Faculty of Fine Arts Gold Medal winner: Hana Hubley

Hana Hubley (BMus '23) is a music student whose artistic success has reached the national stage. While maintaining the highest standard of academic excellence, she has worked tirelessly as an exemplar and an advocate for her program and has become a recognizable face in the larger Lethbridge music community. Hana is the recipient of the Faculty of Fine Arts Gold Medal. We congratulate Hana as she begins her career in the U of L recruitment office in Calgary.

I see this recognition as a mirror, which symbolizes my path as a musician at the University of Lethbridge, and outside of it. This has reminded me of how far I have come and how much I have grown from a shy, not-so-sure-of-herself, tuba player, to a capable musician and active member of a larger global music community. I like to think that my 19-year-old self would be proud of who I am today, and I have certainly surpassed my own expectations of who I would be at the end of my degree.

Meet Hana. Tenacious. Knows how to succeed. Expects the unexpected.
Hometown: Airdrie, Alberta
Program: Bachelor of Music | Major: Music Studio

What does this academic recognition mean to you?

I am absolutely honoured to be awarded this recognition — truly unexpected. I do not seek accolades for pursuing my passions and following the things that give me joy, so when I received the notice that I was the chosen recipient, I was speechless. I know that many of my hardworking and talented friends and colleagues were also considered for this award, so being considered alongside them is a great privilege. In my opinion, this recognition is not about me; it’s about the creative and dedicated minds that flourish within the Faculty of Fine Arts who add great colour and spirit to our University community. I am just one person out of the hundreds of students in the faculty who wake up every day to strive to be better creatives. I see this recognition as a mirror, which symbolizes my path as a musician at ULethbridge, and outside of it. This has reminded me of how far I have come and how much I have grown, from a shy, not-so-sure-of-herself, tuba player, to a capable musician and active member of a larger global music community. I like to think that my 19-year-old self would be proud of who I am today, and I have certainly surpassed my own expectations of who I would be at the end of my degree.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?

It is difficult to narrow down my most memorable experience to just one. I am so fortunate to have had an abundance of life-altering opportunities while at ULethbridge. My graduation recital was certainly one of the most memorable. Four and a half years of study and practice led up to an hour-long performance that I showcased to my friends, family, and instructors. Performing live is a feeling like no other, and sharing the stage with talented musicians was incredibly impactful and memorable. Performing in Taiwan with the University of Lethbridge Wind Orchestra in my first semester of university (2018) was equally as memorable, and now being asked to conduct the same ensemble for this year's ceremonies truly makes my time at ULethbridge feel as though it has come full circle.

What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at ULethbridge?

Follow your joy! There are an infinite number of paths to take from when you take your first steps on campus, to when you walk the stage at convocation, but none of those paths matter if you are not happy and fulfilled while you walk them. I have been introduced to phenomenal individuals and communities around Lethbridge and the globe, that have supported me and encouraged me as I navigated my time in university, and I would not have met them if not for finding what sparks my joy and following that light.

Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

Dr. Nick Sullivan, my low brass instructor, mentor, and friend. There are numerous individuals who have helped shape me into the musician I am today, but Nick has certainly been the driving force in ensuring that I strive for what I want and reach my goals. He is a fierce advocate for his students and has always encouraged us to go big or go home. I am privileged to call him a friend, and a confidant in both my professional and personal life, and my life would have taken a completely different direction if not for his guidance and support over these last five years.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

I was recently hired as a student recruitment officer for ULethbridge based out of the Calgary Campus and am very excited to begin working! This position fulfills my love of community building, and although it is not directly related to the music industry, I am excited to meet prospective music students as I visit schools across Northern Alberta. I will continue making music by joining ensembles in Calgary and hope to teach low brass privately in the future.

What advice would you give those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

Lean into the excitement of the unknown. It's terrifying to start university, especially if you have just completed high school. However, if there's anything I have learned in my own life recently, it is that you never know what's going to happen, both good and bad, but that's just life, isn't it? Might as well be excited about not knowing what's right around the corner, it keeps life interesting.

Congratulations, Hana!