Mary Pratt ’57

Recreating the world

through art

Fall 2010 Mount Allison University’s Alumni and Friends No. 95

Rediscover what's important
While in New Brunswick, make a list of
the things that are important to you.
That is the life you can live here.
Be home. Make life happen.
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Redécouvrez ce qui importe vraiment
Pendant votre séjour au Nouveau-Brunswick,
dressez la liste des choses que vous jugez
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Être chez soi. Vivre comme il se doit.
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Contents Self-portrait, 2002, Mary Pratt

CoverStory
12 Destined to paint
Features From a young age,
renowned Canadian
16 Reimagining leadership painter Mary Pratt (’57)
Michael Jones (’66) uses music to help public has been inspired by
officials and industry leaders reconnect with images. She has spent
the ‘personal’ and increase their productivity. her life working with
light and colour to
16 18 The business of culture recreate the world
through art.
Julia Chan (’08) uses her business savvy
to balance the books for an event
promoter in Montreal.

20 A life journey
John MacLachlan Gray (’68) talks about
his most famous play, and how he feels Regulars
about it more than 30 years later. 4 Events and Gatherings

22 The wedding planner 6 Campus Beat

18 Lisa Allain (’91) combines creativity and
8 Student Spotlight
entrepreneurship to help happy couples
plan — and pull off — the wedding of 10 Research
their dreams.
27 JUMP Update
24 Home again
Matthew Jocelyn (’79) heads up one of 28 Bleacher Feature
Canada’s leading not-for-profit contemporary 30 In Memoriam
theatre companies after achieving success
in Europe. 31 Class Notes

20
 Editor’sNote
Mount Allison Record Fall 2010 No. 95 — New Series
The Record is published three times annually.

Editor: Anthony (Tony) Frost

Assistant Editor: Tracy Bell
Art Director: Shane McDonald, Tin Design Coming clean with
Contributing Writers:
Tracy Bell
culture and creativity
Mona Estabrooks (’79)
Tony Frost
Melissa Lombard
et me begin by saying that in this column I intend to set a certain “Record” straight.
Raine Phythian
Sue Seaborn
Carolle de Ste-Croix (’90)
L
You see a handful of hawk-eyed readers noticed that we did not identify the young
Photography: graduate featured with our celebrated Chancellor, Peter Mansbridge, on the cover of
V. Tony Hauser our most recent issue. It seemed that, for some, this was a most egregious error.
Gabriel M. Isserlis
Nadine LeBlanc Now let me say that in such instances it is customary to bury this sort of thing in an
Susan Moss inconspicuous spot of one’s publication, hoping nobody notices. However, this just
Ned Pratt
Sue Seaborn did not sit well with us. It seemed, well, un-Allisonian.
Bruce Zinger
No, to correct this oversight and return order to Mount Allison CULTURE, we needed
Address correspondence regarding to think big, bold, and use CREATIVITY (and, if possible, tie it into the University’s
editorial policy and subscriptions to: year-long celebration of CULTURE and CREATIVITY).
Mount Allison Record
65 York Street
Sackville, NB E4L 1E4 To start, I did some reading about the word culture (given that was what needed to be
Tel: (506) 364-2529 Fax: (506) 364-2262 mended) and it appears there is no single meaning for the word. However, a number
tbell@mta.ca of definitions seemed to indicate that the essence of culture was found in the sum of
knowledge and values a community shared.
Contents Copyright 2010 by Mount Allison University
and may not be reprinted without permission.
Well, knowledge is clearly what is gained when a student spends four years on a
Opinions expressed in this publication are not campus, but I don’t just mean the academic kind. I am also referring to knowing who
necessarily those of Mount Allison University. your friends are, what interests you, and being aware that you are collectively creating
memories that will last a lifetime.
Single Copy: $9.00
Subscription: $25 for three issues
And it all starts with values.
ISSN 1702-2525
After spending more than a decade in higher education, I can safely say that each
Mailed under Canada Post Publication Mail institution is unique in its core set of values and that this has a powerful effect on the
Sales Agreement no. 40006414
type of person they attract. Here at Mount Allison I’ve noticed that one of the many
Mailed by: Precision Direct Marketing values held dearly is the importance of the individual. The University’s size, people,
and even operations make it pretty hard to remain anonymous. Even when the alumni
Printed by: Solisco Printers Ltd. magazine forgets to label your image.
If you wish to make a donation to Mount Allison,
please contact Susan Springer at (506) 364-2341 or Well, let me keep you in suspense no longer and reveal the “mystery” person. She is
by e-mail (development@mta.ca) none other than Sarah Tulk, the pride of St. John’s, NF and freshly-minted biochem-
istry graduate.
Please forward change of address information to Joy
Wilbur (jwilbur@mta.ca) (506) 364-2608. Wow, I feel so much better now…
Cover Photo: Mary Pratt (’57)
Tony Frost
Editor of the Mount Allison Record, University Advancement
(506) 364-2345 | tfrost@mta.ca

2 | FALL 2010 RECORD

 Mount Allison Alumni
Board of Directors
AlumniPresident President:
Andrew Clark ’98
andrew@hrge.com
416-465-7078
Where creative minds Vice-President & Secretary:
Anne-Katherine Dionne ’88
converge (and emerge) akdionne@hotmail.com
416-962-0100
Past President:
he annual migration of students to university campuses across the country is one I Barbie Smith ’75
T watch with fascination, not only for the hope found in the eyes of the students (and
tears of joy in the eyes of the parents), but also to understand why students are planning
mbsg@nb.sympatico.ca
506-529-4734
Honorary President:
on attending university. Many students profess to be attending university as a means to Louise (Oates) Cooke ’70
establishing careers in law, medicine, business, engineering, or science — all of which louisecooke@cogeco.ca
provide an important, and very tangible, contribution to our society. What is often not Directors:
acknowledged as an equally important contributor to the world in which we live is the Sean M. Connors ’81
creative and artistic disciplines, which provide colour and character to any society. sean.connors@rogers.com
506-384-5570
Layton Fisher ’57
Mount Allison has a long and storied history of contribution to arts and creativity, and layton.fisher@gmail.com
that’s where this issue of the Record will focus. Names such as Colville, Forrestall, and 506-939-2935
Pratt roll off our tongues, but there are many lesser-known alumni, faculty, and staff Harriet Leggett ’61
harrietl@xplornet.com
who have also made valuable contributions to the creative and artistic worlds. The
506-466-3786
following pages tell the stories of musicians, writers, painters — even a wedding Amy MacAdam ’02
planner — all who have harnessed their creativity to contribute to the culture of their amy_macadam@hotmail.com
communities in a positive way. 902-492-1259
Harriet Meacher ’60
mgmeacher@pei.sympatico.ca
During my years of involvement with Mount Allison, both as a student and in the 902-566-3677
alumni network, I have been fortunate to cross paths with many people who began to Margaret (Doane) Poole ’87
thrive artistically and creatively at Mount Allison. Without doubt all Mount Allison poolecom@ns.sympatico.ca
902-443-1410
alumni have had many of the same experiences as I have and, for that, we are all
Jill (Hemeon) Rafuse ’73
more privileged. rafuse@ns.sympatico.ca
902-492-4523
Andrew Clark (’98) David Rose ’90
rosed@navcanada.ca
613-231-4446
Charles Scott ’83

Looking for outstanding alumni scottc@accesswave.ca

902-832-4477
Colin Tippett ’97
All graduates and members of the Mount Allison community are invited to nominate candidates colintippett@hotmail.com
for the following awards: 506-755-0679
Christina Vroom ’96
CHARLES FREDERICK ALLISON AWARD crashyvroom@yahoo.ca
This award recognizes outstanding contribution to Mount Allison by an alumnus or an alumna. 514-933-2935
Danny Williamson ’03
CONTEMPORARY COMMUNITY AWARD williamson.d@gmail.com
519-208-1145
This award recognizes outstanding achievement by an alumnus/alumna to their community of
interest within 10 years of graduation from Mount Allison. Executive Director:
Carolle de Ste-Croix ’90
LIFETIME COMMUNITY AWARD Tel: 506-364-2348 Fax: 506-364-2262
This award recognizes outstanding achievement within, or contribution to, a community outside cdestecroix@mta.ca
of the Mount Allison community. This could include volunteering or professional service in a http://alumni.mta.ca
wide range of arenas such as civic, religious, community, etc. Nominations Call — Nominations are open for the
Alumni Board. The Board works to promote and motivate
the participation of alumni and friends of Mount Allison
Eligible nominees for these awards include alumni, friends, faculty, and staff. with the University, through effective communication,
events, and special initiatives.
To nominate an individual or to request additional information, please contact:
Address nominations to:
Carolle de Ste-Croix, Director of Alumni Relations, Mount Allison University Alumni Office Carolle de Ste-Croix, Alumni Office
65 York Street, Sackville, NB, E4L 1E4 Phone: (506) 364-2348 65 York St., Sackville, NB E4L 1E4
E-mail: cdestecroix@mta.ca or alumni@mta.ca

