Faculty of Arts & Science - ULethbridge Stories

Shining Student Lena Dornan

Lena's time at ULethbridge has been shaped by her love of languages and lifelong learning. Having grown up in French Immersion and learned Spanish through travel and her studies, she's now ready to share her passion for literacy as she fulfills her dream of teaching internationally in Mexico.

Celebrating 15 years of the Spanish Summer Immersion Program: A journey of language, culture, and transformation

Fifteen years ago, a vision took root at the University of Lethbridge — a vision to take Spanish language learning beyond the classroom walls and into the vibrant streets of Spanish-speaking communities.

Shining Student Michael D'Souza

Michael, a PhD candidate in Biomolecular Science, chose ULethbridge for its unique focus on viral research and the collaborative, supportive environment of the Laboratory of Medicinal Biophysics under Dr. Trushar Patel.

Shining Student Tait Hoyem

Tait Hoyem’s journey to the University of Lethbridge began as a practical decision to transfer credits from Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). However, what started as a convenient pathway has transformed into a deeply meaningful academic and personal experience.

Shining Student Carl Day

Carl Day began his studies at the University of Lethbridge in 2021, initially planning to pursue a career in accounting. However, after some guidance from his father, Carl made the switch to science, choosing chemistry as his field of study — he’s not a fan of microscopes!

Shining Student SarahAnn Walker

SarahAnn Walker’s ULethbridge journey began in 2020 after her inspiring experience in the HYRS program. She discovered her passion for biochemistry while working in the University’s labs as a high school student.

Shining Student Cameron Bluekens

Meet Cameron Bluekens, a dedicated Bachelor of Arts student majoring in philosophy at the University of Lethbridge. Through curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to explore new ideas, Cameron has navigated an evolving academic journey that reflects her passion for learning and self-discovery.

Shining Student Emily Carver

From unravelling the mysteries of black hole binaries through hands-on research to mastering the art of learning in a wind orchestra, Emily Carver has embraced every opportunity to grow academically, personally, and creatively.

Shining Student David Forestell

Balancing his roles as a husband and father, and driven by a passion for learning and a commitment to making the world a better place, David Forestell has found inspiration in the classroom and beyond.

Shining Student Scott Tersteeg

Scott Tersteeg (BSc '22) is a dedicated biochemistry graduate student whose journey at ULethbridge began with a passion for research. Now pursuing his Master of Science, Scott focuses on RNA viruses like Dengue and West Nile, studying their replication processes to identify potential drug targets.

Shining Student Cameron Anderson

Cameron’s academic journey is a testament to the transformative power of curiosity. Initially drawn to political science through a liberal education requirement, he discovered a passion for exploring how political environments shape human development.

Shining Student Liz Radke

Liz Radke has always known she wanted to teach. The oldest of six, Liz vividly recalls gathering her siblings to teach them 'school' with complete lessons and report cards. Today, Liz brings that same enthusiasm for teaching to the classroom, where her love for education remains unwavering.

Shining Student Divya Pateliya

Divya Pateliya is laying the foundation for a future at the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship. At the University of Lethbridge, he has merged his interests in computer science and business as he pursues a combined degrees program.

Shining Student Danika Tarasewich

Meet Danika Tarasewich, a student whose path at ULethbridge has been defined by resilience, curiosity, and a genuine connection to the community.

2025 Play Right Prize winners create compelling written tales

Tales of friendship, youth and motherhood are the topics of the winning scripts of the 2025 Play Right Prize Competition.

Shining Student Marc Tardif

A dedicated mycologist and bowyer, Marc is channeling his curiosity and passion for the natural world into his University of Lethbridge experience, bringing enthusiasm to both his personal pursuits and his teaching.

Shining Student Emma Marnik

Emma Marnik has embraced every opportunity to learn and grow at ULethbridge, combining her passion for environmental science with hands-on experiences in the lab and field.

Shining Student Madison Abar

Madison Abar’s time at ULethbridge has been defined by her passion for anthropology and community-engaged research.

Shining Student Jesse Clarke

After starting at the University of Lethbridge at 29, Jesse Clarke has embraced the fusion of traditional Blackfoot knowledge and environmental science, carving out a deeply personal and impactful path.

Shining Student Niihtaapookaa (Old Man River Child), Tatiana Weasel Moccasin

At the University of Lethbridge, Niihtaapookaa (Old Man River Child), Tatiana Weasel Moccasin has worked as a research assistant, travelled to Mexico for school, and embraced opportunities to enhance her creativity through creative writing and Indigenous art courses.

Shining Student Ryley Chalack

Ryley Chalack’s passion for translational research has been shaped by the challenges he’s encountered in ULethbridge labs. Collaborating with colleagues, analyzing complex data, and developing innovative solutions mirror the adaptability required in medicine — his ultimate career goal.

Shining Student Chandra Suryadevara

With a passion for robotics and innovation, computer science student Chandra Suryadevara has transformed his ULethbridge journey by diving into experiential learning.

Shining Student Taylor Manns

Taylor Manns chose ULethbridge for its small class sizes and opportunities for undergraduate research. Returning in 2021 after a break to reassess her academic path, she discovered their passion for urban and regional studies and embraced it wholeheartedly.

Shining Student Valerie Duenas

Valerie chose ULethbridge for its excellent psychology program and convenient location. The university’s course offerings and professors’ research areas inspired her to pursue her passion for psychology.

Shining Student Ash Mosabeb-Omran

Ash Mosabeb-Omran’s journey at ULethbridge exemplifies the power of discovery and growth. From exploring freshwater ecosystems to leading groundbreaking synthetic biology research as the iGEM wet lab lead, Ash has embraced every opportunity to learn, connect, and innovate.