Ricard Mrazek (BASc (BSc)/BEd '79)

In 1989, The University of Lethbridge Alumni Association established their Alumnus of the Year Award to recognize those individuals who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement in their chosen field, or achieved international reputation in their field

The University of Lethbridge has always been proud of its graduates who have gone on to excel in their careers or who have furthered their education to earn masters and doctorates. But what makes the University and the Alumni Association particularly proud is to have its graduates later return to their alma mater, bringing back with them their newly gained expertise and knowledge.

Richard Mrazek, Associate Professor of Education, has been named Alumnus of the Year not only because he returned to share his valuable expertise, but because of the vast contributions he has since made to the University of Lethbridge.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts and Science in earth sciences and his Bachelor of Education with Distinction in secondary physical sciences from the U of L in 1978. He went on to earn his M.Ed and Ph.D from the University of Alberta in secondary science education curriculum and instruction.

During this time he also taught at the elementary, junior high, high school and university level. His course topics included sciences, the environment, conservation and outdoor education. In 1986, he returned to The University of Lethbridge on a full-time basis as a lecturer and Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education.

His consuming interest in nature and the environment has led to the initiation and his continuing involvement in the highly successful Teacher Institutes. Supported by external groups such as the Science Alberta Foundation, Alberta Agriculture and the United Farmers Association, these Institutes in agriculture and science have assisted hundreds of Alberta teachers in their classrooms. Interest continues to grow as more and more teachers apply to participate.

Professor Mrazek’s other research interest is in an area which he is passionate about – environmental and outdoor education. His expertise has been sought at many conferences and meetings related to environmental education, locally, nationally and internationally.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Rick Mrazek has served as President of the U of L Alumni Association and as the Alumni Association’s representative to the U of L Senate.

The Alumni Association is pleased to present the Alumnus of the Year Award to such a dedicated and loyal teacher, scholar and researcher.