Nominations close Dec. 1, 2010. The 2011 Awards will be presented during Reunion Weekend
on Saturday May 14, 2011 at the Alumni Banquet. University | 3
 For more photos from the events listed below, or for information about
upcoming events, please visit Alumni Online:
www.mta.ca/alumni

l Arts Centre
a Alumni D inner at the Nationawith Christan Nicholson (’73)
Ottaw ll and Della Stanley
(’73)
we
(l-r) Thomas Crom

Halifax Reception
at The Westin

Montreal Recep
tion at the Unive
rsity Club of Montrea
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ntre
e Burlington Art Ce
on at th
4 | FALL 2010 RECORD urlington Recepti
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 ry’s
o Reception at the Royal Conservato
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Victoria Dinner
at the Union Club of British C
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Arbutu ception at th Rock Brew
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April 18, 201 Pub in Toro
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P resid en tial Tour Receptio - Ottawa Atl
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November 9 — Hooley’s —
June 3, 2010
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November 17 University | 5
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 CampusBeat
World-class athletes leave lasting impression on Mount Allison
he buzz of September came early this year as more
T than 1,000 athletes and coaches from 147 countries
made Mount Allison their home at the end of July
during the 13th IAAF World Junior (Track & Field)
Championships. The campus was lit up with colorful
tracksuits as athletes ate, slept, trained, and got to know
each other in the heart of Sackville.
This world-class experience is something the University
will not soon forget.
“It was a thrill to see so many people, from so many coun-
tries, on our campus. It was great to be able to welcome
them to Canada and help them in any way we could,” says
Director of Administrative Services Michelle Strain.
6 | FALL 2010 RECORD
During the athletes’ stay on campus, Jennings, Mount
Allison’s dining hall, was a hot spot of activity. Chef
Tom Burrell said he really enjoyed having the teams
on campus and took the time to interact with a lot of
the athletes.
So what was popular?
“Juice, fruit, and hamburgers. We went through probably
20,000 glasses of juice, over 17,000 bananas, and, in two
days, more than 2,200 hamburgers. They were also put-
ting ketchup on everything and would often sprinkle
sugar on bread for instant energy to train,” says Burrell.
The overall impression from the teams was that Mount
Allison has a beautiful campus, with friendly people, and
an amazing dining hall — as one of the athletes said “this
really is the land of plenty.”
Mount Allison unveils new residence in renovated historical home
In late August Mount Allison held an Open House to
unveil The Anchorage — a newly renovated historical
home that will now be used as a residence. Built in 1893,
the house has gone through a $500,000 renovation with
sensitivity to its heritage features and preservation of as
many original elements as possible.
Once the home of Mariner Captain Ronald V. Bennett,
the building has been home over the years to Mount
Allison’s Centre for Canadian Studies, the MASSIE
(Mount Allison Semester Studies in English) Program,
the Research Office, and the Communications Office.
In September the 21-person co-ed residence welcomed
16 first-year students and five returning students. The
house includes 10 double rooms, one single room, six
and a half bathrooms, a large kitchen and dining area,
and a main floor “library” common area. The Anchorage
is part of Mount Allison’s Small Residence Experience.
Just as other smaller residences are themed — Carriage
House (allows animals) and Cuthbertson House (sus-
tainable) — The Anchorage is deemed a wellness resi-
dence. Its focus is to promote healthy eating, fitness, good
study habits, academic achievement, and extracurricular
Orientation 2010
This year’s Orientation, themed “I’ve got a feeling,” was
an overwhelming success. More than 760 first-year
students participated in the 10 days of events, including
favourites such as the Karaoke BBQ, the Water Fight,
Dance Night at Gracie’s, Zumba, the Illusionist, and the
Mount Alympics.
Orientation Chair Sacha Nadeau says, “I couldn’t be
happier with how the week turned out. Aside from
Mother Nature, everything went really smoothly. The
Karaoke BBQ was the craziest we have ever seen, with
involvement — with a low-key social atmosphere.
Highlights of The Anchorage renovation include:
· Original light fixtures, flooring, and bathroom features
· Heritage-style kitchen
· New woodwork fashioned to match existing woodwork
· Tile and paint colours have been chosen to match
existing décor
The building has also been converted to natural gas and a
new sprinkler system has been installed. Exterior renova-
tions are planned for the future.
kids hopping in the Swan Pond, houses having choreo-
graphed dances, and positive support for all of the houses.
The Illusionist was incredibly talented and everyone
loved him. We’re very much a school about tradition,
but I was happy to switch up some events this year.”
First-year student Colin Rennie from Halifax, NS took
part in most Orientation events and said it was a great
way to get immersed in campus life.
“The Orientation Committee did a great job of trying to
get us pumped up. The whole first week was really fun,”
he says.
Hillary Thomson from Calgary, AB says the week wasn’t
as stressful as she imagined it would be. She credits her
RA and house executive for helping her get settled into
her new home — Hunton House. She was also really
impressed by the Orientation Committee.
“Even when I didn’t have the most energy, they were
so happy and excited that I just had to be happy. They
definitely did their job,” says Thomson.
University | 7
StudentSpotlight
A summer in Tuscany
Sarah Bell (’11)

The operatic experience of a lifetime

By Melissa Lombard

AAt the age of 22 Sarah Bell has been singing for more
than 14 years. She joined the Theatre New Brunswick
(TNB) School at the age of 10, taking voice lessons
and participating in music festivals until high school
graduation. Now, in her final year of a Music degree at
“ It was the
most rewarding
experience I’ve
ever had.

Mount Allison with a minor in drama, her sights are
set on a career in classical music.
This past summer she spent six weeks in Tuscany,
Italy at the prestigious Italian Operatic Experience.
“It was the most rewarding experience I’ve ever had
in my life. It happened right at a time when I was
wondering what I was going to do with my singing. It
gave me the reassurance and confidence to pursue
performing,” she says.
Bell heard of the program in her second year, but
decided to wait to audition. In late November, while
backstage at the show Company at Mount Allison, the
idea popped back into her head. She immediately sent
off an e-mail asking when auditions would be taking
place. Just over a week later she was in Chicago
auditioning in a small room with six judges and an
accompanist. In early January she received an unex-
pected e-mail, congratulating her on making it into
the program. Six months later she landed in Italy.
”
“They have always said if you are happy with what
you are doing, then we’ll support you. That kind of
environment makes me feel like the world is truly
my oyster.”
Soprano and Mount Allison alumna, Wendy Nielsen,
has also been a huge inspiration. Nielsen and Bell are
from the same town — Harvey Station, NB.
“She has done exactly what I want to do,” says Bell.
“She has no ego, is very outgoing and easy to talk to —
the kind of person I aspire to be.”
Bell says this year at Mount Allison is about being
completely centred on singing. “I want to know that I
tried my best and did everything I could to get there.”
Bell during a performance in Italy.

Her schedule was full from Monday to Saturday with

Italian classes, voice lessons, coaching sessions, and
conductor and stage director meetings. In the after-
noon there was La Pausa, where everything closes
down for two hours because of the heat. At night there
were opera rehearsals and then supper at 8:30 p.m.

“The place and the people I met there really gave me a

global perspective on what I can do and where I can
go,” she says.

Bell credits her parents for where she is today.

University | 9
Christl Verduyn
“ It was a time when
Canadian literature
was undergoing
a ‘renaissance’
and the book is
like a map of this
renaissance.

