June 2006 ISSUE
Mark Skovmose
STUDENT COLUMNS
‘My True Home is the University’
Her three degrees were earned at the University of Calgary. Now, geomatics head Dr. Elizabeth Cannon, P.Eng., is stepping up to the dean’s chair at the Schulich School of Engineering.
BY MARK SKOVMOSE
University of Calgary
Student Contributor (Engineering)
The search for a new Schulich School of Engineering Dean has resulted in a match close to home. Dr. Elizabeth Cannon, P.Eng., a three-time alumnus of the University of Calgary and a two-time APEGGA Summit Award winner, has been named the dean effective July 1.
She takes over from the outgoing dean, Dr. Chan Wirasinghe, P.Eng.
I’ve worked with Dr. Cannon a number of times and I’m happy to see her step into this role. I had the chance to chat with her about her new position and what lies ahead.
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DR. ELIZABETH CANNON, P.ENG. . . . |
Mark Skovmose: I’m sure you have a busy schedule, thank you for taking the time for this interview. Tell us a bit about yourself.
Dr. Elizabeth Cannon: In 1982 I moved to Calgary and received my bachelor of science, my master of science and my PhD in geomatics engineering at the University of Calgary. I worked in Calgary for a small engineering firm for a couple years, but my true home was at the university. I returned as a research professor and eventually took the role as Department of Geomatics head.
MS: That’s a great history with the university, and it’s especially exciting to see an alumnus take the reins. What made you decide to accept the position of dean?
EC: I felt I was a good match for the position, given my skills and leadership abilities. The Schulich School of Engineering is one of the top research schools in Canada and internationally, and the quality of education makes it the first choice for engineering. It was a good time in my career for a new challenge.
MS: What do you envision for the Schulich School of Engineering in the next five years?
EC: Our school has a first-choice vision, and is in line to become the top
school in Canada. There will be focus on student recruitment and the student
experience. With the new resources available from the Schulich donation, the
school will reach beyond Calgary to bring the best Canadian and International
students. These students will be able to grow intellectually and personally in
our school.
I intend to create a new position specifically for first-year students. With
the common core first-year program, these students aren’t covered by specific
departments and this new person will welcome and advise them. This director of
first years will work extensively with the Engineering Students’ Society
to engage the first-year students and help them get more involved.
Research will be defined in the next five years, focusing on today’s issues. Energy and environment research will expand with new provincial government access funding. We are going to work toward an energy and environmental engineering program.
MS: Space is tight around the university, and class sizes have steadily increased over time. Despite this, how can the student experience be improved?
EC: Our school must ensure personal space for every student and there are plans to overhaul many student spaces, such as the lounge and Engineering Drop-in Centre. This will be quality space for students to study and socialize. With the Schulich funds, there are opportunities for students to get involved in leadership, clubs and groups.
A new building is in the works, but it won’t be finished for a few years. Until then, we will focus on space planning and efficiency. As well, class sizes are going to be reduced. The school has plans to increase incoming enrolment, but it has to make sense and we must proceed cautiously. It’s better to ensure the quality of education doesn’t suffer.
MS: Internationalizing the school was a large part of the outgoing dean’s plans. What are your intentions with this plan?
EC: Not everyone wants to travel internationally, but those who do should be given the opportunity. On the same note, international students should be able to come to our school. The funds should help students develop their leadership qualities. It’s all individual choice in how they choose to find that.
MS: Thank you again and congratulations on your new post.
EC: Thank you. It’s going to be fun.