From bricks to pixels: get to know Marcel Casarini’s game-changing journey

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Marcel Casarini

From bricks to pixels: get to know Marcel Casarini’s game-changing journey

Marcel Casarini

Featuring: Marcel Casarini – Assistant Professor of Media Arts

From Sao Paulo (Brazil) to Vancouver, Marcel Casarini has always been a designer at heart. First, he shaped buildings and urban landscapes as an architect. Now, he crafts immersive worlds and guides the next generation of game designers to do the same.

Marcel’s path wasn’t the straightest route to game development. With a master’s degree in Architecture and Level Design for Games, Marcel seamlessly merged his architectural knowledge with his passion for play. His curiosity for how people interact with spaces translated beautifully into game environments, and before long, he was co-founding game studios, winning awards, and even penning his own book on the art of level design.

As an Assistant Professor in the School of Creative Arts at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), Marcel continues to shape worlds: both digital and human. In the classroom, he inspires his students to think critically, explore fearlessly, and never stop learning. With each new semester, he watches game enthusiasts being ready to leave their mark on the industry.

In this conversation, Marcel shares insights from his journey, his philosophy as an educator, and the advice he hopes will resonate long after the last class ends.

 

College of Arts: Could you share a bit about your journey as an educator?

Marcel: Since my university days, I’ve always been involved in teaching in some way — whether as a Teaching Assistant or through research groups. But my formal teaching career truly began after I completed my Master’s degree. I started as a full-time professor in a Game Development program back in 2014, still in Brazil, which is where I’m originally from.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to teach across different areas: Architecture, Games, and Media Arts. It’s been a wonderful, varied experience. In 2018, I moved to Vancouver with my wife, and soon after, I began teaching at LaSalle College. I even had the chance to serve as the Program Director for Game Design, Game Programming, and Audio programs there, which was incredibly rewarding.

Since 2023, I’ve been teaching at UFV in the Media Arts program, focusing on courses that really excite me: Unreal Engine, Digital Imaging, and Virtual Reality development. I love working directly with students, watching them grow, and seeing their creativity come to life.

 

CoA: What first inspired you to specialize in game development and design?

Marcel: That’s a great question! Honestly, my love for games goes way back. My very first gaming memory is with the Atari 2600, around 1990. From that moment, I was hooked — fascinated by the way games could transport you to other worlds.

However, when it came time to choose a career path, the gaming industry in Brazil wasn’t really established yet. So, I chose Architecture and Urban Planning. It seemed like the closest way to design and build experiences, just in a different form.

A few years into working as an architect on construction sites, I felt this pull toward games that never went away. I decided to take a leap of faith. I pursued a postgraduate program and a Master’s degree focused on merging my architectural knowledge with game design. From then on, there was no looking back. I’ve been working with games ever since — and I truly love it!

 

CoA: What do you hope your students take away from your classes?

Marcel: More than anything, I hope they develop critical thinking, curiosity, and a strong methodology for lifelong learning.

The game development field is constantly evolving. New software, hardware, and tools are emerging all the time. If you’re not curious and adaptable, you risk falling behind. So I try to instill in my students not just the technical skills they need today, but the mindset to keep growing, adapting, and enjoying the learning process throughout their careers.

It’s not just about mastering one engine or technique — it’s about understanding how to learn effectively and stay curious about what’s coming next.

 

CoA: Reflecting on your career so far, what has been the most rewarding aspect of being an educator?

Marcel: There’s honestly nothing like seeing the evolution of my students.

At the start of a course, many students come in as game enthusiasts — they love to play, but they haven’t yet seen behind the curtain of game development. By the end of the semester, I watch them transform into budding developers. Their conversations change; they start talking about mechanics, narratives, player experience, and design philosophies. They see games through a whole new lens.

Every semester feels like a new adventure. Watching that growth — from curiosity to capability — is the most rewarding part of my job.

 

CoA: If you could leave a lasting message or piece of advice for your students and community, what would it be?

Marcel: Learning is a lifelong commitment — and it should absolutely be fun!

As humans, we naturally play to understand our world, our environment, and our social contexts. Learning shouldn’t feel like a chore; it should feel like exploration. Stay curious, stay playful, and never stop seeking out new knowledge. Whether it’s through games or life itself, embrace the joy of discovery.

 

Marcel Casarini’s journey is a powerful reminder that our paths are rarely linear — but with passion, curiosity, and an openness to change, we can build bridges between our interests and our careers. Whether in architecture, game design, or the classroom, Marcel continues to shape the spaces where creativity thrives. And for his students, the adventure is just beginning.

