2017-18 Gracious Gratitude Awards 🏆
The Gracious Gratitude Awards is a yearly celebration of those who make us smile, who are happy to help out, and who make the AUArts community a welcoming, kind, and creative environment. Here's to those who have helped us survive and thrive throughout the year, as nominated by you!
Award Recipients 🏆
See below for the complete list of GGA recipients, including their nominations.
All nominations are generated by members of the AUArts community, and may contain grammatical or categorical errors.
Students
Alaska White
For her tremendous creative talent, patience and grace.
Alena Martin
For being a wonderful friend
Alexia Mitchell
Her kind, caring, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Extremely involved in the ACAD community and the SCD program. She's always so helpful and positive and kind, and works so hard to make things better for all the students in the VSCD and Design programs. She's the link between students and administration for many of us, and is always one of the first people to volunteer to help when it's needed. All around a super nice and caring person who deserves recognition for her hard work and time.
Alexia is passionate and eager to promote ACAD as a place for better education. She is always there to voice student opinions regarding the school system and encourage the community to be active participants in ACADs development.
Alisha Adams
Alisha has always gone above and beyond to help others. She has helped so many of us fire our work in ceramics, and has stayed to help me install even when she was just as busy and hadnt even installed herself. She helped me in my midterm critique by being a performer, and stayed for 4 hours to block out the 2 minute performance the day before we both had midterms. She has always been there to listen and offer advice not just to me to any one who knows her. She truly gives the best advice, you always leave with a bit more insight into your own practice. She has gone to see the doctor and counselor with me, and I know she has done the same thing to others. She is such an advocate for taking care of your mental health, she knows it from first hand experience and it always willing to share her experiences. I see her working so hard to stay on top of her mental illnesses, I know she has really struggled with this at times. Theres so much more I could say about Alisha, she has saved my life more than once, she is a truly talented maker and a hard worker, she is a friend to everyone and would share her lunch if she knew a friend was hungry. I wish my degree could have both of our names on it because there is no way I would be graduating this May if it werent for her.
I had the opportunity to work with Alisha on Hear/d and she was an amazing partner. Her dedication to helping her peers and passion for mental health really showed, and I am so thankful to have had such a supportive and understanding colleague. She cares so deeply about some very pressing issues, her honestly is so inspiring, and her positive energy is contagious.
Amanda Boudjaklian
I had the pleasure of being classmates with Amanda this semester. Her eagerness to organize and desire to make a meaningful and worthwhile event for everyone involved was really nice. Her gratitude and kindness towards those who helped and attended was amazing, and it really encourages me to work that much harder to be just as mindful of peoples hard work and recognize it.
Amy Hein
For her wonderful involvement with the gardening club and SLC!
Ankeeta Patel
Glass MVP and SLC badass
You keep being you, lady!
For her fire, spirit, and involvement in SLC
Axel Bernal Bladh
His passion, intellect, drive, and devotion to advocacy for students
Bogdan Cheta
Great TA for MFACM in CCST325!
Camille Porcheron
Camille is incredibly involved in both acadsa and the fibre department. She always has her fellow students school lives on the forefront of her mind. She deeply cares for others.
For her love of people and generous attitude
Charlee Witschi
Charlee goes above and beyond to make people feel welcomed and included, especially the student (and potential student) population. She does a lot for the school as she has worked with student walk throughs and at the welcome desk.
Does so much around the school in various positions. Is committed to the well being of the school
Charlee is an absurdly hard worker but still remains to be so generous. She is always willing to help, even for larger projects that require a lot of time or work, and has been a huge help in fulfilling my own commitments and dreams. She's hilarious, brutally honest, and has made my journey at ACAD a memorable one.
Her advocacy, intelligence, and devotion to the rights of students!
Collin Brown
For his generosity, talent and character.
Cristina Merritt
For her positive attitude, intelligence and character.
Dalyce Bryant
Fiercely advocates for friends and students alike!
Daniela Schoendfelt
Daniela always has a smile on her face, and is always willing to help out her fellow classmates. She has been greatly involved with the student group Cloth club, fighting for it to be run.
Eddie Jaworenko
Thank you for all your help and support. You saved me and gave me so much hope. I don’t think I could have completed this year without your help- seriously! Thank you.
