RESEARCH ON VIEW 4TH SPACE opens the doors on Concordia exploration - OTHERWORLDLY EDUCATION THOUGHTFUL HEALTH LGBTQ PRIDE - Concordia ...
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W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 RESEARCH ON VIEW 4TH SPACE opens the doors on Concordia exploration OTHERWORLDLY EDUCATION > THOUGHTFUL HEALTH > LGBTQ PRIDE
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BREAKING DOWN WALLS TO KNOWLEDGE Concordia’s 4TH SPACE provides THE PSYCHOLOGY an insider’s look at some of OF HEALTH the university’s innovative research, such as inquiries Concordia’s Department of Psychology researchers tackle an array of mental 20 into the future of cities and progressive takes on art. By Toula Drimonis 24 health-related issues, from the positive effects of bilingualism to the negative impact of poverty, and more. By Simona Rabinovitch QUEER GRADS MAKE THEIR MARK IN THE WORLD 34 THE FUTURE IS Five out-and-proud LGBTQ THE CITY alumni open up on how their 30 Concordia scholars are university experience shaped helping shape the way we their lives and careers. think of urban life. By Richard Burnett 50 By Jasmin Legatos FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: AN OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD FACULTY OF ARTS EXPERIENCE AND SCIENCE Space Concordia helps launch News on experts-in-residence, two 40 students and alumni’s interest new Canada Research Chairs and the in the cosmos. country’s first genome foundry. By Damon van der Linde By Taylor Tower 38 | IRVING LAYTON AWARD FOR CREATIVE WRITING: POETRY By Michael Lottner 46 | JOHN MOLSON MBA AT 50 1980s and ’90s graduates Brenda Gewurz and James McKenna discuss the value of their MBAs. By Jasmin Legatos 48 | PIONEERING BENG ALUMNAE As Concordia’s BEng celebrates its 50th anniversary, successful female grads Jose Bakker and Zey Emir look back at their experiences. By Jasmin Legatos winter 2019 volume 42 number 3 concordia.ca/magazine 3 CONCORDIA NEWS 19 IN GOOD COMPANY 52 HONORARY DOCTORATES 54 ALUMNI NEWS 58 ALUMNI UPDATES 64 ENOUGH SAID
setting an example Encouraging the next generation of journalists “I ’ll never forget the morning of November 24, 1974. It was Then in 2014 we met again and decided to create a living legacy. a Sunday. I was looking forward to watching the Grey Cup To mark the 40th anniversary of our colleagues’ passing, we championship football game between Montreal and Edmonton established a bursary in their honour to financially assist, each later that day with friends when the phone rang. It was a fellow year, one Concordia student who was either registered in the student journalist from our college newspaper with some devastating journalism program or a practising journalist on campus. Three news. As he spoke, my knees began to buckle. student journalists have received the award, with a fourth award The previous night, six people had been killed in a car due early in 2019. accident — two of them were our good friends and colleagues. Today, with the safety of journalists at risk in various parts of the Michael O’Hearn and Martin O’Connor were editor-in-chief and world and quality journalism under attack at home, there has news editor, respectively, of the Loyola News — a student-run paper never been a better time to support student journalism. That’s based at Concordia. Michael and Martin were in their early 20s and why I co-founded the Michael O’Hearn and Martin O’Connor soon to embark on what would have certainly been outstanding Student Journalist Bursary at Concordia — and why I am offering careers in journalism. to match all donations to the bursary until April 1, 2019, up to a Just a few months earlier, Martin had recruited me to the Loyola News. combined maximum of $2,000.” I knew nothing about journalism and was intimidated by the prospect of writing weekly news stories. When I hit a dead end on my very first assignment, I returned to the newsroom dejected. Martin coached me David Moorcroft, BA 77, is president of Strategy2Communications Inc., to look beyond the surface and find the story where I hadn’t seen one. a retired senior vice-president of Corporate Communications for And thus my first newspaper story was published — and my 45-year the Royal Bank of Canada, and a former editor of the Loyola News career in communications was launched by Michael and Martin. (1975-1976). Thirty years later, in November 2004, about 20 former Loyola News Join David in encouraging young journalists. Give to the staff members gathered in Montreal to mark the anniversary of Michael O’Hearn and Martin O’Connor Student Journalist Michael and Martin’s tragic passing. It was a cathartic experience, Bursary at Concordia. Visit concordia.ca/FundOne. with many tears and hugs. Find out how you can join David Moorcroft in contributing to Concordia. Info: concordia.ca/giving | 514-848-2424, ext. 4856 | 1-888-777-3330, ext. 4856 | giving@concordia.ca #CUpride VPAA-T19-52085-ADS-Setting an Example-Concordia Magazine Winter 2019.indd 1 31/01/2019 11:37:55 AM
THE CAMPAIGN FOR CONCORDIA CONCORDIA NEWS R O S S Y F O U N D A T I O N F U N D S M E N T A L H E A LT H I N I T I A T I V E A T C O N C O R D I A O ver the past five years, the demand from Canadian post-secondary The Rossy Foundation, established in 2004, has emerged as a leader in students for better mental funding initiatives in cancer health assistance has shot care, mental health, civic up by 35 per cent, according engagement, education and to a survey of 15 universities the arts. The organization and colleges. In response, has publicly called on Concordia University institutions such as Canada’s universities and Concordia are re-examining others in the philanthropic how they support their sector to partner to improve students’ mental well-being. mental health services Now, thanks to a major A MAJOR DONATION FROM THE ROSSY FOUNDATION WILL ESTABLISH THE EMBEDDED for students. WELLNESS ADVISOR PROGRAM ON CONCORDIA’S TWO CAMPUSES. donation from the Rossy “We are pleased to Foundation, members of support Concordia’s the university community at a comprehensive review “It’s not uncommon for ongoing efforts to develop both the Sir George Williams of student health and students to delay turning to and innovate programming and Loyola campuses will well-being services at health and counselling ser- that thoughtfully responds have access to more support Concordia. The Embedded vices until their distress has to students’ mental health where and when they need it. Wellness Advisor Program become particularly acute,” needs,” says Stephanie The Embedded Wellness builds on successful pilot says Gaya Arasaratnam, di- Rossy, vice-chair of the Advisor Program innovates projects within Concordia’s rector of Concordia’s Campus Rossy Foundation. “We on the drop-in centre student residences as well Wellness and