Rachel Simpson, Bachelor of Social Work

As Rachel Simpson graduates with her Bachelor of Social Work degree, she is a role model for her children and she honours her late grandmother and uncle who always encouraged her to pursue her education and be the best she could be.

In her career, the Ojibway and Icelandic student from Rolling River First Nation also continues to tackle intergenerational trauma and help people to move forward, creating a positive difference.

Simpson was working for Child and Family Services when a supervisor suggested she join the Access Program to go to university and advance her career. The Access Program provides holistic support to students choosing to begin an academic journey. She returned to school for the first time in 17 years. “For me, I am showing my children no matter what age you are, just go out and do it. I am very proud of myself. Now I can do some good work in the community.”

On her first day on the UM campus, Simpson says she found her culture and her home away from home with the Access Program in Migizii Agamik (Bald Eagle Lodge). “I felt like this was my space, my home base on campus.”

With Access, she enjoyed the smaller classes, Indigenous-based programming and cultural support. “I could speak to Grandfather Wanbdi as needed. It was nice to smudge, to attend teachings with other Indigenous students in that space.”

Balancing her studies with her own blended family including 10 children ages 10 to 27, Simpson says, “has been quite the journey. Access, my kids, and my husband, Ian, have been very supportive.”

Simpson recommends the Access Program, and her own daughter is already in it.

“Access provides the support you need, no matter your age. Once you jump over fear, the sky is the limit. For me, it means so much to celebrate with my community that supported me throughout.”

As Simpson graduates, her daughter, Jasmine completes her first year of university studies with the Access Program.

Access grad, Jarrod Seman celebrates his graduation.

Jarrod Seman, Bachelor of Respiratory Therapy

For Jarrod Seman, who graduated with his Bachelor of Respiratory Therapy in Fall 2022, the Access Graduation was a chance to return to the Fort Garry campus of his early university years and catch up with those he knew during his time there.

The First Nations student from Winnipeg started university right out of high school, encouraged by the many women in his family who are university graduates. He joined Access in his second year. “The Access Program was invaluable,” he says. “A lot of students come to university and feel alone. Access provides a sense of community, smaller classes, a place to study. I recommend it 100 percent, even if you don’t think you need it. There are tutors, counselling services… My U1 would have been better with Access.”

As a high school student, Seman volunteered at Concordia Hospital and now he is working there as a respiratory therapist. “I enjoyed doing what I could for people then, and that joy has come with me to this profession. I try my best to make people feel cared for.”

While he originally thought about pursuing paramedicine or nursing, Seman says he found his current career by chance. “I job shadowed at Concordia and got to explore some jobs I knew little about. I heard about respiratory therapy, and shadowing let me see what it was all about. I loved it and decided to apply.”

And now he is enjoying this career. “We are qualified to work in many settings. We are specialists, supporting a patient’s breathing. I like knowing what to do when things go wrong. I enjoy patient interaction. This is not a desk job, it’s more hands-on and practical. There are so many interesting jobs in healthcare people never hear about and respiratory therapy is one of them.”

Seman plans to go into critical care where he will see the sickest of the sick. “It’s very challenging but also very rewarding.”

Access grad, Chasity Spade graduation photo

Chasity Spade, Bachelor of Education

When Chasity Spade graduated with her BA in 2021, she was unable to celebrate grad in person due to the pandemic restrictions. Now, as she graduates with her Bachelor of Education degree, she says the celebrations including the Access Graduation are that much more special for her.

“It is the most amazing feeling to graduate,” says the First Nations student from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. “When I started my BA, this degree seemed so far off. So many struggles made me that much stronger. I gained a whole new vision of myself. I have really evolved and grown.”

As a little girl, Spade dreamed of being a teacher. First, she worked as an educational assistant in inner-city schools for over 10 years. She recently completed her teaching practicum and is now looking at her job options. “It is a lot more work than I imagined. Although I have always had respect for teachers, I now have a deeper understanding of how hard they have worked to get where they are today. I prefer working with the senior years because I think I can go more in-depth with topics. I majored in Indigenous Studies and minored in History. I am starting to see where I belong.”

Her three children, ages 9 to 24, and all the other people who supported her on her academic journey including the Access Program, are very happy for her. “At Migizii, I liked having a place to go, to eat lunch, to congregate with other Indigenous students. I didn’t feel so alone. I used tutoring, and personal counselling services helped me through the hardest time in my life, as my younger brother passed away from cancer. The support was always there, no matter what.”

To anyone considering going back to school to accomplish their dream, Spade says, “You can be a lifelong learner, no matter what stage you are in. Be strong. Be proud. Continue with the life you envision for yourself. Seek out support and friendships to help and welcome and take care of you. During my studies, Access was always my home base.”

Learn more about the Access Program 

“My husband was so proud of me. My oldest son – he is attending actuarial studies at UM – finally saw the results of my effort. It was not easy. It has been something challenging for us. We have been waiting for this moment. It was a beautiful night,” says Martinez.

The Nov. 28 evening celebration, held in University Centre, marked the graduation of 156 students from the ABA, Applied Human Resource Management, and Applied Business Management intensive program packages offered by Extended Education. An additional 52 students also graduated from Extended Education’s part-time programs.

Claudia Martinez celebrates her ABA grad with her husband Javier Cardenas (right) and son David Cardenas.

Claudia Martinez, Applied Business Analysis
“The program really performed for me. I was looking for a program to complete me, to open a future pathway here,” says the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who worked at a bank back home in Columbia and completed an Industry Placement with Cambrian Credit Union. “I worked on projects to make processes more efficient and more profitable for companies. Now I am working as a Business Analyst (BA) for Bison Transport. I am so lucky.”

The best part of being a BA is the opportunity to improve and create new things, she says. “I help people to understand what they need. I help create new services to increase profits, grow the company and fulfill their goals.”

A friend recommended the program to her, and she also recommends it. “With ABA, you have a good opportunity to find a job and to grow. Business Analysis is not something monotonous. You need to think, speak with others, find new ways to do things differently. You can also add it to your resume. It helps.”

During her studies, she met others in the financial services and accounting industries and appreciated the support of her instructors and Extended Education staff. “I had good conversations with them about the future. Their advice was so useful for me, as a new person here. They were so supportive.”

Martinez encourages everyone to continue their lifelong learning. “I would recommend you get out of your comfort zone. Do something different. Find something you enjoy. Maybe you don’t know what that is yet. Find opportunities.”

Theodora Vavrinek celebrates her AHRM grad.

Theodora Vavrinek, Applied Human Resource Management
Applied Human Resource Management (AHRM) grad, Theodora Vavrinek was also excited to celebrate her graduation.

