The University of Lethbridge's next Dean of Education has a record of long-service and commitment to the institution. Dr. Laurence Walker, Associate Vice-President (Academic), was the unanimous choice of the selection committee and will step into his new role July 1, 1995. U of L President Howard Tennant says that Walker possesses the understanding and background necessary for the leadership role of Dean. "Laurie is well-suited and well-prepared to continue the development of our Faculty of Education," he notes. "I am confident that with his guidance, the Faculty will remain known for its comprehensive undergraduate program and its delivery of service to practicing teachers."
Walker is well-known in the west and in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland for his contributions to the advancement of knowledge in the areas of language learning and language development. His scholarly work has had an impact upon teaching practice and curriculum development throughout Canada. He has served as national president of the Language Arts Researchers of Canada and is an active member of the English Language Arts Council of the Alberta Teachers Association. Walker has a distinguished teaching record and is noted for his work with the professional development of practicing teachers. "Work with practicing teachers is a vital part of the Faculty of Education's role in teacher education," says Walker. "Faculty members contribute to the practice of teaching in schools, and their work with their own students benefits from their knowledge of changing conditions in classrooms."
The U of L's newest Dean received his Certificate of Education at Nottingham University in England and began his career in education as an Assistant Master at Thorpe Grammar School in Norwich, England. After coming to Canada in 1964, he taught first in Grand Centre and then in Edmonton, where he also pursued post-secondary studies. At the University of Alberta he earned his Bachelor and Master of Education degrees before moving to Churchill Falls, Labrador, to work as a Reading Specialist. He returned to Edmonton in 1970 to complete his PhD in Reading in the U of A's Department of Elementary Education, following which he joined Memorial University as an Assistant Professor. From 1975 to 1983 he was a member of the Department of Education at Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, where he also served as Coordinator of Graduate Studies in Education and Department Chair.
Walker has been with the University of Lethbridge since 1983, when he joined the Faculty of Education as an Associate Professor. In 1985 he took on the additional role of Coordinator of Graduate Studies for the Faculty of Education. He became a Full Professor and Associate Vice President (Academic) in 1991. He has been responsible for planning the U of L's marketing program over the past two years, using findings from research into the student experience at the U of L to shape the University's student recruiting program.