10 | FALL 2010 RECORD

Fall Record_Oct 2010.qxd:Winter Record 20065.0 10/26/10
Research
Exploring life as literature
By Raine Phythian
H How much of real life ends up in a fictional novel? To
help answer the question, Dr. Christl Verduyn, professor
of English Literature and Canadian Studies, pulls back
the shroud that conceals the creative process of author
Marian Engel in her recently published book Marian and
the Major: Marian Engel’s Elizabeth and the Golden City.
Engel was an important figure in the Canadian writing
scene in the 1960s and 1970s, winning a Governor
General’s Award for her novel Bear. She died before she
was able to finish her novel, Elizabeth and
the Golden City. Verduyn has put togeth-
er a version of the novel as Engel may
have constructed it had she lived. In
doing so she has given us a glimpse
behind the curtain, exploring the com-
plex links between life and literature.
Verduyn’s book juxtaposes the “real”
historical figure of Major William
Kingdom Rains against the fictionalized
version of his life in Engel’s novel.
“The book is concerned with literary
genesis and production. It illustrates how
literature can be formed from life and how events,
places, and people can be transformed into stories and
fictional figures,” says Verduyn.
Engel was camping in Northern Ontario in 1969 when
she first heard about Major Rains. She asked a local res-
ident about a picturesque ruin covered in roses and the
woman replied, “Oh, have you never heard of the
Major?” Engel had stumbled across a set of characters
that would fascinate and inspire her with Major William
Kingdom Rains (a Napoleonic war soldier, described by
Engel as a “charming bastard”) playing the central role.
In 1830, at age 41, Major Rains left his wife and six chil-
dren in England and emigrated to Canada. He came with
two young sisters, Frances, 19, and her younger sister
Elizabeth, orphan daughters of an old friend. He settled
with the two women on St. Joseph Island, in what was an
unconventional, although apparently harmonious,
arrangement. The Major set up two households, one
2:42 PM Page 13
with Frances and one with Elizabeth and had 13 children
with Frances and nine with Elizabeth. The Major’s char-
acter became the inspiration behind a number of writing
projects for Marian Engel. The story was central to her
last novel, Elizabeth and the Golden City.
Verduyn did extensive research on the Major, traveling
to his native Wales for more information. She weaves the
portrait of the historical figure together with the literary
rendition. Verduyn explains, “The first part of the book
offers a portrait of the historical Major
William Kingdom Rains as a frame and
context for the second part, which are
the main elements of Engel’s Elizabeth
and the Golden City.”
Engel modernized the story and set it in
Montreal and Toronto using her own
experiences as a base. A number of
prominent Canadian artists who were
friends of Engel make an appearance in
the novel, including Mordecai Richler,
Margaret Atwood, Leonard Cohen, and
Hugh MacLennan. “It was a time when
Canadian literature was undergoing a
‘renaissance’ and the book is like a map of this renais-
sance,” says Verduyn.
Verduyn recognized that Engel had used much of her own
life and psyche in the book. “Engel had been separated
from a twin sister as a child and she was always fascinated
with the relationships between sisters. She clearly found
parallels to her own life and was interested in the literary
possibilities offered by family and social history. Elizabeth
and the Golden City provides a glimpse of the creative
process and shows Engel’s artistry of this process.”
When asked why Engel captured her scholarly interest,
Verduyn is quick to answer: “She was a very intelligent,
talented, and outspoken woman writing at a time when
women were still expected to be traditionally feminine.”
This turns out to be an apt description of Verduyn
herself and her own remarkable career.
University | 11
 It can’t just
be a painting of
something, it
has to be a
painting that is
something. A
painting has to
acquire a life of
its own.
12 | FALL 2010 RECORD
 Coverstory

Mary Pratt (’57)

Destined
to paint
By Melissa Lombard

A
As far back as two years old, renowned Canadian painter
Mary Pratt has clear memories of light and colour. When
she was three, her sister was born. She remembers the first
time she saw the baby — the slit of light going through the
dark green blinds and the how the pink bow on the baby’s
basket just wasn’t the “right” pink. When she was seven her
mother and grandmother knitted her a red sweater. She can
before returning to Mount Allison in 1961. Then preg-
nant with her second child, she finished her Fine Arts
degree two years later, and moved with her family
back to Newfoundland to live in isolation in an area
called Salmonier.

recall being “charmed” by the light from the window that
outlined the sweater as it draped over a chair. This was the
beginning of Pratt’s lifelong affair with art.
“For other children who were meant to do things, there are
other early signs, but for me it was always images — the
things I saw,” says Pratt.
Pratt credits her parents with teaching her how to look
deeper and for instilling in her the value of living a private
life. She says the world around her, however, is her true
inspiration.
Pratt says this was the hardest time in her life as an artist, as
Christopher’s career began to flourish, and she was busy at
home with their four children. She painted whenever and
wherever she could, even setting up an easel in the bath-
room for 30 minutes while the children napped.
“It was Christopher’s decision to live in isolation, and it
forced me to paint. I would have to thank him for most
of my success. I think it was always there, waiting to
happen, but I worked very hard trying to keep up with
him,” she says.

“I am not inspired by a person, but rather by my relation-

ship with the visual world.”

For more than 40 years Pratt was married to acclaimed

Canadian artist, Christopher Pratt (’57), whom she met at
Photo Credit: Ned Pratt

Mount Allison in the early 50s. After receiving her Fine

Arts certificate from Mount Allison she accompanied
Christopher to Newfoundland, where she worked with
children in the hospital, and then to Glasgow, Scotland,

University | 13
 Featurestory
Mary Pratt in her studio in Salmonier.
I could put music on and almost dance as I painted.
While in Salmonier, Mary built a studio in the middle of
her vegetable garden that overlooked the river. She says it
will always be her favourite place to paint.
“I have gotten used to my studio here, but I don’t think I’ll
ever paint as well here as I did there. I was younger and I felt
proprietorial there — it was my place.”
Mary began working from photographs relatively early
— a move that almost ended her career. Critics, and her
parents, thought she had given up her art and that her
painting would never be the same again. She decided to
stop painting and take up sewing, until her daughter
Barbie handed her a letter that read, “Mommy, if you’re
not a painter, what can you be?”
Bird Bath, 1997
14 | FALL 2010 RECORD
“My family wasn’t going to let me get away with that.
They knew it was what I loved and that I should keep on
doing it no matter what.”
In the early 80s, after experiencing health problems, she
began working with different mediums on large 8’x4’
pieces of paper. This experience changed her.
“I found the liberation of working with different mate-
rials to create these great big works very exciting and I
loved it. I could put music on and almost dance as I
painted. The creative process became far more impor-
tant to me than it ever had and that was a turn in my
painting practice.”
Chicken in my Kitchen, 2003
Romancing the Caserole, 1985
Mary still works from slides. She admits she doesn’t
know much about cameras or photography, she just
hopes for the best. She takes photos to capture the exact
light and that is what her paintings rely on for their
transcendence.
Throughout her career she has also been known for
making her brush strokes disappear — making the
painting look as real and vibrant as possible.
“I didn’t want people to see that I struggled. I wanted
them to think it just happened.”
Now 75, her life and her art have evolved. Mary is remar-
ried to retired art professor Jim Rosen and has begun to
When I get in front of the easel and begin to paint,
I sometimes burst into the tears.
Weeds against the River, 1983
Cabbage, carton and cat, 1977
demand less of the slick canvas surface than she did in the
past. She does, however, still demand the best from herself.
“It can’t just be a painting of something, it has to be a
painting that is something. A painting has to acquire a life
of its own. If you give it enough life and enough light that
can happen, but that isn’t always easy.”
Through a lifetime of peaks and valleys as an artist,
Mary still loves the profession she was meant for from
an early age.
“When I get in front of the easel and begin to paint, I
sometimes burst into the tears because I am so happy to
be here. I am so glad it is just me, the canvas, the paint,
and this dear little brush.”
Anne with a Compact, 1986
University | 15
 Michael Jones (’66)

