October 29, 1999

U of S Honors Outstanding Grads

Posted October 29, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Saturday, October 23, 1999 99-10-16-OTHER

U of S Honors Outstanding Grads

During Fall Convocation, the University's most outstanding graduates are recognized by presentations of various awards and prizes. This fall, the list of awards and students includes:

  • The President's Medal - Deanne Marguerite Leurer of Kronau (B.S.N. with Great Distinction)

  • Fall Convocation Three-Year Degree Medal - Jerianne Joy Montgomery of Perdue (B.Sc. Three-Year with Great Distinction)

  • University Medal in Fine Arts - Cindie Ann Chaise of Saskatoon (Honours Certificate in Arts with High Honours in Art History)

  • University Medal in Sciences - Tsuyoshi Morioka of Saskatoon (B.Sc. Honours with High Honours in Computer Science)

  • University Medal in Social Sciences - Alastair John MacFadden of Saskatoon (Honours Certificate in Arts with High Honours in Psychology)

  • Rose Litman Medal in Humanities - Kathleen Mavourneen Murphy of Saskatoon (B.A. Honours with High Honours in English)

  • Dean's Medal in Arts and Science - Cindie Ann Chaise of Saskaoon (Honours Certificate in Arts with High Honours in Art History)

  • The Goodspeed Prize in Commerce - Warren Kelly McLeod of Prince Albert (B.Comm with Great Distinction and Honours in Marketing)

  • Saskatchewan Teacher's Federation Prize - Steve Jim Lafferty of Fort Resolution, Northwest Territories (B.Ed with Distinction)

  • University Prize in Nursing - Tracy Jane Brand of Saskatoon (B.S.N. with Great Distinction)

  • Gold Medal in Physical Therapy - Lincoln Pisio of Saskatoon (B.Sc.P.T. with Great Distinction)

For more information, please contact:

Jacquie Fraser, Director
Registration, Exams, Convocation
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6728


October 25, 1999

U of S Professor Curt Wittlin to Receive Distinguished Researcher Award

Posted October 25, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Friday, Oct. 22/1999 99-10-15-OTHER

U of S Professor Curt Wittlin to Receive Distinguished Researcher Award

University of Saskatchewan professor Curt Wittlin, the world's leading expert outside Spain in medieval Catalan language and literature, will be presented "in absentia" with the Distinguished Researcher Award at the Fall Convocation Oct. 23.

"Prof. Wittlin's lifetime contribution to the study of Catalan language and literature has done much to make the U of S recognized in the scholarly world," said Michael Corcoran, U of S Vice-President (Research). "He is one of Canada's leading humanities scholars and a very worthy recipient of this award."

Wittlin will be unable to accept the award in person because he is currently in Spain conducting research on medieval Catalan documents. Catalan is a Romance language derived from Latin.

Following the end of Spanish Civil War in 1939 and until General Franco's death in 1975, Spain's universities were purged of Catalan scholars. Wittlin's research since the mid-60s has helped ensure the survival of Catalan medieval scholarship.

More recently, Wittlin has been enlisted in the struggle to preserve the Catalan language, a minority language spoken by about eight million people in the autonomous regions of Catalonia in Barcelona, Valencia and the Balearic Islands.

"I expect that in 50 years Catalan will still be around but it may be just a language spoken at home," he says.

He stresses Catalan scholarship is crucial to understanding how people thought and lived in medieval times. "The whole correspondence of the Catalan kings was in Catalan. The language played a major role in European history," he said.

Wittlin uses linguistics and culture to explain the meaning of medieval texts. He has uncovered common patterns of mistakes made by medieval translators.

The work is solitary and sometimes tedious. Because parchment texts can't be scanned electronically, they have to be manually transcribed. But there's less chance of errors now that the scholar can take a laptop computer into the archive rooms instead of copying by hand and then re-copying with a typewriter.

But for Wittlin the thrill of discovery makes it all worthwhile. He recalls the excitement he felt in a Valencia archive room when he came across the parchment will of a rich man who had died in 1418. The will provided an inventory of the man's possessions and a fascinating glimpse into the man's life and time. "I was the first person to open it in 400 to 500 years," he says. "It's the kind of moment every scholar needs in order to keep studying."

His scholarly work has received recognition both within Canada and outside. In 1988, he was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, the senior national body of distinguished Canadian scientists and scholars. He is also a Fellow of the Barcelona-based Institute of Catalan Studies which judged his book Repertori d'expressions multinominals to be the best book in medieval Catalan studies written from 1988 to 1989.

This year, the Institute awarded Wittlin its prestigious International Catalonia Prize for life achievement in studies about Catalan language and culture. The award goes to scholars who are not Catalans.

One of his books - a critical edition of a medieval "bestseller" - was judged by the Spanish publishing house Serra d'Or to be the best 1996 book on Catalan studies written by a foreigner.

Born and educated in Basel, Switzerland, Prof. Wittlin came to the U of S in 1967. A member of the Department of Languages and Linguistics, he has published 12 books in 17 volumes and more than 70 articles. Nine of his books are editions of medieval Latin, Spanish and Catalan manuscripts. In many cases, they are the first printed edition of these manuscripts.

The Distinguished Researcher 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.

For more information, contact:

Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
Office of the Vice-President Research
(306) 966-2506


Three U of S Scientists Get $920,000 from CFI for New Research Tools

Posted October 25, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Monday, Oct. 25, 1999 99-10-18-OTHER

Three U of S Scientists Get $920,000 from CFI for New Research Tools

Three University of Saskatchewan researchers will get a total of almost $920,000 from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) for powerful new research tools that could lead to advances such as safety testing of new biotechnology products, better films for medical X-rays and improved telemedicine technology.