April 2025 News | Faculty Projects and Publications

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April News at the College of Arts

Check out what our faculty at the College of Arts have been up this March 2025!

From exciting projects to new publications, read more about their work and connect with us to learn more about the College of Arts.

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College of Arts

On April 15, 2025, UFV’s Associate Dean of Social Sciences, Dr. Wade Deisman, was interviewed by CBC News to discuss the federal parties’ platforms on crime and public safety. This followed an announcement from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre regarding his intent to use the notwithstanding clause to allow consecutive life sentences for individuals convicted of multiple murders. Opponents argue that this promise undermines Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Psychology

Andrea Albonico, Assistant Professor, co-authored the article Face and word superiority effects: Parallel effects of visual expertise with Marko (Chi-Wei) Tien and Jason J. S. Barton.

English

Adrea Johnson, Sessional Instructor, co-authored the book Negotiating Feminism and Faith in the Lives and Works of Late Medieval and Early Modern Women with Holly Faith Nelson.

Criminology & Criminal Justice

  • Dr. Jon Heidt, Associate Professor, served as guest editor for a special issue on cannabis policy. Wheeldon, J., & Heidt, J. (2025). Introduction to the special issue on cannabis legalization: Cannabis policy at the twilight of prohibition. Sociological Inquiry, 95(2), 231–234.
  • Dr. Irwin Cohen, Associate Professor, delivered the keynote address “Bridging the Gap: Academia, Policing, and the Pursuit of Safer Communities” at the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts annual training event.
  • Amneet Sran, a Criminal Justice student, presented her research on gender and police attitudes toward intimate partner violence at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado. She was supported by Dr. Amanda McCormick, Associate Professor, and Dr. Kevin Burk, Assistant Professor.
  • At the same event, Dr. Amanda McCormick and Dr. Irwin Cohen, along with B. Stickle, B. Vahldiek, and A. Stickle, presented a paper titled Police Perceptions of Risk in Intimate Partner Violence, and Dr. Carlos Ponce, Associate Professor, presented The Silencing of Criminology: Online Attacks on Crime Researchers Under Autocratic Rule in El Salvador.

Designing with heart and purpose: meet Marcia Higuchi

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Marcia-Higuchi professor

Designing with heart and purpose: meet Marcia Higuchi

Marcia-Higuchi professorFeaturing: Marcia Higuchi – Assistant Professor, Graphic and Digital Design

In the dynamic world of design, where visuals speak louder than words and ideas come to life through form and function, Marcia Higuchi has spent over 15 years shaping stories across brands, campaigns, and experiences. From bustling design studios and agencies to the thoughtful spaces of higher education, Marcia’s journey is one of curiosity, passion, and a deep belief in the power of collaboration.

Originally from Brazil, Marcia believes that design is a powerful tool for reflection, for raising consciousness, and for creating change. Her passion is not only in the pixels and palettes, but in helping her students discover their own voices, identities, and creative power.

As an Assistant Professor in Graphic and Digital Design at the University of the Fraser Valley, Marcia continues to inspire emerging designers to see beyond the screen — to design with intention, to invite collaboration, and to understand the impact their work can have in the world. Get to know Marcia:

College of Arts: Could you start by sharing a bit about your journey as an educator?

Marcia:  Absolutely! My path into education really began during my Master of Design program at ECU. My research there focused on critical pedagogy and relational learning, which sparked my curiosity about educational practices and how we engage with knowledge.

During those years, I was fortunate to take on several teaching roles — first as a Teaching Assistant, then as a Teaching Fellow, and eventually as a sessional faculty member in the Communication Design department. These experiences deepened my passion for teaching and for learning alongside my students.

I started at UFV in August 2024, and it has been such a wonderful journey so far. I’m really enjoying getting to know our local community, learning from our students, and being inspired every day by my generous and talented colleagues.

 

CoA: What inspired you to specialize in your field of design?

Marcia: There’s a moment that stands out very clearly for me. I was auditing a postgraduate class at the University of São Paulo when I first read Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed. His words resonated deeply and sparked a lasting curiosity about how his philosophies could inform my own collaborative practices in design.

Alongside Freire, I also draw inspiration from bell hooks, whose work expands our understanding of pedagogy and liberation, and Ailton Krenak, a Brazilian Indigenous philosopher. His perspectives bring non-anthropocentric lenses into my thinking, reminding me that design should not just serve humans, but consider our broader ecological relationships as well.