Reimagining leadership
bringing conversation back to the boardroom

16 | FALL 2010 RECORD

 Featurestory
I developed a natural inclination
By Tracy Bell
Forget the PowerPoint presentations and pie charts. Leave
the fancy acronyms at home. There is no talk of ROI
(return on investment) or SMART (specific, measurable,
achievable, realistic, timely) when you enter a leadership
training course with Michael Jones.
The measurables here are more personal than that.
And the only prop in the room is a nine-foot grand
concert piano.
“People see me, they see the piano, and they think they’re
in the wrong room,” says Jones with a smile.
He says those in public life and business have, for the most
part, become so far removed from their artistic selves that
they cannot comprehend how a piano can help them
become more effective leaders. “Our relationship with lan-
guage has changed. The boardroom has become an instru-
ment to get information across and leadership has become
a very public craft. What is missing is exposure to the arts,
to those deep narratives that help us make greater sense of
our own inner experience and story.”
As a sought-after public speaker, pianist, writer, and lead-
ership educator, Jones has worked with such high-profile
organizations as The World Bank and International
Monetary Fund, the U.S. Forest Service, MIT, Proctor and
Gamble, and Canadian Tire as they strive to become more
productive and collaborative.
He says music has a way of shifting the tone, and bringing
people to a deeper listening space.“The piano is symbolic.
Most people have a relationship with it — their grand-
mother played, they took lessons, and maybe they stopped
because they were told they were tone deaf. But that mere
connection becomes a jumping off point for a conversa-
tion.”
Photo Credit: V. Tony Hauser
And it is through those conversations and the telling of
stories, Jones says, that those who take part in his work-
shops realize their current narrative is holding them back.
By sharing his stories Jones enables participants to realize
the authority of their own experience.“You discover that
Mount Allison exposed me
to different fields of study.
to see the possibility of
integrating artistry and
the humanities.
you get more done if you’re more reflective and able to open
up a more appreciative environment. It helps you see things
you might miss otherwise.”
For Jones, one of the keys is language, which he sees as
transformative. He says the most effective leaders are great
storytellers and encourages those in positions of power to
spend more time engaging in conversation. He believes
real progress will naturally emerge when they start to ask
deeper questions because a ‘real’ conversation is improvi-
sational, off script, with individuals who are alive to what
is happening in the moment.
“It becomes very artistic and innovative — a hot house
for facilitating new ideas,” says Jones. “People become
more willing to suspend their certainties, to explore a
different possibility, to live with greater ambiguity in
terms of not needing to push to a conclusion quite so
quickly. They find they are able to reach a better result
because they were willing to look at a situation from a
different angle.”
Looking to the future, Jones says it will take many eyes and
ears to navigate the challenges in society. He says by awak-
ening those storytelling capacities, participants’ inner
experiences will translate into outer actions, and enable
them to discover and develop their talents.
To learn more about Michael Jones — his music and his
work — visit www.pianoscapes.com
University | 17
The business behind
Julia Chan (’08)

I’ve always been

a fan of music,
but now I see
what goes into
putting on these
large-scale shows.
18 | FALL 2010 RECORD
 Featurestory

culture
By Raine Phythian

“Could we ever know each other in the slightest without
the arts?” This question, posed by Canadian writer
Gabrielle Roy, is fundamentally concerned with the
aspects of our nature that define us — love, longing,
hopes — things that can neither be bought nor sold.
This makes it all the more paradoxical that the quote
should appear on the back of the Canadian twenty dol-
lar bill. On the other hand, perhaps it is a reminder of
the practical fact that art and business can never be fully
separated. Commerce graduate Julia Chan is the very
embodiment of the confluence of art and commerce.
The day after graduation Chan headed to Montreal. At
first she did runner work for club shows, driving the
artists around, selling “merch,” and being a production
assistant. But this soon led to bigger things. She was
hired by Evenko as a project accountant and is respon-
sible for creating budgets and ultimately paying the acts.
Evenko promotes and manages over 600 shows a year in
Quebec, Eastern Canada and the U.S. — from small
indie acts to such big names as Cold Play and U2.
So when Britney Spears’ 27 semis roll into town for a
show, or Arcade Fire steps on stage to sing, Chan is one
of the people who make these shows possible.
The job was a natural fit for her. “I’ve always been sur-
rounded by musical people, all my life. My Mom studied
music at Mount A,” says Chan. “One of my first memories
was of sleeping under the piano bench when I was three or
so while Mom directed a choir. Her big 80s overcoat creat-
ed a tent-like surrounding, it was great!”
While Chan was at Mount Allison she did honours
research on the indie music scene and co-hosted a radio
show on CHMA. In fact a paper she wrote under the
supervision of Commerce professor Dr. Rosemary
Polegato comes out this fall in a special issue on “Creative
Industries and Experiences” in the academic journal,
Tourism, Culture and Communication. Polegato has also
presented papers based on Chan’s thesis at conferences in
Texas and Barcelona since her graduation.
When Chan gets to be a ‘fan,’ she finds herself drawn to
bands with east coast connections, or from Montreal.
“One time I saw a secret Arcade Fire show in an aban-
doned Montreal mansion. I definitely feel very fortunate
to be where I am!”

“It gives me a different perspective of the music indus-

try, one that is based on the production/performance
side of things” says Chan. “I’ve always been a fan of
music, but now I see what goes into putting on these
large-scale shows. It is quite impressive to see how many
people are involved and it is pretty crazy sometimes to
see the way things balance out financially.”
Photo Credit: Susan Moss

“I like the challenges that come with forecasting and

analyzing how an event will do based on past perform-
ances in the city or, if the act hasn’t played before in our
market, doing research into how they did in similarly
sized markets, like Toronto.”
 Featurestory
A life jo John MacLachlan Gray (’68) on living an artis
By Melissa Lombard
Writer, composer, and performer, John MacLachlan Gray
has spent his entire life creating. His most celebrated work is
the popular musical — Billy Bishop Goes to War — co-
written with long-time friend Eric Peterson in the late 70s.
A labour of love, the musical has become one of the most
famous and widely produced plays in Canadian theatre. It
dramatizes the life of Canadian World War I fighter pilot
Billy Bishop.
“I will be a surprised dead man if I’m remembered for any-
thing else,” Gray jokes.
Gray and Peterson began performing the play in 1978.
Although it has been produced many times over by others,
Gray has only performed it with Peterson, with the excep-
tion of one German performance. He says they have been
continually working and making changes, even up until
this year, so only he can play the music fully up to date.
20 | FALL 2010 RECORD
“For me it is more meaningful than the earlier versions
because it has the most to say about life. War in the end
is just like life, only faster. In six months people go
through what is supposed to take a lifetime to learn.”
The musical has been widely acclaimed, receiving the
Governor General’s Award for English Drama, a
Los Angeles Drama Critics’ Award, and a prestigious
Golden Globe.
His latest production of Billy Bishop took place in
Toronto in August. He and Peterson shot an hour movie
version for television to air November 10 on CBC and a
90-minute version to be released on DVD.
Gray’s writing niche is imagined historical events. Along
with Billy Bishop, all of his novels except one have been
based on what he calls speculative history. He collects
interesting facts that eventually suggest incidents to form
a story.
 Art is not an occupation, it is a
life journey. It is just something
that is part of what I do, like
breathing or walking.

ourney
stic life

“I connect the dots to make the pictures, however absurd

or extreme the picture may be as a whole. They are all
based on fact with a surrounding storyline,” he says.

Originally from Truro, NS, Gray says Mount Allison has

more to do with what he’s doing now than any other four
years in his life. He credits the University with creating a
new space for him and helping him meet people he would
not have otherwise encountered.

“Saying you wanted to be in the theatre back then, you

might as well say you wanted to join the circus. Mount
Allison really gave me the freedom to explore all of my
interests.”

He now lives in Vancouver, BC with his wife Beverlee

and can be found writing novels in one of his son’s
small bedrooms, just big enough for two people to
sit comfortably. He says he never sits and stares at
the computer screen, and doesn’t write unless he has
something to say.

University | 21
Fall Record_Oct 2010.qxd:Winter Record 20065.0 10/26/10 2:42 PM Page 24

“ My company’s name,
Visions of Platinum and
Garnet, represents my
ideal wedding colour
scheme — platinum for
strength and commitment,
and garnet for my love of

”
Mount Allison.
 Featurestory

The Wedding Planner

Lisa Allain (’91) creates events with distinction

By Tracy Bell
Choosing the right colours. Finding the perfect dress.
Deciding on a meaningful location. Narrowing down the
guest list. Striking a balance between trendy and traditional.
With so many details to consider, it is no wonder many
couples find planning their big day to be so stressful.
Enter Lisa Allain — founder and CEO of Visions of
Platinum and Garnet. When it comes to planning a
wedding that is elegant, personal, and (relatively) stress
free, she is regarded as one of the best.
Of universal importance to her clients, Allain says, is creat-
ing an occasion that is personal, memorable, and unique.
“The last thing people want is a cookie-cutter wedding.”
She says the creativity comes in the details. A couple she
worked with recently gave guests note cards as favours,
with a hand-written thank you on top. A meaningful
memento considering the bride and groom met after he
left a note on her car windshield. Another couple included
a cookie bar at their reception, featuring recipes from
grandma and a selection of the treats they used to share
when they first met at college.

It is no surprise: she has been enthralled with weddings
since she was a girl.
“I grew up around the corner from a cathedral and for
years I spent every Friday and Saturday watching every
one of them. The number of attendants, the colours, the
flowers, I had such an adoration and excitement for it
all. That’s never changed. Every time I do a wedding I
still get those same feelings.”
Helping to bring that warmth, welcome, and love to a
bride and groom’s big day is what Allain works hard to
accomplish. But as with any great wedding, the high-
light for her is found in the moments.
“When I’m leading the bride up to get married, fanning
out her train. You plan for months, sometimes years,
and it is such a privilege and honour for me to be beside
these people on their wedding day.”

