2024 Outstanding Volunteers

Alex Wright

What is your academic background, and where are you employed or continuing your education?

I have a PhD in physics and am a Research Scientist with the Institute of Particle Physics and a Professor in the Department of Physics, Engineering Physics, and Astronomy at Queen’s University.

What research (or other STEM outreach/promotion/communication) do you do?

My research area is particle astrophysics. In this field we study tiny subatomic particles that reach the Earth from space. This lets us learn more about the particles themselves, and to better understand how those particles influenced the evolution of the Universe.

Why Science Rendezvous?

I really enjoy sharing my love of science and discovery.

How and when did you get involved?

I believe the first Science Rendezvous event I participated in was in 2016. I joined up with a group of other particle astrophysics researchers who were planning a station for Science Rendezvous, and it grew from there.

Favourite memory?

I really enjoy watching our Science Rendezvous visitors try a quick science activity, perhaps experience an outcome different than what they were expecting, and hopefully leave with a bit more understanding of how fun and exciting science can be.

What is your favourite demonstration?

That’s a tough one – the smoke ring cannon was a lot of fun, as was the vacuum powered rocket launcher.

Amer Johri

Queen’s University

What is your academic background, and where are you employed or continuing your education?
I am a Queen’s University Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology. I obtained my Echocardiography specialized fellowship training from Harvard University, Boston, MA. I am a Board member of the American Society of Echocardiography and Director of the Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen’s University (www.CINQLab.com).

What research (or other STEM outreach/promotion/communication) do you do?
In addition to Science Rendezvous, I have participated in outreach by providing cardiology and cardiovascular health sessions for High School Students through the Queen’s summer Enrichment Program. This year I will be providing cardiology and cardiovascular health sessions at the local elementary level (Amherst public school).
My lab enjoys outreach by providing educational videos at our Youtube channel. Please take the opportunity to visit this channel showcasing important aspects of cardiovascular health for our communities and young people including sport safety as well as highlighting our experience with Science Rendezvous!

Why Science Rendezvous?
I love to participate in Science Rendezvous because I am passionate about teaching kids about careers in health technology while promoting cardiovascular health. Our approach to engaging kids is through the use of hands-on tactile engagement – we give kids the chance to directly apply the probe to a model heart and then a human heart. We usually have multiple demonstrations at our booth and each year we also a bit of ‘Art’ to think about STEAM. The origami station is a hit with the younger kids that stop by, thus ensuring that our booth offers interesting activities and knowledge from very young kids all the way to teen and adult levels. For example, this past year we also had plasticized (preserved) human hearts from donors provided to us for education. These were all showcased with careful permission from out Anatomy Museum and highly respectful manner to allow our communities to learn from this treasure.

How and when did you get involved?
I have been involved in with Science Rendezvous for the last 3-4 years, initially by supporting other booths and then by creating our own. Our booth has grown in size and complexity highlighting cardiovascular STEM and health and is a group activity by my entire lab (>10 graduate students, undergraduate students, physician trainees, part time and full time research assistants – all volunteers).

Favourite memory?
I have 2 favourite memories – seeing the glow of surprise and wonder when a child first sees a beating heart in our human model after being shown how to apply the ultrasound probe themselves. Secondly I remember at one Science Rendezvous, one of my students (a tall, stoic varsity rower) was about to pack up at the end of the day, but then he was inundated by a group of children, begging him to not pack up yet and to continue showing them how to use and explore the ultrasound technology. I was so pleased by the interest level of these children climbing all over my student, and by the patient, nurturing qualities brought out in this individual by this experience.

What is your favourite demonstration?
One of my favourite demonstrations at science rendezvous (other than our booth) was the dinosaur cast this past year – magnificent!

Angeline Nelson

5-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Brooke Ring

Brooke Ring is the Associate Director of the Translational Institute of Medicine (TIME). She holds a Master’s of Life Sciences degree, and is currently pursuing a PhD.

“Science Rendezvous is a spectacular event that brings together communities in the interest of science like none other. It is accessible, fun and informative.”

Brooke first got involved with Science Rendezvous in 2020. “My group was looking for a ways to education and inspire the community to think more critically and engage with us (a team of scientists). We started out by making a ‘at home DIY science’ video, which expanded into a multi video series, and lead to in-person booths, and onsite workshops, summer camps, and youth career counselling.”

“I love getting the opportunity to share my passion for science with others and spark inspiration in their lives – this is made so much easier with grand events like Science Rendezvous”

When asked about her favourite Science Rendezvous memory, Brooke shared: “Watching the audience react so enthusiastically and positively to the ‘Smashing Strawberries’ live show in 2022. I helped create the show with my colleague and it was the first time either of us had attempted anything like it. It was fun and impactful; we hope we can perform it again.”

Chris Wiebe

10-Year Volunteer

University of Manitoba

Claire Notman

10-Year Volunteer

Queen’s University

Claire Notman is the Programming & Communications Coordinator at the Museum of Health Care at Kingston.”I facilitate educational programs about health and history in Canada as they relate to developments in science, technology, society, and medicine’s close association with art. I am also responsible for promoting Canada’s healthcare history on social media, radio, tv and at outreach events”, Claire shared.

