May 31, 1999
Internationally Renowned Radiation Specialist to Speak at Conference
Posted May 31, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 31, 1999
99-05-16-OTHER
Internationally Renowned
Radiation specialist to speak at
Conference
Note to News Directors and Editors: Mark M. Hart
will be available for media interviews and
coverage on May 31 as he delivers his
presentation to the Canadian Radiation
Protection Association conference at 4:20 pm in
the Michelangelo Room of the Radisson. This is a
closed conference and open to the media only.
Multi-disciplined scientist / engineer Mark M. Hart will
be delivering a presentation entitled, "Radiation - What
is Important" to the public on June 3 and 4 on the U of S Campus.
The Internationally renowned Hart is currently with the
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore,
California and has had the opportunity to work hands-on
with plutonium over a period of three years. Through
this work he has come across interesting, and surprising,
information about the subjects of radiation and
radioactivity. He enjoys sharing this information because
there is always something new for the audience.
The purpose of this presentation is to acquaint the public
and members of the scientific community with the
concepts of radiation and contamination. These subjects
are discussed from a historical perspective, while
addressing the presence of radiation in our daily lives,
and its impact on health, safety, and the environment.
As well, the audience will be given the rare opportunity
to view a large collection of antique consumer items that
used radioactive materials for decorative, ornamental,
and practical purposes.
Hart's presentation will take place June 3 at 7:00 pm and
June 4 at 10:00 am in Quance Theatre which is located in
the Education Building on the U of S Campus.
For more information, contact:
Debbie Frattinger
(306) 966-8494
_______________________________________________
Additional Presentations at the CRPA Conference include:
Tuesday, June 1
-8:00 am Radon in Public and Commercial buildings,
Dr. Bernard Cohen, Physics Dept. Univ. of Pittsburgh
-9:00 am Communicating with the Public in the 21st
Century.
Chairperson: Paul Martin
Panel Members: Bernard Cohen (Univ. of Pittsburgh)
Fergal Nolan (President of Can.
Inst. of Radiation Safety)
Larry Christie (SaskPower)
Ray Johnson (President Elect for
Health Physics Society - US)
Mark Hart (Lawr.Livermore
Natl.Lab,US)
Thursday, June 3
-11:40 am Canadian Light Source: The New Synchrotron
Dennis Skopik, Director, Sask. Accelerator Laboratory
May 28, 1999
International Search Launched for CLS Director
Posted May 28, 1999
RESEARCH NEWS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 28, 1999
99-05-16-OTHER
INTERNATIONAL SEARCH LAUNCHED FOR CLS DIRECTOR
An international search has begun for a permanent scientific director to
lead the Canadian Light Source (CLS) synchrotron project at the University
of Saskatchewan.
U of S physicist Dennis Skopik has been appointed Acting Director of the CLS
project, effective immediately. Skopik, a driving force behind the planning
of the $173.5-million national science facility, will leave in September to
accept a position as Deputy Associate Director of Physics at the Jefferson
Laboratory in Virginia.
"I have always maintained -- and indeed the last review committee also made
this point -- that the CLS should be headed by a person who is a user of
synchrotron light," said Skopik, director of the Saskatchewan Accelerator
Laboratory which will be incorporated in the new CLS facility.
"The science done at the CLS is not my kind of research and I wanted to get
back to subatomic physics. Jefferson Laboratory is the world's premier
facility for the science that I am most interested in, so the move is a
natural career choice.
"Also, the best time for me to turn over the reins is at the beginning of
the project so someone who has an interest in the science to be done can
mold the character of the facility."
Starting in September, Michael Bancroft, a Canadian leader in synchrotron
light research, will become Interim Director of the CLS project while the
international search is underway. Skopik will work with Bancroft during the
construction period but will gradually phase out his involvement.
"I have agreed to be available over the course of construction for technical
advice but the project is in very good hands and my role will gradually
diminish," Skopik said.
Bancroft, president of the Canadian Institute for Synchrotron Radiation that
represents the more than 200 synchrotron users across Canada, will be
seconded for two years from the University of Western Ontario where he is
currently Professor of Chemistry.
U of S President George Ivany said the University is "tremendously grateful
for the guidance and leadership" Skopik has provided the CLS project from
conception to the point of construction.
"We owe him an enormous debt of gratitude, but it has been fully understood
that Dennis would return to his prime area of interest and expertise in
subatomic physics once the CLS project moved into the implementation phase,"
he said.
"While we are very sorry Dennis is leaving us, we congratulate him and offer
our very best wishes on his appointment to the prestigious Jefferson
Laboratory in Virginia.
"Dr. Michael Bancroft, the Canadian authority on synchronous light research,
will assume responsibility for the next phase of the CLS project, with Dr.
Skopik assisting in the transition. The project leadership is unfolding
completely as intended."
The $173.5-million CLS project, slated to begin operations in late 2003,
will be the biggest scientific project ever built in Canada.
A brilliant light source that allows matter to be "seen" at the atomic
scale, the CLS will provide researchers across Canada with unprecedented
opportunities for state-of-the-art investigations in materials science,
medicine, biology, chemistry, physics, and the environmental sciences.