In high demand from April through November, Allain To learn more about Allain’s wedding and event planning
says she has seen an interesting cultural shift in recent services visit www.visionsofplatinum.com
years, especially in large city centres.“Many couples are
multi-cultural. They come from different backgrounds,
with different spiritual beliefs. My clients don’t necessar-
ily want to have their wedding in a church. But they still
want a ceremony that is momentous and meaningful.”

And that means balancing elements of tradition and

culture with personal taste.

“It’s in the décor, the look, the readings, the music.

I had a Trinidadian couple who used a steel pan band for
their reception. Chinese couples will very often incorpo-
rate a tea ceremony. These are practices that have often
been passed down for hundreds of years. But couples
nowadays are finding ways to integrate them into more
modern ceremonies.”
University | 23
 “ Toronto deserves
to be the home of a
vibrant, international
contemporary theatre
and that’s what we are
trying to piece together
at Canadian Stage.

”
Home

24 | FALL 2010 RECORD

Featurestory Featurestory

again Theatre director Matthew

Jocelyn (’79) goes back to
his roots
By Melissa Lombard

Life has come full circle for theatre director Matthew

Jocelyn. Originally from Stratford, ON, he has lived and
worked all over the world — including an 18-year stint in
Paris. Now, after more than 25 years in the business,
Jocelyn has returned to Canada as Artistic and General
Director of one of Canada’s leading not-for-profit con-
temporary theatre companies, Canadian Stage, in Toronto.

He is happy to be back.

“It is a fantastic opportunity. Toronto has transformed

itself from a cultural point of view by putting money into
programs because the city has realized that the very pulse
of urban life comes from its cultural institutions,” he says.

Jocelyn was born into the theatre. His father was heavily
involved in the famed Stratford Festival, so by the time he was
a teenager Jocelyn had seen nearly every Shakespeare play.

“I guess I would call it a mix of opportunity and no other

choice,” he says jokingly.

He chose Mount Allison “on a whim” after falling in love

with a photo of the Swan Pond. During his four years he
was very involved in Windsor Theatre, the Choral Society,
and played the euphonium in the orchestra. He also ran
the Film Club for a year and in his final year he wrote for
The Argosy.

University | 25
 Jocelyn continued his education, completing a Master
in Arts at McGill, then studying at the Université d’Aix-
en-Provence in France, and Oxford University in
England as a Rhodes Scholar. During this time he con-
tinued performing and working with leaders in both
European and Asian theatre and dance.
However he remembers the moment when it became
very clear he would make the transition from acting to
directing.
“I was working in Switzerland and Paris with a very
famous Swiss-German director, Matthias Langhoff,
rehearsing Macbeth in the role of Malcom. I became so
fascinated watching him work as a director and what he
was bringing out of actors, I was unable to apply what
he was saying to me. I realized that was the end. I liter-
ally wasn’t able to act anymore after that,” he says.
That transition has certainly paid off.
Jocelyn was the Artistic and General Director of the
Atelier du Rhin — a regional drama centre in Colmar,
France where he spent 10 years prior to moving back to
Canada. For his efforts he was named Chevalier des Arts
et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters)
by the French Ministry of Culture in 2008.
26 | FALL 2010 RECORD
Now, after more than a year in his position at Canadian
Stage, Jocelyn is beginning his first programmed season
and has big plans for the future of the company.
“Toronto deserves to be the home of a vibrant, interna-
tional contemporary theatre and that’s what we are try-
ing to piece together at Canadian Stage,” he says.
While Jocelyn feels each of this year’s shows are special,
his true highlight is a two-week Italian festival that will
see theatre and dance companies from Sicily, Florence,
and Venice performing in Canada for the first time to
honour the 150th anniversary of the reunification of
Italy. He calls the internationalization of the company
his greatest accomplishment over the past year.
His schedule has kept him quite busy, especially with
spending upwards of four months in Europe for work
commitments this past year. He says he is never at a loss
with what to do with his time.
“I am hungry for the poetic potential of human beings
and of nature. Anything that is going to be part of a
transformative experience for me is what I am drawn
towards,” he says.
Jocelyn’s first show of the season, Fernando Krapp
Wrote Me This Letter: An Attempt at the Truth, written
by Tankred Dorst, starring from left to right: Ryan
Hollyman, Ashley Wright, and Ngozi Paul.
Photo Credit: Bruce Zinger
JumpUpdate
Renowned inventor and philanthropist Joseph-Armand Bombardier, front, in his workshop.
Experiential learning on the fast track
Bombardier Inc. is a worldwide leader in the trans-
portation industry. Its state-of-the-art planes and trains
get people and goods where they need to go, and have
earned the company a reputation as one of the most
ingenious and sustainable anywhere. All of this started
with one man, Joseph-Armand Bombardier, whose
numerous inventions forever changed how people
travel on snow.
Since 1965 the J. Armand Bombardier Foundation has
carried on the humanitarian work of Joseph-Armand
Bombardier and contributed to the social mission of
Bombardier, the company he founded in 1942.
Now the Foundation has partnered with Mount Allison
to create a program that will see the University’s social-
ly-concerned students travelling around the globe as
they become leaders for change.
The J. Armand Bombardier Foundation has made a
leadership donation of $100,000, which will support
students who want to make a positive impact in a devel-
oping country and experience a different culture by
conducting research, or participating in an internship
or special project within the not-for-profit sector.
Mount Allison’s President and Vice-Chancellor Dr.
Robert Campbell says the Foundation’s philanthropy
will help make hands-on learning a key component of
attaining a degree at Mount Allison.
“We believe experiential learning for the public good is
an integral part of the university experience, and an
essential aspect of our contribution to society. These
experiences provide a foundation for service — one
meant to foster a lifetime of giving back.
The Foundation’s generosity will help us cultivate glob-
ally-aware citizens who are culturally literate, civically
engaged, and responsive to the needs of others.”
The J. Armand Bombardier Foundation Experiential
Learning Fund will raise the profile of real-world learning
at the University, formalize the activities that already
take place, and increase the number of opportunities
available to students.
The $100,000 endowment will be used to create travel
bursaries for students interested in collaborating on a
special project with an international aid organization or
completing an internship with a non-governmental
agency outside the region. It will provide support in the
form of grants to individuals or groups to conduct
research with such an organization in a developing
country.
The University also imagines creating a true “service
learning” program, where students would receive the
experience of engaging with a non-profit organization,
tied to a particular academic course to provide additional
context, reflection, and meaning.
JUMP Campaign total
as of September: $80.7 million
Our goal: $86 million
Thank you for your continued support. Together
we will reach our goal. www.mta.ca/jumpcampaign
University | 27
 More than making the grade
By Sue Seaborn
Mount Allison students have long been known for their
“smarts.” Their average entering grade is one of the highest
in the country, and a significant number go on to post-grad-
uate and professional programs.
The University’s varsity athletes are no different and
have a remarkable ability to juggle their academic and
sports performances.
In fact, over the past 20 years Mount Allison has boasted
over 552 athletes who have attained an annual GPA of 3.5
or better.
Of these, 430 were bestowed with Academic All-Canadian
awards (AAC), which are prestigious scholastic honours
given out by the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS)
conference, and 122 have been considered National Scholars
by the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association (CCAA).
28 | FALL 2010 RECORD
Since the late 80s, Academic All-Canadians have won
national MVP awards twice; a football AAC was selected as
the nation’s Rookie of the Year; and very prestigious nation-
al awards that recognize excellence in athletics, academics,
and service were won by two Football Mounties, an all-star
volleyball player, and a Mount Allison hockey great.
Volleyballer Carla Edwards (’95) was one of the country’s
top-five CIS Academic All-Canadian female athletes.
It is an impressive record considering Mount Allison has
had an average enrollment of 2,000 students over the years.
University athletes share the very same well-rounded
qualities found in the brightest Rhodes Scholars, of which
Mount Allison has had 48 — the highest per capita in the
British Commonwealth. Two former soccer AACs were
Rhodes Scholars as well — Jacqui Wong (’88) and
Dominique Chaput (’02).
Many enter Mount Allison as number-one ranked academic
students from their schools and continue to thrive once on
campus. With outstanding faculty, coaches, and one-on-
one learning environments, Mount Allison’s athletes have
learned to push the envelope. In fact, on average, about one
in five Mounties are named Academic All-Canadians.
This year’s crop of Academic All-Canadians is ready to con-
tinue the tradition. Leading the way are AUS league MVP
Gary Ross and running back Matt Pickett of the Football
Mounties. Ross is once again on a record-breaking pace to
take a run at the Hec Crighton Award as the nation’s most
valuable player after his hand injury.
The men’s soccer team will be led by returners Stuart
McAdam, a past high school soccer MVP from Halifax, and
Chris Vizena, a highly skilled player from Osgoode, ON.
The women’s Soccer Mounties are laden with Academic All-
Canadians, boasting a total of seven of 11 from the 2009
squad (four graduated). The team will look for AAC leader-
ship from veteran keeper Elissa McCarron (AUS and
University Rookie of the Year 2007-08); Allie MacLean
(Mounties’ MVP and AUS All-Star 2009-10); and
Mounties’ 2009 Rookie Trissa Dunham. Throw in the
unique and vibrant talents of Danica Lundy, an extraordi-
nary Fine Arts student from BC, and the team is sure to
come alive for an exciting season.
But whether it is painting, doing math formulae, composing
music, or scoring points, Mount Allison athletes are a spe-
cial group — diverse, talented, and dedicated. Who could
ask for more?
University | 29
 InMemoriam
Roberta (Ed) Phillips 1931 made their home in Burlington, where MARC VALLÉE (’08)
Catherine (Morrison) Davidson 1933 Bob worked for the Canada Centre for Submitted by his best friend Rich Burford (’08)
Isabel (Munro) Pace 1933 Inland Waters until his retirement in
E. Rosamund Crocker 1936 1992. He spent holidays at the family cot- Marc arrived at Mount Allison in
Edwin J. Dickie 1943 tage at L’Annonciation in the Laurentians. September of 2004. In four years his kind
Gwendolyn (Johnson) Cook 1944 He was also an active member of Science nature, intelligence, class, and smile
David M. McKay 1945 for Peace. He died peacefully on February attracted a large group of close friends.
Rita Greer Allen 1946 25, 2010. Marc was an excellent student and
Raymond A. Milley 1946 enjoyed every moment at Mount Allison,
Sally (Deacon) McAlary 1948 EDWARD ALAN EAGLES (’58) particularly fourth year when he met
Cecil A. Reid 1948 Submitted by his daughter Amanda Allaby Celia Robichaud (’09), the love of his life.
Jack Crammond 1950 Upon graduation with a BSc (physics),
Benson MacDiarmid 1951 It is with broken hearts that we announce Marc pursued graduate studies at
Katherine (Tracy) Tuff 1951 the sudden passing of Edward Alan Eagles McMaster. However, on July 24, 2010, a
John T. MacFarlane 1953 on June 20. His career began as a violinist, month short of graduation, Marc lost a
Richard V. Goad 1954 playing with the New Brunswick Symph- brief battle with cancer in the loving
Joanne (Christensen) McDonald 1957 ony, but his love of English literature company of his family and friends. Even
Edward A. Eagles 1958 called him into teaching. After teaching in his last weeks Marc was brave, calm,
high school in Oromocto, Ed married and always believed.
Gwyneth (Fawcett) Gregory 1960
Marina (Kuchar) Kovrig 1965 Evlyn Todd (a fellow teacher) and accepted
a teaching position in the English MARILYN K. MCCULLOUGH (former staff)
Marjorie (MacDonald) Trenholm 1965
Department at Acadia University in 1964, Submitted by Dr. James Stark
Hugh C. Alcorn 1966
a position he held until his retirement in (former faculty)
Henry H. Goudge 1966
David W. Craig 1970 1996. In retirement he could be found
most days fishing. In 2007 the couple Marilyn passed away on August 20 after a
Richard B. Payne 1971
moved to Amherst to be close to their 14-month battle with cancer. Marilyn
Kevin R. Rickard 1979
daughter Amanda and her family. was a graduate of Michigan State
Carol B. Chapman 1989
University and Cornell University, spe-
Marc Ed Vallée 2008
cializing in Chinese language and history,
Shirley Thomson Honorary Degree DAVID MACPHERSON MCKAY (’45) Russian language and history, and world
Harold Ettinger Friend Submitted by his son Bruce McKay (’85) religions. She taught at five universities,
John (Jack) E. Irving Friend including Mount Allison, where she was
Gardner P. Ashley Former Staff Dad loved his time at Mount Allison, and director of Continuing Education for 19
Marilyn McCullough Former Staff it’s no coincidence he chose to spend the years. After 32 years in Canada she
Lawrence D. Edgar Parent last half of his life in Sackville. It was returned to Michigan to look after her
there, after all, that he was first bitten by mother. While there she was appointed
the journalism bug, writing for and later assistant director of the Asian Studies
editing The Argosy. Twenty years later he Center at Michigan State University until
ROBERT BAXTER (’47) returned to become editor of the her second retirement in 2007. She trav-
Submitted by his brother Ted Baxter (’48) Tribune-Post. I remember when Dad first elled extensively and led numerous study
told me the story of his escape from the tours to various places in Asia.
Robert worked at the National Research residence fire of 1941 — how deeply sad-
Council until 1961, when he and his wife dened he was to lose several friends and
Magdeleine took their two children to how ridiculous it was that he was careful
Addis Ababa. There he taught chemistry to rescue his pack of smokes. Dad always
for 12 years at Haile Selassie I University had a knack for balancing pathos with
in Ethiopia, specializing in limnology — humour. He kept a merry twinkle in his
the study of lakes. The family returned to eye to the end.
Canada in 1973 with another daughter,
whom they had adopted overseas. They