Together, these thinkers have deeply influenced how I approach both design and education — as spaces of dialogue, awareness, and transformative action.

 

CoA: What do you hope your students take away from your classes?

Marcia: One of the most important concepts I hope to share is something Freire described as “conscientização”, or the development of a critical consciousness.

I want my students to recognize their identities, their positions in the world, and the dynamics of oppression and privilege that shape our realities. By becoming more aware of their capacities and possibilities, they can act upon their situations with intention and responsibility.

I also hope they learn from one another. Peer learning is so valuable — it helps broaden perspectives and fosters a deeper understanding of design’s potential to engage with real-world issues.

 

CoA: Reflecting on your career so far, what has been the most rewarding aspect of being an educator?

Marcia: Without a doubt, it’s seeing my students come to understand their role as designers and future makers.

There’s this beautiful moment when they realize that design isn’t just about creating something visually appealing — it’s a tool for communication, for education, for celebration, and for sparking meaningful conversations about complex issues.

When they take pride in their work and see its potential impact, it’s incredibly rewarding. Watching them grow into thoughtful, conscious designers is the best part of what I do.

 

CoA: If you could leave a lasting message or piece of advice for your students and community, what would it be?

Marcia: Bring your whole self into your work, and always remain open to collaboration.

Collaboration creates opportunities to see things differently, to challenge your assumptions, and to grow in unexpected ways. It invites diversity of thought and enriches the creative process. Design is not a solitary pursuit — it thrives in community, in dialogue, and in shared experiences.

So be brave, be curious, and don’t hesitate to invite others into your creative journey.

 

Marcia Higuchi’s story is a vivid reminder that design is much more than visuals — it’s about values, voices, and vision. Through her dedication to education and her thoughtful approach to design, she empowers her students to see their work as a catalyst for change. With every lesson and every collaborative project, Marcia is helping to shape not only the next generation of designers, but also thoughtful citizens of the world.

March 2025 News | Faculty Projects and Publications | UFV College of Arts

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March News at the College of Arts

Check out what our faculty at the College of Arts have been up this March 2025!

From exciting projects to new publications, read more about their work and connect with us to learn more about the College of Arts.

🤳 Follow us on Instagram

💼 Follow us on LinkedIn

📥 Subscribe to our Arts Newsletter

Psychology

  • Andrea Albonico, Assistant Professor of Psychology, co-authored “Chapter 20 – The Lateralization of Reading” in the Handbook of Clinical Neurology – Volume 208, 2025, alongside Jason J.S. Barton and Randi Starrfelt.

Political Science

English

  • Dr. Prabhjot Parmar (English) was a featured speaker at Decolonial Conversations (Western University), exploring the role of Indigenous philosophy and Sufi traditions in resisting colonial power. She also chaired a panel on activism through dress, bodies, and speech.

Criminology and Criminal Justice

Championing Indigenous communication and empowering student voices

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Championing Indigenous communication and empowering student voices

In January 2025, Dr. Kelsey Blair joined the UFV School of Communication as the new Assistant Professor – Indigenous Communication Specialist. Welcome, Dr. Blair!

Dr. Blair brings a passion for the transformative power of communication—whether it’s connecting communities, sharing stories, teaching, or challenging power structures. Her dedication to fostering meaningful conversations and learning opportunities is truly inspiring.

Get to Know Dr. Kelsey Blair:

What inspired you to specialize in Indigenous Communication?
I am passionate about communication and its various potentials: to teach, entertain, connect, share stories, and resist power imbalances. These potentials come alive in Indigenous Communication, allowing us to learn, connect, and share alongside Indigenous people and communities.

What do you hope students take away from your classes?
I hope my students feel inspired to reflect critically on themselves, their surroundings, and their communities. Most importantly, I want them to feel empowered to communicate confidently across various settings.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?
As an educator, the most rewarding aspect has been supporting students on their learning journeys—whether that means introducing them to new ideas or helping them develop new skills.

We are excited about the knowledge and passion Dr. Blair brings to our community. It’s great to have her on UFV’s team!

From an English Major to a Curatorial Practicum: Kellyn Leclerc’s launch into uncharted territory

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Kellyn picture -credits for Skylar Janzen

From an English Major to a Curatorial Practicum: Kellyn Leclerc’s launch into uncharted territory

Kellyn picture -credits for Skylar Janzen
credits: Skylar Janzen

When we think of curators, we often imagine individuals with backgrounds in Visual Arts or Art History, meticulously assembling exhibitions with years of specialized training. But what happens when a storyteller, a writer with a passion for community engagement, steps into the role?