The just-announced CFI New Opportunities Fund grants are expected to help attract and retain top U of S faculty in materials science, toxicology and computer science.

"These are exciting projects that provide much-needed tools for university and industry researchers across the province," said Michael Corcoran, Vice-President for Research.

"The fact that all three of our applicants were funded is a testament to the calibre of these young innovators and the quality of their projects."

Projects funded by the New Opportunities Program are selected on the basis of their contribution to Canadian innovation. The CFI provides up to 40 per cent of total project costs, while the remaining funds are to be found from provincial and private sources.

The award winners are:

* Ronald Miller, assistant professor of mechanical engineering: $701,904

Purchase of a new scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) and related equipment that will be used extensively by researchers in mechanical, electrical and bio-resource engineering, as well as in geological sciences, chemistry, physics and soil science.

The STEM would also enhance the research of local industries such as Hitachi, PCS Inc., IPSCO Inc. and the metals mining industry.

The STEM would complement materials research to be carried out at the Canadian Light Source synchrotron. It could lead to:

  • better welding techniques for manufacturing firms
  • a cheaper, more effective method for firms to manage wastes from their mines
  • sensors for detecting drinking water contaminants
  • better films for medical X-ray machines
  • stronger, more reliable materials for vehicles

The STEM will enable graduate students and post-doctoral researchers to gain experience with the latest techniques and tools that apply to a wide range of industrial sectors including electronics, mining, communications, biotechnology, and the steel industry. For example, Regina steel maker Ipsco needs metallurgists trained to use electron microscopy to develop and control the properties of their alloy steels.

At present, research into new and better materials is limited due to deficiencies in the existing electron microscope facilities. Faculty and graduate students have to travel to other provinces to use STEM facilities.

"There are very few young materials researchers who would be willing to take the risk of joining a department that does not have access to such as facility. The presence of a first-class STEM facility on campus will help to attract the brightest and the best materials scientists."


* Mark Wickstrom, associate professor at the Toxicology Centre -- $117,800

For upgraded equipment to create a state-of-the-art lab for assessing potential toxic effects of new biotechnology and nutraceutical products, as well as determining toxic effects of environmental contaminants in mining and petroleum industry wastes.

The new lab would address the needs of industry and government research partners. For instance, it will be a resource for agrochemical companies testing new pesticides and for mining and petroleum companies assessing risks of potentially toxic wastes.

Wickstrom noted Saskatchewan's agricultural biotechnology industry has expressed interest in initiating a research program for safety assessment and toxicity testing of genetically modified crops.. "We feel the time is right for local ag biotech companies to step forward and have their products evaluated for their long-term safety," he said. "This equipment would be essential in such research."


* Carl Gutwin, assistant professor of computer science $99,835

For computer hardware that would be used by faculty, research assistants, grad students and visiting researchers to carry out world-class research aimed at improving the quality and effectiveness of new interactive software. The software allows computer users to work collaboratively across a large geographic area and has implications for areas such as telemedicine and distance education. For example, physicians in Saskatoon might collaborate via computer with a remote medical practitioner to interactively assess a patient's records, X-rays and test results.

This "collaborative visualization" technology involving interaction with large amounts of data communicated at high speed is cutting edge science. Computer users would be able to visualize not only the data, but also the ways others in the work group are interacting with it. The focus on shared visualization will make the facility unique in the world.

The department expects the lab will attract graduate students and researchers from Canada and around the world. They also expect many of the discoveries from their research will be commercialized and incorporated in the next generation of software applications.


The CFI is an independent, not-for-profit corporation established by the federal government in 1997 to provide much-needed state-of-the-art research infrastructure. In the latest round of New Opportunities Fund grants, almost $8.6 million was provided for 56 awards in 20 universities.

For more information, contact:

Kathryn Warden
U of S Research Communications Officer
(306) 966-2506

Ron Miller
Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering
(306) 966-5479

Mark Wickstrom
Associate Professor, Toxicology Centre
(306) 966-7446

Carl Gutwin
Assistant Professor, Computer Science
(306) 966-8646


Installation Ceremony for U of S President

Posted October 25, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 2:30 P.M., October 22, 1999 99-10-18-OTHER

Installation Ceremony for U of S President

SASKATOON - Hundreds of faculty members, staff and students of the University of Saskatchewan gathered with government representatives and other guests today at the Centennial Auditorium to attend the installation ceremony of the U of S President, Peter MacKinnon. MacKinnon accepted the position, which is a five-year term, on July 1st, 1999 after the retirement of George Ivany.

A native of Charlottetown, PEI, and graduate of both Dalhousie and Queen's University, Mr. MacKinnon undertook a Master of Laws degree at the U of S in 1972. After completing further professional training in Ontario, he arrived back at the U of S in 1975. Since that time, he has served as assistant professor of law, assistant dean of law and finally, as dean of law, a position he held between 1988 to 1998, except for one year in which he was acting vice-president (academic). MacKinnon has been president of the Canadian Association of Law Teachers and of the Council of Canadian Law Deans. He was also a bencher of the Law Society of Saskatchewan and twice served on its executive committee. He was appointed Queen's Counsel in 1990.

An author of articles and commentaries in legal publications in Canada and abroad, MacKinnon is also the co-editor of three books. He has made occasional appearances as counsel in courts at all levels and in 1998, he was a visiting professor at James Cook University in Australia.

Peter MacKinnon is married to Janice MacKinnon and they have two sons, Alan, age 20 and Will, 17.