“I am more than happy to have come this far. Here I am today. I am so full of joy. It was worth the journey,” says the graduate from southern Nigeria.

A friend referred her to the program after applying to it herself. In Nigeria, Vavrinek had earned two degrees: a BA with a major in religion and a minor in business administration,  and an MBA in business administration. She had also worked in the financial industry and was a bank manager.

“I managed people and liabilities. I met targets,” she says. “I was interested in studying human resources because I did a bit of HR in my previous job experience. This was an awesome program. When it was done, I didn’t want to believe I was finished so soon.”

Now Vavrinek will pursue her professional designation with CPHR Manitoba and look to work in HR recruitment, training and development.

“I like to help people, to know where they are, how they need help, and to see what I can offer.”

Vavrinek completed her program’s Industry Placement at Canadian Red Cross. There, in Shared Services, she took part in onboarding and offboarding volunteers and employees, and she met a lot of people. “I would like to thank them for the opportunity. I would also like to thank the program’s instructors and staff. This program opened me up to the Canadian workplace style and laws, so I know how to address the needs of people and match their skills and expectations with jobs. I am better able to advise.”

For anyone considering going back to school, she says, she definitely recommends it. “It’s never too late to add something to what you already know. If you are eager to learn, give it a shot. You will get a lot out of it.”

She also recommends the AHRM program, and has encouraged two friends to apply. “It is definitely worth the money, time and resources.”

Learn more about our intensive program packages.

Ronald Kristjanson Memorial Scholarship 2022
As well, we honoured this year’s Ronald Kristjanson Memorial Scholarship winners, Jill Zdunich and Maria Luz Ocampo. The scholarship recognizes academic merit and community service of two adult learners in a certificate program in UM Extended Education.

Jill Zdunich, scholarship winner, Extended Education

Jill Zdunich was the kind of kid who never knew what she wanted to be when she grew up. “Life is one long opportunity for learning,” says the Applied Counselling student. “If you decide to pivot, cool. I have embraced that I don’t fit into the corporate mold. I want to build a fun CV, a colourful story.”

As a recipient of the Ronald Kristjanson Memorial Scholarship 2022, she says, “I feel great. This is the first scholarship I ever got in my life. I am very honoured.”

Originally from Alberta, Zdunich completed two bachelor of science degrees – one in archeology and one in primate studies, before heading to Vancouver for fashion studies because she always enjoyed making her own clothes. She came to Winnipeg to help a friend open a restaurant, and later opened her own business called Shop Take Care, two clothing consignment stores that are proudly Queer-owned and operated with clothing simply organized by colour rather than by gender and size.

“It’s more than a retail store. It’s a very personal experience. People of all gender expressions and identities feel comfortable and safe here. The part I love the most is helping people, not just into clothing.”

Zdunich grew up in an abusive home and says she became a parent and an adult much too young. By her 30s, she was benefitting from counselling services, appreciating how critical it is to take care of one’s mental health.

At her shops, she creates a safe space in a troubled world, using the skills she has learned in her program.

“Right now, the world is in such a bad way. I really feel that. It’s a really good time to be developing skills to be more empathetic and understanding. What I enjoy most about counselling is that you have someone to talk to. You can talk all day long and people may not listen or hear. But counselling is sacred time. Counsellors help us make sense of what’s going on and address one problem at time when we may simply have too much on our mental plate. I help people feel cozy and comfortable.”

She loved the Applied Counselling program. “I adored this program because the students were all in my age group (30 to 50 or so) and we all had a shared life experience. I appreciated doing it online, without masks during the pandemic. It allowed for personal connection (even when some of the students were not local). It was an absolute joy.”

Maria Luz Ocampo is also honoured to be recognized with the Ronald Kristjanson Memorial Scholarship 2022.

“I feel very excited, very accomplished to even be considered eligible,” says the Applied Counselling program student who had a master’s degree in special education and taught special needs children at home in the Philippines before coming to Canada in 2012. More recently, she was working as a program helper and facilitator at a family service centre in Winnipeg when she realized she was not sure how to best help her clients. A colleague suggested she take the Applied Counselling program with Extended Education.

Ocampo registered for the program in 2020, just as the pandemic hit, and now as it lifts, she is heading into the final stretch of her program. This mother of an 18-year-old daughter now works as a parent coach with Family Dynamics.

“I help parents to be better parents,” she says. “Counselling skills are very helpful. I tried the strategies. They made a difference. It is so nice to get all this knowledge. It lines up with what I did raising my daughter. I feel very privileged. I can apply this information to my current work.”

She recommends the program to anyone working in the health care industry, whether it be with refugees, immigrants, Indigenous people, adults, children or youth. “The steps and skills you learn are very applicable anywhere, even in our own families.”

The program is very helpful in her work, she says, noting she now often works with groups rather than one-on-one and her recent studies covered running a group, types of leadership, choosing topics, and other relevant information. “I love running a group. In my capstone, I developed an eight-week program for newcomers. It involved partnerships with organizations, different topics of discussion… It was very well-received by my instructor.”

Ocampo is passionate about her work. “I like helping people. I grew up watching people bring their problems to my grandfather who was a community councillor. Helping is not new to me. I am flexible and can adjust to different types of people. I have been trying to help people since I was small. This is why this work appeals to me.”

Learn more about Extended Education programs and courses.

Lacey Calder
Diploma in Agriculture

Why did you pick your program?

I chose to pursue a diploma in agriculture because I have always had a passion for agriculture, I always knew that I would one day be pursuing agriculture in post-secondary. However, what made me chose the diploma program specifically, was hearing all the great experiences of those who took it before me. 

Tell us about your academic journey.

Doing university completely online during COVID was challenging, we all had to learn how to adapt to different learning methods and had to keep ourselves focused. Though it was challenging, I believe that it also made us as students better prepared to face the real world. By doing this, we have become better at working independently and have learned to manage our own schedules.

What advice would you give a new student?

My advice for student’s considering the Diploma in Agriculture Program would be to try new things while in university. Joining clubs and participating in extra curriculars are great ways to build networks and new friendships.

Where are you going next?

In the fall I will be transferring to Olds College to achieve a Bachelor of Applied Science in Agri Business. After this is completed, I hope to come back to my family’s grain and beef farm in Carlowrie.

Adam Dmytriw
Diploma in Agriculture

Why did you pick your program?

I choose the Diploma in Agriculture because as a mature student I had a very specific needs. Complete my higher education, and develop the necessary skills and knowledge that will serve me as I grow in my career as a leader in business and management. Given my horticulture background and desire to learn more about Manitoba’s leading industry, Diploma in Agriculture was a perfect fit. I could skill up and get back into the workforce following the two-year program.