Meet Kellyn Leclerc, a Bachelor of Arts student whose love for storytelling carved an unexpected path into curation. Kellyn’s journey twisted with the unpredictability of a well-spun tale, leading him to The Reach Gallery, where he transformed words into visual narratives and sparked conversations through art.

From a young age, Kellyn was drawn to the art of storytelling. While initially planning to pursue Social Work, he found himself captivated by the world of literature, eventually transitioning into full-time English studies.

Taking a leap into the unknown

Despite not having a background in Visual Arts, Kellyn saw an open position for UFV’s student curatorial role at The Reach Gallery. This is a competitive eight-month internship that is typically offered to UFV’s BFA and VA students.  Instead of doubting his qualifications, he took a leap of faith:

“When I first got the email invitation to apply for the position, it was one of those moments in my life where I figured, why not? I don’t have a background in Visual Art or Art History, but I do have a passion for community engagement and discussion.”

What Kellyn discovered was that curation wasn’t just about art—it was about storytelling. His experiences in Social Work courses and his time as a concert promoter in the local punk music scene helped shape his ability to organize events with a strong thematic narrative.

“As a curator, it’s critically important to have a nuanced understanding of the type of community you’re working in, and how the works you select for presentation might connect to said environment. Years ago, when I organized all-ages punk shows, I thought not just about the bands, but about how their identities created a larger story through the night. That same mindset helped me as a curator, crafting a visual art experience that could inspire meaningful, reflective discussion.”

After months of preparation, Kellyn’s curated exhibition debuted at The Reach Gallery. It was a night to remember for the audience and for all those who had taken a chance on him.

“What I witnessed during the intro to the exhibit you curated at The Reach was nothing short of magical. You were so in tune with the artist’s work and intentions. It has been a pleasure to watch you tap into your creative passions and talents over the past year. Despite any personal obstacles, you have only demonstrated resilience and professionalism—without compromising who you are.” – Tamara Courage, Arts External Liaison Coordinator at UFV – College of Arts.

“When I was a child, my family was told I might not graduate high school due to my diagnosed learning disability. So, now it feels incredibly surreal to be this far into my degree.”

Looking to the future

So, what’s next for Kellyn?

He is currently weaving his first horror novel into existence: a Lynchian-inspired ghost story set at an evangelical Christian summer camp. Writing remains his deepest passion, but his love for community arts continues to grow, shaping a future where storytelling extends beyond the page and into the heart of the world around him.

When asked what advice he would give to students considering a practicum, Kellyn doesn’t hold back:

“How do you expect to find a job post-graduation if you haven’t built a network of contacts or a portfolio of real-world experience? Do you think you’ll just be handed a degree and land a job instantly? Practicums are the key to unlocking doors—they let you prove your skills to the very people who can shape your future.”

For those considering English as a major, Kellyn’s advice is just as bold:

“Keep an open mind. Say yes to opportunities—even when they seem outside your comfort zone. An English degree isn’t a limitation; it’s a launching pad. Whether you go into journalism, publishing, editing, community programming, or teaching, the only limit is how wide you’re willing to open the door.”

Kellyn’s journey—from horror writer to gallery curator—proves that storytelling isn’t confined to books. It lives in art, music, conversation, and the spaces between words, shaping the world in ways we least expect. Whether through literature or curating, his ability to craft meaningful narratives has opened doors that once seemed out of reach.

And sometimes, the biggest opportunities come from simply asking yourself: ‘Why not?’

February 2025 News | Faculty Projects and Publications | UFV College of Arts

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February News at the College of Arts

Check out what our faculty at the College of Arts have been up this February 2025!

From exciting projects to new publications, read more about their work and connect with us to learn more about the College of Arts.