Events like Science Rendezvous help children and their families engage with STEM in a fun and accessible way. It allows for children to learn about complex scientific concepts in and interactive and safe environment that encourages inquiry and deeper learning.

Claire has been involved with Science Rendezvous since 2014. “I saw Science Rendezvous as the perfect platform to not only educate the public about the brain, but combat the stigma associated epilepsy and seizures. It was the largest education session I had ever done and, hopefully, hit the mark in educating hundreds of families about epilepsy which, in turn, supports those living with the disease”, says Claire.

“As a STEM educator in the heritage sector, Science Rendezvous enables conversations not only about today’s science, but ideas of the past and how they have influenced science and research today. In no other circumstance could a small medical history museum engage with so children and their families in one day. Science Rendezvous promotes wonder, inspiration and learning like no other event in the city, or country”

Favourite Memory?

“I can’t pick just one! When I think back on Science Rendezvous, the things that are most meaningful to me are two fold, firstly it would be the wonder you see in a child’s face when they make a connection to something new, or that makes them think in a new way. Secondly, some of my favourite memories are from the orientation nights, when organizations get to gather together to survey the site before the event. It always is so heartening to see how Science Rendezvous has grown to be so inclusive and diverse.”

Favourite Demo?

“As part of an organization, my favourite demonstration was our lung models and ventilator exhibit for this year’s Science Rendezvous. I think we were able to give a good, hands-on demonstration to folks about how lungs work and engage with others about the remarkable technological advances in life saving devices, like ventilators. In terms of other demonstrations, there are so many good ones! I think the robots are pretty great, but just as important are the groups that address things like the environment and ecology.”

Danny Blair

5-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Devin Graham-Ancsin

Queen’s University

Devin Latimer

5-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Devin Latimer is a faculty member in chemistry at the University of Winnipeg where he teaches Introductory, Environmental Issues and Organic Chemistry courses. His recent projects have been focusing on green organic chemistry and environmental communications. He is also artistic director of Trout Forest Music Festival in northwest Ontario where he books approximately 30 Canadian acts for the 3-stage annual festival. He has recently been combining his interests by building a solar-powered stage and conducting energy and climate change communications at Trout Forest as well as other festivals and events such as Science Rendezvous.

Devin believes that the promotion of science literacy is extremely important, and has supported Science Rendezvous throughout the years. Devin’s favourite demonstration? Corn Starch quicksand! A popular demo with the kids!

“[Science Rendezvous 2024] was excellent”, says Devin. “Well attended, beautiful weather, great demonstrations, and great people involved.”

Doug Craig

10-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Emily Verhoek

Queen’s University

Emily Verhoek is the Outreach and Teaching Coordinator at the Elbow Lake Environmental Education Centre.

Emily has been involved with Science Rendezvous since 2017. “Over the years, we have been able to focus on topics that are important to our local area and bring wildlife like turtles, fish, and insects to the events and allow children to get a closer look!”

“Science Rendezvous is a great way to bring science to life. It has been a great opportunity to educate local families about our local ecosystems and what they can do to protect them.”

Favourite Memory?

“Last year we brought aquatic insects and microscopes for visitors to explore. The excitement on kids faces when they saw the insects moving under the microscopes was priceless. Every year, it’s so rewarding to see visitors’ faces when they get to interact with or encounter something new (or old in a new way).”

Erica Del Rosario Lagbao

Queen’s University

Jamie Ritch

5-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Jodi Schmidt

5-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Julie Hiebert

5-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Justine Pineau

Queen’s University

Karly Holmes

Queen’s University

Kayla Dettinger

Queen’s University

Kevin Kell

Queen’s University

Kim Hay

10-Year Volunteer

Queen’s University

Kim Hay has volunteer with Science Rendezvous for over 10 years. Kim first got involved to introduce the subject of Astronomy to the general public and to the young. “Having the young look through a telescope and be amazed, and ask questions!”

There are many great demonstrations that have been seen over the years, but the live comet ice balls from Science Rendezvous 2023 is one of Kim’s favourites!

Laurie Graham

Queen’s University

Laurie Graham is an Adjunct Professor and Senior Research Associate, Queen’s University.

Laurie began volunteering in 2016. “I like to share the wonders of the Universe with young and curious individuals. When they see sunspots through my telescope and learn that these spots are bigger than our planet, their sense of awe is infectious. Their parents enjoy learning details about the sun too.”

Laurie’s favourite memory? The ‘WOW’ reaction from children! “It is my hope that the event encourages children to become life-long learners”

Lise Doutre

Queen’s University

Lise Doutre’s involvement with Science Rendezvous, as a volunteer, began just last year through a chance encounter with Lynda Colgan. “As an elementary school teacher, I had promoted Science Rendezvous for years in my classroom. In a complete blast from the past, when I did my B.Ed. at Queen’s, I participated in one of the original science fairs (24 years ago) hosted by the Department of Education.”