For more information, please contact:

Gail Fredrickson, Office of Communications
(306) 966-6204


October 22, 1999

U of S Council Approves Virtual College Structure

Posted October 22, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 22, 1999 99-10-17-OTHER

U of S Council Approves Virtual College Structure

Using "association and flexibility" as the key organizational principles, the University of Saskatchewan Council yesterday approved the governance structure for virtual colleges at the university. Virtual colleges are intended to facilitate the development of programs that cannot be adequately supported by existing college structures, while permitting faculty and students throughout the university to participate in interdisciplinary programs of teaching, scholarship and research.

Unlike the formal administration of other colleges on campus, virtual colleges will be informal administrative units whose developments will be monitored by Council. Although the programs may grow or shrink over time, virtual colleges at the U of S will have no permanent academic personnel, no permanent physical "home", and no permanent support staff. Faculty members will become associates of the virtual college but will also hold appointments in other colleges. Students may take courses offered and enroll in programs sponsored by the virtual college, but must maintain enrollment in one of the University's regular colleges.

The virtual college will have as leadership a Designated Dean, responsible for programs and resources; a Director, responsible for curriculum and necessary changes to programs; and an executive committee to assist the Dean and the Director in development and direction of the virtual college.


For more information, please contact:

Ron Cuming, Chair of Council
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5883


Honorary Degree Recipient Last Research Link with Works of Thorvaldson and Spinks

Posted October 22, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 22, 1999 99-10-11-OTHER

Honorary Degree Recipient Last Research Link with Works of Thorvaldson and Spinks

At the Fall Convocation, the University will award an honorary Doctor of Science degree to Dr. William Graham, a Saskatchewan native and graduate of the U of S (B.A., M.A.). In 1953, Graham's graduate work in chemistry at the U of S was supervised by Thorbergur Thorvaldson and John W. T. Spinks, both internationally respected authorities and leaders in their fields. Dr. Graham went on to complete his Ph.D. at Harvard University in 1956 and following a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Southern California, he joined the research and consulting firm of Arthur D. Little, Inc. in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

In 1962, Graham returned to Canada and an academic career at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. Within a few years, the systematic studies of organometallic compounds and metal carbonyl derivatives undertaken by his research group had attracted international attention and were recognized in 1970 by the Chemical Institute of Canada's Noranda Lecture Award. Subsequently, new syntheses of compounds having silicon-transition metal bonds were developed, and among these products a novel and important silicon-hydrogen-transition metal interaction was identified.

After thirty three years of outstanding discoveries and contributions to organometalic chemistry, Dr. Graham retired from the University of Alberta on August 31, 1995. During his remarkable career, Graham achieved an international scientific reputation and his work is noted for originality and careful execution. Graham authored or co-authored 140 publications and supervised 25 Ph.D. theses. He has served on the editorial boards of several inorganic chemistry journals and reference works. His awards include the Noranda and E.W.R. Steacie Awards of the Canadian Society of Chemistry; the Chemical Institute of Canada Medal and both a McCalla Fellowship and the Kaplan Research Prize from the U of A. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and was a Centenary Lecturer of the Royal Society of Chemistry (London) in 1987-88.

Marking Dr. Graham's retirement and 65th birthday, the Canadian Journal of Chemistry dedicated a special issue to him. In an article from that issue which discusses Dr. Graham's contributions, his colleagues said, "Bill has always been readily approachable, unselfish, and eager to share his findings with his colleagues and other scientists. The inorganic chemists at the University of Alberta have been particularly fortunate to have worked with Bill. He is largely responsible for building the Inorganic division of this department to its present stature and has been a constant inspiration to all."

Since his retirement, Dr. Graham has served as Associate Dean (Research) in the Faculty of Science of the University of Alberta, while maintaining an active interest in chemistry as Professor Emeritus.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Bill Graham, Associate Dean of Science
University of Alberta
(780) 492-3619
E-mail: william.graham@ualberta.ca


Master Teacher Award Goes To Mechanical Engineering Professor

Posted October 22, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 22, 1999 99-10-12-OTHER

Master Teacher Award Goes To Mechanical Engineering Professor

The Master Teacher Award, established to emphasize the importance of good teaching at the University and to recognize and honour faculty members who excel in teaching, has been awarded to Professor Colin Sargent of the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The award, which consists of an inscribed trophy and $1,000 prize, will be presented to Sargent on Saturday, October 23 at the Fall Convocation ceremony.

Honoring Professor Sargent is an event that his colleagues and students, both past and present, have anticipated for some time. In his nomination testimony Professor Greg Shoenau, Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, states, "Professor Sargent is an outstanding teacher and scholar. He possesses an enthusiasm for learning that is stimulating, fun and contagious. He has consistently demonstrated a thorough knowledge of the material in both the theoretical and practical sense, and an ability to relate that knowledge to the students. I have observed and envied his ability to encourage students to reflect about their course material in ways that will help them generate creative solutions to the many open-ended and ill-defined problems that they will encounter as practicing engineers."

Colin Sargent was awarded his Ph.D by Cambridge University in 1977, based on his research in the materials science area. He has published numerous papers for journals and abstracts and is sought after as an international lecturer. Although Sargent is recognized and respected as a researcher, his nominators agree that what truly sets him apart and makes him an exceptional candidate for this award is a "deep-seated concern for students that extends beyond the classroom. The many special needs and problems, particularly faced by first year students as a result of the adjustments and presures of university life, is placed at the center of Sargent's service to students and the College."

