Greg Schmidt is a people-person. It’s clear from his easy laugh, warm voice and calm demeanor that his career as executive director of Family Ties Association, a non-profit agency that provides services to children, youth, families and the homeless, is a perfect fit. Schmidt’s family has a hearty presence at the college, where his children have also answered the call to help others.
Two of Greg’s daughters decided to pursue diplomas in General Studies, majoring in psychology and sociology, at the college. Christina is currently enrolled in this program and plans to be a speech-language pathologist. Sabina earned her diploma in 2014, followed by a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Calgary and has just been accepted for her Master’s in Social Work. Greg’s son, Michael, was a student in the General Studies program majoring in English from 2015 to 2017 and now is in the University of Lethbridge’s education program. His youngest daughter, Alexandra, is considering applying to the General Studies or Child and Youth Care program, as she is considering a career in social work or addictions counselling.
The emphasis on human services and education can’t be underestimated in Greg’s family. “We’ve always taught our kids how to be caring for others,” says Greg, whose wife, Marianna, is a teacher. Other family members, from children-in-laws, siblings, and nephews, are also involved at the college. Sabina’s husband, Bryan Ross, is currently enrolled in the Business Administration program. Michael’s fiancée, Baylee Chilton, did a practicum placement at the college in fall 2018 in Accessibility Services facilitating SCoRE Workshops. Greg’s brother, Ken, earned a diploma in Environmental Science from the college in 1981 and was an Alberta conservation officer, and Ken’s son, Cody, earned a diploma in Conservation Enforcement in 2007 and now works as a conservation officer in the Yukon.
Greg says the college’s hands-on learning experiences made it an easy choice for his family’s post-secondary education. Greg’s advice for success in college is to get involved, and make it part of your educational experience. “When you get into the workforce, you’re prepared with a wealth of experience,” says Greg, warmly encouraging everyone to “jump right in!”
Greg Schmidt
Communication Arts – Broadcast Production 1986 Child and Youth Care 1993
Recipient of Lethbridge College’s Distinguished Alumni award 2009
Sabina (Schmidt) Ross
General Studies – Psychology and Sociology 2014
Michael Schmidt
General Studies – English 2017
Christina Schmidt
Currently enrolled in General Studies – Psychology and Sociology
Bryan Ross
Currently enrolled in Business Administration – Accounting