Support believe the Embedded concept by offering a as the Aboriginal Student Services. “Thanks to this Wellness Advisor Program wide range of providers Resource Centre. These support from the Rossy reflects an approach that goes and mental health allies projects demonstrated that Foundation, we hope to reach the extra mile in providing across the two locations. approachability makes a students in need earlier to more preventive and patient- It will address some of the crucial difference to those provide the right care at the centred services.” challenges uncovered by who need care. right time and at the right place.” —Luke Quin, BA 07 Saturday, February 16, 2019 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. SIR GEORGE WILLIAMS CAMPUS 1515 Ste-Catherine St. W., Montreal Métro Guy-Concordia LOYOLA CAMPUS 7141 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal Métro Vendôme – 105 Bus Register at concordia.ca/openhouse Learn more about programs, admissions, research, facilities and student life. concordia university magazine winter 2019 | 3
D O G G O N E F O U N DAT I O N H E L P S F I N E A R T S S T U D E N T S C O N N EC T TO T H E I R C O M M U N I T Y T he late Elspeth McConnell was a strong believer in community organization of their choice. The goal of these awards is to allow students to gain involvement. “Her feeling on-the-job experience. was that you should look first “Awards like these are at what can be done in your vital to our future careers,” own backyard. She wanted says Valérie Saulnier, a Montreal to be a leader,” master’s in music therapy says Paul Marchand, presi- student and one of the dent of the Doggone Foun- award’s first recipients. “The dation, which McConnell foundation’s encouragement Concordia University established in 2012. makes me want to work hard The next generation of so I can give back and make Concordia fine arts stu- a better society.” dents will get a chance to The Doggone Foundation do just that thanks to a DOGGONE FOUNDATION SECRETARY AND CONCORDIA ALUMNA SUSAN AVON SPOKE AT recently made landmark THE DOGGONE FOUNDATION GIFT ANNOUNCEMENT AT CONCORDIA ON OCTOBER 8, 2018. $200,000 gift from the gifts to the Museum of Doggone Foundation to the Anthropology at the Campaign for Concordia: festivals, exhibition Foundation,” says Rebecca University of British Next-Gen. Now. The Elspeth spaces, community theatres, Duclos, dean of the Faculty Columbia and the McGill McConnell Fine Arts Award performing arts groups, of Fine Arts. “We share a University Health Centre. will give 18 Faculty of Fine artist-run centres, co-ops, vision that students should By giving to Concordia, Arts students across all nine libraries, schools, art be active in our community the Doggone Foundation departments $5,000 a year therapy sites or other — making things happen is widening its scope to undertake internships in non-profit arts organiza- that matter — and we are in Montreal. Montreal-based non-prof- tions and projects. thankful the foundation “We started the discussion its. Internships can take “We are proud to will fund student internships with the university and then place at museums, cultural partner with the Doggone that are crucial to allowing crafted the program togeth- our scholars to work with er,” says Susan Avon, BFA non-profit organizations 88, MA 94, secretary of the across Montreal.” Doggone Foundation. “We’ve Students who apply will be heard it’s already wildly encouraged to come up with successful and we’re looking an internship project and forward to what’s next.” approach a non-profit art — Marta Samuel, GrDip 10 You’re among our 25,000 #CUalumni Connect with your community Concordia University Join@ConcordiaAlumni on Instagram! VALÉRIE SAULNIER, A MASTER’S IN MUSIC THERAPY STUDENT, IS AMONG THE FIRST RECIPIENTS OF THE ELSPETH MCCONNELL FINE ARTS AWARDS. 4 | winter 2019 concordia university magazine 33988 Social Media Ads.indd 5 2018-08-30 2:19 PM
FOUR WAYSTO SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN • Donate online with your credit card: engage.concordia.ca/donate. • Call us at 54-848-2424, ext. 3884 or -888-777-3330. • Write us at giving@concordia.ca. • Complete the mail-in form below. Visit concordia.ca/communitycampaign | #CUpride Yes, I would like to make a donation to Concordia’s Here is my one-time gift of $ 2018-19 Community Campaign! I will give $ by credit card every month: Please direct my gift to: until I notify the university Concordia’s Greatest Needs Concordia Library until month: _____ year: _____ Scholarships, Bursaries and Fellowships Recreation and Athletics Faculty/School Other Payment method: If no designation is selected, your gift will be directed to Concordia’s Greatest Needs. Cheque payable to Concordia University Name: Visa MasterCard American Express Address: City: Province: Postal code: Exp. ____/____ Country: Email: Degree and year (if applicable): Signature Please return to: Concordia University Advancement & Alumni Relations Phone (for credit card confirmation) 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W., FB 520, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1M8 Canada CRA Registration 10696 6591 RR0001
A N I M M I G R A N T TA K E S P R I D E A N D G I V E S B A C K Alumnus Dominic D’Alessandro gives over $1 million toward fellowships to support young researchers “‘W hy don’t you its youngest-ever executive skate, Dad? vice-president. He later be- Why don’t you came president at Laurentian swim?’ my children would ask Bank, where he was brief- me when they were young,” ly Canada’s highest-paid says Dominic D’Alessandro, banker. He went on to lead BSc 67, LLD 98. “When I was Manulife Financial and is a little boy, we didn’t have credited with transforming it much. Life was tough, but into Canada’s largest public everybody we knew was in the life insurance company. same situation.” D’Alessandro remembers Life changed radically for sitting in his Royal Bank D’Alessandro after he gradu- office on the 41st floor of ated from Loyola College, Montreal’s Place Ville Marie one of Concordia’s founding — with its private dining institutions. He has given room — looking down over FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS, DOMINIC D’ALESSANDRO ROSE TO THE TOP OF THE CANADIAN BANKING AND FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY. back to his alma mater a to- the city. HE RETIRED AS CEO OF MANULIFE FINANCIAL IN 2009. tal of more than $1 million toward the Campaign for Concordia: Next-Gen. Now. “I’m very proud of who I am and He dropped out of school for a year at age 17, until one of FROM A DIFFICULT START, where I come from. I’ve been his professors, Fr. Aloysius PROPELLED TO SUCCESS McPhee, contacted him. Growing up in Montreal’s fortunate — I’m the son of an “Father McPhee made an Little Burgundy neighbour- immigrant labourer and I ended impression