Ethan Peters
Ethan is hilarious, and his sincerity and sarcasm are refreshing to be around. Hearing about his work and getting insight into his interests has been wonderful. He's a dork and his personality really brings out the best in those around him.
Francesca Flaskay
The most kind, caring, and eager to help individual that I have ever met
Grace Guenard
Grace is one of the few students I can always count on to help me. If Im ever confused shes the first person I go to and she’ll immediately start trying to help me. She genuinely cares, and she even made fladhcards for a friend who never shows up for class, just cause she cared about her friend passing. She is also always in a good mood and has lots of positivity.
Haley Eyre
A wondrous, cat loving, SLC involved human.
For her incessantly incredible positive energy, intelligence and character. Has has touched the lives and improved the lives of so many simply by being who she is everyday.
Jacob Tonellato
Thank you for all the encouragement and always believing in me when I needed it the most! You’re on to great things and I can’t wait to see what you conquer!
Jenn Herring
For your infectious optimism, positive aura and boundless energy:)
Joanna Puno
Her wonderful designs and hard work that she does for ACADSA!
Joel Hayland
We were all so lucky to have had you in our classes! Your happy attitude and major snacking was always a highlight! KOBE!
Judith Aldama
For her exceptional determination and talent.
Justine Sawicz
Her deep caring for all of those around her
Intellect
SLC!
Kaitlynn Copithorne
For all her help with student groups, efforts she puts into our community, and being so hard working, reliable, and kind. She is stellar.
Katelyn Payette
Katelyn is fantastic and is always extremely understanding. She is so sympathetic, honest, and is always eager to help in any way she can. Her positive attitude and willingness to make ACAD a better place has really made a difference in my experience.
Katie Deller
For her incredible work ethic, talent, generosity and grace.
Katie Romansky
Her intelligence, sense of humour, and involvement in SLC
Kayla Gale
Her inquisitive nature and passion.
Kayla Brown
She goes above any beyond to help everyone and will sacrifice her homework to help other people with theirs instead. She is amazing in the glass department!
Keiran Foster
I haven't had the chance to know Keiran for long but she's proven to be a truly inspiring person. Her dedication to her photography and studies is really encouraging. She's also been someone I can always come to when I need a break and has been so accommodating in this regard.
Kellen Spencer
A great human with great intellect! Also involved in SLC
Kellen has been an amazing advocate for students over the years and has always offered encouragement and suggestions. His interest in his peers' practices and dedication to his own has been really inspiring, and I hope I can emulate the impressions he makes on others as he has on me.
For his generosity, talent and character.
Laura Pritchard
I’ve been fortunate enough to have several classes with Laura and her passion for her work, her peers, and her position as the MNG Director have been inspiring. Her optimistic personality and professionalism are amazing, and I always look forward to crossing paths with her to talk.
Leia Guo
Shi prefers to be called as Leia so; Leia is a very helpful and determined student. She is a First Year Student but has already been involved in many of the ACAD events, being volunteer, representative and participant. She always encourages her fellow classmates to engage more in the school activities and offers them support. Therefore, I believe she deserves the recognition, because her energetic and creative personality represents the essence of ACAD.
Lusine Manukyan
I truly envy Lusine’;s sincerity and honesty. She was kind enough to help review several projects I’ve worked on in order to make them better and more clear. Her genuine support and enthusiasm has been so comforting, and that positive attitude is infectious.
Matthew Springer
For his intelligence, openness, positive attitude and natural talent.
McKenna Prather
Positive attitude, strong work ethic and natural talent.
for her thoughtfulness, intellect, and personability. She is also involved in SLC!
Megan Brown
Her continued devotion to the rights of international students
Megan Feniak
Megan is so bright and her addition to the Print Media studio has been fantastic. Her work is amazing, and she brings out an amazing dynamic among her classmates. Her honesty about when she's struggling has also been refreshing and something I've found touching, as it's so relatable and comforting knowing I am not alone.
Melanie Gaudet
For her generosity, talent and character.
Morgan Lencucha
Morgan has been a huge part of running the fibre departments student group Cloth Club, we could have not done it without her!
For being a great friend
Niko Havlock
For being the pied piper of ACAD
Niko does things all over the school, is involved with multiple clubs and brings a smile to everyones face. He deserves to be appreciated for all that he does
Hes all over the place doing so much. I only know of ACADSA, the button club and the Trans Tea Party but I’m sure he’s done a lot more as well haha. I’m only a first year and he is one of the upper years that immeaditly made me feel welcome at ACAD. He is friendly and kind and has given ACAD that same atmosphere for me.