Designed and owned by the U of S and endorsed by 18 other universities, the
CLS will be funded from both public and private sources. Information about
the CLS is available at the U of S Research web site at:
http://www.usask.ca/research/synchrotron.shtml
For more information, contact:
Dr. Dennis Skopik
Acting Director
Saskatchewan Accelerator Laboratory
(306) 966-6054
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
Office of the Vice-President Research
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-2506
Fax: (306) 966-2411
Email: kathryn.warden@usask.ca
May 27, 1999
Retirement Celebration Honouring Wayne Eyre
Posted May 27, 1999
The Office of Communications cordially invites the institutional
community to a special retirement celebration honouring
Wayne Eyre, editor, On Campus News
The gathering will take place on Tuesday, June 1, from 3 - 5 p.m. in
C210 Administration Building. There will be a presentation at 3:30 p.m.
Contributions towards the farewell gift will be accepted at the
Business Office until the end of the week.
For more information, call 966-6607.
May 25, 1999
U of S confers 2,665 degrees at spring convocation
Posted May 25, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 25,1999
99-05-09-OTHER
U of S confers 2,665 degrees at Spring
Convocation
The University of Saskatchewan expects to confer 2,665 degrees,
diplomas and certificates on students at its annual Spring
Convocation May 25-27, 1999. Last Spring 2,460 degrees, diplomas
and certificates were awarded.
The convocation ceremony will be held in the Centennial Auditorium.
Agriculture, Arts and Science, and Law degrees totaling 1,011 will be
conferred on Tuesday, May 25; Dentistry, Engineering, Medicine,
Nursing, Pharmacy and Nutrition, Kinesiology, Physical Therapy, and
Veterinary Medicine degrees totaling 629 will be conferred on
Wednesday, May 26; Education, Commerce and Graduate Studies
degrees totaling 1,025 will be conferred on Thursday, May 27. All
ceremonies begin at 9:15 a.m.
Honourary doctoral degrees will be conferred on Dr. W.G.E. Caldwell
and Dr. Raymond O. Heimbecker on May 25 and 26 respectively. Dr.
Andrew Schmitz will receive an Earned Doctor of Letters degree May
27. Other awards given will include the Master Teacher Award (May
25); President's Service Award and the Distinguished Researcher
Award (May 26).
The Convocation Addresses will be given by Dr.Caldwell (May 25),
Dr.Heimbecker (May 26), and George Ivany will present the
President's Address on the final day (May 27).
For more information, contact:
Shelley Van Buskirk
Office of the Registrar
(306) 966-6728
Professor Besant receives Distinguished Researcher Award
Posted May 25, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 25, 1999
99-05-10-OTHER
U of S Energy Conservation Expert Receives
Distinguished Researcher Award
Engineering professor Robert Besant, whose energy conservation
work has had a huge impact on housing in Canada, will be presented
with the U of S Distinguished Researcher Award at Spring
Convocation.
The award, which carries a $1,000 prize, is presented semi-annually
to a U of S faculty member who has made a major contribution to
knowledge or artistic creativity.
"Prof. Besant has been an outstanding researcher throughout his
almost 40-year career," said Michael Corcoran, U of S Vice-President
Research. "His research has had a tremendous impact on the energy
efficiency of housing across Canada and has spawned a
manufacturing industry in Saskatchewan. He's also had a significant
influence on engineering and building standards worldwide."
Besant, who joined the mechanical engineering department in 1960,
was a key member of the research group that in 1977 developed the
first cost-effective, energy-efficient house in North America. The
federal government's R2000 home energy-efficiency program,
launched in 1982, was based on Besant's design and construction
concepts. That program has resulted in fundamental changes in the
way houses are designed and built in Canada and many other
countries.
As well, his research on heat transfer in buildings has led to
computer design codes used by the heating and ventilating industry.
In 1976, his lab developed the first heat-recovery ventilator (also
called an air-to-air exchanger) specifically for energy-efficient home
ventilation. The device, which recovers the energy from stale exhaust
air and uses it to pre-heat the fresh air coming in to the house, cuts
heat loss up to 70 per cent. This work has led to the establishment of
two Saskatchewan companies which together employ nearly 200
people.
Besant is currently working on improving ventilation and energy
efficiency in commercial buildings and designing heat exchangers for
large refrigeration facilities to minimize frost build-up.
He is also working with the potash industry to find ways of reducing
clumping when potash is stored in high-humidity climates ? a
problem which costs the industry millions annually.
Among the honors he has received:
- Canadian Housing Design Council?s Award of Merit (1982)
- "Engineer of the Year" by the Saskatoon Engineering Society
(1991)
- "Solar Person of the Year" (1992) by the Solar Energy Society of
Canada for his contributions to passive solar design and energy
efficient design
- Founding member of the board of directors of the
Saskatchewan Energy Conservation and Development Authority
which was responsible for recommending energy supply options for
the province (1993)
- Fellow of ASHRAE (the American Society of Heating,
Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Engineers) in 1993
As well, his expertise has been sought as a member of federal
granting agency committees, technical societies and government
agencies including NSERC (Natural Science and Engineering
Research Council of Canada), Canada Mortgage and Housing
Commission, Canadian Government Standards Board, and the
Canadian Standards Association.
