(Left to right) Dr. Kurt Klein, Abigail Wilson (BA ’25), Hannah Wilson (BSc ’21, MA ’26), Penni Wilson (BN ’04, MSc ’14), Shirley Klein (B.Mgt ’80), Jamie Klein (BA ’01, BEd ’10), Brad Klein and Pat Wilson (BA ’88) at ULethbridge Spring 2026 Convocation.
When Hannah Wilson crossed the stage to receive her master’s degree at Spring 2026 Convocation, she was completing the circle on a family legacy spanning three generations of ULethbridge connections.
The University of Lethbridge has had an important role in the Klein family’s history, and while the family gathered this spring to celebrate Wilson’s accomplishment, the event also recognized the family’s lifelong commitment to ULethbridge education, teaching and learning.
Grandfather Dr. Kurt Klein, professor of economics, paved the way for the family, followed by his daughter Penni Wilson (BN ’04, MSc ’14), now an instructor in the nursing program; and granddaughter Hannah (BSc ’21, MA ’26).
Raised on a farm in northern Saskatchewan, Kurt learned early the values of hard work, perseverance and adaptability. What began as a practical decision to take a year of university classes during Canada's Centennial evolved into a lifelong passion for learning and academia. Through unexpected challenges, career moves and a willingness to embrace unforeseen opportunities, he built a distinguished academic career. This year, Klein was recognized for 45 years of service at ULethbridge, demonstrating his commitment to education and scholarship.
His journey continues to inspire ensuing generations of his family, showing how humble roots, curiosity and determination can create opportunities beyond what was once imagined.
“I have been so lucky in my adult lifetime to have these opportunities, and my children and grandchildren are following my path — only they are getting there more quickly than I did,” says Klein.
ULethbridge has played an important role in his family's story. His wife, daughter, daughter-in-law, son-in-law and granddaughters are all ULethbridge graduates, and his son, Brad Klein, has extended the family’s dedication to post-secondary education through Lethbridge Polytechnic.
“The University has become more than a workplace; it has become a vibrant part of our family’s story,” says Klein.
The family’s multi-generational history was highlighted at the convocation ceremony. As Hannah received her master's degree, her grandfather and her mother were on stage as faculty members.
“I put a lot of time and effort into this degree, and I had an incredible amount of support from my family, so having them stand with me on the convocation stage feels like a full circle moment,” says Hannah.
For as long as she can remember, ULethbridge has been a constant presence in Hannah’s life. She grew up attending summer camps, meeting her grandfather’s colleagues at various events and visiting the campus frequently.
During her undergraduate degree in archaeology at ULethbridge, she developed a growing interest in human geography, which led her to pursue a master’s degree combining both fields. Throughout her studies, she participated in archaeological field schools, including work at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and in Jordan.
“Throughout these experiences, I made lifelong friends, supervised and taught undergraduate students and I have had the opportunity for continuous learning while working on multiple projects,” says Hannah.
It is this shared passion for education, teaching and learning that has come to define the Klein-Wilson family’s enduring connection to the University of Lethbridge.