Tell us about your academic journey.

Completing my entire program remotely was a very interesting experience. Remote learning was beneficial as it allowed me the flexibility to create my own study schedule. Of course the downside was never meeting my classmates and instructors in person. However, we all found after a while our own unique way of communicating and actively engaging as if it was business as usual.  I feel apart of a special club of Diploma Grads, as only we will know what it’s like to complete the entirety of Diploma remotely.

Favorite memory of your program?

I had so many wonderful experiences during my time. From discovering my love for soil, to joining the faculty as a student ambassador. Virtual farm field trips were still a blast as was connecting with and developing new relationships with the many people I came across during the past two years.

Where are you going next?

I have just accepted the role of Small Business Advisor for Scotiabank and will be assuming my post at the Winkler Branch next month. I have the School of Agriculture and all the amazing instructors and staff of Diploma to thank for helping me finding my place in Agriculture.

Kyungbin (Molly) Bae
Bachelor of Science (Agriculture – Animal Systems)

Why did you pick your program?

I have a love and empathy for animals and an affinity for working outdoors. I initially wanted to go to vet school.

Tell us about your academic journey.

The first half of my degree was in person, and the last half online. During COVID I definitely missed going to lectures in person, the labs and the farm facility tours which all ended up being delivered as videos. But I also learned to be flexible and adapt to a new style of learning, and many profs and instructors did their best to ease the transition and help students get the best out of the online learning experience, which I am grateful for.

Favorite memory of your program?

The first introductory agriculture courses were very memorable for me. It opened my eyes to a whole new world and perspectives of the agri-food system that I had been oblivious to, being from a non-farming background. The group debates, presentations and field tours were all very engaging experiences – I can never forget standing in a field just a few steps away from a pack of bison! These experiences were the first steps to developing various soft skills that I carried with me throughout my degree and will bring forward into my career.

Where are you going next?

In a literal sense – I am going to Ontario, where my family has moved to just at the start of COVID. I am still exploring options for my career path and I hope to experience a variety of things over the next while. Whatever doors open for me, I am excited and willing to go through them!

Alexandra (Alex) Broggy
Bachelor of Science (Human Nutritional Sciences) & Juris Doctor (Law)

Why did you pick your program?

After completing my Bachelor of Arts in 2016, I began studying in the Faculty of Science planning on completing a degree in Biology; however, I found myself more eager to learn about the human body. I took a nutrition class as an elective and fell in love! That’s when I made the decision to switch over to the Human Nutritional Sciences program.

Tell us about your academic journey.

The time I spent completing my Bachelor of Science was unique because I completed it while being a full-time law student at Robson Hall Faculty of Law – I am graduating with both degrees at this year’s spring convocation! This experience was challenging yet rewarding. Between studying, lectures, assignments, exams, working a part time job, volunteering, competing in moots, attending labs, and training at the gym every morning I became a master at organizing my time and completing my tasks efficiently! Over my years at UM I have learnt to stop focusing on what others are doing, and instead prioritize the things that make me happiest. I have always viewed myself as my biggest competitor – that has been a huge driving factor in my success.  

What advice would you give a new student?

When I first began studying science at the undergraduate level, I always assumed that if you wanted to study the human body, you should major in Biology. After looking into the program requirements and finding that a lot of the coursework involved study of plants and animals, I quickly found myself losing interest. At the time, I didn’t know that students who find themselves more interested in learning about the human body, physiology, anatomy, etc. may enjoy studying in one of the other unique programs that UM has to offer, such as human nutritional sciences. The lab work, group assignments, volunteer opportunities, etc. were catered to my interests, making the entirety of my degree memorable and enjoyable from start to finish.

Where are you going next?

I have accepted a position articling with Fillmore Riley LLP, where I will receive exposure to various areas of practice including but not limited to corporate/commercial law, securities law, and intellectual property law. I plan to use this next year of my career as an opportunity to discover exactly which area I intend on practicing before receiving my call to the bar in June of 2023. I am excited to see how the diversity of my education will help me find a practice area that I am passionate about, and where my career will take me over the next 5, 10, 20+ years. 

Kelsey Wog
Bachelor of Science (Agriculture – Plant Biotechnology) 

Why did you pick your program?

I picked the plant biotech program because I knew I wanted to do something science related at university and it sounded like a very interesting program to me. 

Tell us about your academic journey.

Taking classes remotely was challenging. I really missed the human interaction, and being able to talk with classmates. 

Favorite memory of your program?

My favorite memory of the program was when I took the plant biotechnology class, and in the lab portion we got to transform a plant to make it herbicide resistant. 

Where are you going next?

I am planning on taking the fall term off and just focus on swimming, I would really like to start a Masters degree in the winter while continuing to train in the pool with the goal of making my 2nd Olympic team in 2024. 

At the University of Manitoba Spring Convocation session in the Investor’s Group Gym, parchments were presented to 40 Diploma in Agriculture, 122 Bachelor of Science, 38 MSc/MEng and seven PhD graduates.

AWARD WINNERS

Diploma medal winners include Kevin Jungbluth who received the Governor General’s Bronze Medal, an award given to the graduate with the highest academic standing in the two-year Diploma Program in Agriculture. Lacey Calder received the President’s Medal, given annually to a student who combines scholarship with outstanding qualities of leadership.

Degree program medals are presented to students with the highest standing in their program. This year’s recipients include: Hong Le Tran who received the B.Sc. (Agribusiness) Medal; Josie Meggison who received the B.Sc. (Agriculture) Medal; Angelina Ding who received the B.Sc. (Food Science) Medal; and Caitlynn Danchuk who received the B.Sc. (Human Nutritional Sciences) Medal.

Molly (Kyungbin) Bae who graduated with a B.Sc. (Agriculture), was honoured with the University Gold Medal in Agricultural and Food Sciences given for the highest grade point average.

Josie A. Meggison was awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s Gold Medal, given on the basis of scholarship, personal excellence and leadership.

The Teacher of the Year Award was presented to Martin Entz, Department of Plant Science, in recognition of teaching excellence and contribution to the students’ program of study. This award is selected by the graduating class of diploma students.

Degree students named Kim Ominski, Department of Animal Science, as Professor of the Year, an honour voted on by the graduating class.

Meet some of the members of the Class of 2022.

University Gold Medal
Karlynne Sagert
B.A. General (Psychology)

Karlynne Sagert

The University Gold Medal is an opportunity to honour the best in the undergraduate graduating class of each faculty. A gold medal is awarded to the undergraduate student in the Faculty of Arts who has achieved the highest standing. This year’s recipient is Karlynne Sagert. Karlynne is graduating with a B.A. General degree with a major in Psychology and a minor in Family Social Sciences.