🤳 Follow us on Instagram

💼 Follow us on LinkedIn

📥 Subscribe to our Arts Newsletter

School of Creative Arts

  • Davida Kidd, Associate Professor of Visual Arts in the School of Creative Arts, has had her work curated for three exhibitions:
    • 2025 International Triennale Gravure at La Boverie Museum, Liège, Belgium
    • The Shifting Point: Masters of Printmaking from Canada at Titanikas Gallery, Academy of Fine Arts, Vilnius, Lithuania
    • 2025 International Triennial Graphics – Color in Graphics / Traces Exhibition in collaboration with Wozownia Art Gallery, Toruń, Poland

Criminology and Criminal Justice

  • Accountability in Palestine – Dr. Mark Kersten, Assistant Professor of Criminology, presented Troubled Waters but Reasons to Hope: The Future of the International Criminal Court and Accountability in Palestine at Langara College in January.
  • UFV’s Faculty of Criminology and Criminal Justice made significant contributions to the Western Society of Criminology Annual Conference (February 6-8, 2025, Seattle, WA) through the following presentations:
    • Amanda McCormick & Dr. Zina Lee, Associate Professors of Criminology, presented The Impact of Court Rulings on Sexual Assault Investigations (with Negrin, S.).
    • Erin Osterberg, Associate Professor of Criminology, spoke about Unanticipated Consequences: The Perils of “Catch and Release” in Drug Investigations (with Davies, G., & Champion, A.).
    • Irwin Cohen & Dr. Kevin Burk, Associate Professors of Criminology, discussed The Challenges That Technology and Court Rulings Present for Homicide Investigations (with Pastia, C.).

Psychology

Arts & Integrated Studies

  • Dr. Dale McCartney, Assistant Professor of Arts & Integrated Studies, participated in a UBC-hosted discussion on The Crash of the International Student “Market” as part of the Green College Special Event series.

Political Science

  • Noah Schwartz, Assistant Professor of Political Science published an article called “Grandpa Joe’s hunting rifle: morality policy framing in Canadian Parliament” in the journal Policy Sciences, that encourages a diversity of perspectives.

A journey of passion, persistence, and creativity

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A journey of passion, persistence, and creativity

In the halls of UFV’s School of Creative Arts, where passion and creativity thrive, Hannah Bricknell, a first-year Bachelor of Media Arts student, is carving her own artistic path. Since childhood, art has been more than just a passion—it has been a way of making sense of the world. Drawing since the age of five, Hannah found that art provided both a sense of calm and a means of communication, especially as she navigated the challenges of a learning disability that affected her verbal expression.

“Over time, drawing became the best way for me to communicate my ideas and thoughts,” she shares.

Now, as she steps into the next phase of her journey, UFV’s Bachelor of Media Arts program is providing the space for her to refine her skills, explore new mediums, and discover where her artistic talents can take her. At UFV, she can experiment with different creative disciplines before deciding on a specific career path. Also, she is excited to apply for a co-op program, which provides hands-on experience, helping students explore professional opportunities related to their studies. But Hannah already knows her superpower: “Creativity and imagination are probably the most important skills to keep. They’re key in critical problem-solving.”

An artist getting ready to shine.

In January 2025, Hannah received formal recognition for her art for the first time when she won the Emerging Artist Award at the 20th Annual Arty Awards, organized by the Abbotsford Arts Council. It was a moment that reinforced her belief in her work and solidified her confidence as an artist.

The pieces that she exhibited reflected her artistic journey and individual experiences. One of her most meaningful works is a painting titled “How I Process”, which is about her learning disability, using an analogy she often shares with others.

“On one side, there’s a messy room, symbolizing my brain. On the other side, there’s a tidy room, representing how other people’s brains work.”

Through her art, Hannah translates personal challenges into visual storytelling, offering a perspective that is both intimate and universal.

Recently, she was given the opportunity to contribute to an anthology comic, collaborating with experienced comic artists—some of whom previously helped her create her first comic book – a project she created during Grade 11 called “Two Faces”.

As she continues to grow as an artist, her story serves as an inspiration to those forging their own creative paths. Hannah Bricknell’s journey is just beginning—but with her talent, dedication, and ever-evolving skills, the possibilities ahead are limitless.

December News | Faculty Projects and Publications | UFV College of Arts

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December News at the College of Arts

Check out what our faculty at the College of Arts have been up this December 2024!

From exciting projects to new publications, read more about their work and connect with us to learn more about the College of Arts.