Olivia Suilka
for being a great friend!
Olivia Carr
Olivia has brought joy to everyone she happens to come across at ACAD. She is someone who remains positive and does her best to remain happy under any circumstance and passes this happiness to those around her.
Patrick O'Sullivan
His inquisitive nature, advocacy, and intellgence!
Saaraa Premji
I’m disappointed I didn’t get to cross paths with Saaraa more often. I always laugh and have really meaningful conversations whenever we get the chance to speak for a few minutes. Her passion for design, and interest in fine arts, has been really touching.
Sam Bodnarchuk
For his deep intelligence, keen insight and wonderful personality.
Sara Mason
Sara is always able to make a crappy situation into one we can laugh about. She has been an immense help in the fibre department's events, as well as running Cloth Club.
Shandril Hubley
For her kindness, intelligence, and friendship
Shandril Hubley
For her kindness, intelligence, and friendship
Shannon Reeves
Shannon always provides great feedback and supports all her fellow classmates!
Shelby Wolfe-Goulet
Sharing a studio with Shelby these last few years has been really nice. Her enthusiasm and awareness offer a great addition to the dynamic among the Print majors, and her humour and wit ensure that space remains positive and upbeat.
Simone Saunders
Ive only spoken to Simone a handful of times but shes always thoroughly impressed me. Shes so open and supportive, and her willingness to help students in pursuing their goals is so fantastic. I truly admire her dedication to the school and acting as a representative for students.
Sydney Elliott
MVP of First Year
Faculty
Alana Bartol
Alana cares so deeply for her students and wants to see them succeed with every ounce of her being. She puts so much work into her students, her own practice, and into the well-being of the institution - I don’t know when or if she sleeps. What a fantastic representative of the ACAD community!
Alex Link
I can say confidently that Alex Link tries to make the best of any situation. His good-natured humor, personality, and compassion make him one of the most invaluable and memorable instructors at ACAD.
Andreas Rutkauskas
I had Andreas for one class this year, and it was one of the best classes i've had at acad. He took all of us where we were at with our interests and tried to help us improve with those things. super helpful, super engaging, and still interested in my work a semester after. he deserves recognition for his efforts!
Ann Mansolino
For her friendship, intelligence and character.
Dedication to teaching, curriculum, and college community. As a new permanent faculty member, Ann has made a significant effort to contribute to a positive and collegial work environment.
Brian Flynn
For his incredible sense of humour, dedication to his students and his wonderful friendship.
Bryan Cera
Unwavering patience, and willingness to help or give advice even if he's super busy. And the fact that he loves cats is a plus in my book 😋. Thanks for being a great teacher Bryan!!
Taking OBDF classes with you was the highlight of my final year at ACAD. You are an amazing teacher who is incredibly generous with your time and knowledge. Thank you.
Cathy Simone
She is a photographic illustration faculty who puts all students for success in the professional photographic world. She has a tremendous passion for positive encouragement for students, she is highly resourceful and available for feedback that is constructive and helpful as well an amazing teaching plan that accommodates all students. She goes above and beyond assisting students with detailed feedback and one on one instruction helping each students specific needs complimenting and developing their practice. She is an absolute gem to have as an instructor and as a life long friend ! Cathy definitely deserves this award as she is generous, welcoming and resorecelful person who has the best in mind for everyone around her !
Charles Lewton-Brain
For being an incessantly incredible mentor, colleague and friend.
For his incredible contributions to ACAD during all these years, his dedication as a teacher and his endless generosity, and sharing so much knowledge to his students. Charles has been so inspiring, he is humble, approachable and incredibly talented. He deserves every bit of recognition in the school.
Chris Cran
For his incessantly incredible attitude, openness, and support.
Chris Frey
Chris is a great and enthusiastic professor, his unique tactics for teaching always intrigues me and motivates me to give it my all in his class.
A professor that makes a class as interesting as he does deserves to have his efforts recognized by all.
Chris Willard
I wouldn’t have gotten into grad school without him. He’s the most helpful teacher I’ve had.
Dean McLean
Dean is a wealth of information and he’s always eager to share it. He’s incredibly patient and always has time to talk, demonstrate equipment, give advice on a project. He’s half the reason I’m such a good photographer!