Karlynne has a passion for working with children. Her academic and work choices so far are leading her toward a long career in a helping profession. During her undergraduate degree, Karlynne took courses in psychology, anatomy and family social sciences to learn more about how to help children with their reading, writing, gross and fine motor skills and self-regulation. She didn’t hesitate to list her favourite course as PSYC 2290 Child Development. “I enjoyed learning about the developmental milestones throughout childhood,” said Karlynne. “We had the opportunity to raise a virtual child which was really fun and an interesting way to comprehend the course content.” While working as an educational assistant with the Swan Valley School Division, she saw the need for occupational therapy services in rural areas and felt her bachelor’s degree choice would help her reach her goal. She plans to continue her studies with the Masters of Occupational Therapy program at UM. Karlynne would like to thank her “family, friends, professors and peers for their support and guidance” throughout her undergraduate studies. “I also want to thank the Faculty of Arts for granting me this award. It is a true honour and I am forever grateful for this recognition.” We congratulate Karlynne on her outstanding academic success.

Faculty of Arts Honours Medal
Volodymyr Shevchenko
B.A. Honours (Philosophy)

Volodymyr Shevchenko

Volodymyr Shevchenko is this year’s recipient of the Faculty of Arts Honours Medal awarded to the student with the highest standing in a Bachelor of Arts four-year Honours Degree Program. Volodymyr is graduating with a Philosophy major and a Religion minor. 

During his degree, Volodymyr was encouraged by how much the Philosophy faculty and staff genuinely care about their students and noted how that bond boosts the overall university experience. “Each of my professors was willing to take time to meet with me, answer my questions, review my grad school application and just connect with me on a human level,” he shared. Volodymyr will begin a PhD in Philosophy studies at the University of Toronto this fall. He applied to the masters program only to have them reach out to him with a spot in PhD studies – a credit to his past academic success and future potential. At the same time, Volodymyr plans to write the LSAT this summer and apply to U of T’s school of law so that he can pursue a joint JD/PhD. Volodymyr would like to thank “God, my wife Caitlyn, and my family for being my support during my studies.”

Faculty of Arts Advanced Medal
Taleah Taves
B.A. Advanced (Psychology)

Taleah Taves

The award for the highest standing in a Bachelor of Arts four-year Advanced Degree Program goes to Taleah Taves. During her undergraduate degree, Taleah majored in Psychology and minored in Sociology. 

The transition to virtual learning during a large portion of the degree was difficult for many students. Taleah credits her fellow classmates, peers and instructors for showing compassion to each other and for working together to help students like her not only make it through the degree, but also complete it with such success. “In my last term, I took SOC 3720 Criminal Law and its Procedure with Jodi Koffman, and it was by far my favourite course I have ever taken,” she said. “I looked forward to the course each week despite it being over Zoom. (Koffman) created a safe and relaxed environment for us, which allowed us to get to know each other better and feel comfortable sharing our experiences and thoughts. I could not have asked for a better instructor and group of classmates to end my degree with!” Taleah plans to go on to an education degree, with a desire to teach history (including Indigenous perspectives) at the high school level. “My experiences coaching, tutoring and mentoring helped me decide to pursue a teaching career,” she shared. “I believe teaching is one of the most rewarding jobs one can have. I am so excited for the future!”

Faculty of Arts General Medal
Delaney Fehr
B.A. General (Psychology)

Delaney Fehr

Delaney Fehr is the 2022 recipient of the Faculty of Arts General Medal, awarded for highest standing in a Bachelor of Arts three-year General Degree Program. Delaney completed a major in Psychology and a minor in Sociology.

At the beginning of her degree, Delaney struggled with deciding on her path because she had too many interests. She knew she wanted to work with people and needed variety. The courses taken in her Bachelor of Arts undergraduate degree will provide a fantastic base as she begins the Masters of Occupational Therapy program at UM. “I love that OT focuses on all aspects of an individual’s health, such as physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual,” said Delaney. She reminds us that getting a degree isn’t just about the studies. One of her favourite moments came from her UM intramural soccer team Neymar Mr. Nice Guy. “I played in my first year and again in my final semester. We won the Winter 2022 tournament which was an awesome way to end my three years at UM!” Delaney would like to thank her family and friends for their support during her studies.

Congratulations to the Arts medal winners.

At its 2022 UM Convocation, the University of Manitoba will confer degrees, diplomas and certificates on 2,835 graduates.
Visit the UM Student Instagram  and Faculty of Arts Instagram to learn more about some of the students graduating in 2022. You’ll find congratulations messages from fellow graduates and professors, stories about fellow graduates, more information about convocation and tips for new alumni. You can also join the ‘Convocation conversation’ on social media by following #umanitoba2022.

Michael Badejo: Communication is Key

President of the Manitoba Law Students’ Association, Michael Badejo came from a career in communications, and immediately jumped into an active law school life serving as Manitoba Bar Association student representative and putting his design and editorial skills to use as one of the student editors of the Manitoba Law Journal. Michael graduates as an award-winning student having received – even in his first year of law school, the Manitoba Bar Association’s President’s Award of Excellence, given to an MBA member for extraordinary contributions to the Association.

Q: What drew you to law school?

A: Though I had a career before I came to law school, law was always on my mind as a career – since high school, in fact.

I’ve always had an interest in using critical thinking, strategic messaging, and good old fashioned common sense to help those around me. Coming from a career in strategic communications, this seemed like the natural evolution to accomplish that goal on a bigger scale and with the ability to make a positive impact in our shared community by giving back. Law school has provided me the opportunity to do that and more, so I’m glad to report that the multitude of experiences that compose law school lived up to those aspirations and then some.

Q: What was your path to get to law school?

A: I came to Robson Hall after having a career in media relations and strategic, mostly corporate communications. My past experience includes being a strategic advisor and communications specialist (both as a self-employed contractor and a full-time employee) with numerous major local organizations like the Winnipeg Airports Authority, the Chartered Professional Accountants of Manitoba and Deer Lodge Centre Foundation. These roles deepened my understanding of our community, while also helping to shape my approach in law school – particularly in how the law manifests practically for everyday people. It really made me try to approach every fact set, every scenario, every hypothetical legal conflict in a manner that puts both pragmatism as well as “how will this work in real life” front and centre.

As for my educational background, I initially graduated with a joint degree/diploma from The University of Winnipeg and Red River College in my undergrad (which also included a short stint at the University of Manitoba when I had thoughts of pre-med).