Professor Sargent's voluntary roles have been extensive over his time at the University. He has held the position of Chairman of the College Student Counselling Committee for several years and is consistently selected by students as faculty advisor in the organization of their events. He is responsible for initiating and/or serving a variety of programs for students in the College, among them: the Math Skills Camp, evening math help sessions, the College's Orientation Day, the First Year Teaching Circle, the Big Sister/Little Sister Group, and the Second Wind Group. He has served a multitude of department, college and university committees and his dedication and valuable contributions have not gone unnoticed.

Professor Sargent's devotion to his students and to improving the pedagogical life at the university has been formally recognized by the students. He was chosen to receive the first Saskatoon Engineering Students Association (SESS) Friend of the Students Award during its inaugural year (1980) and received the award again in 1984; he is the only engineering faculty member to have received this award more than once.

For more information, please contact:

Professor Colin Sargent
Department of Mechanical Engineering
College of Engineering
(306) 966-5470


Director of Extension Credit Studies Receives President's Service Award

Posted October 22, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 22, 1999 99-10-13-OTHER

Director of Extension Credit Studies Receives President's Service Award

The University of Saskatchewan established the President's Service Award to recognize exceptional contributions by non-academic staff. This award honors individuals who have enhanced the work environment by providing extraordinary service to the University community, who have inspired, supported and respected the endeavours of others, and have achieved this distinction through dedication and commitment. The Selection Committee has named Dr. Bob Cram, Director of Extension Credit Studies in the Extension Division, as the recipient of this award. Dr. Cram will receive the award, which carries a $1,000 prize and includes a commemorative ring or pin, at the Fall Convocation.

Dr. Cram began working in the Extension Division in 1985, initially serving as the University's High School Liaison Officer. He has played an integral role in several projects, demonstrating his extraordinary administrative, management and interpersonal skills. Cram's colleagues on campus and associates in post-secondary education throughout Saskatchewan have lauded him for his tireless efforts toward making the university an accessible place to study, attracting people who would otherwise not have pursued a degree.

Bob Cram played a key role in establishing a Native student orientation program. He was also involved in developing distance education policies for the province, as well as assuring the successful operation of seven designated Arts and Science program locations throughout Saskatchewan. As a result of Cram's commitment to distance education, the University's 'multi-mode' delivery system has grown to include audio tapes, teleconferencing, print packages, face-to-face dialogue, and correspondence courses. There are now 55 sites across the province having access to Arts and Science classes through satellite and cable television. Dr. Cram has also been responsible for managing the development and delivery of five major certificate programs in areas as diverse as English as a second language, farm management and horticulture.

In recent years, Dr. Cram has coordinated planning for the development of several new certificate programs at the University and has been a key player in provincial post-secondary planning for distance education and technology-enhanced learning initiatives. Currently, he is playing a leadership role in coordinating plans to form a consortium of western Canadian universities to collaborate in development, delivery, student services and marketing of distance education courses and programs. He also serves on the executive of the Canadian Association for University Continuing Education.

Bob Cram's colleagues and co-workers describe him as, "always helpful, always willing to give you whatever time you need, always working to find solutions . . ." History Professor Michael Hayden says, "I have been continually impressed by the intelligence, skill, diplomacy, and patience" Bob contributes to his projects. "He has extended the reach of the University throughout the province, and has greatly enhanced the reputation of the University locally, provincially and nationally."

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Bob Cram, Director, Extension Credit Studies
Extension Division
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5588


Gordon Wilson Receives 1999 Alumni Award of Achievement

Posted October 22, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 22, 1999 99-10-14-OTHER

Gordon Wilson Receives 1999 Alumni Award of Achievement

Mr. Gordon Wilson is the winner of the Alumni Award of Achievement, presented at the Fall Convocation by the University of Saskatchewan in recognition of outstanding contribution to profession, community and/or the University of Saskatchewan. A U of S alumnus for over 50 years, Mr. Wilson was nominated for his tireless dedication and commitment as a volunteer to the University, community and country.

From 1940-45, Mr. Wilson served in World War II with the RCAF as a Spitfire Pilot with the rank of Flight Lieutenant. After the war, he attended the University of Saskatchewan, receiving his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture in 1948. Between 1938 and 1964, Mr. Wilson worked for John Deere throughout Saskatchewan until returning to Saskatoon to accept the position of Executive Director of the four branches of the Western Development Museum (WDM). There, he was responsible for the growth of many important projects, including the establishment of a Pioneer Village in North Battleford, a new museum building in Yorkton, a new Transportation Museum in Moose Jaw, as well as the new location and building of Saskatoon's indoor Pioneer Village, Boomtown.

Within the Saskatoon WDM, Mr. Wilson was a founder and key builder of the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame. He worked tirelessly in seeking out worthy candidates for the Hall and developed funding to keep the institution operating. Today over 150 farmers, leaders in agri-business, agricultural scientists, home economists, and youth leaders have been honored by the Agriculture Hall of Fame supported so diligently by Wilson over the 25 years he was secretary.

Throughout his career and personal special interests, Mr. Wilson has given many years of devoted service. In 1977, he served as President of the Alumni Association and later served for a ten-year period on the Place Riel Committee as a member and Vice-Chair working on the development and construction of Place Riel. In 1990, Wilson again offered his leadership skills to the University by contributing his time and effort to fundraise for the New College of Agriculture Building, which he considered to be a worthwhile cause in the advancement of modern research and teaching facilities for the University. He has also been a volunteer member of and held office in several associations in the community such as the Kiwanis Club, the Psoriasis Association, the Saskatchewan Museum Association, the Travel Industry of Canada and the Anglican Church of Canada. Don Ravis, former Director of Development at the University, says, "Gordon has consistently demonstrated a quiet and effective leadership style, utilizing his extensive community network to give generously of his vast years of experience as a volunteer. Gordon readily demonstrated his humanitarian spirit and leadership by spearheading numerous community projects . . . His willingness to go beyond the call of duty makes him a true volunteer in every sense of the word, as an individual who truly believes in sharing his time for the benefit of others."

