochemistry), Nicholas Hanson (theatre and drama) and Dr. Sheila McManus (history). The event takes place on Wednesday, Apr. 17, at 7 p.m. in the University's main theatre. Get more information here

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Library Extended Hours: April 12 – 29

The Library's extended hours begin April 12  and conclude April 29.

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Travel Advisory — Korean Peninsula and surrounding area

The University of Lethbridge continues to monitor the current political situation percolating in North Korea, which may have potential impact on South Korea and neighbouring countries.

Travellers are advised to monitor developments closely because tensions on the Korean Peninsula could escalate quickly with little warning.

A number of our students, staff and their families are located in, or are intending to travel to this area in the immediate future.

Risk and Safety Services is compiling a list of individuals who are currently engaged in travel or who may be contemplating travel to this region in the near future.

If you are aware of anyone in or intending to travel to North Korea, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, or other affected areas please communicate this information via e-mail at anne.baxter@uleth.ca

Get additional information here. 

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Input requested for Teaching Day, May 3

The Teaching Centre will be holding its annual Teaching Day on May 3. The organizers  are in the process of planning the day's events, and have several ideas already -- but want more input.  Please check out this website for additional information. 

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Certified Therapy Dogs Debut in Puppy Room, April 8 - 19

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Counselling Services is proud to announce that certified Therapy Dogs will be coming to campus for students who need some puppy-induced stress relief!

We have breeds ranging from a Shih Tzu Mix to a Cockapoo, Shetland Sheepdog and a Whippet, all tested for amiable temperament and certified by St. John's Ambulance as working Therapy Dogs.

Counselling Services gratefully acknowledges the support and guidance of St. John's Ambulance Therapy Dogs Program, Risk and Safety Services and key sponsor, ULSU. Find out which dogs are available, and when, here.

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News Roundup

Lethbridge Herald -- Teaming up to fight cancer

Global TV Calgary Health News -- Expecting? Why dad’s health is just as important as mom’s

Truro Daily News -- Former Truro athletes nab awards for track

NovaNewsNow (Annapolis Valley, NS) -- Students Rewarded for Science Skills

St Albert Gazette -- Birdseed scientist off to Science Fair nationals

Fort St. John, BC EnergeticCity News -- Young Scientists Shine 

Edmonton Journal -- Students rally to protest funding cuts

Calgary Herald -- Pond reopens to fishing after Red Deer River oil spill

Catholic Register -- Catholic Church has staying power

Lethbridge Herald -- Holy Homophobia!

Lethbridge Herald -- Turn out the lights

SouthernAlberta.com -- Out of this world technology to be transferred to the medical field

ScienceBlog.com -- Prenatal Stress in Fathers can Harm Offspring

If you know anyone who has been featured or mentioned in the media, and has a U of L connection, please send a note to robert.cooney@uleth.ca

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Do you know a student who needs money?

The deadline for the Undergrad Scholarship Application is approaching, which means students need to apply soon!

There are many awards based on different criteria - academics, community involvement, financial need, etc....

If you know a student who could benefit from some scholarship cash (and who doesn't?) please  have them check out this website for additional information.

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Do you know a student who needs a job?

The "Opportunity Knocks" job fair will take place  on May 7.  It is free of charge and supported by the Chamber of Commerce. Learn more here. 

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Fire Alarm Speaker Tests, April 16

Find out when and where you'll hear the familiar, mellow tones of a member of our security team  calling you to attention, here. 

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Draft Policy Available for Review -- Animals on Campus

The University is in the process of updating its Animals on Campus Policy to accommodate the Pet Therapy Program being offered through Counselling Services. Please note that this change is in addition to the changes proposed in March 2013. Learn more here 

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GFC Committee Nomination Deadline, April 18

The GFC Nomination Committee is seeking academic staff members who are not required to be members of GFC, unless indicated, to fill the following vacancies for terms normally two years in length, beginning July 1, 2013.

All nominations including a few sentences on why the individual would be appropriate for the committee should be directed to Jodie Black, Director University Secretariat by Thursday, April 18th, 2013. Get the full list of positions available here. 

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4th Annual Final Refresh, April 17

The 4th annual Final Refresh is taking place Wednesday, April 17th from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. to give students the opportunity to celebrate the end of the semester at a 'dry' event.

Free food and mocktails will be offered to the first 600 students to join the event.

This event is sponsored by the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Committee, the University of Lethbridge, the University of Lethbridge Students' Union, Alberta Health Services and the Organization of Residence Students.

Learn more here

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Join the U of L Walk for MS team, April 27

The U of L has a team for the Walk for MS, which takes place on  Saturday, April 27 at Fort Whoop-Up. The team meets at the collection tent at Fort-Whoop Up at 9:30 a.m.  Learn more here 

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Next Uweekly -- Monday, April 22

If you have a notice or information to submit for the week of  April 22 and beyond, please contact robert.cooney@uleth.ca

 

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