Q: What was your favourite class and why?

A: I’ve got a few! If it counts, social psychology was just an intro course, but it underpins much of my past and current career, so much so that I’ve continued to stay current in academic research on that front.

In law school my two favorite courses have been intellectual property and evidence. Intellectual property is my favorite area of the law and along with a great professor/practitioner in Silvia de Sousa, just had striking content alongside the field’s central role in protecting the interests of art and artists.

Evidence was also a fantastic course as taught by Assistant Professor Brandon Trask. I hope to be a litigator in the future and Professor Trask made the complex rules of evidence that underpin our legal system extremely easy to understand, digest, and apply which has been very helpful as I hone my craft.

Q: What was your favourite law school memory?

A: Two law school memories stick out to me: the first is our orientation week lunch where we all got introduced to each other for one of the first times in 1L. there’s something about trial under fire and the beginning of the journey that always sticks out to me in situations like this because you can see the gradual reveal of unforgettable people and personalities that make up these formative years. It’s always rewarding and fun to look back on.

Of course, doing this right before the pandemic did cut some of our togetherness short but we adapted.

A return to safe events as we were eventually able to do was also a source of great memories because it allowed us to see our shared community come back together.

And lastly, being President of the Manitoba Law Students Association was extremely rewarding and something I will remember forever. My team of Alexis Alevizos, Narayan McRae, Kelsey Thain and I were able to give back to our community and students not only by setting up many new initiatives for this year, but also by building a foundation for the future with our major donation to student-facing spaces at the Faculty of Law. We know the next iteration of the MLSA will take the torch and build on all of the fantastic achievements our MLSA committees and representatives put in motion; there are too many to list and I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished this year.

Q: What do you wish you knew before your first day of law school?

A: Something we can always use a reminder about but just to keep an open mind about is where your interests in law school lie. There are going to be many opportunities in front of you and you can take them all on but pushing at the edge of your comfort zone is a good thing and will lead you to growth in both skill and experience.

Q: What one piece of advice would you give to a new law student or person considering going to Robson Hall?

A: Make sure to build out a flexible routine that leaves time for selfcare. Law school will be a busy time in your life but with the right approach there is still lots of time to carve out for the people that you care about as well as the activities and restorative things that make you who you are. Those are just as important to your success as putting in the work. We can’t wait to see what you’ve got!

Hannah Taylor: In Pursuit of Equality 

Hannah Taylor, Winnipeg homelessness advocate who founded the Ladybug Foundation at age eight, is graduating from law school. Having received an international humanitarian award for her work several years before starting law school, she continued to be active in advocacy causes throughout the past three years including helping to create a Trans ID Clinic, serving as president of Outlaws (Robson Hall’s 2SLGBTQ+ student group), and co-authoring a submission to the International Criminal Court to support the Tamil community. This year, she received the Pro Bono Students Canada (PBSC) – Manitoba Chapter’s Chief Justice Richard Wagner award given to outstanding PBSC volunteers who embody the organization’s core values of dignity, equity, and humility. Taylor was also one of the inaugural winners of the Royal Society of Canada’s Justice Rosalie Silberman Abella Prize, presented to one graduating law student in every law school in Canada “who represent[s] the values of equality and equity we need in our country as we move forward,” according to RSC President Dr. Jeremy N. McNeil.

Q: What drew you to law school?
A: I was drawn to law school because I want to build a career focused on human rights and service to the community. After wrapping up the work of The Ladybug Foundation – a non-profit I started to raise funds and awareness for people experiencing houselessness in Canada – in 2019 I felt that pursuing law would give me the opportunity to do that. 

Q: What was your favourite class and why?

 A: I had so many great classes at Robson. Advanced Advocacy, Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Gender & The Law and Human Rights Law were a few of my favourites. 

 Q: What was your favourite law school memory?
A: My favourite law school memories come from being a part of Outlaws, Robson Hall’s 2SLGBTQ+ student group and projects through Pro Bono Students Canada such as the Trans ID Clinic. It was so meaningful to see hundreds of people come out to ‘Call Me By My Name’ – Outlaws’ drag show fundraiser, in my final year at Robson.  

Q: What do you wish you knew before your first day of law school?

A: As a student, I came to understand that legal learning doesn’t end in law school. I expect that I will learn something new in my career every day. 

Q: What one piece of advice would you give to a new law student or person considering going to Robson Hall?

A: I loved being a law student, but it is also difficult being a law student. If you are just starting out and you find that a certain class or involvement in a specific student group sparks your interest – follow the spark. 

Andrew Fenwick: Pacing yourself

 By the time the global pandemic shut down in-person classes at the University of Manitoba in March 2020, Andrew Fenwick had already overcome much adversity in life. A recipient of the Ken Tacium Memorial Scholarship (given to support students who have overcome significant obstacles in pursuit of their university studies), he overcame a brief case of imposter syndrome to graduate with high praise and a bright legal future. Andrew received the 2022 Susan Loadman Award this year, which is awarded annually to a law student who has demonstrated determination and perseverance in progressing in their Law studies despite significant obstacles.

Q: What drew you to law school?

A: I was drawn to law school by my interest in policy drafting and advancing peoples’ legal and human rights. I had a string of medical complications at an early age, and now I am a full-time wheelchair user. Through my experiences living with a disability, I have developed awareness and interest in disability justice and rights advocacy. Through my advocacy, I was able to work on both provincial and federal stand-alone accessibility legislation. In the final year of my undergraduate studies, I began working for the Public Interest Law Centre, researching ground-level effects of federal monetary policy. This research solidified my interest in policy drafting and interpreting laws while also presenting me with an intellectual challenge to apply my passion and knowledge. Law school felt like the perfect progression for me.

Q: What was your favourite class and why?

A: My favourite class was first-year Legal Methods because we were able to hear from many different guest lecturers about their expertise and areas of interest. As someone without family connections to the legal practice or even a lawyer, I found it eye-opening to hear about the different areas of practice. These speakers also allowed me to see the diverse interests and paths to and within the legal profession. In the second term, this course becomes judge shadowing, where students get to spend the day with Manitoba Court judges. It was great hanging out with judges and being treated like colleagues while experiencing the courts through this oftentimes unseen lens.

Q: What was your Favourite law school memory?

A:  My favourite memory was getting to know my classmates at the beginning of my first year. In the early fall of my first year, MLT Aikins hosted a wine & cheese networking event at their office and invited 1L students. It was my first networking event, and, at that point, I was more concerned with trying to get to know my classmates than chatting with lawyers about their practices. I spent most of the night just chatting with my classmate, who became one of my closest friends for the preceding three years, and likely years to come. After the event, many students went to Earls to debrief and hang out. I will never forget the acceptance and support I felt within Earls that night. That was the moment I knew I was where I wanted to be. Law school is quite hard, but the camaraderie and friendships that developed throughout law school helped me get through it. I consider the friends I made in law school to be some of my best friends.