For more information, please contact:

Mr. Gordon Wilson
(306) 373-1854


October 20, 1999

Law Lecture - "A Conversation About Equality"

Posted October 20, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 20, 1999 99-10-10-LA

  PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Law Lecture - "A Conversation About Equality"

On Wednesday, October 27, 1999, The Honourable Madam Justice Claire L'Heureux-Dubé, who has been a member of the Supreme Court of Canada since 1987, will deliver a lecture entitled "A Conversation About Equality."

Madam Justice Claire L'Heureux-Dubé was appointed to the Superior Court of Quebec in 1973 and to the Quebec Court of Appeal in 1979. Her distinguished career has included a strong focus on family law.

The lecture will take place in the Law Library, College of Law, beginning at 3:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.


For more information, contact:

Sharon Wandzura-Fehr
Administrative Office
College of Law
(306) 966-5873


Scientists and Potential Suppliers Show Growing Interest inSynchrotron

Posted October 20, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wednesday, Oct. 20, 1999 99-10-09-OTHER

Scientists and Potential Suppliers Show Growing Interest in Synchrotron

Saskatoon, SK. - Two special events this week mark growing national interest in the Canadian Light Source (CLS) synchrotron from both scientists and potential suppliers of goods and services for the $173.5-million U of S-owned national project.

Tomorrow more than 50 federal government scientists and other researchers will begin a three-day workshop at the National Research Council's (NRC) Plant Biotechnology Institute on campus. Yesterday, CLS partners held a procurement seminar for 250 business representatives at a downtown hotel.

Prominent U of S and American synchrotron scientists speaking at the NRC workshop will describe how synchrotron light can be used in leading-edge areas of biology ranging from studies of how proteins function to research into the structure of genes.

"We want to show our people what you can do with synchrotron radiation in the biological field generally," said Walter Davidson, NRC's co-ordinator of national facilities.

Scientists from the NRC's five biotechnology institutes across Canada will visit the CLS site and outline their long-term research needs, information which will help the CLS make plans concerning types of experiments to be conducted and allotment of access time to the facility.

When CLS Inc. -- a wholly owned U of S subsidiary -- starts operations in late 2003, the NRC will work with the U of S in managing the synchrotron as a national facility.

A synchrotron is a football field-sized machine that produces extremely bright light. By using powerful magnets and radio frequency waves to accelerate electrons to very high speeds and energies, matter can be "seen" at the atomic scale with unprecedented accuracy and precision. Researchers in industry and universities are finding a host of applications - from more absorbent diapers to the next generation of computer chips.

There was also excitement about the synchrotron this week from Western Canadian construction and equipment manufacturing firms.

The procurement seminar included a scientific overview and project update, as well as technical presentations on construction requirements, quality assurance, and synchrotron systems and components such as magnets, vacuum pumps, controls, computers and radio-frequency transmitters. The U of S's open bidding practices and synchrotron procurement processes were outlined.

"This seminar marks the beginning of a series of long-term opportunities for local and regional businesses to supply goods and services both directly to CLS Inc. and as sub-contractors to the anticipated multi-national companies," said CLS Interim Director Michael Bancroft.

He noted many business representatives made introductory appointments with CLS team members during the private afternoon sessions.

Other speakers included CLS project manager Barry Hawkins, U of S purchasing services director Gwen Toole, and Andy Melnyk, Saskatchewan Economic and Co-operative Development's business development manager for advanced technology.

Construction on the CLS, which will incorporate the existing linear accelerator on campus, began in July.

The CLS is expected to attract more than 2,000 researchers per year once all beamlines (conduits for carrying synchrotron light to scientific workstations) are fully operational in 2008. Visits will range from a few days up to a few weeks.

Information about the CLS synchrotron and procurement opportunities is available at: cls.usask.ca and www.usask.ca/research/synchrotron.shtml

Note to editors: Interviews with visitors from other synchrotrons can be arranged. A beta tape of animation showing how a synchrotron works is available.

For more information contact:

Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506


Sean Hemmingsen
PBI/NRC Senior Research Officer
Adjunct Professor, Microbiology & Immunology
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 975-5242
hemmings@cbrpbi.pbi.nrc.ca


October 19, 1999

Installation Ceremony for President MacKinnon

Posted October 19, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 19, 1999 99-10-08-OTHER

Installation Ceremony for President MacKinnon

The University of Saskatchewan invites you to attend the Installation Ceremony for President Peter MacKinnon, to be held at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, October 22, at the Centennial Auditorium. A reception will follow.


For more information, please contact:

Cindy Paquette, Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6640


October 18, 1999

U of S to confer 628 degrees at Fall Convocation

Posted October 18, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 18, 1999 99-10-07-OTHER

U of S to confer 628 degrees at Fall Convocation

The University of Saskatchewan will confer 628 degrees, diplomas and certificates on students at the annual Fall Convocation October 23, 1999. Chancellor Peggy McKercher will preside over the ceremony which will be held in the Centennial Auditorium, beginning at 9:30 a.m. A reception for graduates and their guests will be held from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. in the atrium of the Geology Building at the U of S campus.

An honorary doctor of science degree will be conferred upon Dr. William Graham of the University of Alberta in recognition of his distinguished career and the outstanding contributions in the field of organometallic chemistry.

Gordon Wilson, a Saskatoon resident and U of S alumnus for over 50 years, will receive the Alumni Award of Achievement presented each fall to a graduate of the University in recognition of outstanding contributions to profession, community and/or the University.