Derek Beaulieu
Derek has made class something to look forward to and constantly pushes everyone to grow. Hes a pleasure to talk to and always made sure that everyone in his class has the freedom to discuss without fear of judgement. He has grown to be one of my favorite teachers and one that I always search for when it comes to registering for classes.
Outstanding instructor, who goes above and beyond educating students on the course material, but also about growth and enabling students to mature and reach their full potential. Always will to share information and include the students in all aspects of their education. Great professor.
Diana Sherlock
Diana is a fantastic instructor, and I continue to reference the material she shared in one of her courses. Her interest in what students are making and ability to relay critical insights is a blessing. I'm disappointed I was unable to take more classes with her because I know they would have been fantastic and I would have loved them.
Greg Gerla
For his generosity, friendship and character.
Heather Huston
Heather has gone above and beyond to help out the Photo department this academic year. If you need her she is always there for you to hear your voice and any concerns you may have. When our program was very unstable she was there to help inform us and listen to our concerns. She has made our program a lot less stressful and we all really appreciate everything she does for us!
Heather is great. She deeply cares about her students and shows an intense interest in what they're doing. Her knowledge and ability to provide resources and insight, addressing concerns and questions in a helpful and constructive way, has been a huge factor in my own development as a student. Similarly, Heather always makes time for people who need her assistance, and that accessibility is something I have greatly appreciated. Her work ethic and priorities are astounding, and I'm thankful I've had the opportunity to study with her.
Ian Fitzgerald
Thank you for always taking the time to talk to your students outside of class time (especially when they aren't in your classes anymore)! You always make me think a little harder and see things with much more clarity.
Jamie Morris
Jamie Morris is highly competent in what he's teaching as well as a great teacher. I really appreciated being in his class.
Jeff Lennard
For his generosity, openness and character.
Jennifer Salahub
For being an incessantly incredible mentor, colleague and friend.
Jessica Brandl
Jessica is not just an inspiring artist, she is also a very committed instructor. I took her 101 Ceramics class this winter and was very impressed with how much she was able to teach us through interesting and creative assignments. Also, Jessica showed her students the importance of good research and historical knowledge allied with the production of objects. She really made the ceramics course feel complete and, with all aspects taken in consideration, both theory and practice, we were able to understand in an university level – such as ACAD is now – how much ceramics plays a significant role in the history of humankind as a technology, culture and skill development area. Jessica was available outside of class for sorting out our doubts about the materials, giving us ideas and sharing her rich experience in handling clay. She encouraged us to do our best with the projects and continuously challenged us to work in a creative manner.
Jill Ho-You
I have had Jill as an instructor several times and it's always been a good experience. Her curiosity and critical eye have been extremely helpful in pushing my own practice further than what I initially intended. I'm also grateful for her willingness to help me in various other pursuits, whether that be answering questions related to other projects I'm working on, needing letters or references, or just insight into how to achieve my goals, she has been a great resource.
Jocelyn Reid
An amazing ceramics technician who is always there to problem solve and help with anything
John Calvelli
John was the most accommodating, empathetic instructor many of us designs students had this year. He was genuinely passionate about design, as well as very humble and understanding. If any instructor this year deserves to be nominated, it's got to be John Calvelli!
He is so kind and knowledgeable. His course is a highlight of the year
Justin Waddell
For his sense of humour, intelligence and support.
Karl Geist
One of, if not THE most caring and helpful instructor I've ever had the pleasure to work with while at ACAD.
He takes the time to talk with and get to know each student's interests and styles and is full of knowledge and resources. He encourages each student to pursue their individual interests and to push themselves with their assignments. He genuinely cares about his students and what they do.
Karl is super personable and understanding and is all around a fantastic guy to talk to and work with. He deserves so much love and all good things.
Ken Wentz
Best teacher in design
Laurel Johannesson
Laurel is extremely intelligent, encouraging, and supportive of all that come across her. She is an exemplary example of what a great teacher is!
Lynne Rennie
Lynne, Im so sad I only had you for one semester. You made class a joy and your encouragement always kept me inspired during 4th-year-blues. Thank you for being such a wonderful instructor and moral support cheerleader!
