The University of Lethbridge Alumni Association (ULAA) is pleased to recognize those in the alumni community who have achieved significant accomplishments by inducting six new members into the Alumni Honour Society.
“We are incredibly pleased to recognize this year’s honour society inductees,” says Jason Elliott, president of the ULAA. “This year’s inductees showcase the value of a liberal education and the scope of impact our alumni have. Each individual has carved out an exemplary path for themselves, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.”
2021 Alumni Honour Society Inductees
Rhonda Crow (BMgt ‘99, Certificate in Mgt ‘97)
Rhonda Crow is the Indigenous learning and program coordinator for Indigenous Governance and Business Management with the Dhillon School of Business, providing Indigenous students with support and resources to guide them on their post-secondary journeys. For more than a decade, Crow has coordinated the Elders in Residence program, which brings an Elder to campus to offer guidance and cultural support to the campus community. From managing the Malaysia work study program to campaigning for significant Indigenization priorities, Crow has dedicated her career to upholding uLethbridge’s reputation. Rhonda actively volunteers with organizations including the Indigenous Women’s Council, the Blackfoot Women’s Empowerment project, the Education Committee of CANDO and Blackfoot Family Lodge Society. Crow’s commitment to quality work has built stronger communities on campus and beyond.
Christine Dagenais (BMgt ‘04)
Christine Dagenais is the Founder and CEO of Bright Wire, Alberta’s premier leadership development and professional coaching firm. Leading a team of highly skilled executive coaches, she has worked with organizations, including Fortune 500 from across the globe, to drive leadership strategies and accelerate cultures of performance. She’s developed proprietary coaching and leadership development assessments and curriculum and taught at the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business for the Executive MBA Leadership Development Program, enabling future generations of powerful leaders. Christine volunteers with numerous charitable organizations and served on the Board of Directors for Green Calgary and Light Up the World (LUTW), an Alberta-based international NGO bringing solar electricity to developing nations. Christine authored, The Intentional MBA: A Guide to Maximizing Your Decision, Experience and Investment.
Raeleen Manjak (BA/BEd ‘92)
Dr. Raeleen Manjak is a published author, dedicated educator and recognized human resources professional. As the director of human resources for the City of Vernon, she balances the needs of her team with the long-term strategic goals of the region. Manjak brings groups together in meaningful ways, and over her career she has spearheaded initiatives around diversity and inclusion, strategic capacity building and leadership, cultural competency and anti-oppression, as well as health and wellness. Building strong relationships is at Manjak's core, and she is never more fulfilled in her work than when the people around her are successful. Her people-centered approach is bolstered by her personal philosophy that “together, we are better,” an idea she embodies in all she does.
Robert Mein (BA ‘96)
Robert Mein is a commanding officer with the Canadian Armed Forces as well as the head of interpretation at the Remington Carriage Museum in Cardston, Alberta. As an officer, Mein is a leader with a commitment to developing physically, emotionally and mentally balanced soldiers. Through determination and a high level of care, Mein has built a career as a trusted military leader, and has coordinated relief operations for floods, forest fires and, most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. His work as an interpreter allows him to preserve the stories of the past while building meaningful connections with his community. For Mein, a learning culture is most important, and is something he emphasizes both in leading through the challenges of the army and unpacking the stories that shape our history.
Robert Tanguay (BSc ‘08)
Dr. Robert Tanguay is a psychiatrist trained in the areas of addiction medicine and pain medicine, making him one of very few nationwide with both specialties. Tanguay brings his expertise to many roles, from lecturing in addiction studies at the University of Calgary, to commitments with numerous clinics, boards and professional associations. Between practicing medicine, teaching and researching, Tanguay educates primary care colleagues and allied health professionals so they can better understand chronic pain and addiction. Most recently, Tanguay helped found and is the chief medical officer/vice-president of The Newly Institute. This project aims to revolutionize how people access treatment and move forward from addiction. Addressing trauma and making it OK for people to get help is key to Tanguay’s vision of recovery.
Amy Whipple (BA ‘07)
Amy Whipple initially launched Sugar Bakeshop, a home-based commercial bakery, to juggle raising a family while pursuing her passions. Trial and error taught Whipple the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, and after years of baking specialty cakes she founded WHIPS Caramels, an artisan caramel shop. Despite her candies reaching worldwide distribution, Whipple’s motivations have always been community minded. In 2015, she started “Sugar Gives,” providing cakes to local families impacted by the illness of a child. Additionally, Whipple launched the “Share Love” campaign, where proceeds from heart-shaped caramels go towards purchasing essential winter items for kids in need. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Amy has supported other small businesses in their transition to the e-commerce space and provided guidance to working moms who found themselves at home full-time.