This list is compiled from information sent to University Advancement from May 20, 2010 to September 1, 2010. Please feel welcome
to submit memories of departed Allisonians and we will be happy to print short versions in the Record and longer versions online
(http://alumni.mta.ca).

30 | FALL 2010 RECORD

ClassNotes
1940s
John Williamson (’45) writes, “To all ’45-ers,
greetings, from the fortunate five of us who
attended Reunion 2010. We had a great time
— exploring the campus, meeting staff, faculty,
and students while participating in various
events from cooking waffles to the Sunday
chapel service. Most of all though, we enjoyed
being together again — catching up on each
others’ lives, reminiscing about those war years
1960s
Donna Simon (’60) writes, “During the
on campus, and talking about the rest of you.
Olympics in Vancouver I met a couple of girls at
We missed you, but be assured that at the clos-
a bus stop who were handing out NS pins.
ing banquet our small group upheld the honour
When I said I was from the Maritimes we soon
of “Best of any Class Alive” with our loud, spirited
found out that we had a Mount A connection. I
class cheer.” Photographed from left to right
indicated that I was going back for my 50th
are John, Evelyn Jones Salsman, Marion
reunion. Tara Milburn (’90) was going back
Coffey Eliot, Arthur Motyer, and Sandy
for her 20th. We reconnected at the banquet.”
Sutherland Smith, all from the Class of ’45.

In issue 4 of extempore, an Australian journal

1950s
Dr. Wallace S. Read (’50) was invested as a
Member of the Order of Canada in 2003. The
Order pays tribute to Canadians who exemplify
the highest qualities of citizenship and whose
contributions enrich the lives of their contempo-
raries. Wallace was recognized for his profes-
sional leadership in the fields of electric power
generation, transmission, and distribution in his
own province, in Canada, and internationally.
This group from the Class of ’55 has been reunit-
ing for a three-day golf outing since 2003.
Pictured from left to right are Dave Latimer,
Bob MacDonald, Brian Fluhman, Louie
Johnston, Les Parrott, Don MacGowan,
Graham Langley, Blenus Nicholson (’54).
Other members who have played are Doug
Johnston (’54), Graham Frampton (’56),
Merle Pratt (’57), and Pete Daniels (’56).
devoted to improvised music, Wayne Tompkins
(’61) just had one of his jazz-inspired poems pub-
lished. Entitled “Bermuda Onion Night” it came
out in May. Fans of modern jazz might enjoy its
Sweet little
depiction of an epiphanic moment. Sackville on
the marsh.
John B. Kenny (’65) writes, “I have kept in
touch with some classmates over the last 12 or
13 years with regular get togethers. At first we
met for lunch in Toronto, and then Orillia, and for
the past three years, here at our home in
Huntsville, ON, which is near Algonquin Park. Our
son Bryan graduated in 2008. His being active at
Mount A took us to the campus four or five times.
Bryan is in his second year at Concordia doing a
Master’s in Education. Our daughter Jennifer NEW BRUNSWICK
hopes to enter teachers college having previously The Cultural Crossroads of the Maritimes
graduated from Western.” Pictured on the next 1-800-249-2020
page from left to right are Glover MacIntyre www.sackville.com
(’65), John, and Kent Cook (’66) at John’s
home in the Muskokas.

