FACULTY WHO TAUGHT IN THE RECREATION
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 1969 - 2012
The following is a list of people who, over the years, have contributed to the development and/or delivery of the Acadia Recreation program. In addition to full time faculty, there were individuals who had been contracted to fill in when regular faculty were on leave, and others whose experience and expertise was desired to deliver a specific course. Faculty are listed in the chronological order in which first served in the program, and details are provided related to their academic credentials, nature of their involvement, and where they went upon departing the program. The data were compiled in 2020.
GIB CHAPMAN (DIRECTOR) - AAS (Ricker), BS, MS Ed (Maine), PE Dir (Indiana)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1969
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. He served as the Clifford Shand Chair of Recreation & Physical Education. Gib came to Acadia in 1967 as Basketball coach and Athletic Director. He served as the first Dean of the School of Recreation and Physical Education. (1967-1976)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Gib left Acadia in 1976 and has since taught and coached at the University of Guelph, the University of Toronto, and the University of New Hampshire. He was inducted into the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame in 2012.
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. He served as the Clifford Shand Chair of Recreation & Physical Education. Gib came to Acadia in 1967 as Basketball coach and Athletic Director. He served as the first Dean of the School of Recreation and Physical Education. (1967-1976)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Gib left Acadia in 1976 and has since taught and coached at the University of Guelph, the University of Toronto, and the University of New Hampshire. He was inducted into the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame in 2012.
DAVE JOOS - Bed (U New Hampshire), MAPE (CSU San Diego)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1969
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. Dave served as soccer coach, intramurals director, spring camp coordinator, and an instructor in programming and outdoor recreation. (1969-1987)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: In 1987, Dave left Acadia to return to his native California.
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. Dave served as soccer coach, intramurals director, spring camp coordinator, and an instructor in programming and outdoor recreation. (1969-1987)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: In 1987, Dave left Acadia to return to his native California.
LIZ VERMEULEN - BPE (UNB), MSc (Oregon State)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1969
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. Liz coached womens field hockey, basketball, curling, and volleyball and taught the required physical education course to all females on campus. Her area of teaching expertise was in adapted sport and she served on a number of local, provincial and national Boards. (1966-1998)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Retired in 1998, Liz lives in the Valley and remains an avid sports fan. She was inducted into the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame in 1998.
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. Liz coached womens field hockey, basketball, curling, and volleyball and taught the required physical education course to all females on campus. Her area of teaching expertise was in adapted sport and she served on a number of local, provincial and national Boards. (1966-1998)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Retired in 1998, Liz lives in the Valley and remains an avid sports fan. She was inducted into the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame in 1998.
ROBERT (BOB) A VESPAZIANI - BS, MEd (Springfield)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1969
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. A football coach hailing from Massachusetts, Bob was named conference coach of the year 3 times. (1968-1978)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: After serving as head coach for 10 years, Bob went on to the CFL where he coached with Saskatchewan, Calgary, Winnipeg, and BC appearing 7 times in the Grey Cup and winning 3. He retired from coaching as Head coach of the Queen’s Gaels in 2011. He was inducted into the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame in 1992.
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. A football coach hailing from Massachusetts, Bob was named conference coach of the year 3 times. (1968-1978)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: After serving as head coach for 10 years, Bob went on to the CFL where he coached with Saskatchewan, Calgary, Winnipeg, and BC appearing 7 times in the Grey Cup and winning 3. He retired from coaching as Head coach of the Queen’s Gaels in 2011. He was inducted into the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame in 1992.
DON WELLS - BPE, MEd (UNB), Bed (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1969
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. Don came to Acadia in 1964 to pursue his BEd and to play hockey. Upon graduation, he assumed the job as coach of the hockey Axemen, a position he held for 19 years. He was also a Physical Education professor and served as the Athletic Director for 13 years. (1972-2007).
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Don passed away of cancer in 2009 at age 66. He was inducted into the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame in 1998.
One of the 5 coaches who started the academic program. Don came to Acadia in 1964 to pursue his BEd and to play hockey. Upon graduation, he assumed the job as coach of the hockey Axemen, a position he held for 19 years. He was also a Physical Education professor and served as the Athletic Director for 13 years. (1972-2007).