Besant holds a Bachelor of Science (1957) from the University of
Manitoba and a Master of Science in Engineering from Princeton
University (1959).
He has published more than 70 refereed journal papers, more than
140 conference papers, and many technical reports. In addition, he
has given many seminar presentations and invited talks. His research
has attracted substantial financial support and he is the co-author of
two patents, both related to shut-down systems for nuclear reactors.
During the 11 years that he served as head of mechanical
engineering, he helped boost the number of graduate students in the
department from nine to 85. More than 50 graduate students have
completed degrees under his supervision. He involves his students in
all aspects of research, including publication of results and
conference presentations.
He says funding cuts over the past decade have been ?devastating?
for the U of S over the past decade, particularly for research.
?Young faculty members are really struggling through this,? he says.
?Governments think you can just turn the tap on and off but research
doesn't work that way. It's something that evolves. Each area that I
have worked on has taken almost a decade to develop."
Besant recalls that when he began his career, it wasn't unusual for a
professor's research grant to exceed his salary. "Now if you get
$20,000 from NSERC, we say ?Quit complaining?,? he says. ?Today
you have to find ways of multiplying this grant money by working
with other government agencies or industry. This is the way of the
future."
He notes that all his department?s fourth-year undergraduate
research projects involve industrial partners.
Though Besant will take early retirement in June, he plans to
continue his research at the same level. ?I will come in every day, do
my research and pay attention to my graduate students,? he says. ?I
intend to carry on with my research work and pay no attention to
retirement whatsoever.?
For more information, contact:
Prof. Robert Besant
College of Engineering
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5452
or
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
Office of the Vice-President Research
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
kathryn.warden@usask.ca
Visit the U of S Research Web Site at: www.usask.ca/research
President's Service Award to Elaine Angielski
Posted May 25, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 25, 1999
99-05-11-OTHER
Angielski to Receive 1999 President's Service
Award
Elaine Angielski, Administrative Officer for the Western College of
Veterinary Medicine, has been named the 1999 recipient of the
prestigious President's Service Award.
The award, established to recognize exceptional contributions by
non-academic staff, honours individuals who have enhanced the
work environment by providing extraordinary service to the
University community.
Elaine Angielski has served the W.C.V.M. and the University for 35
years and has filled the role of Dean's Secretary for every dean in the
College's history. As well, Elaine continues to serve as Administrative
Officer for Admissions, Faculty and General Administration.
In addition to her administrative excellence, Elaine has gained fame
for her legendary commitment to the students of the W.C.V.M. She
often telephones potential veterinary students on weekends, when
they were more likely to be home, in an attempt to arrange
admission interviews. Elaine also devotes endless hours to counseling
applicants in their efforts to gain admission. As a result, Elaine was
chosen Honourary President of the Western College of Veterinary
Medicine Students Association, and was the first recipient of the
W.C.V.M. Distinguished Employee Award in 1997.
In the words of one co-worker, "Elaine's honesty and integrity have
inspired the respect of all who know her."
Adds a W.C.V.M. professor, "(Elaine) has been the co-pilot of the
Western College of Veterinary Medicine since its inception. The
College as it is today is, in significant measures, the work of her
hands."
Elaine will be honoured with the President's Service Award during
Spring Convocation ceremonies which commence May 25.
For more information, contact:
Elaine Angielski
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7454
Master Teacher Award to John G. McConnell
Posted May 25, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 25, 1999
99-05-12-OTHER
McConnell Latest Recipient of Master Teacher
Award
The University of Saskatchewan is pleased to announce that the
recipient of the 1999 Master Teacher Award is Professor John
Gerhart McConnell of the Department of Geography.
The Master Teacher Award, which carries a $1000 prize, was
established to emphasize the importance of good teaching at the
University of Saskatchewan and to recognize and honour those
faculty members who excel in teaching.
McConnell, who received his masters degree from the University of
Toronto in 1965, began his career at the University of Saskatchewan
in 1964 as an instructor in the Department of Geography before
being promoted to full Professor in 1984. In 1994 McConnell fulfilled
duties as Acting Head of the Geography Dept., a position he also held
in 1979. In addition to teaching, Professor McConnell has served on
numerous theses committees as a member or as an external
examiner for over 20 students at the Masters level and five at the
Doctoral level.
In 1998, Professor McConnell was the first person to receive the
Certificate of Distinguished Services to the College of Arts and
Sciences and the University. In addition to this accolade, the
Environmental Studies Students Association established a bursary in
his name. Kevan Keating, President of the E.S.S.A. explains, "He is a
Professor that is dedicated to the education process, the students,
and their concerns."
McConnell has made numerous contributions to publications in the
field of Geography and Environmental Studies. In addition to being
an author, McConnell has contributed expositions, chapters, and
review articles to many publications, as well as written journal
papers and been an invited guest lecturer at over 25 conferences.