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📥 Subscribe to our Arts Newsletter

School of Creative Arts

  • Marcel Casarini, Assistant Professor, Media Arts – This year, Marcel released a book titled Level Design and Architecture: Space and Digital Environment (Level Design e Arquitetura: Espaco e Ambiente Digital), published by Senac in Brazil. The book is available in both digital and hard copy formats throughout the country. Publisher: Senac Release Date: Aug/24.
  • Associate Professor, Visual Arts, Shel Stefan, was recently involved in a number of initiatives:
  1. They presented their work in a two-person art exhibition at the Museum of the Italian Cultural Centre in Vancouver, BC, Canada. The exhibition, entitled They, They, & It: Reflections on Trans Identity, ran from April 11, 2024 – July 5, 2024, and drew upwards of 1000 visitors to the museum in support of the work. Stefan featured two series of works in the show: Self Portraits, a set of 6 life-size acrylic paintings on panel, and Gargolla, a series of 10 clay, wood, and wire sculptures. One of their paintings was also featured in The Georgia Straight Newspaper 2024.
  2. Their exhibition, work, and research were featured in The Source Newspaper: 2024 The Source, “They, They, & It”. Exploring the Deep Connection Between Italian and Transgender Identity, Curtis Seufert, Volume 24, Issue 21, May 28-June 11, 2024.
  3. They were a panelist on June 21, 2024 for the Queer Discussion Panel: Safe and Inclusive Spaces for LGBTQ2SIA+ at the Museum of the Italian Cultural Centre, Vancouver, BC.
  4. They exhibited their work in the 2023 Fraser Valley Biennial, a group art exhibition which toured several regional galleries and museums from May 30, 2023 – September 30, 2023. Stefan’s drawings were featured in shows at four of the FV Biennial venues: the Reach Gallery Museum in Abbotsford, the Langley Arts Council Gallery, the Chilliwack Cultural Centre Gallery, and the Ranger Station Harrison Arts Council Gallery.
  5. Their work was featured in the Fraser Valley Biennial in two publications: 2023 The Chilliwack Progress, Artists Explore Human Body in Fraser Valley Biennial Show, Jenna Hauck, Nov 1, 2023, and 2023 Preview Art Magazine, 2023 Fraser Valley Biennial, Michael Turner, Feb-March 2023.
  6. They collaborated in two interactions of their live art performance entitled Drawing, Tending, Tying: An Art and Rope Experiment. In October 2023, Drawing, Tending, Tying 2: An Art and Rope Experiment was performed at the opening ceremonies of Unabashed in Denver, Colorado, USA. In May 2024 Drawing, Tending, Tying 3: An Art and Rope Experiment was performed at Diva’s Den in Vancouver, BC.
  7. They also had one of their paintings featured in & Magazine: 2023 & Magazine #2, She Rope Re-Members Rosemary, Image Feature, Maine College of Arts & Design
  8. They were also interviewed by Maine College of Art & Design.

 

Criminology & Criminal Justice

  • Associate Professors, Criminology & Criminal Justice, Dr. Zina Lee and Dr. Irwin Cohen, report on the remediation of residential homes used in drug production was cited in a Vancouver Sun article.
  • Assistant Professor, Criminology & Criminal Justice, Mark Kersten, was interview by CBC News in an article called Indigenous leaders praise report on Canada’s ‘disappeared’ residential school children. The article features Kimberly Murray’s research about abuse of children at residential schools.
  • Assistant Professor, Criminology & Criminal Justice, Dr. Mark Kersten, was invited to speak at the House of Commons’ Foreign Affairs Committee on Canada, recognizing Palestinian statehood.
  • Professor Emeritus Mr. Yvon Dandurand co-authored an article on children whose parents are in conflict with the law. Capp, M., & Dandurand, Y. (2024). Supporting children whose parents are in conflict with the law through the Convention on the Rights of the Child: Honoring the legacy of Hon. Landon Pearson. The Canadian Journal of Children’s Rights, 11(1), 15-37.

Political Science

May to November News | Faculty Projects and Publications | UFV College of Arts

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Presentation during an event

May to November News at the College of Arts

Check out what our faculty at the College of Arts have been up to from May to November 2024!

From exciting projects to new publications, read more about their work and connect with us to learn more about the College of Arts.

🤳 Follow us on Instagram

💼 Follow us on LinkedIn

📥 Subscribe to our Arts Newsletter

Philosophy

  • Philosophy Associate Professor Dr. Glen Baier presented at the 2024 Friedrich Nietzsche Society conference at the University of Verona, in Verona, Italy. It was entitled “Nietzsche in the Anthropocene” and it ran from July 25-27. Dr Glen presented a paper entitled “Sin, Alienation, and Tragic Art. The Problem of Nature in Nietzsche’s Birth of Tragedy”.

