Only two words are needed to describe school spirit at the University of Lethbridge — Dennis Connolly.
Dr. Dennis Connolly (LLD ’17) was hired to teach mathematics in 1967 when the U of L was a mere fledgling and he’s been a fixture ever since. Not only is he an excellent teacher, he willingly gives his time and support to the U of L and the larger community. He helped found the Supporting Our Students (SOS) Campaign, an annual fundraising campaign whereby faculty, staff and retirees raise money for student awards and on-campus student-focused initiatives.
“I have always agreed with the great Pierre Berton that college and university education should be free,” says Connolly. “Our students should not be constantly worried about school expenses and graduating with debts in the tens of thousands of dollars. Until it is free, we must help them as much as possible and every little bit helps.”
His commitment to his students is demonstrated by the fact he gets to know students who enrol in his classes each semester, which, given his 54-year career at the U of L, now number in the thousands. His efforts haven’t gone unnoticed as he was awarded the 2018-2019 Students’ Union Teaching Excellence Award.
Connolly is also a stalwart fan of all Pronghorn teams and a supporter of Pronghorn Athletics. He attends most Faculty of Fine Arts productions and has a special love for opera. He’s a regular supporter of the campus United Way campaign. In recognition of efforts in promoting a positive school spirit, Connolly received the 2009 Senate Volunteer Award. In 2019, Connolly was feted at Wine & Dine: Arts & Science Scholarship Dinner and the Dr. Dennis Connolly Entrance Scholarship was established as a result.
His unwavering enthusiasm for students and the University is inspiring to us all.
SHINE: The Campaign for the University of Lethbridge launched in 2018 with two main goals: to significantly increase engagement opportunities for alumni and community members and to raise $100 million to propel the entire region forward. Thanks to your support, we have surpassed these goals. More than 20,000 alumni are now actively engaged with the University and, thanks to the incredible generosity of 11,000 donors who made 33,000 gifts, we have raised more than $103 million.
Thank you for joining us to take bold steps toward a brighter future together.