Mackenzie Kelly-Frere
Makes me want to come to class and gives interesting assignments
Mackenzie is the kind of teacher we all want to have. He is always willing to help, and truly cares about the success of his students
Mark Clintberg
Mark is a fantastic instructor who creates an extremely inclusive and open class dynamic. Having the chance to speak with him outside of classes has also been really worthwhile, and I’m thankful for the insight her has been willing to offer regarding my practice. Similarly, his inclusion of students in other meaningful projects really speaks to his interest in enabling ACAD students to reach their goals and full potential. Also... Hes just really nice.
Mark Mullin
Incredible instructor who embraces students creativity.
Marty Kaufman
He is just an amazing teacher. He was always willing to help when we were struggling and he makes us enjoy what were working on. I am happy to be a part of his class this year and to be able to learn from him.
Megan Kirk
Megan is amazing. Her enthusiasm, sarcasm, and wit always manage to make me smile and laugh. She's done such a great job and I always feel comfortable coming to her when I have questions or concerns. She's a gem and has been such a benefit for the Print department.
For her wonderful personality, relentless joy, and incredible work ethic.
Megan is an amazing technician! She is so incredibly passionate about her job and the students at ACAD. She is so supportive and will work with someone until their problems have solutions. Those problems don't even have to be about school, she is actually just an amazing person to talk to about anything.
Megan ALWAYS greets you with a smile and will go out of her way to help you if she can and with her expertise, she likely can help. Megan cares and wants you to succeed. Megan works hard to keep her spaces in order and to help everyone know what their part is and how to do it.
Mireille Perron
His MFAMC exhibition Measured Composition was FABULOUS. Because, among others, he wanted his faculty and peers to be delighted.
Such a pleasure to work with as a new faculty, she almost made me not want to retire from teaching.
No one has ever written with such dedication ACADs history. Long live Sloyd!
Mireille Perron is a fantastic colleague, one who I have been fortunate to work alongside in my first year on faculty at ACAD. Mireille tirelessly advocates for her students and for the ACAD community. Her collegial spirit, positive attitude, and critical rigor are incredible!
Her erudite nature and passion for seeing students succeed!
Mitch Kern
Because when light rays pass through his eyes an inverted image appears at the back of his mind.
he has been having a stressful semester, but despite that, and even though i don’t have him in any classes this semester, he still has a smile on his face every time he sees me. great instructor, great person.
Natali Rodrigues
Natali’s dedication to community and her service not only to the Faculty Association but also to ACAD’s community of artists, students, researchers and peers is outstanding. Her ability to balance teaching, service and a world-renowned practice makes her an inspiration. Her work on behalf of artists locally, nationally and internationally makes her one of the very best -- a benefit to all of us.
For being an incessantly incredible mentor, colleague and friend.
Natali holds the fort for ACADFA as president which lately is a difficult position. Natali holds the fort for GAS as president, and organized the annual conference in Murano. Natali was one of Axel MFACM committee member and his exhibition looks great, and full of glass! In her spare time Natali is on the board of ACC and is a great glass artist.
Nick Johnson
This was Nick's first year as an instructor at ACAD and he is AMAZING. He's an incredibly nice guy, and as a fairly recent ACAD graduate is very easy to connect with. He is very understanding of each student's viewpoints (and stress levels) and is always willing to lend a helping hand if he can.
Nick is super knowledgeable about all things illustration and comic, and has so much information and many resources to share. He always provides extremely helpful feedback about each student's work, and is great at looking for each individual student's strengths.
Nick is great and deserves to know that he's doing an incredible job teaching thus far.
Paul Hudson
He’s a wonderful human being :^)
Paul Hudson is an incredible instructor who puts a lot of effort into his coursework. He is extremely patient and empathetic with his students.
Rick Gorenko
Rick is quiet, but his interest in the work his students are making and unexpected humour is really nice. I'm always surprised when I see him around and we talk about what I have been up to, as his shy demeanour doesn't always align with the charisma and enthusiasm he brings in discussions.
Scott Cressman
Thank you for your willingness and drive to improve the SCD program and diversify our 4-year experience in the design field at ACAD. SCD is lucky to have you as the Chair!
Silas Kaufman
For his deep intelligence, strong dedication to his students and his wonderful friendship.
For keeping classes fun while keeping the topic of progressing as artists and visual communicators a very serious thing. For teaching art is something of play and no one should suffer for their work. For listening to individual concerns and caring about the countless directions all of his students choose to go.