McConnell has contributed within the community as well, having
served on seven University related and 10 non-university related
Community Boards or Committees.
As a result, his colleagues have esteemed Prof. McConnell for his
contributions in academics, as well as the community. Prof. John A.
Mills of the Psychology Department states, "If teaching is broadly
construed as service to the community - of students, of one's
professional peers, of fellow academics, and of society at large, then
nobody deserves a Master Teacher Award more than John
McConnell."
Adds Dr. R.G.Williamson, Professor of Anthropology, "John is a person
of great humanity, keen intellect and serious devotion to his objects
of commitment...he has left a strong and honourable impact on this
University."
Much of McConnell's academic and scholarly work has been aimed at
research in Northern Canada, especially the boreal forest. In addition,
McConnell has contributed administratively through his desire to
create programs in which comprehensive and relevant knowledge is
brought to bear on a particular topic. His most noteworthy
achievement was his role in the creation of the Land Use and
Environmental Studies Program which he currently chairs.
Professor McConnell will receive the Master Teacher Award for 1999
at Spring Convocation ceremonies May 25th.
For more Information, contact:
Prof. John G. McConnell
Department of Geography
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5665
Caldwell, Heimbecker to receive Honourary Degrees
Posted May 25, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 25, 1999
99-05-13-OTHER
Caldwell, Heimbecker To Receive Honourary
Degrees at Spring Convocation
Geologist W. G. E. Caldwell and cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Raymond
O. Heimbecker are this year's recipients of Honourary Degrees at Spring
Convocation.
Dr. Caldwell came to the University of Saskatchewan in 1957 after
obtaining his Ph.D. in geology from the University of Glasgow in
Scotland. At the U. of S. Caldwell began an illustrious 31 year career
in geological sciences where he was Department Head from 1972-
1988.
Caldwell's scientific and geological research spans nearly five decades
and has focused on the dynamically changing inland seaway which,
in the Cretaceous Age (65-145 million years ago), stretched from the
Arctic to the Gulf Coast. This research contributed greatly to mapping
the rocks of the Cretaceous Age created from sediments in this vast
sea, especially the strata of its Western region, which included
Saskatchewan. Caldwell's findings have provided a model for the
study of parallel systems elsewhere on the globe.
Two major publications flowed from this research: The Cretaceous
System in the Western Interior of North America (1975) and
Evolution of the Western Interior Basin (1994). The latter
has been reviewed as "among the most important contributions to...
Cretaceous geology...in decades."
During his 16 years as Head of the Geological Sciences Department at
the U. of S., Dr. Caldwell led the department to the forefront of the
geological community in Canada. Modernization of curriculum,
superlative recruitment, and acquisition of state-of-the-art
equipment marked his leadership.
Dr. Caldwell has also received other honours which include being
named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 1979, winning an
Ambrose Medal in 1989 for his "sustained distinguished service to
the earth sciences of Canada", and in 1995 being named a
Distinguished Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada.
After leaving the University of Saskatchewan in 1988, Dr. Caldwell
served as Professor of Geology and Vice-President (Research) at the
University of Western Ontario from 1988-96. Since 1996 he has been
an Honourary Professor at the University of Hong Kong.
Calgary born Raymond O. Heimbecker received his B.A. at the
University of Saskatchewan, and completed his clinical training at the
University of Toronto leading to an M.D. degree in 1947.
In 1955 Dr. Heimbecker became a member of the Active Staff of the
Department of Surgery at U. of T. and Research Associate for the
Ontario Heart Foundation, leading to a position as Cardiovascular
Consultant to the Wellesely Hospital in 1962. Along the way he
obtained his M.A. in Physiology and his M.S. in Surgery.
Dr. Heimbecker's achievements and accolades are outstanding. He
has won the George Peters Award for Experimental Surgery, the
Lister Award for Experimental Surgery, the Gold Medal of the Royal
College of Surgeons of Canada, and a Special Award from the Rose
Foundation of India for pioneer teaching and research in
Cardiovascular Disease.
Dr. Heimbecker is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of
Canada, the American College of Surgeons, the American Surgical
Association, the American College of Cardiology, the American College
of Chest Physicians. In 1974, he was chosen to become the first
Professor and Chief of Cardiovascular Surgery in the new University
Hospital in London, Ontario.
Aside from his medical accomplishments, Dr. Heimbecker is an
artisan with a workshop in his home. He has designed prototypes of
instruments used in the operating room, including a instrument for
prolonged microscopic observation of living tissues. He also
developed a pump oxygenator built into a patient stretcher that can
keep patients alive and transportable until open heart surgery can
be set up.
Dr. Heimbecker currently resides with his wife, Kathy, in
Collingwood, Ontario and pursues a wide variety of hobbies that
include flying, sailing, photography, skiing, fishing, and raising game
birds.
Honourary Doctor of Laws degrees will be awarded to Drs. Caldwell
and Heimbecker at this year's Spring Convocation ceremonies on May
25 and 26.