The Master Teacher Award will be presented to Mechanical Engineering Professor, Colin Sargent. This award was established to emphasize the importance of good teaching at the University and to recognize and honour faculty members who excel in teaching.

Other award recipients include Dr. Bob Cram, Director of Extension Credit Services at the University, who will receive the President's Service Award in recognition of exceptional contributions by non-academic staff; and Professor Curt Wittlin of the Department of Languages and Linguistics, who will be presented with the Distinguished Researcher Award given to a U of S faculty member who has made a major contribution to knowledge or artistic creativity.

The Convocation Address will be presented by Dr. William A. G. Graham. Dr. Peter MacKinnon will deliver the President's Statement to the Graduands.


For more information, please contact:

Jacquie Fraser, Director of Registration, Exams and Convocation
Office of the Registar
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6728


October 14, 1999

Public Service Announcement: Law Lecture

Posted October 14, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 14, 1999 99-10-05-LA

 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Law Lecture

On Monday, October 18,1999, Colin Boyd, of the College of Commerce, University of Saskatchewan, will deliver a lecture entitled "The Debate Over Multi-Disciplinary Practices Prompted by the Diversification of the "Big 5" Accounting Firms into Law." Dr. Boyd is Professor and Head of the Management and Marketing Department. He is the moderator of the Canadian Business and Professional Ethics Network which operates on the Internet, and has published and spoken widely on the topic of Applied Ethics. The lecture will take place in the Moot Court, College of Law, beginning at 12:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.

For more information, contact:

Sharon Wandzura-Fehr
Administrative Office
College of Law
(306) 966-5873


Family Care Committee Survey To Be Distributed

Posted October 14, 1999

Press Release - October 5, 1999

Announcement

The Family Care Committee will be sending out a survey to over 5000 faculty, staff and students of the University of Saskatchewan on or about October 14, 1999. All recipients of the survey are encouraged to fill out the survey and return it in the enclosed return envelope by November 1st.

The Committee hopes to report on how well the University supports staff, faculty and students in managing a balance between their work, studies and family responsibilities such as child and elder care.

"This is a great opportunity for the campus community to voice their opinions regarding how the U of S cares for their most important resource, their people and their families", says Tim Archer, co-chair of the University committee.

Alison Renny (the committee's other co-chair) says "There will also be an opportunity for groups and individuals to make written or verbal submissions to the committee as part of our consultation process." The qualitative information will be used to validate or otherwise supplement the committee's assessment of family care needs and accessibilities on campus.

Any questions regarding the committee's work can be made to Tim Archer (966-5773; email Tim.Archer@usask.ca) or Alison Renny (966-4785; email Renny@commerce.usask.ca).


Background

The Family Care Committee was struck by former President George Ivany in response to a number of recommendations and also to address an agreement with the Faculty Association to undergo such a review.

The terms of reference of the committee are as follows:

  1. Consider the results of campus needs assessment surveys on family care conducted to date, and assess gaps. Commission as needed, appropriate study to fill gaps.

  2. Consider the implications of provisions in collective agreements.

  3. Consult with appropriate groups from campus and the community.

  4. Address, but be not limited to, the following: - Range of child care needs including on-site and evening services
    - Policies regarding children on campus
    - Utility of a campus-wide child care committee
    - Adequacy and uniformity of family-related leave
    - Equity of coverage for expenses related to family care
    - Elder care needs
    - Uniform procedures for addressing accommodation issues for family related concerns
    - Need for accommodation of student family care issues such as deferred assignments and exam dates
    - Ability to work flexible hours

  5. Prepare a report to the President with recommendations on family care, child care and related issues as a result of the consultations, compilation and analysis of information received by the committee which will address present and projected future needs of all members of the university community in these areas.

  6. Consider the development of a framework which will facilitate the implementation of some or all of the committees' recommendations.

The committee consists of the following individuals representing the indicated groups: Tim Archer (co-chair); Caileen McKeague (USSU); Peta Bonham-Smith (USFA); Cindy Brown (GSA); Justine Driedger (ASPA); Randy Epp (CUPE 1975); Rosanna Langer (CUPE 3287); Alison Renny (co-chair); and Theresa Lavis (secretary to the committee).

The Family Care Committee has been collecting information from a variety of sources in order to assess the family care needs and resources that are available on campus. In addition, an analysis of the accessibility of services is also being conducted. It quickly became apparent to the committee that there exist gaps in the information that is available. Consequently, the committee has deemed it necessary to conduct a survey of faculty, staff and students to attempt to close some of those gaps. A survey instrument has been developed in order to reach a wide scope of Unversity faculty, staff and students in order to generate additional information on family care needs, resources and accessibilities. Students will be sampled in a more targeted way due to the committee's limited resources.

The Family Care Committee will also be inviting interested individuals and/or groups to make written submissions to the committee with regards to their feelings regarding family care issues at the University of Saskatchewan. Furthermore, a number of consultations will be organized to obtain additional qualitative information with regards to family care issues on campus. This information will be used to validate or otherwise supplement the committee's assessment of family care needs and accessibilities on campus.


Museum of Antiquities Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Posted October 14, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 14, 1999 99-10-06-OTHER

Museum of Antiquities Celebrates 25th Anniversary

The Museum of Antiquities at the University of Saskatchewan is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year. During the month of October a special display consisting of some of the museum's own exhibits and brass rubbings taken from medieval monumental brasses, are set up in the Murray Building (Main Library) link. In the museum itself there will be a special exhibit of manuscripts consisting of original medieval land charters, and original and facsimile illuminated manuscripts.