on me that he hood in the 1950s wasn’t cared, and so I took his ad- easy. His father died when up on a first-name basis with vice to return to my studies. he was seven, four years prime ministers and presidents.” Who knows what I’d be doing after the family immigrated now if it weren’t for him.” to Canada from Italy. His D’Alessandro is grateful 14-year-old brother went “I could see Notre-Dame D’Alessandro achieved to his alma mater for setting to work delivering bread and Des Seigneurs streets, everything he wanted in his the course for his success. to support the family. where I grew up. As a child, professional life, yet he nev- His degree opened doors. His mother raised four I would accompany my moth- er lost sight of his roots. It was also during his Loyola children alone. er to the bank. She couldn’t years that he met his wife of D’Alessandro beat the speak English and was a little FORMATIVE YEARS AT 51 years, Pearl. odds and went on to become awed by the teller behind the LOYOLA COLLEGE one of Canada’s most promi- grill. I’d come a long way since The young D’Alessandro GIVING BACK nent business leaders. then — I’m glad my mother was a bright student with a Through his giving to He built an impressive lived long enough to see my natural ability in school. And Concordia, he created the business career, working in- success. She was very proud.” he loved to read. He skipped Dominic D’Alessandro ternationally, then returning The recipient of numer- two grades and at age 14, Fellowship Fund to support home to join the Royal Bank ous awards, he was named enrolled at Loyola College, master’s and doctoral of Canada as assistant con- an officer of the Order studying math and physics. students in research- troller. Five years later, at of Canada in 2003 and “It was a memorable time, oriented programs. age 37, he became the bank’s Canada’s Outstanding CEO even though it was difficult at “I want to make it easier chief financial officer and of the Year in 2002. home,” D’Alessandro says. for deserving students who 6 | winter 2019 concordia university magazine
THE CAMPAIGN FOR CONCORDIA have an appetite to learn. “We are grateful to I believe in education — it Dominic for his gifts and his makes better citizens and leadership on our campaign TOP LEFT: DOMINIC better human beings of us cabinet and in community D’ALESSANDRO’S 1967 LOYOLA COLLEGE all by helping us to under- organizations,” says Paul YEARBOOK PHOTO. LEFT: DOMINIC D’ALESSANDRO stand the world around us. Chesser, Concordia’s vice- AND HIS WIFE, PEARL, Frankly, I think education president of advancement. AT HIS CONCORDIA HONORARY DEGREE is the best investment,” says “It is thanks to such dedi- CEREMONY IN 1998. D’Alessandro. cated volunteers that we are “It’s wonderful to see the making sustained progress you can help somebody, golf and spending time with presence and the impact toward our $250-million why wouldn’t you?” his family. Reading remains Concordia is having on the campaign goal — and advanc- D’Alessandro directs his a great passion. city. I think universities are ing our position as Canada’s philanthropic support to- Below D’Alessandro’s tremendous assets for soci- next-generation university.” ward numerous causes yearbook photo are these ety and for a community.” In recognition of related to education and words: “There is the feeling D’Alessandro’s commit- D’Alessandro’s achieve- health. Over the years, he among us all that he will make ment to Concordia extends ments, he received an has served in volunteer roles it in life in a very big way.” beyond his philanthropy. He honorary doctorate from for a variety of charities in- Prophetic words indeed. has served on the university’s Concordia in 1998 and the cluding the United Way – Louise Morgan, GrDip 99, Board of Governors and now Loyola Medal in 2004. and Montreal Neurological with files from volunteers as honorary vice- “I’m very proud of who I Institute and Hospital. Lee-Ann Mudaly, BA 14 chair for the Campaign for am and where I come from. Retired since 2009, he sits Watch Dominic D’Alessandro Concordia. Next-Gen. Now. I’ve been fortunate — I’m on several corporate boards discuss his life at “As a proud Concordia the son of an immigrant and enjoys travelling, playing bit.ly/ddalessandro. graduate and long-time labourer and I ended up on a volunteer, Dominic first-name basis with prime D’Alessandro embod- ministers and presidents.” ies the Jesuit and Loyola College ethos to be a ‘man ‘IF YOU CAN HELP STAY CONNE CTED WITH for others,’ ” says Concordia SOMEBODY, WHY YOUR ALMA MATER MATER! MAT E R! President Alan Shepard. WOULDN’T YOU?’ “Dominic was an astute “I’m especially proud that businessman who worked I haven’t lost my values. hard to succeed. He is gener- I remember what it’s like to ously giving of his time and be disadvantaged,” he says. resources to support our next “I had a hard time as a kid Join the #CUalumni conversation on social media. generation of students.” and today I believe that if concordia university magazine winter 2019 | 7 33988 Social Media Ads.indd 3 2018-08-30 2:19 PM
C O N C O R D I A C E L E B R AT E S G I N A C O D Y I n front of a crowd of more than 400 people at the university’s D.B. Clarke Gina Cody and her husband Thomas Cody, MBA 83 — who met at Concordia’s fall convocation saw the first cohort of alumni graduate This year’s success was in part thanks to the Gina Cody team, who gathered Theatre on September 24, Concordia — joined her from the Gina Cody School of sporting T-shirts with the 2018, Gina Parvaneh Cody, two daughters, Roya and Engineering and Computer now iconic artwork. 6 MEng 81, PhD 89, announced Tina Cody and niece Science. Gina Cody (centre), Students from the newly her historic $15-million gift Christine Anahita Bigtashi poses with Amir Asif, dean renamed Gina Cody School to Concordia and the Faculty (far right), Concordia of the Gina Cody School, gathered to meet with Gina of Engineering and Computer engineering graduate Concordia President Alan Cody on September 25. Science. In recognition of student, under the faculty’s Shepard, Meredith Monk, Pictured are students her tremendous professional newly minted sign. 2 LLD 18, Nathalie Pilon, LLD from HackConcordia with accomplishments and Montreal Mayor Valérie 18, president of ABB Canada, Gina Cody and Amir Asif generosity, the faculty was Plante invited Gina Cody Concordia Chancellor (far left). 7 renamed the Gina Cody School to sign Montreal’s official Jonathan Wener, BComm Fay Arjomandi, BEng of Engineering and Computer guest book — the Livre 71, and Rebecca Duclos, dean 98, joined Gina Cody at Science. It became the first d’or — at City Hall’s Salon of the Faculty of Fine Arts. 4 the cocktail reception on engineering faculty in Canada Maisonneuve on October Gina Cody poses with September 24. Arjomandi named after a woman. 