For more information, contact:
Norma McBain, Office of the Secretary
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4632
U of S Outstanding Graduates
Posted May 25, 1999
EMBARGOED UNTIL 9:00 A.M. TUESDAY, MAY 25, 1999.
99-05-14-OTHER
U of S Honours Outstanding Graduates
During Spring Convocation, the University?s most outstanding
graduates are recognized with numerous awards and prizes. The
most prestigious of these are the Governor General?s Gold and Silver
Medals.
The Governor General?s Gold Medal, which will be awarded to Lee
Douglas Wilson of Saskatoon, is given to the graduate student with
the highest cumulative percentage average. Wilson will also receive
his Ph.D.
The Governor General?s Silver Medal , which will be awarded to Grant
Michael Laxdal of Regina, is given to the undergraduate student with
the highest cumulative percentage average. Laxdal, who is receiving
a B.Sc. with Great Distinction in Science is also being awarded the
Spring Convocation Three-year medal.
Several other outstanding graduates will also be recognized for their
academic achievements. They are, in order of presentation:
Gail Ann Dyck of Biggar (B.S.A.) - Saskatchewan Institute of
Agrologists Gold Medal;
Gaye Elizabeth Dixon of Saskatoon (B.A.) - Copland Prize in
Humanities;
Jennifer Rae English of Saskatoon (B.A.) - Copland Prize in Social
Sciences;
Rohit Bose of Saskatoon (B.SC.), Kengo Asai of Saskatoon (B.SC. High
Honors in Microbiology), and Cory Lyle Grand of Saskatoon (B.SC.
High Honors in Biology) - Earl of Bessborough Prize in Science.
Rohit Bose of Saskatoon (B.SC.) - Haslam Medal
Valerie Jane Wiebe of Langham (B.F.A.) - University of Saskatchewan
Film Society Prize;
Dwight Gordon Newman of Regina (LL.B.) - Law Society of
Saskatchewan Gold Medal;
Brock Thomas Inverarily of Lucky Lake (D.M.D.) - Gold Medal in
Dentistry;
Colin Simmonds of Saskatoon (B.E.) - Association of Professional
Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan Gold Medal;
Jodie Beattie of Saskatoon (B.S.Kin.) - The Dr. Gordon Garvie Prize in
Physical Education;
Dellmari Yllane Spannier Richardson of Kelowna, B.C. (M.D.) - Lindsay
Gold Medal in Medicine;
Leona Joanne Werezak of Saskatoon (B.S.N.) - Lindsay Gold Medal in
Nursing;
Reanne Hope Levson of Cochrane, AB. (B.Sci. Nutr.) - The Rutter
Medal in Nutrition;
Marina Plyas of Hampstead, QC. (B.S.P.) - Robert Martin Prize in
Pharmacy;
Errin Rathgeber of Regina (B.SC. P.T.) - The Talmage E. Hunt Award in
Physical Therapy;
Sheryll Anne Hudye of Calgary, AB. (D.V.M.) - Western College of
Veterinary Medicine Faculty Gold Medal;
Jeffrey Ryan Gobeil of Prince Albert (B.Comm.) - The Goodspeed Prize
in Commerce;
Ruth Isabel Elliott of Saskatoon (B.Ed.) - Saskatchewan Teachers?
Federation Prize;
For more information, please contact:
Shelley Van Buskirk
Office of the Registrar
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6744
Earned Doctor of Letters to Dr. Andrew Schmitz
Posted May 25, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 25, 1999
99-05-15-OTHER
Renowned Agricultural Economist to Receive
Earned Doctor of Letters Degree at Spring
Convocation
The U of S will confer an earned Doctor of Letters Degree upon Dr.
Andrew Schmitz, a food and resource economist at the University of
Florida, at this year's Spring Convocation which takes place May 25-
27, 1999.
Schmitz, who is also a research professor with the University of
California at Berkeley and adjunct professor with the U of S, has been
cited as being the most creative and influential agricultural
economist in the areas of international trade and economic welfare in
the last 30 years.
Born and raised near Central Butte, SK., Schmitz received his B.Sc.
and M.Sc. degrees in Ag. Econ. from the University of Saskatchewan
before obtaining MA and Ph.D. degrees in economics from the
University of Wisconsin in 1966 and 1968 respectively.
In 1968 Schmitz joined the Agricultural Economics faculty at UC
Berkeley and served as its chair from 1989-94. He has also held
endowed chairs at UCB, U of S, and Univ. of Florida.
Schmitz's primary research revolves around the theme of grain
marketing in Canada and abroad and is currently completing a book
on the economic performance and future of the Canadian Wheat
Board. He has previously authored or co-authored publications that
have won six major research awards from the American Agricultural
Economics Association.
Schmitz will be honoured with the Earned Doctor of Letters Degree
during Spring Convocation ceremonies May 25-27 at the Centennial
Auditorium in Saskatoon.
