Q. When did you retire from Sask Polytech?
A. I retired on July 31, 2024 after 30+ years as a library technician with Library
Services at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Regina campus. I still miss the students, staff
and instructors. I have many fond memories of my time at Sask Polytech (formerly SIAST).
Q. What are some of your fondest memories at Sask Polytech?
A. I always felt enriched by all the different programs, students and staff who spent
time in the library to locate resources, borrow items or spend time researching online.
The educational environment was always busy and as an employee, I learned so very
much and was able to contribute to the learning environment. I especially loved attending
the staff professional development sessions.
I volunteered to help at the convocation ceremonies, and the achievement ceremony
when I was working at the 8th Avenue North Centre Campus in the Adult Basic Education
programs.
Q. What got you started in your donor activities?
A. When I was growing up, other people, neighbours and friends helped my family in
many ways, and we were forever grateful to them. I am single and always felt that
I could give to others and make a small difference in my community and with Canadian
charities.
While I was an employee, I participated in fundraising activities to support the bursary
and scholarship fund. I would not have been able to attend Lakehead University in
Thunder Bay if I had not benefited from bursaries and a scholarship for my studies
so I have always remembered the difference it made for me.
Throughout my life and career, I have always been grateful to have received my bursaries
and scholarship, it changed my life and led me to my career.
Q. Do you still donate today and where?
A. I always try to donate to the Sask Polytech Student Emergency Fund and annual giving fund. I also give to Lakehead University, to the University of Regina (U of R) and I give
what I can to charities in Regina. I also support those who make appeals on behalf
of health causes like the CNIB, Salvation Army, Souls Harbour, Regina Food Bank and
others.
Over the years with my work and volunteer time, I have met so many people and have
kept in touch with a number of them on a regular basis, these people are long time
co-workers and we share the work history at Sask Polytech.
Q. Do you help out with any local fundraising initiatives?
A. I served on the U of R Senior University Group (SUG) board for a term as secretary
and was secretary of the education committee. Over the years, I have been involved
as a volunteer with the SUG fundraiser, their Big Book Sale. We are so thankful to
the many people who donated books, DVD’s, LP’s, sheet music as well for other categories
for our fundraiser. We thank the many community members who come to the sale days
and find their treasures and purchase so much.
Q. Are you still in Regina and what are you keeping busy at?
A. I am still living in Regina and have been taking non-credit classes for adult learners
at the Lifelong Learning Centre, Seniors University Group (SUG) at the U of R College
Avenue Campus. I just love taking these classes and have met so many other adult learners.
I have become friends with some of the people in the classes and go out for coffee
and lunch. As well, I have noticed that other Sask Polytech employees are also registered
in classes so it is great chatting with them.
Q. One final question. What would you say to others thinking about giving?
A. I would suggest or advise others who have graduated from other educational institutions,
like Sask Polytech that it is important to remember your roots and how you benefited
from your education and if you can ‘just make a difference for a student involved
in their learning journey’.
Open your heart on Giving Day, December 3 and show the power of what our Sask Polytech community can do to make a difference in shaping a student’s future. Learn more at alumni.saskpolytech.ca/givingday