26. It was a meeting of two Jacques Chagnon, BA 75, served as master of “My hope is that a few years women pioneers: Plante is former member of the Quebec ceremonies for the gift from now there will be so the first woman to become National Assembly, and announcement and dinner many women like me that I mayor of Montreal and Andrew Molson, Campaign celebration later that will be forgotten,” said Cody Cody was the first woman for Concordia co-chair, evening. Both women are in her gift announcement to complete her PhD in at the September 24 gift Iranian emigrants and speech. “My gift is for a better building engineering announcement. 5 successful engineers and society by supporting the next at Concordia and the The 29th annual business leaders. Arjomandi generation of engineers and first woman to have an Concordia Shuffle, held is the executive chairwoman computer scientists who will engineering faculty named September 28, raised of H2 Wellness and founder develop the technologies after her in Canada. 3 $108,000 to support student and chief product officer of tomorrow.” 1 bursaries and scholarships. at mimik. 8 —Joseph Leger, BA15 Watch Gina Cody’s gift announcement at concordia.ca/campaign. 2 1 8 | winter 2019 concordia university magazine
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Concordia University 1 2 CHANCELLOR’S BUILDERS CIRCLE AND FRIENDS DINNER T he elegant Le Salon 1861 in Montreal was the backdrop for the fourth annual Chancellor’s Builders Circle and Amanda Kline, BA 11, reporter at CTV News Montreal, and Michel Boyer, BA 12, national correspondent for CTV Friends Dinner, held October 25, 2018. News, served as masters of ceremonies. Concordia Chancellor Jonathan 4 Co-chair of the Campaign for Wener, 1 BComm 71, Board of Concordia Lino Saputo Jr., BA 89, Governors Chair Norman Hébert Jr., pictured with his wife, Amelia Saputo, 2 BComm 77, and Concordia President BA 90, also spoke to the audience. 5 Alan Shepard 3 welcomed the Guests enjoyed presentations on the 3 university’s major donors and thanked innovative research being conducted by them for their transformative support. Shauna Janssen, BFA 94, MA 09, PhD Wener is pictured with Mutsumi 14, director of the Institute for Urban Takahashi, BA 79, MBA 95, LLD 13, Futures, and Cheryl Gladu, 6 PhD CTV Montreal chief news anchor, and candidate in Concordia’s Individualized Shepard is pictured with Stephen Program. Undergraduate student Jarislowsky, LLD 03, founder David Marino, a finalist on the TVA director and chairman of Jarislowsky, talent show La Voix 5, provided jazzy Fraser Limited. musical entertainment. 7 The event marked the one-year Other guests included Gina Cody, mark of the Campaign for Concordia. MEng 81, PhD 89, and Tom Cody; 8 Next-Gen. Now, which is more than Shushu Feng, MSc 16, and Chaim halfway to its $250-million goal. Kuhnreich, BA 14; 9 and Miriam Roland, LLD 18, and J. Sebastian 4 van Berkom, BComm 69, LLD 17. 10 10 | winter 2019 concordia university magazine
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Meet Paul Chesser: Concordia’s new vice- president of advancement Former Stinger captain to lead Advancement and External Relations team LESLIE SCHACHTER Can you tell us about your C background, including your Concordia University oncordia’s new education at Concordia? vice-president of Paul Chesser: “My father advancement, Paul was in the military so as Chesser, BA 94, GrDip 97, a kid we moved around a has an impressive track lot, but I came to Montreal PAUL CHESSER BEGAN AS CONCORDIA’S VICE-PRESIDENT OF ADVANCEMENT IN DECEMBER 2018. record both on the field from North Bay, Ont., in and off. A former Stingers 1989 to study at Concordia. defensive coordinator for the Orchestrating a campaign football team captain I majored in economics and Stingers football team, the from advancement is essen- inducted into the Concordia played varsity football with first Concordia sports team tial, yet everybody on our two Sports Hall of Fame in the Stingers. I completed my ever to reach the Vanier Cup, campuses must help pitch in. 2016, Chesser has scored studies in the fall of 1993 — the national championship It’s the same thing in sports, major gains for fundraising the same year I was named game. The following year an where one person gets credit campaigns. all-Canadian defensive end opportunity emerged to lead for the goal or the touch- Prior to returning and received the J. P. Metras a group of students for the down, but there are a lot to Concordia, he held Trophy, which goes to the annual Concordia student of people involved in leadership positions in top lineman in Canadian phone-a-thon, which the blocking, tackling, development at Carleton university football. was my first foray into planning, execution. University and Queen’s I started to work right full-time fundraising.” I like to say football is a University. He most recently away, first in athletics at contact sport — and so is served as assistant vice- Concordia, running a sum- You were a star Stinger advancement work. We have principal of development at mer camp for 275 kids, as who today leads an to be in contact with people McGill University. Chesser, well as coaching part time. advancement and external and build those relationships who returned to his alma I also started a graduate relations team. You will so we can earn the right to mater on December 1, 2018, diploma in sports admin- now advance the Campaign make those requests for shares insights into his years istration at what is now for Concordia: Next-Gen. donations for our causes.” of fundraising and the joy of the John Molson School of Now, the university’s most coming full circle. Business. By 1998, I was the ambitious fundraising You began your career appeal to date. Are there in advancement at any parallels between Concordia. What drew “I like to say football is a contact sports and advancement? you to fundraising in PC: “They both require good the first place? sport — and so is advancement planning and preparation, a PC: “I had been in athletics work. We have to be in contact disciplined approach, hard for five years. I had an work and proper execution. opportunity to transition with people and build those It’s not just one person that from coaching and leading can get the job done — it student athletes to coaching relationships so that we can earn takes a village. student callers. It was really the right to make those requests The university community a great learning experience. as a whole has a role to play As an introduction to for donations for our causes.” in giving students a positive fundraising, the opportunity experience and inspiring do- provided me with a chance nors to make significant and to absorb all the key meaningful contributions. components."I learned the 12 | winter 2019 concordia university magazine