For more information, contact:
Shelley Van Buskirk
Office of the Registrar
(306) 966-6744
May 18, 1999
U of S to Conduct Preliminary Review of Research Misconduct Allegation
Posted May 18, 1999
For Immediate Release - May 14, 1999
(Revision - May 18, 1999)
99-05-05-ME
U of S to Conduct Preliminary Review of Research Misconduct Allegation
In the wake of allegations first raised this week that a faculty researcher
counselled his assistant to falsify research data, the University of
Saskatchewan will conduct a preliminary review to determine whether a full
investigation is warranted in accordance with established university policy,
says Assistant Medical Dean Barry McLennan.
?The University takes very seriously the integrity of the research process,?
said McLennan. ?In the face of the facts as we know them to date, we view
these allegations to be entirely false. IHOR is a well-respected research
group that has participated in large research projects with the University
of Toronto and other internationally known institutes.?
He was responding to allegations filed in court this week by Emma Bartfay, a
biostatistician who worked for the Institute for Health and Outcomes
Research for eight months. Bartfay?s suit against IHOR research director
David Cassidy and the U of S alleges that she was told to falsify
conclusions.
Some media reports have suggested that Saskatchewan Government Insurance
interfered with the research work. ?To my knowledge, SGI, as a research
sponsor, has been very careful not to interfere with the conduct of the
research and the dissemination of the research results. It has been
respectful of the internal research grant approval process of the
University,? he said.
Under established University procedures for dealing with issues related to
integrity in scholarly work, the dean appoints a three-person panel of
reviewers to conduct a preliminary assessment. If that panel recommends a
full investigation, another three-person investigative team is appointed.
For more information on the investigative process, visit the U of S Research
web site?s section on Ethics in Research:
http://www.usask.ca/research/handbk/2-9.shtml
McLennan stressed he could not discuss the specifics of the case as the case
is now before the courts.
For further information, contact:
Barry McLennan
Assistant Dean Research
College of Medicine
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 966-4338
Spring Convocation to be held May 25 - 27, 1999
Posted May 18, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 17,1999
99-05-06-OTHER
Spring Convocation to be held May 25-27,
1999
The University of Saskatchewan expects to confer over 2,700
degrees, diplomas and certificates on students at its annual Spring
Convocation May 25-27, 1999.
The convocation ceremonies will be held in the Centennial
Auditorium, beginning at 9:30 a.m. each of the three days. A
reception for graduates and their guests, sponsored by the
University, will be held 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the atrium of the Geology
Building.
Honourary Doctor of Science degrees will be conferred on Dr. W.G.E.
Caldwell (May 25) and Dr. Raymond O. Heimbecker (May 26). An
earned Doctor of Letters will be conferred upon Dr. Andrew Schmitz
(May 27). University President Dr. George Ivany will deliver the
statement to the graduands, with Chancellor Peggy McKercher
presiding.
For more information, contact:
Shelley Van Buskirk
Office of the Registrar
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6744
SaskTel provides opportunities for post-secondary business students
Posted May 18, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 18, 1999
99-05-08-CO
SASKTEL PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR POST SECONDARY BUSINESS STUDENTS
The University of Saskatchewan, University of Regina and Saskatchewan Indian
Federated College today announced the Venture Management Competition, an
exciting new opportunity for business students in Saskatchewan.
Sponsored by SaskTel, the competition for university business students in
their final year focuses on consumer and industrial uses of
telecommunications products and services.
Fittingly, the announcement was delivered jointly from the province's two
universities through a linked video teleconference.
The competition offers a yearly $19,000 prize pool open to students at the
University of Regina Faculty of Administration, the University of
Saskatchewan College of Commerce, and the Saskatchewan Indian Federated
College School of Business and Public Administration. In addition, there is
$6,000 a year for business related programs. SaskTel has committed to
funding the contest for five years.
U of R President David Barnard said he welcomes the support for the
universities by SaskTel. "We are here to serve the Saskatchewan community.
This partnership is a perfect example. It provides a real learning
opportunity for our students and may result in enhancing SaskTel's ability
to provide services to its customers."
U of S President George Ivany said, "This partnership will specifically
benefit the students by providing them with the opportunity to converge and
apply the business and science knowledge that they have acquired in their
undergraduate education."
The business students' projects will include feasibility studies, business
plans and / or prototypes for telecommunication products and services not
currently available on a commercial basis.
The top five projects in both Regina and Saskatoon will be awarded $750 in
each fall and winter semester. A finalists prize pool will be chosen from
the 20 semifinalists. First place will receive $2,500, second place $1,000
and third place $500.
SaskTel Pioneers will provide volunteer mentoring to students taking part in
the competition.
SaskTel may also assist the students in the potential commercialization of
their ideas either directly or by matching students with appropriate
Saskatchewan-based technology companies. Assistance may also come in the
form of providing placement opportunities for students in their respective
programs.
"This SaskTel program is one way to encourage students to consider career
opportunities in the telecommunications industry and to build awareness of
entrepreneurship as a career option," Paul Dudgeon of SIFC told the news
conference. "For the students this is a valuable way to gain experience and
to possibly be rewarded for their efforts."
SaskTel is the leading full service communications company in Saskatchewan,
providing voice, data, Internet, text and messaging services over a fibre
optic-based, 100 per cent digital network, as well as cellular, paging,
wireless data and FleetNet 800 service through SaskTel Mobility.