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Don passed away of cancer in 2009 at age 66. He was inducted into the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame in 1998.
WENDY ANDREWS - BPE (Memorial), MSc (Oregon)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1970/1971
Wendy had just completed her Masters degree in Oregon and came to Acadia as volleyball coach and as a course instructor. (1970-1973)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Wendy left Acadia to pursue her PhD at Indiana University. Upon graduation, she worked as a biomechanics professor at the University of Alberta for 10 years. She (Wendy Bedingfield) was seconded to back to Acadia is 1986.
Wendy had just completed her Masters degree in Oregon and came to Acadia as volleyball coach and as a course instructor. (1970-1973)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Wendy left Acadia to pursue her PhD at Indiana University. Upon graduation, she worked as a biomechanics professor at the University of Alberta for 10 years. She (Wendy Bedingfield) was seconded to back to Acadia is 1986.
BOB WATTS - BSc, MSc (Oregon), PhD (New Mexico)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1972/1973
Bob was the first academic hired to work in the Recreation degree program. He was the first Director and principle founder of the Center of Leisure Studies, later renamed the Recreation Resource Centre of Nova Scotia. (1973-1976)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: An American, Bob left Acadia in 1976 to pursue academic interests back in the US Midwest
Bob was the first academic hired to work in the Recreation degree program. He was the first Director and principle founder of the Center of Leisure Studies, later renamed the Recreation Resource Centre of Nova Scotia. (1973-1976)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: An American, Bob left Acadia in 1976 to pursue academic interests back in the US Midwest
WILLIAM (BILL) WHITE - BCom (Dal), BEd (Acadia), MEd, MdD (Boston)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1973/1974
Bill came to Acadia to replace Wendy Andrews (Bedingfield) as an instructor and volleyball coach. Prior to coming to that, Bill was a consultant in Health, Physical Education and Recreation for Nova Scotia's Department of Education. He established the first physical education teacher training program in the province at Nova Scotia Teacher's College. Bill’s areas of expertise included management and leisure concepts, and in addition to teaching played a key role in the Master’s program. He served as the first Dean of Management and Education (Professional Studies) at Acadia as well as Director of Continuing Education, and Dean of Graduate Studies. (1973-1995)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Bill left Acadia in 1995 to work for the provincial government as Executive Director of the Sport and Recreation Commission. He retired in the Annapolis Valley where he passed away in 2016, having enjoyed a number of years enjoying the leisure lifestyle that he had professed for so long.
Bill came to Acadia to replace Wendy Andrews (Bedingfield) as an instructor and volleyball coach. Prior to coming to that, Bill was a consultant in Health, Physical Education and Recreation for Nova Scotia's Department of Education. He established the first physical education teacher training program in the province at Nova Scotia Teacher's College. Bill’s areas of expertise included management and leisure concepts, and in addition to teaching played a key role in the Master’s program. He served as the first Dean of Management and Education (Professional Studies) at Acadia as well as Director of Continuing Education, and Dean of Graduate Studies. (1973-1995)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Bill left Acadia in 1995 to work for the provincial government as Executive Director of the Sport and Recreation Commission. He retired in the Annapolis Valley where he passed away in 2016, having enjoyed a number of years enjoying the leisure lifestyle that he had professed for so long.
GLYN BISSIX - CED (Exeter), DPE (St Lukes), BSc, MSc (Oregon), PhD (London School of Economics)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1974/1975
Glyn came to Acadia from Oregon in 1974, where he had worked in municipal recreation. His areas of interest and expertise included outdoor recreation, policy and planning, and environmental resource management. He left Acadia in 1978 to work for the provincial government but returned in 1981 and continues to serve as a professor.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: He currently (2020) serves as Director of the Community Development program.
Glyn came to Acadia from Oregon in 1974, where he had worked in municipal recreation. His areas of interest and expertise included outdoor recreation, policy and planning, and environmental resource management. He left Acadia in 1978 to work for the provincial government but returned in 1981 and continues to serve as a professor.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: He currently (2020) serves as Director of the Community Development program.