Susan Menzies
Susan expects a lot from her students but she does her part to get you there. Susan is always very clear about her expectations and she keeps her mosaic page up to date on a week by week basis, so you can see what is due at a glance without opening anything else. Above all, Susan goes to great lengths to provide extensive research prompts for each individual based on their particular work or area of focus. Susan can help you get to the next level.
Suzanne Morisette
Everything Suzanne teaches is long overdue!
I just finished a class with Suzanne and she was amazing. Her gentleness and curiosity were really helpful in encouraging me in my pursuits and interests, while also recognizing my successes and concerns. The sincere interest she has shown in the work I'm doing was so comforting, and I'm so thankful that I had the opportunity to take a class with her before finishing my studies.
Zimra Beiner
Goes above and beyond his requirements as an instructor and is always there to help
For his intelligence, generosity and talent.
Staff + Admin
Alex Moon
For his incredible talent, helpfulness and character.
Alex keeps on saving us each times the AV does not work! And he is a very good artist.
Amy Lo
Amy is kind, candid, and competent. Her name comes up often in the anecdotes of colleagues talking about good experiences with admin who help facilitate their jobs and make their ACAD experience a little more manageable. I appreciate having Amy to help us navigate the bureaucracy and look out for us!
Ashley Slemming
Its been wonderful continuing to see Ashley around ACAD and hearing about the work she’s been doing. Her willingness to share the resources she has at her disposal and interest in making the IKG an accessible and recognized resource for students is so important.
Bev Rodgers
For her incredible generosity, kindness and character.
Bill Austin
It’s Bill...need I say more?
Bill Hornecker
Bill is the best! He's kind and patient and is always enthusiastic about your ideas. He takes the time to really understand what you want to do and provides you with several options for how to go about it. He's a joy to work with and always brightens my day! Thanks, Bill!!!!
Bonnie Mccauley
Bonnie’s experience and positive energy make her such an asset to ACAD. She makes the Registrar’s office such a welcoming place and her sense of humour is always refreshing. Her passion for the arts and what future, current, and past students are doing is truly inspiring.
Brett Hollingsworth
Hard to imagine anyone as thoughtful or caring.
Cassandra Paul
She says yes, each time I asked to have the IKG open outside class time, always with a smile! And she still finds time to be an artist!
Cafeteria Staff
I'm so sorry but I never got her name. She's the one with the red hair (not Ziggy) in the cafeteria. She works her butt off and always has the best recommendation for what to add to my tea when I'm sick!
Caretaking Services
For picking up our messes and not disturbing messy art! The real, hardcore, rock and roll MVPs of ACAD
Cody Cox
Cody works at the bookstore and he is always such a kind, generous, goofy and helpful person! He welcomes everyone with a huge amazing smile and he is so knowledgable about all the materials available. His presence at the bookstore is such a delight and I know everyone else agrees!!!!
Cody is great. He's added such a lovely perspective and personality to my visits to the Bookstore, and it's been neat seeing him again after we had classes together. His humour and humility really draw you in and he's a great example of the people who make ACAD so fantastic.
Crystal Scott
Crystal's energy is contagious, and her passion for what she does is so fantastic. Her dedication to creating welcoming spaces and giving people a wonderful experience at ACAD is so important. I've been very fortunate to work with Crystal for a number of years, and her enthusiasm continues to be inspiring.
Dale Vandenberg
Somehow, with no magic wand (or not one that Ive ever seen) Dale (with the support of his crew) keeps the college ticking in spite of budgets and staff. From behind the scenes, he continually makes students, faculty, and admin look great (or at least better than they could look on their own). THANKS DALE!
Dean McLean
He is the photo technician who always encouraged all students and ensured that their photoshoots have successful and top notch tech for our assignments. He upkeeps and maintains all of our equipment and vital studio making our experience as students easy and stress free :) thank you for all of your hard work despite the health hardships you have! You dont complain but rather look at things in a positive light! If any student has questions about equipment and photography, you have definitely proven yourself as a generous mentor to many of us! Big thank you and I appreciate the hard work you have been doing for the photo department !
Jack Michielsen
Jack is always extremely helpful with anything AV related. He will drop everything if you are having tech issues and always follows through, all the while with a great sense of humour!
Jeannie Gorrie
For giving ACAD students a place to talk about mental health through the Hear/d program. Students love and appreciate you!