importance of relationship What are some of the What is your impression building as well as fostering main challenges you have of the momentum a sense of trust with donors. experienced, or expect, as Concordia has developed I found that fundraising was an advancement leader? over the last few years? a fantastic profession as it PC: “Concordia is a forward- PC: “Concordia’s footprint suited my experience, my looking university born and reputation have skills and my interests.” from the merger of two great transformed greatly, yet I institutions: Loyola College don’t think the university What does it mean and Sir George Williams necessarily gets the credit to you to return to University. Each year, we it deserves as a progressive your alma mater? engage and re-engage as university. The reality is that PC: “I’ve worked at other many of our 215,000 alumni when people take a closer universities and I’ve adapted as possible. Across the look, they will see an agile as a non-grad, but to do philanthropic landscape, institution that responds to this work at my alma mater there are many great causes to change and delivers a first- is really special for me. I support. Our challenge is to class student experience. Concordia University understand the history of make the case for Concordia Concordia has all the Concordia, both Loyola and and encourage our friends, same great attributes Sir George Williams, and the volunteers and grads to that I remember fondly 1974 merger into Concordia. donate to the university. as a student, yet it is a I’ve ridden the shuttle bus, PAUL CHESSER IS A FORMER Higher education is looking 21st-century university. STINGERS FOOTBALL TEAM CAPTAIN I’ve walked the halls and I’ve AND A CONCORDIA SPORTS HALL for solutions to help solve Concordia is on an upward OF FAME INDUCTEE. played sports. I think my societal problems for which trajectory and I am delighted deep roots will help me make our donors can help. to return to help advance it quicker connections and What is the key to a We need to build higher for the next generation of have more credibility with successful development education as an important students.” Concordia alumni.” initiative? philanthropic priority across PC: “I believe that real the country and around the —Leslie Schachter, BA 03, What is your vision success comes when we can world. It provides an oppor- GrDip (journ.) 13, is a Montreal for Advancement and match the priority needs tunity for the next generation freelance writer. External Relations? of the university with the of leaders to further their own PC: “It all goes back to philanthropic interests pursuits. Higher education teamwork. I want folks in of donors. When we are is the platform for research each of our four academic brokers in that transaction, that makes our world a bet- faculties, our researchers, we get a very happy academic ter place. Giving to Concordia administrators and students champion who feels fulfilled is really an investment in our to look to the advancement in the difference they are collective future.” and external relations team making in an area they care as a partner to help the whole about. It all starts with a really university thrive. I want the ambitious and compelling Concordia community to feel vision that donors want to be it can depend on us to deliver. associated with. Our academic leadership Concordia leadership establishes university prior- has identified some ities and projects for which ambitious plans, some we raise funds. Our job is to inspiring priorities and foster a donor-centric en- projects that will require vironment that connects donor support but will also Catch up on #CUalumni achievements #CUalumni academic priorities with the inspire donor support.” Follow@ConcordiaAlumni on Twitter interests of donors, commu- nity partners and friends.” concordia university magazine winter 2019 | 13 33988 Social Media Ads.indd 1 2018-08-30 2:19 PM
A L A N S H E PA R D T O B E C O M E CONCORDIA MBA EARNS TOP PRESIDENT OF WESTERN UNIVERSITY M A R K S F O R S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y C oncordia President Alan Shepard has accepted the presidency of Western making it one of Canada’s largest comprehensive universities. T he John Molson School of Business (JMSB) MBA, which celebrates and the percentage of core courses that integrate sustainable development, as University in London, Ont., Starting in 2015, Shepard its 50th anniversary in well as the gender and racial and will be stepping down as led the university com- 2018-19, is lauded as one diversity of faculty. the university’s president and munity through broad of the most sustainable “The promotion of vice-chancellor in June 2019. consultations that resulted in the world, according to responsible business plays a Shepard joined Concordia in nine Strategic Directions, the Corporate Knights 16th significant part in our strategic in 2012 after serving as pro- the institution’s roadmap annual Better World MBA plan,” says Anne-Marie vost of Ryerson University in guiding its development. ranking. The program was Croteau, dean of the JMSB. Toronto. He had previously From those directions rated 32nd in the world “A key part of our mission is to held leadership roles in flowed many initiatives based on five sustainability- go beyond the commonplace Virginia and Texas and at the that have distinguished related indicators, including for business and society. University of Guelph. Concordia as a next-gener- the number of institutes These rankings show that we ation university, including or centres dedicated to are doing just that.” the largest fundraising effort sustainable development —Yuri Mytko in the institution’s history, the Campaign for Concordia: Next-Gen. Now. C O N C O R D I A U S E D B O O K FA I R “Alan Shepard is a builder and inspiring leader,” said Norman Hébert Jr., BComm Concordia University 77, chair of Concordia’s Board of Governors. “He rallied the commu- nity around the Strategic DURING HIS SIX-PLUS-YEAR TENURE, Directions, strengthening CONCORDIA PRESIDENT ALAN SHEPARD HAS LED THE UNIVERSITY TO A RISE both Concordia’s research IN NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL RANKINGS, INCREASED RESEARCH and teaching in the process. FUNDING AND STEADILY GROWING The success of our fundrais- ENROLMENT. ing campaign demonstrates Concordia enjoyed a pe- the sense of momentum and riod of extraordinary growth pride Alan has helped build. with Shepard at the helm and I can truly say Alan has left he leaves the university in a Concordia much stronger very strong position. During than he found it, and the his tenure, Concordia has board is extremely grateful.” steadily climbed national “The Concordia commu- and international rankings; nity has been very welcoming it is currently rated the top to me and my family and I CUSTOMERS COMBED THROUGH TENS OF THOUSANDS OF NOVELS, TEXTBOOKS, DVDS, VINYL AND MORE