JAMES (JIM) BAYER - BPE (UNB), MScPE (Springfield)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1975/1976
Jim replaced Gib Chapman as Dean of the School of Recreation and Physical Education as well as the Director of Athletics. Prior to coming to Acadia, he was the founding Director of Operations for the Nova Scotia Department of Recreation. (1975-1985)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Jim died of cancer in 1985 at the age of 47. His students at the time, who admired him greatly, established the James D Bayer Award in his memory. The award is given annually to a graduating student, chosen by his or her peers, who possesses characteristics similar to his own: leadership, mentorship, and friendship. Jim was posthumously inducted into the Acadia Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.
Jim replaced Gib Chapman as Dean of the School of Recreation and Physical Education as well as the Director of Athletics. Prior to coming to Acadia, he was the founding Director of Operations for the Nova Scotia Department of Recreation. (1975-1985)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Jim died of cancer in 1985 at the age of 47. His students at the time, who admired him greatly, established the James D Bayer Award in his memory. The award is given annually to a graduating student, chosen by his or her peers, who possesses characteristics similar to his own: leadership, mentorship, and friendship. Jim was posthumously inducted into the Acadia Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.
ROGER MANNELL - BA (McMaster), MPE, PhD (Windsor)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1975/1976
Roger replaced Bob Watts as Director of the Centre of Leisure Studies. His specialty areas include the social psychology of leisure, work and leisure, leisure and wellness, aging, and time use. (1975-1979).
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Roger left Acadia to become the Chair of the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, and Dean of Applied Health Sciences at U Waterloo. He had a distinguished career as one of the leading social scientists studying leisure behaviour in the world and has received many of the top awards in the field. Prior to retirement, Roger served as Director of the U Waterloo-Royal Bank of Canada Retirement Research Centre.
Roger replaced Bob Watts as Director of the Centre of Leisure Studies. His specialty areas include the social psychology of leisure, work and leisure, leisure and wellness, aging, and time use. (1975-1979).
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Roger left Acadia to become the Chair of the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, and Dean of Applied Health Sciences at U Waterloo. He had a distinguished career as one of the leading social scientists studying leisure behaviour in the world and has received many of the top awards in the field. Prior to retirement, Roger served as Director of the U Waterloo-Royal Bank of Canada Retirement Research Centre.
GARY NESS - MA (Western), PhD (Alberta)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1975/1976
Gary was a Physical Education/Kinesiology professor specializing in exercise physiology. He served as Director of the School for a 12 year period. (1975-2009)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Gary retired in 2009 and still lives in the Wolfville area and remains active in coach education. Since his retirement he has biked across Canada, and along the West coast from Canada to Mexico.
Gary was a Physical Education/Kinesiology professor specializing in exercise physiology. He served as Director of the School for a 12 year period. (1975-2009)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Gary retired in 2009 and still lives in the Wolfville area and remains active in coach education. Since his retirement he has biked across Canada, and along the West coast from Canada to Mexico.
WILLIAM (BILL) MCLEOD - BSc (Washington State), MSc (Dal), DPE (Springfield)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1975/1976
Bill served as Director of the School and as Dean of the Faculty of Professional Studies. His expertise was in Motor Learning. (1975-2009)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Bill retired in 2009, lives in the Wolfville area and very much enjoys being a Grandfather.
Bill served as Director of the School and as Dean of the Faculty of Professional Studies. His expertise was in Motor Learning. (1975-2009)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Bill retired in 2009, lives in the Wolfville area and very much enjoys being a Grandfather.
JUDE (DEGUERRE) Hirsch - BSc Rec (Acadia), MEd (Dal), EdD (UBC)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1977/1978
After graduating from the Recreation program, Jude began teaching in it and replaced Glyn Bissix as head of the outdoor recreation specialization, a position she then held for 18 years. She developed many of the outdoor courses, ran spring camp, and developed the challenge (ropes) course on campus. (1977-1996)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Jude (now Hirsch) left in 1996 to become a Professor and Chair, Department of Outdoor Education at Georgia College & State University and recently retired. She lives in Georgia beside a lake where she enjoys year around canoeing and kayaking.