University | 31

1970s
Linda Chase (’70) writes, “It is hard to believe
it has been 40 years since I graduated from
Mount Allison. I stopped in Sackville last sum-
mer to see the campus. The visit brought back
wonderful memories. I retired on Aug. 1 ’10. I
have spent the last 26 years working with
Alberta Education in the field of distributed
learning. Before that I taught for four years in
Alberta, four years in Nova Scotia, and one year
in New Brunswick. I’m looking forward to hav-
ing the time to travel more.”
Bob Stallworthy’s (’72) fourth book of poetry,
Things that Matter Now, published by Frontenac
House, was shortlisted for the 2009 W.O.
Mitchell City of Calgary Book Prize and short-
listed for the 2009 Stephan G. Stephansson
Award for Poetry. The latter is an Alberta
Book Award.
Peggy Blair (’77) is an Ottawa lawyer.
Her unpublished crime mystery novel, The
Beggar’s Opera, set in Cuba, was shortlisted for
the prestigious UK Debut Dagger Award for
2010. You can follow her blog about the trials
and tribulations of finding an agent at
http://peggyblair.wordpress.com
Janet (Colborne) Summerhayes (’79) grad-
uated in July from the University of Bath (UK)
with an MA in Education. For her thesis she
completed an investigation into the factors that
foster International-Mindedness in the
International Baccalaureate program. She is liv-
ing in Quispamsis, NB, and teaching French,
English, and science.
1980s
Bill MacMillan (’80) writes, “I thought I’d
send a note to say that I am pleased to be
back in the Maritimes. I recently accepted a
challenge to lead the development of a new
geotechnical engineering and environmental
32 | FALL 2010 RECORD
company in Moncton. Maritime Testing (NB)
Ltd. is an offshoot of the venerable Nova Scotia
entity and offers similar geotechnical materials
testing and environmental services. Bonnie and
I will be living on Yale Avenue in Riverview. I
look forward to reconnecting with old friends in
the area, so drop me a line anytime.”
FOR
Tammy Long (’81) is living in St. Paul, AB and
SEVEN
has been teaching grade three for several years.
She recently finished obtaining her Certificate
in Special Education at the University of
DECADES
Saskatchewan. we have had a special relationship
with the people of Mount Allison
After leaving Mount A and settling in the UK, University. We have welcomed
Anne (Kelly) Goldsmith (’83) developed a prospective students and parents;
career as a textile artist alongside her teaching.
She recently completed a commission for the celebrated graduations; hosted
Archdiocese of Southwark for presentation to reunions; and accommodated
Pope Benedict XVI on his visit to London in alumni, visiting lecturers, hon-
September 2010. Her work is featured in a new orees, and board members. We are
book, The Use of the Found in Textile Art, published
a pre-Confederation Victorian
this fall. She exhibits in the UK and has work in
the Textile Museum of Canada in Toronto. Her home with 18 rooms and a fine
work can be seen at www.annekellytextiles.com dining room. We are a proud sup-
porter of Mount Allison.
In Febrary Andy Manko (’88) and his wife
Linda Garneau achieved a long-term goal of
climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest Why get a room,
peak, at 19,340 feet. As part of the trek Andy when you can get a home?”
and Linda raised over $5,000 for Plan Canada,
which is going to the construction of a new
school for girls in Tanzania. Andy writes, “This MARSHLANDS INN
photo was taken at the summit, after a grueling 55 Bridge, Sackville, NB E4L 3N8
nine-hour climb. We had the perfect weather to
see the sun rise over Africa!”
1-800-561-1266
See us at
In June Ross Murray (’88) published a collec-
tion of his newspaper columns entitled You’re www.marshlands.nb.ca
Not Going to Eat That, Are You? It’s available for E-mail:
order at www.townships.ca. He still lives in
Stanstead, QC with Debbie Bishop (’90) and
marshlds@nbnet.nb.ca
their four children, the eldest of whom is
spending six months in Thailand teaching
English to displaced Burmese people. Besides
writing and contributing weekly to CBC Radio
(Quebec City), Ross is communications coordi-
nator at Stanstead College. Debbie works as
coordinator of health and social services for
Townshippers’ Association.
1990s
Tait Luste (’92) and his wife are proud to
announce the birth of their fourth child,
Kali Anne Zima Luste. She joins her sister
Zoe (eight), and brothers Eli (six), and Izak
(three), as becoming potential third-generation
Mounties. Tait continues to live and work in
Mississauga as a middle school teacher.
Patrick Lo (’92) attended his Doctor of Education
graduation ceremony with family, friends, and
colleagues in Hong Kong on April 24. In June
Patrick presented his latest research, “Using Focus
Group Interviews to Determine Young Students’
Reading Practices, Gendered Differences, and the
Effects of Online Audio-Book Resource (Naxos
Spoken Word Library) as a Reading Motivation
Tool” at the XIV Congress of Comparative
Education Societies in Istanbul, Turkey.
Andy MacDonald (’93) and his wife Circe
would like to announce the birth of their
daughter, Phoebe Sage MacDonald, on Feb. 14
’10. She was born at the Carlisle Regional
Medical Center in Carlisle, PA. Andy is a professor
of French at Dickinson College in Carlisle.
Chris Hayes (’94) writes, “Just moved back to
the suburbs! Christine (Hopkins) Hayes (’95),
the kids, and I moved to Quispamsis, NB this
past January and are now settled in the rectory
that was just purchased by the church (St.
Augustine’s Anglican Church). Having had three
churches in my last parish, and four before that,
just one takes some getting used to!”
Choleena DiTullio (’94) is pleased to
announce that some environmentally-friendly
signage she produced has won two international
awards. Choleena writes, “I succeeded in com-
ing up with the biggest (and cheapest!) promo-
tional sign that the Cape Jourimain National
Wildlife Centre has ever had. Using natural ele-
ments only I advertised the web address of the
area with seaweed that had washed up on
shore. The bird, eel, and shell let the audience
know that the area is known for its nature.
The ‘sign’ was 96 feet long and could be seen
by the famous Confederation Bridge to PEI
and Google satellites. The URL lets the world
know where to go for information on this
striking locale.”
Cheryl Veinotte (’94) writes, “I finished my
MEd in social justice and multicultural educa-
tion at the University of Calgary. Moved home
to Sackville in July 2009. Moved from public
teaching to working as a research associate
for the Rural and Small Town Programme at
Mount Allison.”
Mandy Copp-Wilson (’95) writes, “My hus-
band Rob (Ohio University) and I would like to
announce the latest future Mountie and addi-
tion to the Wilson household. Lucas McCabe
Wilson was born May 11 ’10 at 8lbs10oz, meas-
uring 22 inches long. He made his first visit to
campus this summer when we travelled back
home to Sackville.”
Dr. Carla Edwards (’95) and husband Tim
Louks welcomed their second son, Zackary, to
the family on March 23 ‘10. Older brother Alex
looks forward to having a beach volleyball part-
ner! To see a photo visit the Births section of the
photo gallery on Alumni Online.
Judy Halebsky (’96) has published a book of
poems. Sky=Empty won a first book award and
was published by New Issues Poetry & Prose at
Western Michigan University. Judy writes,
“After Mount Allison I did an MFA degree in
poetry and last spring finished a PhD in theatre.
University | 33
Currently I am in Japan on a research fellowship
in Japanese literature. In Tokyo I edit and trans-
late a bilingual poetry journal. The poems in the
book trace my journey from the Maritimes to
Japan. I have won awards and fellowships for
my writing including a grant from the Canada
Council for the Arts, a MacDowell Colony
Fellowship, a Millay Colony Fellowship, and the
New Issues Poetry Prize.”
Julie (Scott) Johnson (’98) graduated with
her Master’s of Nursing from Dalhousie
University in Oct. ’09. She has been working as
a nurse practitioner in Cumberland County, NS
for the past year. In more exciting news — she
and her husband Chris Johnson (’96) are very
pleased to announce the recent arrival of their
first baby girl, Emily Jane Johnson, on May 4
’10. They would like to thank their many friends
and family who have shared such warm wishes
and wonderful gifts in celebration of their new
addition. To see a photo visit the Births section
of the photo gallery on Alumni Online.
Natalie (Richardson) Legere (’98) writes,
“My husband Adam and I are pleased to
announce the arrival of our first child — a BOY!
Vincent Edward Adam Legere arrived on
Monday, May 17. He has already had many
Mount A alumni visit him (Tanya (Dunlop)
Bostick ’96, Angie Savage ’98, Deanne
Fowler ’98) and he looks forward to meeting
many more. Vincent will probably visit the
campus very soon as we live so close.
Jean-Guy Lafleur (’99) and Amy McLeish
(’00) are pleased to welcome Isaac Roan
McLeish Lafleur, born on Feb. 20 ’10. Both baby
and mom are doing well.
In June Jamie Heap (’99) launched his third
book, History in Miniature: Bud Johnston’s River
Hebert, Joggins and Area Heritage Models, at the
Heritage Models Museum in River Herbert, NS.
From Amos ‘King’ Seaman and Minudie to Henry
Ketchum and the failed Chignecto Ship Railway
in Tidnish; Edmund Burke’s interception of a
wireless message regarding the sinking of the
Titanic; coal mining, sports, and entertainment,
to heroism and sacrifice in times of war and
peace, History in Miniature depicts and preserves
the ordinary and extraordinary people, places,
things, industries, and events that have defined
the culture and heritage of the River Hebert and
Joggins area. For more information about this
and other publications, please contact Jamie
Heap at jmheap@mta.ca
2000s
John Goudy (’00) and Becky (Mather)
Goudy (’01) are excited to announce the arrival
of their daughter Jane Victoria on June 2 ’10.
She weighed 8lbs2oz and measured 21 inches
in length. Jane's big sister Mary and big brother
Peter can’t get enough of her. Another perfect
daughter born on a perfect game day! What are
the odds?
Jeannie Wedge (’00) has graduated from the
Bachelor of Education in French Immersion at
UPEI and started teaching 5th grade at
Sherwood Elementary School in September.
Angela Roach (’01) writes, “A great occasion
for a Mount A gathering — a wedding!
Kendra (Deane) Van Leeuwen (’01) was
married to Nathon Van Leeuwen in Fredericton
on July 17. In attendance were Joey Creelman
(’01), Mairi Fraser (’02), Jeremy Parent
(’00), Angela Roach (’01), Kim Bishop (’01),
Erin Filliter (’02), Karolyn Rabeau (’01),
Adam Rainforth (’99), and Kathy Ann
(Turner) Rainforth (’01).” For photos go to
the Weddings section of the photo gallery at
Alumni Online.
Andrew Weedon (’02) and Tanya
(McCormick) Weedon (’02) tied the knot at
the Mount Allison Chapel on July 4, 2009. The
couple celebrated their marriage with many
other Mounties, including Colin Smith (’96),
Pamela Smith (’01), Joanna Hunter (’01),
Keith Josephson (’01), Jamie Gibson (’02),
Jeff MacKay (’01), Nichole Fraser
MacDonald (’01), Chris MacDonald (’02),
Corey Quinlan (’03), Caitlin Willis (’05),
Bradley Daye (’11), and Samantha Weedon
(’09). To view photos visit the Weddings
section of our Alumni Online photo gallery.
Katrina Goreham (’02) and Alan Hitchman
were married on June 4 at Saint Andrew’s
Presbyterian Church in Kitchener, ON, where
they currently reside. Katrina completed her
PhD in Industrial and Organizational
Psychology at the University of Waterloo in
January 2009, and is working at the Canadian
Water Network on the UW campus.
Naoko (Shida) Hawkins (’04) and Gordon
Hawkins were married in Toronto on April 10,