Q: What do you wish you knew before your first day of law school?

A: Not to let good grades trick you into bad habits. At the beginning of law school, the realization that everyone is smart is apparent; however, we cannot all be the smartest, so we all received advice to not let our first C in law school derail our confidence. This was great advice, but it was a rallying cry to study hard for me. I did exceptionally well on my first exam. After this mark, I forgot about all the work that got me there, believing that my previous efforts would carry me. This was a false hope! I realized that law school is more a marathon than a sprint.

Celyna Yu: All that glitters

 University of Manitoba, Faculty of Law Gold Medalist Celyna Yu, did not hide in the (virtual) E.K. Williams Law Library with her nose in her law books for the past three years. On the contrary, she was active in student groups including the Diversity in Law Group, the Prairie Diversity Committee, the Robson Hall Debate Society (as president in her third year) and early in her law school career, was involved in the Pro Bono Students Canada Legal Help Centre externship. She was also a member of the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition team this year. The Gold Medal for Law caps off a long list of academic honours for this remarkable student who, as an undergraduate, arrived at the Asper School of Business as a President’s Scholar, and was then a member of the Most Outstanding Business Student Association as selected by the Canadian Association of Business Students (2017 – 2018). Before arriving at Robson Hall, she received an Emerging Leader Award in 2018, won the Bronze Medal in Management and was on the Dean’s Honour List. Once at Robson Hall, she kept up her Dean’s Honour List tradition in addition to winning no less than four top marks prizes including The Honourable Justice Robyn Moglove Diamond Prize for Excellence in Family Law, Archie Micay, Q.C. Prize for Corporations I, and the R.R. Goodwin, Q.C. Prize for Property Law, and the MLT Aikins, MacAulay & Thorvaldson Honourable Marshall Rothstein Prize (for Constitutional Law). Finally, she received the Dr. A.W. Hogg Undergraduate Scholarship, and the Lieutenant M.M. Soronow Scholarship.

Q: What was your path to get to law school? What drew you to law school?

A: I never imagined or predicted that I would go to law school. 15-year-old Celyna was adamant about pursuing a career in marketing – which is why I enrolled at the Asper School of Business after high school.

I went to the Asper School of Business from 2015-2019, and I had an incredible experience. I was part of the Commerce Students’ Association, I participated in several case competitions and conferences, and I double majored in Marketing and Supply Chain. Towards the end of my degree, I wanted to give myself some options in the off-chance I decided not to dive into a marketing career, and in essence, adulthood, right away. I took my LSAT, but I still didn’t consider law school seriously – I told myself that I would see my score and then decide.

There was no singular experience or event that occurred that made me decide to go to law school. It wasn’t like the movies where something clicks. Law school felt intimidating; I knew that as a visible minority and a woman, the cards were stacked against me. However, I think that over my final year of business school, I also realized I was capable of more than I gave myself credit for and that I was up for a challenge. In Fall 2019, I walked through the doors of Robson Hall, and I am so happy I did.

Q: What was your favourite class and why?

 A: My favourite class was Law and Popular Culture with Dr. Jennifer Schulz. From the outside, many people falsely assume it is an easy class where the homework is watching movies. From having taken the class, I can tell you it is much more than that – it is an introspection on society’s conception of the law and an examination of what the law “actually” is and/or should be. It was my favourite class because law students often focus on the milestones of writing the LSAT and getting into law school that we often forget to ask ourselves why we want to be lawyers and what kind of lawyers we want to be. Dr. Schulz pushed us to look at the law from different perspectives and I believe in doing so, she made us better law students and lawyers.

Q: What is your favourite law school memory?

A: Law school has been a wild ride – especially being online for over two years of it because of COVID. I have many favourite memories, but if I had to choose one, I would choose my mooting experience in 3L. Specifically, I would choose listening to the keynote address by [Supreme Court of Canada] Justice Mahmud Jamal. My teammates and I continue to talk about his story of the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. when he travelled for the same moot, and the bond we share because of his keynote is so special.

Q: What do you wish you knew before your first day of law school? What one piece of advice would you give to a new law student or person considering going to Robson Hall?

A: I wish I knew how fast time would fly by, because it still feels surreal to be done law school!

My one piece of advice for a new law student or person considering going to Robson Hall is to be kind. Our conception of lawyers is largely based on popular culture, like the TV show “Suits”, but lawyers aren’t and don’t need to be vicious in order to be successful. In my experience, the people I have met during my law school experience have been incredibly kind and generous. The academic learning curve of law school is difficult enough, so I would encourage new and prospective law students to be kind and open minded to one another and themselves.

SYDNEY LEVASSEUR-PUHACH
B.A. (Hons.) (Psychology)

Sydney Levasseur-Puhach is determined to work to decolonize systems that have been historically harmful to Indigenous people. As an Indigenous person, she had a desire to choose a field of study that would allow her to support her relatives in culturally meaningful ways. This led her to psychology and in particular an interest in clinical work. Sydney was a BMO Financial Group Indigenous Leader of Tomorrow scholarship winner out of high school providing her with $16,000 over four years of study. Choosing the University of Manitoba also allowed her to pursue a degree close to her family.

Research opportunities shaped a large part of Sydney’s undergraduate experience and enhanced her overall education by immersing her in the field and her interests. “In my first year of study, Dr. Shayna Plaut encouraged me to push the boundaries of what I believed to be possible, in psychology and academia, by grounding my work in Indigenous methodologies and epistemologies,” said Sydney. She built on her classroom studies with research experiences provided through the Psychology Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE), the UM Undergraduate Research Award (URA) and the University Indigenous Research Program (UIRP). “My research has been focused on Indigenous youth and family wellbeing with supervision from Dr. Leslie Roos, assistant professor and co-director of the Hearts and Minds Lab. In response to culturally misaligned assessment methods used with Indigenous children in CFS systems, I conducted a Scoping Review in 2019 to inquire into wellness assessments used with Indigenous people across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.” Identifying a gap in the literature, Sydney assembled an Indigenous Community Advisory Council to create a culturally safe and strengths-based wellness assessment appropriate for Indigenous youth in Manitoba. “Other studies I have been involved with have included those centred around systems navigation programming for Indigenous families separated by CFS and the reclamation of traditional Indigenous parenting practices,” said Sydney. Sydney credits the social justice orientation of the Hearts and Minds Lab and the support of her supervisors Dr. Roos and Dr. Ryan Giuliano with helping her build her knowledge, skills and experience throughout her degree.