After graduating from the Recreation program, Jude began teaching in it and replaced Glyn Bissix as head of the outdoor recreation specialization, a position she then held for 18 years. She developed many of the outdoor courses, ran spring camp, and developed the challenge (ropes) course on campus. (1977-1996)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Jude (now Hirsch) left in 1996 to become a Professor and Chair, Department of Outdoor Education at Georgia College & State University and recently retired. She lives in Georgia beside a lake where she enjoys year around canoeing and kayaking.
PETER DIFFENDERFER - BS (SUNY Cortland), MA, PhD (Oregon)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1979/1980
During his brief time at Acadia Peter served as Director of the Centre of Leisure Studies replacing Roger Mannell. (1979-1981)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Peter left Acadia in 1981 to return to the US west where he taught in various locations for 25 years. He currently serves as Assistant Dean of the Department of Business and Management, Northwest Christian University.
During his brief time at Acadia Peter served as Director of the Centre of Leisure Studies replacing Roger Mannell. (1979-1981)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Peter left Acadia in 1981 to return to the US west where he taught in various locations for 25 years. He currently serves as Assistant Dean of the Department of Business and Management, Northwest Christian University.
ALEX WRIGHT - Dip Ed (Edinburg), MSc (Springfield College), EdD (Boston)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1979/1980
Alex came to Acadia from Concordia University, and prior to that he served for 9 years as Executive Director of the Montreal YMCA. He served as a professor as well as Acting Director of the SRMK after James Bayer passed away. His interests and expertise were in the conceptual foundations of leisure, as well as in research, and tourism. He played a key role in the development, management and delivery of the Master’s program. (1979-1997)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Alex passed away suddenly in 1997 at 60 years of age. The Alex Wright Award for Outstanding Scholarship was created in his memory, recognizing an undergraduate student who was curious about and engaged in meaningful scholarship.
Alex came to Acadia from Concordia University, and prior to that he served for 9 years as Executive Director of the Montreal YMCA. He served as a professor as well as Acting Director of the SRMK after James Bayer passed away. His interests and expertise were in the conceptual foundations of leisure, as well as in research, and tourism. He played a key role in the development, management and delivery of the Master’s program. (1979-1997)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Alex passed away suddenly in 1997 at 60 years of age. The Alex Wright Award for Outstanding Scholarship was created in his memory, recognizing an undergraduate student who was curious about and engaged in meaningful scholarship.
SHEILA BACKMAN - BS, MA (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1981/1982
After completing her Master of Recreation degree at Acadia, Sheila assumed the position of Director of the Centre of Leisure Studies following Peter Diffenderfer’s departure. Her areas of expertise were leisure and aging, as well as marketing. (1981-83)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Sheila left Acadia to pursue her PhD at Texas A&M in 1983, after which she became a professor and eventually Chair of the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson University where she still works (2020).
After completing her Master of Recreation degree at Acadia, Sheila assumed the position of Director of the Centre of Leisure Studies following Peter Diffenderfer’s departure. Her areas of expertise were leisure and aging, as well as marketing. (1981-83)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Sheila left Acadia to pursue her PhD at Texas A&M in 1983, after which she became a professor and eventually Chair of the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson University where she still works (2020).
BRENDA ROBERTSON - BSc, MR (Acadia), PhD (Oregon)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1983/1984
An Acadia Rec Alumna. Brenda assumed the position of Director of the Centre of Leisure Studies (soon to be renamed Recreation Resource Centre of Nova Scotia) after Sheila Backman departed. She also held a half time faculty position. In 1997, Brenda resigned from the Centre and became a full-time faculty member. Her areas of interest and expertise included Leisure Behaviour, Sociology of Leisure, Leisure Education, Disenfranchised Populations, and Crime and Leisure. (1983-2012)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Brenda retired in 2012 and lives in the Gaspereau Valley. She was a founding member of the Society of Acadia University Recreation Graduates.