On October 22, 1999 there will be two special lectures by Alexander G. McKay, FRSC, Professor Emeritus of Classics at McMaster University. At 10:30 a.m. in room 214 Arts ,"Greeks on the Bay of Naples: Quest and Enterprise," and at 1:30 p.m. in 134 Arts, "Mystery Cults in Roman Art and Literature."

On October 23, 1999 at 7:30 p.m. the Museum will be holding in the Murray Building a celebration of its 25 years with a lecture by Dr. McKay entitled, "Ancient Roman Museums and Galleries: Originals and Copies." Professor Kathleen Solose on harpsichord, and Saskatoon Symphony concert master Michael Swan and Mark Rudoff on the Amati instruments, will be performing. A reception follows the performance. This event is sponsored by Sinfonia Travel and Harden and Huyse Chocolates.

The public is invited to attend these events.


For more information, please contact:

Cathy Gunderson
Museum of Antiquities
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7818 weekday mornings


October 12, 1999

Hers and His Relationships Topic of Lecture

Posted October 12, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 12, 1999 99-10-04-ED

Hers and His Relationships Topic of Lecture

SASKATOON - "Hers and His: Relationships Recognizing the Differences" is the topic of the University of Saskatchewan's Fall 1999 Edith Rowles Simpson Lecture. Dr. Dianne K. Kieren will deliver the lecture, on Thursday, October 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Frances Morrison Library Theatre. The lecture is open to the public, free of charge, and will be followed by a reception. Dr. Kieren will explore the question: what does it mean to use what we know about the differences in men's and women's views of relationships to build strong and satisfying relationships?

Dr. Kieren is Professor Emerita in the Department of Human Ecology, Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Home Economics, University of Alberta. She completed 28 years at the University, serving as professor, chair of the Department of Family Studies, and Associate Vice-President (Academic) of the University. Her research has focused on the area of family problem-solving. As a practitioner, she has been active as a family life educator and policy advocate. She has published nationally and internationally, and has authored a widely used junior high health and sexuality book series. She is currently chair of the Alberta Private Colleges Accreditation Board, a member of the Ma'Mowe Capital Region Child and Family Services Authority Board, and a member of the Board of the Vanier Institute of the Family.

The Edith Rowles Simpson Lecture is named after and given in honour of the University's former Dean of Home Economics. Dr. Simpson joined the University's Department of Women's Work in 1932, and served as Dean of the college of Home Economics from 1965 until her retirement in 1972. At that time the lectureship was established, supported by donations from alumnae, colleagues and friends. In January 1987, Dr. Simpson was appointed a member of the Order of Canada, and in October 1993 she was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of Saskatchewan, in recognition of her contribution to homes, families and education in Saskatchewan. Dr. Simpson passed away in 1997 at the age of 92, following a brief illness.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Bev Pain
College of Education
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5843


October 05, 1999

Evanshen to present lecture during Disabilities Awareness Week

Posted October 05, 1999


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 4, 1999 99-10-03-OTHER

  MEDIA ADVISORY

Evanshen to present lecture during Disabilities Awareness Week

In recognition of Disabilities Awareness Week at the U of S, you are invited to attend a presentation by Terry Evanshen, 1988 CFL Hall-of-Famer.

Tuesday, October 5
12 noon - 1:30 p.m.
Place Riel Theatre

After a vehicle accident and month-long coma, Terry awakened to discover he suffered from retrograde amnesia (permanent loss of long-term memory) and impaired short-term memory. Hear his powerful and inspiring story.


For more information, please contact:

Heather Kuttai, Director of Services for Students with Disabilities
Student Affairs and Services
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5673

or

Gail Fredrickson, Communications Assistant
Office of Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6204



October 01, 1999

Victor & Letha Colleaux Bursaries Awarded to University ofSaskatchewan Students

Posted October 01, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 30, 1999 99-09-17-OTHER

Victor & Letha Colleaux Bursaries Awarded to University of Saskatchewan Students

Saskatoon SK, 30 September 1999 - Thirty-nine University of Saskatchewan students have been awarded a Victor & Letha Colleaux Bursary. Thirty-eight bursaries are each valued at $2,000 and one is valued at $1,000. The Scholarships are funded through a generous trust established by Victor and Letha Colleaux.

The recipients for the 1999-2000 academic year are:

Dylan Buss Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Lina Chakrabarty College of Medicine
Jason Chau College of Medicine
Lexy Currie College of Medicine
Jennifer Davies Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Benjamin Deheshi College of Medicine
Grant Ebenal College of Dentistry
Michael Evenson Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Brian Filek College of Medicine
Heather Gordon College of Medicine
Adriana Gourgaris College of Medicine
Danielle Hicks College of Medicine
Bethany Jackson College of Medicine
Trevor Johnson Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Erin Longfellow School of Physical Therapy
Marlene Lumberjack College of Law
Brett Mamauri College of Medicine
Jessica Muggli College of Medicine
Stephanie Osmond Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Vivek Patel College of Medicine
Jeeremy Quickfall College of Medicine
Jeremy Reed College of Medicine
Kerri Schellenberg College of Medicine
Matthew Schuck College of Medicine
Trevor Schuler College of Medicine
Corrine Searle Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Heather Shewan Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Karen Sigfrid Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Leah Slugoski School of Physical Therapy
David Stoll College of Medicine
Klea-Ann Talbot Western College of Veterinary Medicine
Christine Watson College of Pharmacy
Brian Wormald Western College of Veterinary Medicine


For more information, please contact:

Kelly McInnes
Coordinator of Student Awards
Office of the Registrar
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6722
email: Kelly.McInnes@usask.ca


University of Saskatchewan Awards Entrance Scholarships to Top Students

Posted October 01, 1999


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 99-10-01-OTHER

University of Saskatchewan Awards Entrance Scholarships to Top Students

Saskatoon SK, 1 October 1999 - The University is pleased to recognize exceptional high school students who have chosen to attend the U of S. These students have been awarded entrance scholarships ranging in value from $4,200 to $17,000. Recipients were selected for outstanding academic performance and, in some cases, demonstrated excellence in leadership and extracurricular activities.