AT THE 2018 CONCORDIA USED BOOK FAIR, HELD AT THE ATRIUM university in Canada un- have truly enjoyed my time OF THE ENGINEERING, COMPUTER SCIENCE AND VISUAL ARTS INTEGRATED COMPLEX FROM OCTOBER 29 TO 30. THE EVENT RAISED $31,831 FOR STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS der 50 years old by both here,” Shepard said. “The AND THE STUDENT EMERGENCY AND FOOD FUND, AS WELL AS THE NON-PROFIT CEED. Quacquarelli Symonds openness and dynamism of THE ANNUAL BOOK FAIR IS A YEAR-ROUND UNDERTAKING THAT REQUIRES TIME, (QS) and Times Higher Concordians is unique — I’ll MUSCLE AND LOTS OF PLANNING. MORE THAN 60 STUDENTS VOLUNTEERED THEIR TIME TO SET UP AND WORK AT THE FAIR, WHILE SEVERAL CONCORDIA STAFF MEMBERS, Education, and second in certainly miss that. I’m ex- RETIREES AND ALUMNI ALSO TOOK PART. North America by QS. It is tremely proud of what we’ve MEMBERS OF THE CONCORDIA COMMUNITY MAY DONATE THEIR BOOKS AT THE LOADING DOCKS OF EITHER THE HENRY F. HALL BLDG. AT THE SIR GEORGE WILLIAMS earning record research accomplished together CAMPUS OR RICHARD J. RENAUD SCIENCE COMPLEX AT THE LOYOLA CAMPUS. funding. And applications and look forward to see- VISIT CONCORDIA.CA/BOOKFAIR. and enrolment have grown ing Concordia continue its broadly: Concordia today strong momentum for years counts more than 8,500 in- to come. I will always be a ternational students among huge fan of Concordia.” a total of more than 50,000, 14 | winter 2019 concordia university magazine
CONCORDIA , President, International Women’s Madeleine Féquière Forum, Montreal Chapter BA 85 Jean-Raphael Paquet GENEVIÈVE CADIEUX HAS RECEIVED MANY ACCOLADES THROUGHOUT HER CAREER, INCLUDING A GOVERNOR GENERAL’S AWARD AND, MOST RECENTLY, A PRIX DU QUÉBEC. Vice-president, Advancement Concordia University Paul Chesse BA 94, GrD r C O N C O R D I A’ S G E N E V I È V E C A D I E U X ip 97 WINS PRIX DU QUÉBEC O ver her 40-year career, photographer and contemporary artist Department of Photography, with the prestigious Paul- Émile-Borduas prize for Geneviève Cadieux has left 2018 — one of the 15 Prix an indelible mark on more du Québec. Each winner than just the art world. Her receives $30,000. kker First woman engineering Jose H. Ba seminal piece, La Voie lactée, “A whole generation of undergraduate BEng 69 YOU’VE COME is perched on the roof of the photographers have be- Musée d’art contemporain come successful working de Montréal; it also appeared artists thanks to Geneviève A LONG WAY on a Canada Post stamp in Cadieux. It’s a testament to 2015. In November, the her work as a faculty mem- Government of Quebec ber,” says Christophe Guy, rewarded Cadieux, associate vice-president of Research professor in Concordia’s and Graduate Studies. since joining Concordia’s 25,000 alumni family. “She has pushed the boundaries of research- creation in photography at Take p ride in you r Concordia University Magazine welcomes Concordia, urging her stu- dents to be ambitious and alma mater! readers’ comments. Letters should include the writer’s full name, address, school(s), degree(s) and year(s) of graduation for to take the medium in new • Update your contact details: alumni. Letters may be edited for length directions.” and clarity. No letter will be published without concordia.ca/keepintouch the full name of the correspondent. A Montreal native, Concordia University Magazine is published three times a year for alumni and friends of Cadieux’s art primarily • Write us about your achievements: Concordia University. Opinions expressed explores the body as a herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the alumni association or of the university. alumni@concordia.ca Please address editorial correspondence to: landscape and an interface The Editor, Concordia University Magazine 1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W. between public and • Join @Concordia.Alumni on social media FB 520, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8 Phone: 514-848-2424, ext. 3876 private realms. She is also Email: Ginette.Leduc@concordia.ca concerned with the way Acting editors: Howard Bokser, Louise Morgan Contributors: Jasmin Legatos, Ginette Leduc, art integrates into urban Sylvain-Jacques Desjardins environments. For advertising information, call 514-848-2424, ext. 3876. —Andy Murdoch #CUalumni #CUpride Design: University Communications Services T19-50853 concordia university magazine winter 2019 | 15
T R E A T I N G Y O U R S E L F K I N D LY IN OLD AGE REDUCES STRESS T he golden years are supposed to be a time for reflection, enjoyment and rest. Instead, many seniors are adversely affected by stressors that are seemingly out of their control, such as declining health, loss of autonomy and life regrets. Investigators at Concordia’s Centre for Research in Human Development in the Department of Psychology, however, have found that reacting to these stressors with self-compassion — Rachel on Unsplash essentially, treating yourself in a way that you would treat a close friend or loved one — lowers corti- sol levels and thereby stress. Cortisol is a hor- INDOOR PLAY CAN HAVE A PROTECTIVE EFFECT ON CHILDREN’S WEIGHT, STUDY FINDS. mone that is present in all people, but stress P L AY K E E P S C H I L D O B E S I T Y A T B AY can trigger heightened levels of cortisol. The findings, collected from 233 C hildren who have access to indoor play equipment show substantial health benefits, including less weight gain, compared to children who do not, suggests a study published community-dwelling in the American Journal of Health Promotion. seniors, were published “We were interested in seeing if just playing — being mildly Concordia University in the Journal of active, without necessarily getting a high increase in heart rate Behavioral Medicine. — was good enough to have some kind of protective effect on PhD candidate children’s weight gain,” says lead author Caroline Fitzpatrick, Heather Herriot, MA MA (psych.) 07, of Concordia’s PERFORM Centre. (psych.) 