An Acadia Rec Alumna. Brenda assumed the position of Director of the Centre of Leisure Studies (soon to be renamed Recreation Resource Centre of Nova Scotia) after Sheila Backman departed. She also held a half time faculty position. In 1997, Brenda resigned from the Centre and became a full-time faculty member. Her areas of interest and expertise included Leisure Behaviour, Sociology of Leisure, Leisure Education, Disenfranchised Populations, and Crime and Leisure. (1983-2012)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Brenda retired in 2012 and lives in the Gaspereau Valley. She was a founding member of the Society of Acadia University Recreation Graduates.
LYLE DAVIS - BSc, MR (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1983/1984
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Lyle served as the acting coordinator of the outdoor recreation program for the year while Jude Hirsch was on leave. On other occasions, he was invited to teach part time within the School, and frequently served on the Spring Camp resource team. Lyle worked as the Assistant Director of Admissions at Acadia, and later as the Coordinator of Research and Development Services at the Recreation Resource Centre of Nova Scotia.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Lyle died during a climbing accident at Lake Louise in 1991 at age 35, while in Alberta to attend the Canadian Parks and Recreation conference. The Lyle Davis Community Engagement Award was established in his memory in 1997.
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Lyle served as the acting coordinator of the outdoor recreation program for the year while Jude Hirsch was on leave. On other occasions, he was invited to teach part time within the School, and frequently served on the Spring Camp resource team. Lyle worked as the Assistant Director of Admissions at Acadia, and later as the Coordinator of Research and Development Services at the Recreation Resource Centre of Nova Scotia.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Lyle died during a climbing accident at Lake Louise in 1991 at age 35, while in Alberta to attend the Canadian Parks and Recreation conference. The Lyle Davis Community Engagement Award was established in his memory in 1997.
Tom Hinch-BA (Brandon), MA (U of A)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1985/1986
Tom was hired for a 2 year period to teach tourism courses while Alex Wright assumed administrative responsibilities. (1985-1987).
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Tom departed in 1987 to pursue his PhD at the University of Western Ontario in Geography. He served as a professor at the U of Alberta until his retirement in 2019.
Tom was hired for a 2 year period to teach tourism courses while Alex Wright assumed administrative responsibilities. (1985-1987).
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Tom departed in 1987 to pursue his PhD at the University of Western Ontario in Geography. He served as a professor at the U of Alberta until his retirement in 2019.
CLARENCE DESHIFFART - BSc, MEd (Acadia), BEd (Queens)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1985/1986
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Clarence was an outdoor and experiential education specialist who filled in while Jude Hirsch was on leave. On other occasions he was invited to teach part time within the School, and he frequently served on the Spring Camp resource team.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: For most of his career, Clarence served as Coordinator of Career Development and Essential Skills at the Nova Scotia Community College. He currently works as a private consultant in career and leadership development in the Annapolis Valley.
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Clarence was an outdoor and experiential education specialist who filled in while Jude Hirsch was on leave. On other occasions he was invited to teach part time within the School, and he frequently served on the Spring Camp resource team.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: For most of his career, Clarence served as Coordinator of Career Development and Essential Skills at the Nova Scotia Community College. He currently works as a private consultant in career and leadership development in the Annapolis Valley.
WENDY BEDINGFIELD - BPE (Memorial), MSc (Oregon), PhD (Indiana)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1986/1987
Formerly Wendy Andrews who taught and coached at Acadia (1970-1973), she returned as Director of the School after Jim Bayer passed away. She was seconded from U of Alberta, where she was running a large biomechanics lab, but accepted an offer to remain at Acadia permanently in 1988. She served as Director of the School 86-92, Dean Faculty of Management & Education 92-95, and Acting Dean Research & Graduate Studies 05-06. Her areas of teaching included leadership, advocacy and social change, sport systems, and gender equity. (1987-2012)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Wendy retired in 2012 and lives on a hobby farm in the Gaspereau Valley near Wolfville. She recently completed 6 years service on the Board of the Canadian Soccer Association, and remain active as an advocate for girls and women is sport and recreation.