Jeannie has always been a friendly face at ACADSA and I've loved having the chance to get to know her over the years. Her dedication to improving the health and wellness of students at ACAD is remarkable, and I'm so glad we have her.
For providing vital mental health programming across the school, coordinating two excellent peer-mentorship residencies, and (most importantly) for being the #1 ACADSA DJ. We love the puppy rooms too.
Jill Brown
Jill always makes sure to say good morning to me when we pass each other in the hall. Her positive energy never ceases to perk up my day, and I've been grateful that she's shown such a genuine and enthusiastic interest in my goals.
Jim Burton
Jim Burton is truly one of the kindest people I have ever had the pleasure to meet. He is so flexible with his own schedule just to meet student needs and is always happily helping students with any questions they may have and even offering guidance before it is asked for when he senses a student starting to struggle. He has made my experience at ACAD a hundred times better.
Where would the photo department be if we didn’t have the gracious presence of Jim!? He has been an amazing support and resources ensuring that all students have successful representation everywhere though print! My portfolio is successful due to his expertise and professional experience with print which is refelcted in my professional practice as a photographer ! He is always there for everyone regardless of all the silly questions we ask him! He deserves this award as a totem of his amazing work and part of all student’s work! This is a small thank you in comparesing of how helpful he has been in all of our late assignments, stresseful deadlines, portfolios, gallery worthy prints and our cries for help at any time!
Jim Burton is the worlds most amazing print master that ever did live. He has saved the photo students so many times and hes so humble and amazing. He works so hard and deserves this!
He is always there for students and ready to help in any way he can. He meets the most unreasonable deadlines just to help us out and is always a resource when students need help printing on their own. He is basically and instructor here for how much he teaches us how to output our own work.
The saving grace of the whole photo program and probably one of the best assets in the school.
The most amazing resource this school has. He has been a life-saver more times than I can count to both student and faculty alike, and probably the reason most of us are able to get our degrees to begin with!
Jim has helped photo majors out through out the past academic year tremendously with our printing needs and inquiries. Now that I am about to graduate I will miss him terribly. He deserves this award because he always gives us the best quality prints and if we are in ever in need of his help he is there to walk us through the steps thoroughly. He is very knowledgeable and we are very lucky to have him at this school!
Jim is an invaluable and key part of the photography program and every year he is the reason so many of us are able to produce the work that we do. With last minute deadlines, printer problems that we can’;t figure out and stress requests he always pulls through and even when he sometimes shouldn’t ( because we should never have asked him so late ) gives us beautiful and perfect prints. He has saved all of our butts more times we can count and we would be lost without him.
Jim is there for the entire school. Even tho he is part of the photo department he goes above and beyond to make sure everyone has the best work printed. He is always available when we need help.
Jim In the IO print lab! He has been amazing all 4 years of our degree and always goes out of his way to help the students when we mess up or leave our projects too late.
Joel Farris
For giving students career opportunities through the organization of Show and Sale! What a gem!
The Holy Grail for Acad students is the one and only; Joel!!! He has been an absolute amazing resource for all Acadians with providing opportunities to being highly resourceful for any crazy Acad question we may have! He has provided the photo department with free framing opportunity out of his way, jobs, show and sale support and giving everyone professional experience making their practice more advanced ! Thank you for your great suggestions, support ,opportunities , positive attitude and patience! You take on many hats, but you always manage to give everyone encouragement and resources for their betterment :)
Thanks for all of the laffs! You brighten up ACAD!
Katie Potapoff
Katie is a wonderful presence in the office and I always enjoy hearing her stories. She's always made an effort to make ACAD a welcoming place and I appreciate her honesty and charisma.
Kiah Gutowski
Kiah is an absolute asset to ACAD. Her kindness and patience is appreciated by all. Thank you for everything you do, Kiah!
For the hard work that she does with a smile! ACADSA gem!
Kiah always goes out of her way to help in any way she can! She always has a smile on her face and puts everyone in a great mood when they see her.
Outstanding work and a pleasure to be around.
Kristine Williamson
Kristine seems super intimidating but after getting to know her, I can't help but appreciate her humour. She's so sarcastic and it really helps you feel more comfortable when you're in stressful scenarios.