17, profes- SELF-COMPASSION IS THE KEY TO REDUCING Using data from a study led by her PERFORM Centre STRESS IN SENIORS, ACCORDING TO A STUDY sor Carsten Wrosch BY PHD CANDIDATE HEATHER HERRIOT colleague and co-author Tracie Barnett — a researcher at and associate professor (PICTURED) AND FACULTY CARSTEN WROSCH AND JEAN-PHILIPPE GOUIN OF THE DEPARTMENT Sainte-Justine Hospital and Research Centre and professor Jean-Philippe Gouin OF PSYCHOLOGY. at INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier — Fitzpatrick and her concluded that higher colleagues analyzed 512 students considered at risk of obesity levels of self-compassion were associated with lower cortisol clustered in 296 Montreal-area elementary schools. At-risk levels in seniors who reported higher levels of stressors but students had either one or two parents considered obese. not in those who reported lower ones. They found that children enrolled in schools with the most This suggests that practising self-compassion is an effective varied indoor play environment had lower overall body fat and tool to mitigate the effects of chronic, uncontrollable stressors. smaller waists than children at schools with the least varied Herriot says she hopes the results of the study will help lead environment. The amount of time kids spend at school means to interventions that foster self-compassion in older adults the environment very likely plays a role in how they develop who are struggling with significant stressors. physically, including weight gain, Fitzpatrick says. —Patrick Lejtenyi, GrDip 99 Even though cultural, social and other factors are cutting into the amount of time kids spend being active, Fitzpatrick says that providing tools for unstructured active play is rela- tively easy. Skateboards, hula-hoops, trampolines, unicycles, You’re among our juggling pins, devil sticks and climbing walls could be highly 25,000 #CUalumni cost-effective ways of offsetting long-term health problems, she notes. “Indoor play might be linked to decreased weight, but it might also be reducing stress levels in children,” she says. “It might have some other positive benefits that we Share your news. haven’t examined yet.” —Patrick Lejtenyi, GrDip 99 Join @ConcordiaAlumni on Facebook. 16 | winter 2019 concordia university magazine 33988 Social Media Ads.indd 6 2018-08-30 2:19 PM
DUTCH SEASCAPE RETURNED TO MAX STERN HEIRS Concordia University A n 18th-century painting by Dutch master Johannes Hermanus Koekkoek, Storm at Sea, is once again with its rightful owners after being recovered from the Hargesheimer Kunstauktionen Düsseldorf, where it was slated to hit the ALEX MEGELAS, PROGRAMS AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR FOR CONCORDIA’S OFFICE OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, SAYS OF BÂTIMENT 7: “WE’RE HERE FIRST TO auction block. LISTEN, TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS, THEN PROPOSE SOLUTIONS.” Following exchanges about the painting’s tainted history between the Holocaust Claims Processing Office, the German CONCORDIA GIVES BACK TO THE auction house and its consignor, Storm at Sea was returned in C O M M U N I T Y I N N E W W AY November 2018 to representatives of the Max and Iris Stern Foundation and its three beneficiaries: Concordia University C oncordia students and faculty are learning from — and with — the community, through an innovative presence at Bâtiment 7, a former CN train shop in Montreal’s and McGill University in Montreal and Hebrew University in Jerusalem. The Concordia-administered Max Stern Art Restitution Pointe-Saint-Charles neighbourhood. Project, which lists all the works art dealer Max Stern was Concordians at Bâtiment 7 connect the university to com- forced to sell before he fled Nazi Germany, was a key player munity mobilization efforts and grassroots urban development in the retrieval. — everything from horizontal governance models to sustain- “Art restitution is an integral part of Holocaust remem- able uses of former industrial spaces. brance, respect for human rights and international justice. Open to the public since May 2018, there are more than I would like to congratulate the Stern Foundation and the 10 groups operating as part of Bâtiment 7. Aside from a brew Düsseldorf auction house on their agreement and exempla- pub and grocery store, there are co-op bicycle and car repair ry commitment to redressing past injustices,” said Stéphane facilities and a youth-run arcade, facilitated by Concordia stu- Dion, Canada’s ambassador to Germany and special envoy dent Michelle Duchesneau. There are also plans for a daycare, to the European Union and Europe. birthing centre and food production hub. Storm at Sea is the 18th painting recovered on behalf of the For Concordia, the work at Bâtiment 7 advances the uni- Stern Foundation. versity’s interest in city-based learning, says Charmaine Lyn, —Fiona Downey, BA 83 senior director of the Office of Community Engagement (OCE), which is helping to fund the project along with the Office of Research and SHIFT, Concordia’s social innovation hub. Alex Megelas, MA (ed. studies) 14, is OCE’s programs and communications coordinator and one of the university staff assigned to Bâtiment 7. Megelas feels the collaborative model ensures direction comes first and foremost from the commu- nity, rather than being driven by external researchers. “This is exciting. We’re here first to listen, to build relationships, then propose solutions,” he says. “This type of engagement is critical in bringing our work out of the academy to apply it to real-world problems, and to inform new and socially relevant directions for Concordia researchers to take,” adds Christophe Guy, vice-president of Research and Graduate Studies. —Sylvie Babarik, MA 07 STORM AT SEA, BY JOHANNES HERMANUS KOEKKOEK (1778-1851) concordia university magazine winter 2019 | 17
G I L L I A N L E I T H M A N T A L K S H E A LT H A N D H A P P I N E S S I N T H E W O R K P L A C E G illian Leithman, BA 00, MSc 05, PhD 16, is assistant professor in the as raising children or paying the mortgage? Look through a university catalogue and What helped me surmount this challenge was seeing first-hand how this informa- Tell us a little bit about your coaching career. What do you focus on? Department of Management see if any of the courses catch tion truly changes people’s GL: “My objective is to at Concordia’s John Molson your attention. This could lives when they apply it.” bridge the gap between the School of Business and a provide another clue to what academic and practitioner corporate trainer specializing might fuel your passions.” Can you give us three spheres by creating fun in health and wellness. She simple tips for professional learning experiences using has facilitated programs for What has been the development that anyone the latest scientific discover- some of Canada’s premier biggest challenge can use? ies from the fields of positive businesses, such as Bell you’ve faced during GL: “1) Make lifelong learn- psychology, management, Canada, Air Canada and your career, and how ing an objective. Don’t stop neuroscience and perfor- TELUS. did you overcome it? taking courses — of any kind mance optimization. I am Leithman will host four ses- GL: “For 11 of the 15 years I’ve — just because you have interested in health, happi- sions for the Alumni Career been teaching soft skills — in- graduated from university. 2) ness and success because Workshop Series in 2019. terpersonal and people skills Don’t rely on your employer it’s fun to teach stuff that — to students and employ- to support your professional has a practical application. What do you think is the ees, the discipline has not development. If your or- I maintain that change starts secret — if there is one — been taken seriously. That ganization does not value with tiny tweaks.” to professional success/ has changed with behavioural training and development, happiness? science becoming more seek it out yourself. 