Formerly Wendy Andrews who taught and coached at Acadia (1970-1973), she returned as Director of the School after Jim Bayer passed away. She was seconded from U of Alberta, where she was running a large biomechanics lab, but accepted an offer to remain at Acadia permanently in 1988. She served as Director of the School 86-92, Dean Faculty of Management & Education 92-95, and Acting Dean Research & Graduate Studies 05-06. Her areas of teaching included leadership, advocacy and social change, sport systems, and gender equity. (1987-2012)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Wendy retired in 2012 and lives on a hobby farm in the Gaspereau Valley near Wolfville. She recently completed 6 years service on the Board of the Canadian Soccer Association, and remain active as an advocate for girls and women is sport and recreation.
SUSAN MARKHAM-Starr - BS (Alberta), MS (Southern Illinois), MS (Dal), PhD (Alberta)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1987/1988
Susan came to Acadia from Alberta where she worked as a contract researcher and planner. She was the first person to complete a PhD in Recreation and Leisure Studies in Canada. Her main areas of interest and expertise related to agency administration, planning, and the history and philosophy of recreation and leisure. (1987-2011)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Susan retired in 2011/2012 and continues to reside in the local area.
Susan came to Acadia from Alberta where she worked as a contract researcher and planner. She was the first person to complete a PhD in Recreation and Leisure Studies in Canada. Her main areas of interest and expertise related to agency administration, planning, and the history and philosophy of recreation and leisure. (1987-2011)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Susan retired in 2011/2012 and continues to reside in the local area.
DEBBY SMITH - B Recreology (Ottawa), M Rec (Dalhousie)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1987/1988
Debby filled in for Glyn Bissix during a sabbatical leave and served as Coordinator of Research and Workshops at the Recreation Resource Centre.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Debby has worked with the provincial government for many years and recently retired from the position of South Shore Regional Manager Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, and Heritage
Debby filled in for Glyn Bissix during a sabbatical leave and served as Coordinator of Research and Workshops at the Recreation Resource Centre.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Debby has worked with the provincial government for many years and recently retired from the position of South Shore Regional Manager Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, and Heritage
SCOTT HENNIGAR - BRM (Acadia), Cert (Forest Ranger School), M Ed (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1994/1995
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Scott served as the coordinator of the outdoor recreation program for the year while Jude Hirsch was on leave, and when she did not return, he continued to assume certain responsibilities for the outdoor program in contractually limited term positions. He areas of interest and expertise include leadership, outdoor education, and wilderness survival. (1994-present)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Scott continues to teach outdoor content in Kinesiology and Community Development.
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Scott served as the coordinator of the outdoor recreation program for the year while Jude Hirsch was on leave, and when she did not return, he continued to assume certain responsibilities for the outdoor program in contractually limited term positions. He areas of interest and expertise include leadership, outdoor education, and wilderness survival. (1994-present)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Scott continues to teach outdoor content in Kinesiology and Community Development.
BOB SUFFRON - BRM, MRM (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1994/1995
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Bob served as Recreation Director for Municipality of Kings County, and taught a course in open space planning from 1994-1997
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Bob continued to serve as Director of Recreation for Kings County Nova Scotia for many years prior to retirement and resides in the Annapolis Valley.
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Bob served as Recreation Director for Municipality of Kings County, and taught a course in open space planning from 1994-1997
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Bob continued to serve as Director of Recreation for Kings County Nova Scotia for many years prior to retirement and resides in the Annapolis Valley.
SHEILA HOSICK - BRM, MEd (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1995/1996
An Acadia Rec Alumna. Sheila filled a term teaching position, and worked as the Coordinator of Workshop Services at the Recreation Resource Centre.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Sheila, is trained and works as a personal counsellor, worked for the NS Community College system 2004-2016, and has long been a volunteer in working with Concilio Prison Ministry Program.
An Acadia Rec Alumna. Sheila filled a term teaching position, and worked as the Coordinator of Workshop Services at the Recreation Resource Centre.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Sheila, is trained and works as a personal counsellor, worked for the NS Community College system 2004-2016, and has long been a volunteer in working with Concilio Prison Ministry Program.