 

  • In August 2024, UFV student Nicky Whitehouse gave a presentation at the 25th World Congress of Philosophy in Rome along with co-authors UFV Philosophy faculty member Anastasia Anderson and Abbotsford School District teachers (and UFV alumni) Elizabeth Wilson and Karla Toro-Chacon (in absentia). The co-authors’ research was inspired by their work in philosophy for children through the UFV Philosophy department and UFV Centre for Philosophy for Children and their experiences with the Thinking Playground summer camps. The 25th World Congress of Philosophy had approximately 5000 attendees from all over the world and showcased presentations on a wide range of philosophical topics.

 

English

  • English Associate Professor Dr. Alex Wetmore presented a paper titled “Springs of Emotion” at the Canadian Society for Eighteenth-Century Studiesin Fall 2023, on figurative allusions to spring-regulated clockwork mechanisms in sentimental literature, related to his current book project on the intersections of emotion, literature and technology, 1660-1830.

 

  • English sessional instructor Dr. Carl Peters will be presenting two papers at the MLA in New Orleans: “Poe Dies on Netflix: Life Is a Narrative & The Crisis of Narration: The Tell-Tale Heart” (sponsored by Poe Studies Association) and another on contingency: “Art & Fear: Reflection on Self-Recognition, Disillusioned Maturity, and Moral Steadfastness in the Midst of a Bad Situation” (sponsored by MLA Committee on Contingent Labor in the Profession). The MLA also accepted for publication “I Wanted to Teach a Poem,” to be included in a book on William Carlos Williams: Approaches to Teaching the Poetry and Prose of William Carlos Williams, published by the MLA scheduled for 2025.

 

  • Fraser Valley Writers’ Festival took place November 1-2 in Evered Hall. We welcomed Angela Sterritt and Billy-Ray Belcourt as keynote speakers, with panel discussions and workshops led by important Canadian authors offered to students and the public free of charge.

 

Modern Languages

  • Spanish Associate Professor Maria de Luna presented in two conferences. The first one was “A 2900 Millas de Distancia: Voces de Migrantes Temporales en un Mundo de Fronteras Lingüísticas.” – Paper presented at Lengua, Identidad y Racismo: un Enfoque Lingüístico/Language, Identity and Racismo: a Linguistic Approach, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. The second one was “Identidad, Tradición y Creatividad: Integrando la Cultura Popular en la Enseñanza del Español LE/L2/LH.” – Workshop presented at 34th Congreso Internacional de la Asociación Para la Enseñanza del Español como Lengua Extranjera (ASELE), Edinburgh University, Edinburgh, Scotland.

 

  • The Head of the Department of Modern Languages, Dr. Molleen Shilliday, presented their work in two occasions. The first one was called “Trauma Based Adaptations.” APFUCC ((l’Association des professeur.e.s de français des universités et collèges canadiens) Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences. Montréal, June 2024. The second presentation was called “Extreme Adaptations”, presented at 58thannual Comparative Literature Conference at California State Long Beach. April 2024.

 

Political Science

  • Political Science Associate Professor Dr. Edward Akuffo accepted an invitation to appear as an expert witness in front of  the Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade for its study on Canada’s engagement and interests in Africa on October 2, 2024.

 

  • Dr. Akuffo was featured in University Affairs magazine, where he discussed how his passion for global politics has inspired innovative approaches to international relations. The article explores his work in bridging the gap between Canada and Africa, and his efforts to foster new dialogues in diplomacy and conflict resolution.

 

Criminology and Criminal Justice

  • Associate Professor Dr.  Carlos Ponce co-authored an article on drug policy. Bouchard, M., & Ponce, C. (in press). Structuring adaptations: Resilience, restrictive deterrence, and the Cunningham precursor control papers. International Journal of Drug Policy.

 

  • Associate Professor Dr. Carlos Ponce presented at a webinar on July 30, 2024 by the American Chamber of Commerce in El Salvador, “Prospective Security Analysis: Exploring Potential Crime Scenarios in El Salvador.”

 

  • Professor Emeritus Yvon Dandurand was a keynote speaker at the Borderlands of Criminal Law Conference held at the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Law. Mr. Dandurand spoke on “The Future of International Cooperation in Criminal Matters” on June 20, 2024.

 

  • Professor Emeritus Yvon Dandurand co-authored an article on the treatment of child victims and witnesses. Le, D. H. T., & Dandurand, Y. (in press). Improving the treatment of child victims and witnesses of crime in the Vietnamese justice system: Unfinished reforms. International Journal for the Semiotics of Law.

 

  • Professor Emeritus Yvon Dandurand presented on September 25, 2024 to the Eastern Caribbean Development Partners’ Group Meeting on Citizen Security, “Crime Prevention and Response Interventions in CARICOM Countries: A Gap Analysis on Behalf of Global Affairs Canada.”