During her degree, Sydney continued to be rewarded for her hard work receiving the President’s Scholarship multiple times and she was recently named the Indigenous Student Trailblazer Award winner.

In September 2022, Sydney will begin pursuing a Masters’ degree in clinical psychology at UM and hopes to complete a PhD with a goal of becoming a Clinical Psychologist. “Indigenous clinical service providers are scarce in Manitoba,” says Sydney “I hope to contribute to a growing body of literature related to the importance of self-determination and reclaiming culture, and to walk alongside my community in a respectful, empowering and supportive way.”

FAREEDAH SULAIMAN-OLOKODANA
B.A. (Adv.) (Labour Studies) Co-op Option

A few years ago, Fareedah Sulaiman-Olokodana and her family were searching for a university that would provide her with a well-rounded education, give exposure to a world-view and allow her to meet people from other cultures. The Nigerian chose the University of Manitoba. This spring, Fareedah will graduate with an Advanced Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in labour studies and a minor in management.

Fareedah’s most impactful moment during her time at UM was the day she chose to visit Career Services. “At the time I was really confused on what to major in,” she said. “But when I met with one of the career coaches, we talked about my strengths and weaknesses, things I was interested in and so on. That’s how I found out about the labour studies program. Labour studies is a wonderful community where I made great friends and had amazing professors that cared about their students’ successes.”

The advanced degree in labour studies offers multiple opportunities for students to gain practical experience in work settings including a field placement course providing students with an unpaid internship while they gain course credit and a co-op option where students complete three, paid work terms as part of their degree. Fareedah’s field placement was with the Community Unemployed Help Centre. While there, she developed a client satisfaction survey, conducted a social media review (leading to the creation of a new strategy) and updated training packages. Fareedah completed all three of her co-op placements in the same organization, N.E.E.D.S. Inc., as a Facilitator Assistant. She had the opportunity to work with different departments within the agency to gain a variety of experiences. “My work included a stop in the Administrative Department learning human resources and administrative tasks. I then moved to an area where I facilitated the after-school and summer school programs for youth aged 7 to 14. Finally, I worked in the Service Delivery area learning caseload management,” said Fareedah.

She found ways to connect with the international student community during her degree with AIESEC Manitoba and World University Service of Canada. She was recognized this year as the first recipient of the Canadian Association for Work and Labour Studies Undergraduate Excellence Award.

Following graduation, Fareedah has jumped head first into her career utilizing the contacts she made during her time in the Faculty of Arts. She is now in a full-time role with N.E.E.D.S. Inc. and is currently a member of the board at Community Unemployed Help Centre.

“As an international student, I struggled to understand how I could fit in the workplace of a society I had no idea how to navigate,” shared Fareedah. “I needed that practical learning experience where I could apply concepts learnt in the classroom into a real life setting. But, my degree ended up giving me more than that. Through my courses, my internship, volunteer work and co-op, I saw myself evolve as a student and a professional.”

At its 2022 UM Convocation, the University of Manitoba will confer degrees, diplomas and certificates on 2,835 graduates.
Visit the UM Student Instagram  and Faculty of Arts Instagram to learn more about some of the students graduating in 2022. You’ll find congratulations messages from fellow graduates and professors, stories about fellow graduates, more information about convocation and tips for new alumni. You can also join the ‘Convocation conversation’ on social media by following #umanitoba2022.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

The highest honour bestowed upon an individual by the Board of Governors on the basis of distinguished contributions to Manitoba.

June Marion James, O.M.

B.Sc., B.Sc.(Med.), MD(Man.)
Honoured Friday, May 19 at 10:00 AM 

June Marion James

The first woman of colour to be admitted to what was then called the UM’s Faculty of Medicine, Dr. James was an innovator in the areas of asthma and allergy. Within the Max Rady College of Medicine, James distinguished herself as a demonstrator, clinical instructor and professor.

A major achievement was her work to establish Manitoba’s first Family Asthma Program, which helped reduce the number of hospital admissions for children with asthma and increase the number of asthmatic children playing sports. She was also a founding member of the Manitoba Allergy Society.

In 2003, James broke new ground when she took on the role of president of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, becoming the first Black president of a provincial medical college in Canada.

James considers her role in the development of the Harambee Housing Co-Operative, a 54-unit affordable housing complex, one of her greatest achievements. As a human rights advocate and defender, James developed and presented briefs before various provincial bodies on several issues, including affirmative action, racism in schools and gender equality.

DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR AWARDS

The title, Distinguished Professor, is conferred by the University of Manitoba on academic staff members who have demonstrated outstanding distinction in research, scholarship, creative endeavours, professional service and teaching.

Roberta L. Woodgate

BN, MN, PhD(Man.)
Honoured Thursday, June 9 AT 3:00 PM

Roberta Woodgate

Dr. Woodgate has been a leader in the field of child and family engagement in research for almost twenty years and is world-renowned for her research on children’s experiences of health, illness, and disability. Her work has resulted in improved health and social service delivery for children and families including in the care of Indigenous children with disabilities, enhanced engagement of child and families in health research, increased understanding of youth’s experiences of mental illness and stigma, and the advancement of psychosocial pediatric oncology services.

An empathetic teacher and innovative researcher, Woodgate became a trendsetter for her recognition of the importance of involving children and families in health research and her use of arts-based research and knowledge translation approaches to advance our understanding of what it is like to be a child living with a physical or mental illness; the impact on families; and how to advance the quality of life for these children.

Thomas Francis Leonard Hack

B.Comm.(Sask.), B.Sc.(Hons.)(Calg.), MA, PhD(Man.)
 Honoured Thursday, June 9 at 3:00 PM 

Thomas Hack

Dr. Hack has been making significant contributions to the field of psychosocial oncology research and teaching for over two decades. A world-renowned researcher and expert in psychosocial and patient-centered oncology, he conducted the largest research trials worldwide examining the utility and effectiveness of providing cancer patients with audio recordings of pivotal medical consultations, and his research resulted in the implementation of consultation recording as acceptable, routine practice at cancer centres around the globe.

Hack has held numerous national and international research posts over the course of his career, and he is currently co-leading a national study to develop a compassionate care training program for health professionals, having recently created the world’s first empirically validated patient-reported experience measure of compassionate care in patients with life-limiting health conditions.

Today Hack contributes significantly to UM and to professional societies worldwide by holding many leadership positions, including professor in the College of Nursing in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba, director of Psychosocial Oncology and Cancer Nursing Research at St. Boniface Research Centre, senior scientist at CancerCare Manitoba, and current president of the International Psycho-Oncology Society.

