Each April, Lethbridge College sends a new crop of students on its way with our best wishes. They have all impressed us with their diligence and thirst for education.
We are confident all will succeed in their chosen fields, or course, but every year there are those who leave us possessing something that raises them above the ordinary, much like the four people described here.
The Office of Alumni Relations honours, from the many nominations received those graduates who have risen above, and demonstrated those special characteristics and achievement. They are our Distinguished Alumni, chosen in four categories.
We are proud to introduce the 2010 recipients:
Distinguished Alumni Award
Colin Ward (Civil Engineering Technology, 1995)
For the strong sense of dedication to his community he displays through his professional and personal involvement, Colin Ward is chosen by Lethbridge College as its Distinguished Alumnus for 2010.
“This is a big honour, especially knowing who past recipients are,” says Ward, who obtained a Civil Engineering Technology diploma in 1995.
As manager of Ward Bros. Construction, a locally owned family business, Ward has overseen major components on the Lethbridge landscape, among them the Enmax Centre addition and renovation, the Sunrise Poultry hatchery and processing plant; renovations to the Cousins Science Centre at Lethbridge College and Gilbert Paterson Middle School, Ecole St. Mary and 1st Choice Savings and Credit Union’s Fairmont Branch.
“I’m still using the skills I learned at Lethbridge College, such as drafting and estimating; everything except the math,” says Ward with a grin.
His expertise in his profession has led him to represent the construction sector on the Economic Development Lethbridge board of directors, on which he has made significant contributions, supporting the board’s development of regional economic opportunities in renewable energy and creation of a technology commercialization centre.
Ward has sponsored several charitable causes, such as Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Steps for Life, the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, St. Michael’s Health Centre, Interfaith Food Bank and the school breakfast program in both city school divisions.
He has long been a supporter of Lethbridge College, creating the Ward Bros. Construction award, enabling students with financial needs to pursue careers in carpentry. He further demonstrates dedication to the institution by supporting its initiatives and advocating for many fundraising activities. He sits on the Lethbridge College Foundation Board, is past-president of the Lethbridge Construction Association, and is incoming president of the Alberta Construction Association.
Ward is a successful business leader who continues to devote his energy and resources to the economic, social and cultural fabric of Lethbridge, making a significant contribution to ensure its future prosperity. Congratulations, Colin.
Career Virtuoso Award
Maggie Olson (Nursing, 1973)
For her compassionate, life-long contributions to the nursing profession, Maggie (Hayden) Olson is chosen by Lethbridge College as recipient of its Career Virtuoso Award for 2010.
Olson graduated from Lethbridge College’s Registered Nursing program in 1973, practising full time for the next 36 years. She still finds time now to work on a casual basis at Pincher Creek Hospital.
“I’m quite humbled by this award,” says Olson, who originally considered a teaching career. “I’m used to giving recognition, not receiving it.”
A career counsellor, noting her proficiency in sciences, suggested she consider nursing at Lethbridge College, which she credits as a turning point in her life.
Olson served her profession in the operating room, maternity ward, intensive care, and in emergency, serving also in general medical nursing. She has taught student nurses, supported and encouraged colleagues and maintained her multiple certifications. She served as head nurse of Pincher Creek’s combined surgical/obstetrical unit, taking management training. She also advocated many years for the Alberta Association of Registered Nurses, served as an instructor of the neonatal resuscitation program, sat on the Southern Alberta Perinatal Committee and is still an instructor for the MORE obstetrical program.
Community Leader Award
Kirk Hofman (Business Administration, 1978)
For his extensive contributions to his home community of Nobleford in politics, recreation and economic diversity, Kirk Hofman is chosen by Lethbridge College as recipient of its Community Leader Award for 2010.
“I’m not usually speechless, but I am having trouble finding words to describe this honour,” says Hofman.
He earned a Business Administration (Management) diploma in 1978. While a student, he made his mark on the Lethbridge College Kodiaks volleyball team, and fell in love with wife Barbara. Their daughter Amanda is a Communication Arts ’09 grad.
Since moving to Nobleford in 1983, Hofman has been a tireless community activist. Elected to the village council a year later at 24, he served until 1995, passionately promoting initiatives geared to improving the quality of life for residents. He supported smoke-free public areas, chaired the Oldman River Regional Recreation Board, served as a Palliser School Board trustee, sat on the provincial Energize Board and was involved with the Southern Alberta Summer Games, coached high school volleyball and basketball, all to encourage healthy lifestyles, sportsmanship and respect for others.
In 2004, Hofman was recruited to again serve his community as Nobleford’s chief administrative officer.
Rising Star Award
Matthew Berrigan (General Studies, 2003)
For his dynamic development as an educator, Matthew Berrigan is chosen by Lethbridge College as winner of its Rising Star Award for 2010.
“The college gave me a lifelong love of learning that is integral to me today in my life as a teacher,” says Berrigan. “The opportunity that I had to explore a multitude of disciplines in the General Studies program helped me discover a variety of passions that define who I am today.”
When he came to Lethbridge College in 2002, Berrigan came with a goal: to obtain a teaching degree. He took General Studies courses geared to university transfer. In 2006, he earned a Bachelor of Education (Great Distinction) from the University of Lethbridge.
In his first year at Cayley, he won an Excellence in Teaching Award and was chosen by the Foothills School District as its Edwin Parr Award nominee. He now serves as a lead teacher in Turner Valley.
Now completing his master’s of science in education, he continues to teach and stay involved in creating recreational opportunities for students in Turner Valley, Black Diamond, Okotoks, High River and Cayley in a variety of sports.