The University's premiere awards, the President's First & Best Scholarships, were awarded to four Saskatchewan high school graduates and one British Columbia graduate who demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership and extracurricular activities. The awards are each valued at $17,000, with $5,000 paid in the first year and $4,000 for the remaining three years.

The recipients are:

  • Nicole Gentner, Carrot River
  • Jerrod Kent, Regina
  • Farrah Mateen, Prince Albert
  • Brett McAllister, Langley BC
  • Jordan Velestuk, Broadview


The Chancellors' Scholarships were awarded to 20 Saskatchewan high school students on the basis of excellent academic performance in high school. The scholarships are each valued at $16,000, with $4,000 paid in each year of study.

The recipients are:

  • Christopher Allen, Moose Jaw
  • Jodi Bevan, Saskatoon
  • Carly Conly, Macklin
  • Nicole Fenrich, Wilkie
  • Howard Hemingson, Vanscoy
  • Candice Jackel, Tramping Lake
  • Lynette Jacobson, Brock
  • Heather Myers, Regina
  • Timothy Neumann, Fairy Glen
  • Shamir Patel, Regina
  • Carolyn Paterson, Saskatoon
  • Prasanna Ranganathan, Regina
  • Chad Ross, Saskatoon
  • Ian Stavness, Regina
  • Meng Sun, Saskatoon
  • Zuzanna Szmukier, Prince Albert
  • Jenna Ternan, Saskatoon
  • Natasha Thiessen, Vanscoy
  • Alexa Woloshyn, Langham
  • Wendy Wudel, Outlook


Cameco Corporation Scholarships for Women in the Geological Sciences are awarded to women with excellent academic records who plan to pursue studies in the Geological Sciences. The scholarships cover the cost of tuition, fees and books in first year and may be renewed for a second year. Students may also receive a summer work placement with Cameco Corporation following their second and third year of study.

The recipients are:

  • Kristen Lee, Hawarden
  • Jaelyn McComas, Saskatoon


University of Saskatchewan Entrance Scholarships are awarded on the basis of outstanding academic achievement in high school, leadership and extracurricular activities. The awards are each valued at $4,200.

The recipients are:

  • Trina Bergermann, Muenster
  • Robert Gammell, Saskatoon
  • Jamin Gluckie, Lashburn
  • Alexis Martfeld, Luseland
  • Christina Popowych, Foam Lake
  • Kirsty Tumbach, Maple Creek
  • Jennifer Tynan, Saskatoon


For more information, please contact:

Kelly McInnes
Coordinator of Student Awards
Office of the Registrar
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6722
email: Kelly.McInnes@usask.ca


U of S Engineers to Hold Major NationalConference

Posted October 01, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Friday, October 1, 1999 99-10-02-ENG

U of S Engineers to Hold Major National Conference

More than 700 engineers from across Canada and around the world will attend the 49th Canadian Chemical Engineering Conference that will be held Oct. 3-6 in Saskatoon.

Organized by the University of Saskatchewan Department of Chemical Engineering and local industry representatives, the conference will include sessions on mineral processing, pipeline transportation, heavy oil upgrading, separation processes, biochemical engineering and chemical engineering education. This is the first time the conference has been held in Saskatchewan.

"Being selected to host the conference is a tribute to the quality of the chemical engineering department and the support of the local chemical, mining, and oil and gas industries," said U of S Dean of Engineering Franco Berruti.

"Over one-quarter of the papers to be presented are from outside Canada and this will bring a significant international perspective to the conference," he added.

A highlight of the conference will be a banquet at the Western Development Museum to honor 20 top Canadian Chemical Engineering Achievers of the 20th Century. Three of the engineers to be honored have connections to the University of Saskatchewan:

  • Cliff Shook was a faculty member in the U of S Chemical Engineering Department for 35 years until he retired in 1995. He is now a teacher and consultant. He is recognized internationally as an outstanding authority on slurry pipeline research and development which is important to the potash and heavy oil mining industries. He has been involved in United Nations slurry flow programs in Chile, India and China.

  • Jacob Masliyah is also a former faculty member in the U of S Chemical Engineering Department (1969 to 1974). He is currently on faculty at the University of Alberta and has made significant developments to chemical engineering in the separation of oil and water, an important aspect in the recovery of heavy oil from the Athabasca Oil Sands. .

  • James Hay was born in Regina and graduated from the U of S in chemical engineering in 1950. He has made major contributions to chemical engineering through his many years at Dow Chemical where he helped pioneer new world-scale plants to produce ethylene and other chemicals used in the production of plastics. He became president and CEO of DOW in 1980 and chairman of the board in 1983.


The conference sessions will be held at the Delta Bessborough and Sheraton Cavalier Hotels. There will also be a chemical engineering exhibition featuring a number of companies and a student conference involving students from across Canada.

Financial support for the conference had been received from more than 30 companies and academic institutions both at the local and national level.

More details of the conference can be obtained from the conference web site at http://www.engr.usask.ca/dept/cen/CSChE49

For more information contact:

Doug Macdonald
Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering
University of Saskatchewan
110 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5C9
(306) 966-4766 (Office)
(306) 966-4777 (FAX)