 

Graphic and Digital Design

  • The Graphic and Digital Design (GDD) department and Assistant Professor Trevor Embury host a public seminar series called Counterforms – Practices, Theories, and Methods, happening on Wednesday, October 9th at 6-8pm – UFV Abbotsford, Room C1422. The initiative invites students to explore the complexities of design across its various modalities, from practice and activism to discipline and ways of knowing, and beyond.

 

Psychology

 

 

Social Justice

 

  • Dr. Geetanjali Gill, Associate Professor Global Development Studies, presented in the following conferences:
    • 1 -Photovoice: Aiming for Impact 2024 Conference, Photovoice Worldwide, Oct. 17, 2024. Presentation title: “Photovoice with youth in Mali and Senegal for research on youth agency and empowerment, evaluation, and advocacy”;
    • 2 – New Frontiers in Research Fund Midterm Forum, Sept. 12-13, 2024. Presentation title: “Impact, Knowledge Dissemination and Institutionalizing Change: Participatory Action Research with female sex-trafficking survivors living with HIV/AIDS in Nepal: Addressing intersectional gender oppression and advocating for well-being and inclusion”;
    • 3 – Featured speaker at: Pathways to Gender Equality Conference, SPUR Change, Inter-Council Network, and Government of Canada, Ottawa, Nov. 7, 2024. Presentation title: “Small Steps, Big Results: small and medium organizations advancing gender equality.”

 

  • Chelsea Klassen, Global Development Studies Sessional Instructor, presented at UK Development Studies Association 2024 Conference, June 26, 2024. Presentation title: “’Bad Girls’: Using the aspiration cycle of women’s sports in Afghanistan (and beyond)”. Her presentation was also highlighted in the DSA’s article, “Social Justice in Many forms at DSA 2024.”

 

  • Chelsea Klassen was a guest lecturer at WJ Mouat Social Justice 12 class on Oct. 22 and Oct. 29, 2024. GDS 100 students are also virtually making presentations on different global conflicts to the Social Justice 12 students.

 

School of Creative Arts

  • The School of Creative Arts (SOCA) featured an exhibition called Portals into Nature on the S’eliyemetaxwtexw Art Gallery. This is a group exhibition exploring the evolving relationship between humans and nature. Through sculpture, photography, and mixed media, the artists reflect on transition, transformation, and the passage of time. Each piece acts as a portal into overlooked or forgotten moments, bridging the gap between urban life and nature. Featuring works by Megan Ali, Jacqueline Pan, Devin Pigeau, Yukun Lin, Cobi Timmermans, Arty Urdabayev, and Ruby Woo, and curated by SoCA student Megan Ali and recent graduate Yukun Lin.

 

  • Presented by the UFV SOCA Acting and Production Classes, The Paper Bag Princess is based on the popular and beloved children’s book, The Paper Bag Princess © 1980 Bob Munsch Enterprises Ltd (text) and Michael Martchenko (art), published by Annick Press. This production was built in partnership with the Chilliwack Cultural Centre, that is hosting a few performances in their Rotary Hall Studio Theatre.

 

Community Health and Social Innovation (CHASI) Hub

  • UFV Changemaking debuts at Community Showcase – UFV debuted its changemaking efforts at the celebration of St’elt’elawtexw, the university’s annual community report. The Community Health and Social Innovation Hub supported these efforts, with students speaking with community members about what changemaking meant to them. These responses were brought together in a beautiful graphic recording capturing the evening’s discussions artistically.

 

  • CHASI research shows VisionQuest program reduces criminal recidivism by 55% – A new report from CHASI looks at VisionQuest‘s substance use treatment program in Logan Lake, B.C. The report, prepared by Dr. Darryl Plecas, Dr. Martha Dow, and Chelsea Klassen, MA, found that the program demonstrated capacity to reduce collective crimes committed by 55%, and suggests that the VisionQuest program has the potential to reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous individuals in the criminal justice system.

 

Social, Cultural, & Media Studies

  • Dr. Beaulieu presented Reconciliation in Action Award – On September 24, Dr. Sarah Beaulieu, a UFV SCMS assistant professor and CHASI Faculty Associate, was honoured with the Reconciliation in Action award at the DIVERSEcity Awards of Impact in Surrey. Her ongoing work supporting Indigenous communities in their search for unmarked graves has led to international attention on the history of Canada’s Indian Residential School system.