School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit Winner Madison Badger
School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit Winner Madison Badger's (MA '25) time at the University of Lethbridge was shaped by persistence, community and a growing confidence in her voice as a researcher. Through challenges and self-discovery, she emerged with a thesis she’s proud of — Queering Cultural Resource Management: Defying Norms in CRM Archaeology — and a deeper belief in the value of her work. What stands out most, though, are the people who supported her and the moments, big and small, that made Lethbridge feel like more than just a stop along the way.
Meet Madison | Medal won: School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit
Program: Master of Arts | Major: Anthropology
What does this academic recognition mean to you?
I experienced many challenges throughout this degree, so to come out on the other side with a project I feel proud of was more than I could have hoped for, and this award is proof of how far I have come over the last three years. It means so much to me that others can see how much dedication and care I put in over the course of my time at ULethbridge. My research pushes against the status quo and aims to platform marginalized voices, so it makes me feel hopeful for the future of research and academia that others see value in this work.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?
This might be a bit biased, as it only happened recently, but I would have to say the day of my thesis defence. The defence itself wasn't the highlight of the day, though; what truly made that day memorable was the outpouring of support I got from everyone close to me. My committee, loved ones, and other members of the University of Lethbridge community were thrilled for me and excited to see me succeed. Being able to celebrate with my loved ones after successfully defending my thesis made the day even better.
What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at ULethbridge?
The most important lesson I learned during my time at ULethbridge was to trust myself, especially during the final writing stage of my thesis and the thesis defence process. In those last few months, I was told by almost everyone in my life: you are the expert now. Once I began believing that I am the expert in my research, I became much more confident in my abilities.
Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?
I want to thank my committee (Suzanne Lenon, Katie Biittner) and my supervisor, Patrick Wilson, for their guidance. Many more people positively contributed to my experience at ULethbridge in one way or another than I could list. Seriously, the acknowledgements section in my thesis took a ridiculously long time to edit, because I just wanted to thank everyone.
What advice would you give to those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?
I would say to enjoy the little things about the campus and Lethbridge in general. When I was there, I used to joke about how it was "just Lethbridge," but now, whenever I get the chance to come back and visit, I am always hit with how much I miss it.
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