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34 | FALL 2010 RECORD

2010 and held their wedding reception in West
Vancouver on August 21. Naoko is finishing her
PhD in the Sociology of Work, Health, and
Immigration at the University of Toronto, while
Gordon is on leave from his PhD in International
Relations and Canadian Politics at the
University of Toronto to work as an analyst for
the federal government in Ottawa.
Ann (Poole) Wade (’05) married Jeff Wade of
Halifax on July 25, 2009. Fellow Mount Allison
alumni in attendance included Charlotte
(Clarkson) Griffiths (’05), Braden Griffiths
(’04), Lindsay (Clark) Kouyoumdjian (’06),
Camille Labchuk (’05), and Pete Lucarotti
(’05). The couple recently bought a home in
Calgary, where Ann is a registered provisional psy-
chologist, specializing in school and applied child
psychology,andJeffisgettinghiscommissionasan
Alberta licensed surveyor. Ann also graduated in
November 2009 with her MSc from the University
of Calgary. To view photos visit the Weddings sec-
tion of our Alumni Online photo gallery.
Gordon Barrett (’06) recently completed his
MPhil in Modern Chinese Studies at St. Antony’s
College, University of Oxford. In September he
began a one-year research fellowship at
Zhejiang University, funded through the
Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program.
In May Kyle Hill (’06) was one of 17 Canadians
selected to participate in Action Canada’s
2010/2011 program, which is a leadership and
public policy development program for people
in the early years of their careers who have the
promise to be future Canadian leaders. Kyle was
also awarded a 2010/2011 Sauvé Scholarship.
He’s living in Sauvé House in Montreal with 13
other young leaders from around the world,
enjoying unlimited access to McGill’s academic
programs and resources, and benefitting
from the communal life and multi-faceted
exchanges with fellow scholars. This year there
are four Sauvé Scholars from Canada, and two
of them are Mount Allison graduates. Jessica
Simpson (’06) is the other.
In August Susan Shore (’07) celebrated her
marriage to Simon Colwell with family and
friends. Susan co-founded the Animaritimes Club
in Sackville and travels to Moncton every year to
attend conventions for anime enthusiasts. She is
working at Mercury Animation on projects such
as children’s animated television shows.
William Wolfe-Wylie (’07) is happy to
announce his engagement to Danielle Webb.
The two met during a newspaper conference
for Atlantic universities in Sackville, while he
was working at The Argosy and she for the
Xaverian Weekly at St.FX. They plan to be
married in September 2011 in British Columbia.
In August Nakita Knowles (’09) began studies
at Southwest Baptist University in Missouri. She
is working toward achieving her doctorate in
physical therapy.

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University | 35
 Culture and
creativity take
centre stage
M
ount Allison has earned a
reputation for being a place
where talented individuals
come to discover their passions and
explore their interests.
Our students are encouraged to
challenge their beliefs, find their
unique voice, and celebrate their
individuality. We want them to
develop into well-rounded and
engaged members of society. One of
the most effective ways to accom-
plish this is by participating in the
arts. In keeping with our strategic
focus in this regard, Mount Allison
has designated 2010-11 the Year of
Culture and Creativity.
Already a recognized leader in mar-
rying the academic with the artistic
and incorporating culture inside the
classroom and out, Mount Allison
will focus this year on those depart-
ments, centres, and special initiatives
that motivate, challenge, and define
us all.
36 | FALL 2010 RECORD
C&C
CC
Year of Culture and Creativity
We want to emphasize the role that
traditional ‘arts’ departments and
programs such as Fine Arts, Music,
and Drama play at Mount Allison.
We also want to recognize and
celebrate the creative role that all
scholars bring to their respective dis-
ciplines. Chemists and physicists
who are creating new substances.
Geographers developing new meth-
ods for dating buildings. Social sci-
entists exploring new ways of pro-
moting equality, sustainability, and
inclusivity.
We are challenging ourselves as indi-
viduals, and collectively as a univer-
sity community, to re-examine our
role in society — the ways in which
we contribute to the cultural fabric
of this region, and reciprocally, the
ways in which we are defined by the
culture in which we live.
A highlight of the year will be the
President’s Speakers Series, which
will see creative personalities from
across the continent come to cam-
pus to speak to our University com-
munity. The exciting series will
include lectures from CBC host Jian
Ghomeshi, Cirque de Soleil’s direc-
tor of creation Lyn Heward, actress
Cynthia Dale, as well as a joint pres-
entation by Harvard psychologist
Steven Pinker and American novelist
Rebecca Goldstein, among others.
Additional productions and events
for the year include special exhibits
at Canada’s oldest university art
gallery — Owens Art Gallery — as
well as guest lecturers in our tradi-
tional arts courses and exciting con-
cert and performing arts series.
If you are interested in learning more
about Mount Allison’s commitment
to promoting culture and creativity,
please visit www.mta.ca/culture
Stephen McClatchie
Provost and Vice-President,
Academic and Research
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