For more information, contact:
Prof. Brooke Dobni
College of Commerce
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966- 8442
May 17, 1999
U of S to Conduct Preliminary Review of Research Misconduct Allegation
Posted May 17, 1999
Please refer to the revised news release.
May 12, 1999
Board approves 1999-00 operating budget
Posted May 12, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 12, 1999
99-05-04-OTHER
Board approves 1999-00 operating budget
The University of Saskatchewan's Board of Governors today approved an
operating budget that will see expenditures increase by $7.3 million in
1999-00. This increase will meet the established provincial pattern for
salary settlements; projected increases in utilities; critical investment in
the renewal of the University, including investment in an employee
recruitment program; faculty start-up grants; graduate student support; and
information systems development. The University's operating budget for
1999-00 will amount to $188 million.
The University was able to fund this increased expenditure level from an
increase in its operating grant of $1.4 million and an additional $5 million
transfer from the Government of Saskatchewan, following an agreement between
the Government of Saskatchewan and the Millennium Scholarship Foundation.
The remainder will come from an increase in tuition of 1.9%.
The tuition increase means that tuition levels at the University of
Saskatchewan will be far lower than all other major western universities,
except for those in British Columbia where the provincial government has
frozen tuition fees.
The budget focuses on maintaining high quality programs and an enhanced
learning experience for students, through such measures as:
- allocating almost $4.3 million to scholarships and graduate teaching
fellowships. Of this sum, approximately $3.9 million is earmarked for
graduate scholarships and teaching scholarships; the remainder goes toward
funding undergraduate scholarships.
- maintaining the $1.05 million allocation toward student recruitment and
retention. This sum includes $675,000 for bursaries and $75,000 for graduate
service fellowships.
- an increase of 5% for library acquisitions. This increase will not
completely offset the anticipated 9.6% inflation rate for library
acquisitions next year, which means that fewer materials will be purchased.
- $200,000 for learning technologies. This will provide staffing support
necessary to use the new equipment in lecture theatres and classrooms.
- an increase of 1% for all non-salary expenses. This budget line has not
been increased since 1991-92. At this point, some colleges' faculty members
are no longer supplied with pens or paper.
- $700,000 to recruit the best faculty for the next generation. In a period
when the University of Saskatchewan is attempting to recruit a significant
number of junior faculty, as are many other universities across Canada, our
lack of competitiveness would be a major problem.
- $500,000 for start-up grants for new faculty. The full amount is not an
ongoing commitment, but it will be continued for a three-year period, during
which the majority of new faculty will be hired.
- $1 million for information systems development.
Highlights of the 1999-00 Operating Budget are provided (see below).
For more information, please contact:
Hal Wyatt, Chair
Board of Governors
(403) 240-5519
(403) 233-7538 (h)
or
George Ivany, President
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6212
(306) 975-1081 (h)
or
Tony Whitworth, Vice-President (Finance & Administration)
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6631
(306) 242-4670 (h)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999/00 Budget Highlights
Tuition
A student enrolled in all Category I classes would pay $3,057 in tuition,
compared with $3,000 last year. This level is far lower than that charged by
other major western universities, such as the University of Alberta
($3,551), the University of Calgary ($3,650), and the University of Manitoba
($3,155).
Although the exact sums paid by students will vary depending on the courses
they take, in general first-year students enrolled in the following programs
will pay (sums cover a two-semester period):
Agriculture $3,179
Arts $3,088
Science, Education, Nutrition $3,118
Commerce $3,057
Dentistry $7,775
Medicine $5,815
Engineering $3,164
Law $3,363
Nursing $3,149
Physical Education $3,164
Pharmacy $3,592
Physical Therapy $4,050
Veterinary Medicine $4,982
Graduate students will pay $3,839 in tuition. Dentistry students will pay
$7,775 in tuition, in line with the new funding model for the College of
Dentistry announced in January 1999. This model provides for $30,000 in
tuition for all students, with the potential for U of S bursaries of $17,225
and a provincial bursary of $5,000.
Recruitment and Retention
The University's $1.05 million allocation will be maintained to fund a
variety of mechanisms for student support including bursaries, retention and
recruitment initiatives.
Library Acquisitions
To help combat a 9.6% annual inflation rate for library materials, the
budget allows for an increase of 5% for library acquisitions. The U of S has
recognized the importance of the library throughout its years of budget cuts
and has tried to preserve the library?s acquisitions budget as much as
possible.
Salary settlements
The budget projection includes a provision for salary settlement increases
which are in keeping with the established provincial pattern.
Utilities
A 5% increase in utilities is projected which allows for both price and
usage increases. The primary factor contributing to this increase is the
increase in natural gas cost.
1999-00 Capital Budget
The University received $14.4 million from the provincial government for its
1999-00 capital budget, frozen from last year. These funds will be allocated
as follows:
- $6.2 million to repairs, rehabilitation and adaptation of buildings
Major projects include repair or replace roofing ($714,000); steam tunnel
replacement ($500,000); electrical system replacement ($290,000); building
code upgrades ($205,000).
