Shannon Whimster-Collier

The University of Lethbridge holds a deeply personal and enduring significance for me and my family. Growing up in Lethbridge, I was fortunate to have
the university not only as a landmark in our community but as a foundational part of my own development. It is where I earned my Bachelor of Arts,
Bachelor of Education, and Master of Education, and where I had the privilege of competing as a Pronghorn soccer player—experiences that shaped my
identity, deepened my commitment to education, and fostered lifelong connections. 

In our family, post-secondary education has always been strongly valued. My mother, Pat, completed her Education degree at the U of L, setting an example of the importance of learning and service. Both of my children, Brady and Kyra, continued this tradition as students. Brady began his academic journey at the university before becoming a firefighter/paramedic, and Kyra recently completed her Bachelor of Science while representing the Pronghorns as a basketball player. The University of Lethbridge has been woven into each of our vocational stories, supporting our growth and guiding our aspirations. Beyond its impact on my family, the University of Lethbridge plays a vital and irreplaceable role in the broader Lethbridge community. It stands as a centre for innovation, research, and cultural enrichment, offering opportunities that elevate both individuals and our city as a whole. 

The university attracts and nurtures talent, strengthens our local economy, and fosters a spirit of curiosity and engagement that benefits everyone who calls Lethbridge home. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve as a member of the Senate, giving back to an institution that has shaped our lives so meaningfully. It is a privilege to support the continued growth and success of a university that has given so much to me, to my family, and to our community.