GREG AUSTIN - BPE (Acadia), MSPE, PhD (Ohio)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1996/1997
Greg is a Kinesiology professor who taught courses in sport management that a number of BRM students took as electives (1997-2001)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Greg left in 2001 to work in the USA and is currently teaching sport management at Colby Sawyer College in New Hampshire.
Greg is a Kinesiology professor who taught courses in sport management that a number of BRM students took as electives (1997-2001)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Greg left in 2001 to work in the USA and is currently teaching sport management at Colby Sawyer College in New Hampshire.
CARROLL RANDALL - BRM (Acadia) & TED MELDRUM - BRM (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1996/1997
Two Acadia Rec graduates, working in municipal recreation, co-taught the programming course. (1996-1997)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Carroll served as Recreation Director for the Municipality of the County of Lunenburg prior to his retirement. He is a founding member of SAURG and currently serves as Board Chair. Ted worked in Recreation in Kings County prior to assuming an instructor position at the NS Community College. He passed away from brain cancer in 2013 at age 54.
Two Acadia Rec graduates, working in municipal recreation, co-taught the programming course. (1996-1997)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Carroll served as Recreation Director for the Municipality of the County of Lunenburg prior to his retirement. He is a founding member of SAURG and currently serves as Board Chair. Ted worked in Recreation in Kings County prior to assuming an instructor position at the NS Community College. He passed away from brain cancer in 2013 at age 54.
WANDA GEORGE - BRM (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1997/1998
An Acadia Rec Alumna. Wanda stepped in to assist the School when Alex Wright passed away and taught courses in tourism and leadership. (1997-1998)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Wanda completed her Masters (St Marys) and PhD (Guelph) with a focus on tourism management and has worked at Mount St Vincent since 2004. She is Founding Director of the World Heritage Tourism Research Network.
An Acadia Rec Alumna. Wanda stepped in to assist the School when Alex Wright passed away and taught courses in tourism and leadership. (1997-1998)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Wanda completed her Masters (St Marys) and PhD (Guelph) with a focus on tourism management and has worked at Mount St Vincent since 2004. She is Founding Director of the World Heritage Tourism Research Network.
ANN DODGE - BPE (Acadia), M Kin (UNB)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1997/1998
With a background in sport and physical activity, Ann taught core courses in Kinesiology as well as developing offerings in the Wellness area that were popular electives with a number of the Recreation students.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Ann continues to teach in the Kinesiology program (2020).
With a background in sport and physical activity, Ann taught core courses in Kinesiology as well as developing offerings in the Wellness area that were popular electives with a number of the Recreation students.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Ann continues to teach in the Kinesiology program (2020).
TOM DELAMERE - BA (Wilfred Laurier), BA Recreation Administration (Alberta), MR (Acadia,) PhD (Alberta)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1998/1999
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Tom came to Acadia from Vancouver Island University and taught tourism and recreation administration courses, filling the position left vacant when Alex Wright passed away. After a year, he decided to return out west. (1998-1999)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Tom returned to Vancouver Island University where he continues to teach.
An Acadia Rec Alumnus. Tom came to Acadia from Vancouver Island University and taught tourism and recreation administration courses, filling the position left vacant when Alex Wright passed away. After a year, he decided to return out west. (1998-1999)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Tom returned to Vancouver Island University where he continues to teach.
PAUL HEINTZMAN - BSc Recreology (Ottawa), MSc Christian Studies (Regent College), PhD (Waterloo)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 1998/1999
Paul arrived after completing his PhD studies at Waterloo to provide teaching expertise in recreation administration and the outdoor area. He served as head of the Masters program as well as heading the outdoor recreation and environmental education area. (1998-2003)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Paul has spent most of his academic career at the University of Ottawa where his scholarly work has focused on leisure and spirituality; recreation and the environment; and the philosophy and ethics of leisure.
Paul arrived after completing his PhD studies at Waterloo to provide teaching expertise in recreation administration and the outdoor area. He served as head of the Masters program as well as heading the outdoor recreation and environmental education area. (1998-2003)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Paul has spent most of his academic career at the University of Ottawa where his scholarly work has focused on leisure and spirituality; recreation and the environment; and the philosophy and ethics of leisure.