3) Step What can people expect Gillian Leithman: “Waking mainstream — but that has out of your comfort zone. If in your upcoming up most mornings excited not always been the case. It is you are into social science, workshops with Concordia? about the day ahead. That hard to stir the course when take a course in photography. GL: “A fun, interactive means living with passion most people believe that ‘soft If you work in finance, enrol environment where you’ll and purpose. If you are not skills’ are just that — soft. in a culinary class.” learn some of the best- sure where to start, here are kept social science secrets a few good questions to shake that you can apply, in and things up: “I maintain that change out of the office, to achieve Are you living in alignment greater health, wealth with your values? If you’re starts with tiny tweaks.” and happiness.” unsure, ask yourself, ‘Who in my life do I admire and How did Concordia have why?’ Alternatively, imag- an impact on your career? ine someone close to you is GL: “Concordia gave me describing you: what would hands-on practical skills as you want them to say? well as a solid foundation Make sure you are develop- in research methodology. ing a life outside of work. I also had great teachers, So many of us are using our such as my supervisor and technical devices in lieu of mentor, Linda Dyer, whose forging real relationships, support was instrumental which has led to a loneliness both academically and epidemic.” professionally.” —Meagan Boisse, BA 17 What advice would you give to someone who Find out more about Gillian feels unsatisfied in his Leithman and the Alumni Concordia University or her job? Career Workshop Series at GL: “Explore new adven- concordia.ca/alumni-friends/ tures! What did you love events. pursuing when you were young but had to put aside MANAGEMENT PROFESSOR AND CORPORATE TRAINER GILLIAN LEITHMAN WILL HOST due to responsibilities such FOUR ALUMNI CAREER WORKSHOP SERIES SESSIONS IN 2019. 18 | winter 2019 concordia university magazine
IN GOOD COMPANY ABB Canada is writing the future of industrial digitalization In Good Company is a series on inspiring grads who work for corporations and non-profits that hire a large number of Concordia alumni. To be featured, please contact us at alumni@concordia.ca or @ConcordiaAlumni on social media. V isitors waiting in the Gingu’s journey to ABB reception area of ABB Canada began during his last Canada’s Montreal year in electrical engineering head office can expect a warm at Concordia, when he land- Courtesy of ABB Canada welcome from staff and a hot ed a four-month summer coffee from a robotic barista internship in sales and mar- named YuMi. Developed at keting. That led to joining ABB as a way to allow humans the company as an electri- and robots to work in close cal engineering specialist in proximity, the YuMi robot 2013. PICTURED AT ABB CANADA ARE CONCORDIA ALUMNI CHARLES MAZZA, VICE-PRESIDENT AND COUNTRY HEAD OF SALES, CELINE ST-GERMAIN, PROJECT MANAGER, AND MIRCEA prepares a fresh cup of coffee Thinking back on his days GINGU, GLOBAL SALES AND MARKETING CONFIGURATOR LEADER. for anyone who stops by. at the university, Gingu recalls For more than four how his courses helped him St-Germain remembers After graduating from decades, ABB has been develop a systematic approach how she struggled with Concordia, Mazza spent a pioneering technology to solving problems — some- group projects while at more than 20 years in the leader in electrification thing that has been invaluable Concordia. Now, she says pulp and paper industry, products, robotics and in his career, he says. those same projects conjure where he transitioned from motion, industrial Gingu’s current role com- up her most cherished the technical side to sales automation and power bines all of his skills. “How can memories at the university. and then to management. grids. Serving customers we, for example, digitize our “It was really nice to “I just saw that the career globally in utilities, portfolio?” Gingu asks. “And collaborate with such a opportunities were strong industry and transport and how can we explain it to the cus- culturally diverse group and that the connection infrastructure, the company tomer, but in a simple story?” of students,” she says. “I between science and operates in more than 100 took that experience to business led to a unique skill countries and with some BRINGING IT ALL heart because it’s exactly set that could be leveraged,” 147,000 employees, 700 in TOGETHER like that today, working at says Mazza, who earned its Montreal Technoparc Now a 10-year veteran at a global company like ABB a graduate diploma in headquarters. ABB Canada, Celine St- — surrounded by talented management from Athabasca Here are three Concordia Germain, BComm 02, is professionals, each with University in 2000. alumni who are making an responsible for overseeing their own experiences and He also takes great pride impact at ABB Canada. projects of customized high- perspectives on the world.” in knowing that he’s helping voltage power equipment prepare the next generation ENGINEERING NEW as a project manager. St- A NON-LINEAR THINKER of talent in his role. “It’s a SALES EXPERIENCES Germain supervises each Charles Mazza, BSc 89, is passion of mine to coach As global sales and project from the moment the often asked why he pursued and to bring on the next marketing configurator company receives an order a degree in chemistry rather generation to help them leader, Mircea Gingu, until it ships out the product than chemical engineering. excel within the industry, BEng 12, works on the to the customer for delivery. “If I had to do it all over but also beyond that,” Mazza implementation team “When you get to the end of again, I’d do the exact says. “We want them to responsible for a customer a project and the customer’s same thing,” says Mazza, succeed, so providing that management relationship satisfied, everyone feels vice-president and country opportunity is something software. “When you go into fulfilled,” she says. “You’re head of sales at ABB Canada. I really enjoy doing.” Amazon, you can select your just growing every “Chemistry provided me —Daniel Bartlett, BA 08 shoes, your pants and so on,” day — learning different incredible breadth, open- he says. “We’re customizing things — and you’re ready mindedness and ways of or digitizing our inventory to take on a bigger, more seeing things in a non- into such a platform.” complex project.” linear fashion.” concordia university magazine winter 2019 | 19
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