Laurel Smith
Laurel Smith is an amazing Academic Advisor, who has a natural ability to connect with students, faculty and staff. She is a positive, encouraging and understanding individual who ensures that learners are on the correct educational track. Laurel is a hard worker and dedicated to her job. She sincerely cares about art students and succeeds at supporting and inspiring learners. ACAD students and staff are very fortunate to have such a devoted employee such as Laurel!
If Laurel can't get you excited about the path you're on or could be on, no one can. Laurel's enthusiasm for her job, for ACAD students, and for education as a whole is exemplary!
Laurel is fantastic. Shes so enthusiastic about what students are doing, is eager to help in any way she can, and wants students to have every opportunity to thrive. Having the chance to work with her was amazing and I’m so grateful for the support and patience she showed me. It was so empowering, it wouldn’;t have been the same experience without her.
Lee-Ann Bainbridge
Lee-Ann's bubbly and warm personality played a crucial role in helping me feel comfortable and welcome. Having the opportunity to work with her was great, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of learning from her, but also sharing some of what ACAD has to offer. Her desire to connect with students and create inviting spaces where they can discuss their concerns or questions has been a wonderful addition to the team.
Lindsay Paul
Lindsay has been my go-to since beginning at ACAD. She has supported me non-stop, always let me know when she had opportunities come up, and has been so helpful in helping me grow as a person. Her bright personality always feels welcoming, and she has really made my overall experience at ACAD so positive and welcoming.
Mark Gibeau
After 30 years of service and dedication....this guy deserves a ton of gratitude!!
Patti Kim
For her sense of humour, positive attitude and incessant helpfulness.
Paul Robert
For his generosity, work ethic and character.
Paul Szymanowski
He really cares about students and explains how things really well.
Peggy Friesen
Peggy is lovely. She’s worked so hard to learn as much as she possibly could so she can help students. Her dedication and willingness to share information to help others is so important, and I’m grateful for it. Her bubbly personality always makes her a joy to speak to and I find myself swinging by the Registrar just to speak to her and Bonnie.
Peter Redecopp
For his incredible generosity, positive attitude and friendship.
Rachel Forrest
Rachel is wonderful and so supportive. Her patience made a huge difference and I’m so grateful for it.
Rene Martin
The LLLibrary is heaven on earth. Thanks to René and all the LLLstaff.
Rhoda
How does she know everyones name?!
She is a kind and caring individual that really cares about the safety of everyone!
Rhoda is amazing at what she does. She goes above and beyond and makes the effort to get to know that students by name. She knows who belongs here and is genuinely invested in creating a secure environment for students.
She is the nicest security staff! She knows every students name, always stops to chat and ask how you are doing, and always has a smile on her face. She brightens my day every time I see her and I'm glad she works at ACAD!
Russ Taylor
Russ always has time for a chat, never complians and makes me smile!
Sarah Grodecki
Sarah is a fearless and inspiring leader. ACAD students are lucky to have such an amazing and empowering ally. Thank you for tirelessly working to better so many peoples lives!
OP MVP of ACADSA Also a very kind person :)
ACADSA MVP 6-years running.
Shelly Daku
Thank you Shelly for all your help with my applications and for spending so much time for me. I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to continue at school before i found out from a friend to see Shelly for help. Shelly should get an award because she helps all students.
Sheryse Legaspi
Sheryse is so nice. She has been very welcoming and remains to be sincere. Having the opportunity to get to know her and share my practice has been really touching, and I'm thankful for the support she continues to offer. She is so optimistic and bubbly, and the energy she brings with her is so powerful. I'm so thankful for getting to work with her and for the connections she has given me.
Steve Rogers
Steve always gives me a hard time whenever I need to buy supplies and it always manages to make me smile. He really cares about the students at ACAD and wants to make sure they get what they need. I'm always guaranteed to smile when I visit the Bookstore and he's working.
Su Soyer
It is hard to believe that Su is just one person. As the only full-time dedicated admin point person for the entire undergraduate academic operations of the institution she is SUPERHUMAN and MUCH appreciated!
Tina Kinree-Brown
Tina manages admirably the best place on campus, the Lodge Pole Centre. LPC and Tina support all our students with a special role for our indigenous students. Not too mention that Tina organizes the elders teachings sessions where wisdom is shared.
Shelly Daku
Thank you Shelly for all your help with my applications and for spending so much time for me. I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to continue at school before i found out from a friend to see Shelly for help. Shelly should get an award because she helps all students.