JEAN ROBINSON - Dexter-B Recreation (Dalhousie)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 2000/2001
Jean worked in municipal recreation and served as Executive Director of Recreation Nova Scotia. She taught for a year covering courses following Tom Delamere’s departure. (2000-2001)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Jean has served as Director, Horizons Community Development Associates Inc, since 2002.
Jean worked in municipal recreation and served as Executive Director of Recreation Nova Scotia. She taught for a year covering courses following Tom Delamere’s departure. (2000-2001)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Jean has served as Director, Horizons Community Development Associates Inc, since 2002.
JANET LANDRY
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 2000/2001
Janet worked for over 30 years in municipal recreation, youth development, and as an advocate for persons with disabilities. She taught Leisure Behaviour for a term as a sabbatical replacement. (2000-2001)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Janet served as Recreation Director for the towns of Wolfville, and later Windsor, before recertifying as an RN to work in a seniors care facility in the Valley, until retirement in 2020.
Janet worked for over 30 years in municipal recreation, youth development, and as an advocate for persons with disabilities. She taught Leisure Behaviour for a term as a sabbatical replacement. (2000-2001)
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Janet served as Recreation Director for the towns of Wolfville, and later Windsor, before recertifying as an RN to work in a seniors care facility in the Valley, until retirement in 2020.
JOHN COLTON - BA Geography (U Washington), MA PhD Geography (Alberta)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 2001/2002
John previously taught at Lakehead University, and came to Acadia to fill the position left vacant when Alex Wright passed away. His interests and expertise focused on ecotourism, Indigenous tourism development, and community development.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: John continues as a faculty member at Acadia in the Community Development Department (2020) providing expertise in renewable energy development, sustainability concepts, global issues, and community development.
John previously taught at Lakehead University, and came to Acadia to fill the position left vacant when Alex Wright passed away. His interests and expertise focused on ecotourism, Indigenous tourism development, and community development.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: John continues as a faculty member at Acadia in the Community Development Department (2020) providing expertise in renewable energy development, sustainability concepts, global issues, and community development.
ALAN WARNER - BSc Psychology (Brown University), B Ed (Dalhousie), MA PhD Community Psychology (Dalhousie)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 2003/2004
Alan was working as a practising psychologist, and with the Halifax Regional Municipality prior to coming to Acadia, developing and delivering experiential educations programs. He filled the position that had been previously held by Jude Hirsch and then Paul Heintzman. His areas of interest and expertise included experiential education, environmental education, youth leadership, and environmental sustainability.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Alan recently retired as a faculty member in Acadia in the Community Development Department where he provided expertise in sustainable food systems, international community development, environmental sustainability.
Alan was working as a practising psychologist, and with the Halifax Regional Municipality prior to coming to Acadia, developing and delivering experiential educations programs. He filled the position that had been previously held by Jude Hirsch and then Paul Heintzman. His areas of interest and expertise included experiential education, environmental education, youth leadership, and environmental sustainability.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Alan recently retired as a faculty member in Acadia in the Community Development Department where he provided expertise in sustainable food systems, international community development, environmental sustainability.
HEATHER REID - BRM, MEd (Acadia)
YEAR OF ENTRY INTO THE SCHOOL: 2004/2005
An Acadia Rec Alumna. Heather was an entrepreneur and co-owner of an outdoor store in Wolfville. She filled in for a year as a sabbatical replacement teaching a variety of courses related to leadership and programming.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Heather moved to Haliburton, Ontario and worked supervising field placements for Trent university students prior to becoming Operations Director for Abbey Gardens, a centre that creates learning opportunities around sustainable living including food and beverage production, organic gardening, livestock management, and outdoor living skills.
An Acadia Rec Alumna. Heather was an entrepreneur and co-owner of an outdoor store in Wolfville. She filled in for a year as a sabbatical replacement teaching a variety of courses related to leadership and programming.
UPON LEAVING ACADIA: Heather moved to Haliburton, Ontario and worked supervising field placements for Trent university students prior to becoming Operations Director for Abbey Gardens, a centre that creates learning opportunities around sustainable living including food and beverage production, organic gardening, livestock management, and outdoor living skills.