Sandra Kouritzin

BA, MA, PhD(Br.Col.)
Honoured Friday, June 10 at 9:30 AM

Sandra Kouritzin

For over twenty years, Dr. Kouritzin has been a driving force within her discipline at the University of Manitoba. An outstanding scholar in the field of applied linguistics, specifically educational research and additional language teaching and learning, her work is infused with a strong sense of purpose, advocacy and social justice, and her groundbreaking research has initiated new fields of study, like the study of first language loss.

A beloved teacher and exceptional leader in both the undergraduate and graduate programs in the Faculty of Education, Kouritzin has dedicated her teaching career to the education of teachers in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), to qualitative research methodologies and to post-secondary education studies.

She is a prolific writer with over 50 peer-reviewed publications and has attracted over 2 million dollars in research funds to the University of Manitoba. Working in capacities as president of TESL Canada and editor of TESL Canada Journal, she has had a significant impact on the availability of quality Canadian research in second language education nationally and internationally.

PETER D. CURRY CHANCELLOR’S AWARD

Given annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the development and/or governance of the University.        

Sandra Secter

Honoured Wednesday, June 8 at 3:00 PM

Sandra Secter

For over two decades, Sandra Secter has been an ambassador and advocate of the University of Manitoba and the Jewish community in Winnipeg. A respected community volunteer and philanthropist with an affinity for encouraging and inspiring others, she has made numerous exemplary contributions to the UM community.

In the twenty years that her husband Harvey served as dean of the Faculty of Law and then chancellor, Secter was UM’s most fervent supporter. She volunteered her time at countless university events, was always there to lend an ear, and acted as ambassador to alumni and donors. She hosted dinners at her home for faculty, staff, volunteers, and other community members. In all that time, she rarely missed a convocation ceremony, proudly celebrating each new class of graduates.

A champion of UM’s Front and Centre fundraising campaign, Secter was key in establishing the Harvey and Sandra Secter Master of Human Rights Fellowships. She was dedicated to serving UM alongside her husband and brought her full value at every opportunity.

OLIVE BEATRICE STANTON AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING

An award recognizes an outstanding UM educator who has demonstrated continuing teaching excellence and has made contributions to advancing teaching and learning at UM.

Cameron Hauseman

BFA(York), B.Ed., M.Ed.(Nipissing), PhD(Tor.)
Honoured Friday, June 10 at 9:30 AM       

Cameron Hauseman

A passionate educator who has brought an inspiring mix of energy, creativity and innovation to his courses and other teaching responsibilities, Dr. Cameron Hauseman has been a valued member of the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba since 2018.

A respected instructional leader within his department, he has shared his expertise with the university community by supporting colleagues’ efforts to improve their teaching, mentoring a sessional instructor, and providing guidance to colleagues navigating the transition to remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hauseman’s teaching philosophy encourages reflective practice and allows students opportunities for self-directed learning. He designs his courses around adult- learning principles, prioritizing research-informed approaches, implementing formative assessments, and providing all students with detailed and meaningful feedback. His research and publications inform his pedagogical practices, bringing breadth and depth to his courses.

For more information on the University of Manitoba’s upcoming Spring Convocation ceremonies, awards and schedule, visit umanitoba.ca/convocation.

The Métis bachelor of science honours graduate from St. Ambroise was one of 19 Access Program 2021-2022 graduates celebrating their achievement at the first Access Graduation Celebration since before the pandemic. The celebration is in addition to each graduate’s convocation from their respective UM faculty. Fourteen students from Winnipeg and Manitoba Indigenous communities, and five newcomer students from Africa celebrated achieving degrees in medicine, nursing, arts, science, social work, education, health sciences and kinesiology.

Lavallee attended the evening with her parents and two older sisters. After all the uncertainties of the pandemic, she was thrilled to be able to attend the celebration in person.

“Access is like a second family. They are always there. When I started university, I came from a small community. Without them, I would have felt lost. They were a comfort. I came with the idea to pursue medicine, but I didn’t know there are so many other options. They helped me to explore them and decide where I wanted to go. Through Access, I have made lifelong connections.”

A traditional hunter with a passion for the outdoors, Lavallee found her true calling in biological sciences. This fall, she will head to Trent University to pursue her master of science degree, with plans to follow that up with a doctorate and run her own research lab one day.

Christie Lavallee, Access Program grad

To be a research doctor
“I will still be a doctor but a research doctor,” she says, noting she would one day like to study mammals in Canada. “I will see where my education takes me.”

For Lavallee, Access has been a huge part of her life for the past eight and a half years, and a great help in assisting her to navigate her undergraduate degree. The graduation celebration, hosted by fellow Access students Antonina Kandiurin and Curtis Leclerc, was “a very lovely evening, with fiddle music to get your toes tapping, and the sharing of kind and wise words and advice, a greatly motivating part of the evening” to tie up her UM experience.

“I would definitely recommend the Access Program to any Indigenous students starting at UM. There are so many supports including tutoring and a personal counsellor to listen. They are there to help. It is okay to ask for help. University can be a very daunting experience.”

Fellow Access grad Tyler Koswin, celebrating his BSc, agrees.

“To anyone wanting to go to university and change their life, this program is amazing. It’ll be tough but Access offers an incredible support system. All you have to do is reach out. I promise there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” says Koswin, who attended the Access grad with his wife who is celebrating her graduation from medical school, and other family members.

Tyler Koswin, Access Program grad

Declined management job to come to university
From Winnipeg, Koswin, who is Scottish Métis, Cree and Ojibway, learned about Access from his wife. He had been working retail for 10 years, and was an assistant manager considering an offer of a store management position.

“It would be a decent living. But my wife didn’t think I would be happy. It was scary. I had to quit and take a student loan, but I told myself this is not permanent. I will work hard and I can do this. I kept a positive attitude.”

While he originally wanted to be a pharmacist, Koswin says his journey led him to a science degree and a dream of also being a doctor. He did not make it into medical school this year, but he plans to prepare himself to apply again next year. “I never thought I would attend university in my life. I had to upgrade for entry. And now, because of Access, I am here.”

The Access Program is wonderful, he says. “I had a few tough years. The biggest challenge as a mature student in my 30s was when I would wonder what I was doing here. I didn’t feel like I belonged. But the people at Access, I owe them a lot. I am so grateful I had them in my corner. They always made me feel great, like I can do it, like I belong here.”

The Access graduation dinner was a wonderful experience, he says. “University is tough. To be there and honoured meant a lot to me. I was truly touched.”

Learn more about the Access Program