- $1.3 million to equipment
Allocated based on prioritized submissions from academic and administrative
units.
- $1.4 million to computer network and lecture theatres
- $0.5 million to a program to assist new faculty establish their research
programs. This continues a program established last year.
The allocation of funds for the purchase of equipment has been cited
repeatedly by numerous committees at the U of S as essential as faculty
renewal occurs. This allocation will allow the U of S to be more competitive
in recruiting top quality faculty.
- $5 million for the Thorvaldson and Kinesiology construction projects.
To supplement this university allocation, the provincial government has
allocated an additional $7 million per year for the next five years to meet
this need.
May 07, 1999
U of S Medical Professor Wins National Biomedical Science Ambassador Award
Posted May 07, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 6, 1999
99-05-01-ME
RESEARCH NEWS
U of S Medical Professor Wins National Biomedical Science Ambassador Award
Barry McLennan, assistant dean of research at the University of Saskatchewan
College of Medicine, has been awarded a prestigious national award
recognizing his "inspired leadership in advancing support for medical
science and science policy in Canada."
Partners in Research, a national, non-profit group which promotes biomedical
research. has selected McLennan for the 1999 Biomedical Science Ambassador
Award in the scientific category.
The award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional personal
contributions in advancing understanding of and support for biomedical
research. Previous winners include author Pierre Berton and Dr. Henry
Friesen, president of the Medical Research Council of Canada (MRC).
Friesen praised McLennan's achievements as a leading spokesperson for
biomedical research in Canada.
"Barry McLennan's pragmatic approach to complex matters in research wins the
day all the time," said Friesen. "He's a big picture thinker who never
loses sight of local opportunities. Canada is fortunate to have Barry around
to help shape a modern health research enterprise."
McLennan, a professor of biochemistry, is chair of the Coalition for
Biomedical and Health Research, a non-profit corporation set up in 1992 with
broad representation from Canada's biomedical, clinical, and health research
community.
Under McLennan's leadership, the coalition's lobbying efforts helped
persuade the federal government to reverse the downward trend in biomedical
research funding and to provide $29 million in new money for the MRC in the
1998 federal budget and an extra $27.5 million in the 1999 budget.
Through lobbying activities and persuading researchers to write letters, the
coalition has been instrumental in convincing the federal government to
launch the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR) which will
transform how health research is conducted and funded in Canada. CIHR has
been given $65 million this year to begin the formation of a network of
health research institutes.
McLennan was a member of the executive committee of the CIHR Task Force. In
February, the task force evolved into the CIHR Interim Governing Council, of
which McLennan is also a member.
From 1994-97, he chaired the Standing Committee on Research and Graduate
Studies of the Association of Canadian Medical Colleges. In 1983, he was
named president of the Canadian Federation of Biological Societies. McLennan
has also served on several federal research grant and scholarship selection
committees.
U of S President George Ivany said McLennan has played a leading role in
convincing politicians at all levels of the need to invest in health
research.
"We're proud that Prof. McLennan has been an effective ambassador for health
research in this province and across Canada. He is truly a worthy recipient
of this award," Ivany said.
For more information, contact:
Barry D. McLennan, Ph.D
Chair, Coalition for Biomedical & Health Research (CBHR)
and Assistant Dean, Research
College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan
Ph. (306) 966-4338
Fax (306) 966-6164
E-mail: McLennan@admin.usask.ca
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
Office of the Office-President Research
Ph. (306) 966-2506
Fax (306) 966-8597
E-mail: kathryn.warden@usask.ca
May 06, 1999
University of Saskatchewan to undertake systematic program review
Posted May 06, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 6, 1999
99-05-02-OTHER
University of Saskatchewan to undertake systematic program review
SASKATOON --The University of Saskatchewan has embarked on a systematic
review of all academic programs offered to students. This review process
will encourage program improvement and innovation and satisfy the need for
University accountability concerning programs. Recommendations will be made
to the University Council to preserve, strengthen, or delete specific
academic programs, based on the results of the review.
The review will focus on programs, rather than on the Colleges or
departments that offer those programs. This will ensure that the focus
remains on the quality of students' educational experience.
Undergraduate and graduate programs in agriculture will be the first to be
reviewed. The University of Saskatchewan currently offers over 80 programs.
Michael Atkinson, Vice-President (Academic) and Gary Kachanoski, Dean of
Graduate Studies and Research, will spearhead the SPR process while Caroline
Davis will serve as coordinator.
Council approved the policy and procedures for Systematic Program Review
(SPR) in February. Council is the body charged under the University of
Saskatchewan Act, 1995 with responsibility for overseeing and directing the
University's academic affairs. Council is composed of elected faculty
members, students, and academic administrators.
For more information on the Systematic Program Review, please visit our
website at www.usask.ca/vpacademic/spr.
For more information, please contact:
Ron Steer, Chair
Planning Committee of Council
(306) 966-4667
or
Michael Atkinson
Vice-President (Academic)
(306) 966-8484
or
Sylvia Wallace
Associate Vice-President (Academic)
(306) 966-8487