“There are numerous reasons for my involvement with Science Rendezvous. I seek to be involved in something meaningful, that has the potential to make a difference in peoples’ lives. I strongly believe in advocating science and math, the essential means to a better future for humanity.”

“With my deep respect and pride for Queen’s University, I am really thrilled to be part of showcasing the outstanding research and education accomplished at Queen’s”, she shared. “I also have profound respect for Lynda Colgan, an amazing advocate for Science Rendezvous and am honoured to have had the chance to work with her.”

Favourite Memory?

“One of my favourite memories is related to my volunteer work for the Sensory Friendly Zone of Science Rendezvous, and how the Zone brings science engagement to more people. I was down in the main arena looking for families that might benefit from the SFZ, when I spotted a father with two sons. The older son was wearing headphones, suggestive of sensory overload concerns, and all three seemed stressed. So I approached them and suggested they check out the SFZ for awesome science in a quieter place. The father smiled in gratitude and explained that he and his sons were all “on the spectrum” and were very overwhelmed. I brought them upstairs to the Sensory Friendly Zone, and later saw all three, including the Dad, clearly enjoying and engaged with the science displays. That is the wonderful gift of all Science Rendezvous: providing opportunities for children (and adults, too) to have enjoyable, positive engagement with science.”

Favourite Demo?

“While it is difficult to choose a favourite from the many awesome displays and activities, one stands out in my mind as encompassing so many excellent attributes. The wave pool that was set up in the Sensory Friendly Zone was quite amazing. The professor and students who managed this display: 1) had created and brought a wonderful tank and water system to demonstrate wave action; 2) had created a delightful, hands-on activity with rubber duckies that truly delighted every child I observed; 3) were all knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their work and explained science with lots of positive energy.”

Marie-France Hetu

Queen’s University

Melanie Gregg

5-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Melanie Gregg is a Professor in the Gupta Faculty of Kinesiology and Applied Health, The University of Winnipeg.

Melanie became involved with Science Rendezvous in 2019, when the theme was incorporating the Arts into STEM. “We organized a session on dance and it’s relationship to STEAM. Dr. Tabitha Wood reached out and asked if our department would get involved.”

“I love that we can show people how STEM is related to things in our everyday lives and goes beyond labs and test tubes. Having practical activities that adults and kids can try brings the science to life. People get to try things they would not normally be exposed to.”

Favourite Memory?

“Involving student volunteers and seeing them interact with kids is my favourite part, both the kids and the volunteers benefit from the experience.”

Favourite Demo?

“My favourite was the demonstration we did with point shoes in clay, so you can see how much more pressure/force occurs when on pointe compared to dispersing the pressure with flat feet.”

Melinda Knox

Queen’s University

Michael Matthews

Queen’s University

Michael Matthews is a member of the Association of Ontario Land Surveyors (AOLS) Public Awareness Committee, Geomatics Recruitment and Liaison Committee, and University, Colleges Liaison Committee.

This is what Michael had to share about Science Rendezvous:

“Science Rendezvous is the largest public opportunity for us to connect, both virtually and in person with with the public, parents, teachers and students of career opportunities in Surveying. The organizers are the best to work with! We became involved with our connection with a Queen’s Geography Teacher, Anne Smith, some 11 years ago and we’ve been exhibiting since.”

“Every year the event gets bigger and better, with this year being the best so far as it was both virtual and in person. How good is that? Favourite memory would be the year Dino the Dinosaur came to visit – so cool! I do enjoy the Science experiment on stage as you see the interactive with the kids and the excitement in their eyes!”

Nikhil Arora

Queen’s University

Richard Wagner

Queen’s University

Rob Knobel

Queen’s University

Russell Mammei

5-Year Volunteer

University of Winnipeg

Russell Mammei is an Associate Professor of Physics at the University of Winnipeg.

“Science Rendezvous has been a family affair for me ever since I came to Canada”, he shares. “I first participated through helping my wife, Dr. Juliette Mammei, at the event in 2013 or 2014 at the University of Manitoba, before I became a professor at Univ. of Winnipeg. A sign in the physics department at Univ. of Manitoba got us thinking about participating. My wife, Dr. Juliette Mammei developed and ran an activity about how the eye sees and the brain interrupts colors which included participants being trapped inside a giant bubble. I helped put on the event at the Univ. of Manitoba while my wife and I traded off taking care of our 5-year-old son. I then discovered the Cloud Bubbles activity, described below, while playing with some dry ice after running a Build a Particle Detector activity for a high school physics class sometime in 2015. From then on I have been doing the Cloud Bubbles activity for daycare to middle school kids—even high school kids like it. My wife and I now have three kids and they have all helped at our activities on the Science Rendezvous Saturday event every year since that first time.”

Science Rendezvous is such a great event. It provides an avenue for all kinds of science, mathematics and engineering to get together and showcase the fun and excitement of their fields. It helps break barriers that these fields are too hard or scary and it is a step toward improving science literacy in Canada!

Favourite Memory?

“I have several favorite memories and they have all occurred during the Science Rendezvous Discovery Days which are during the week before the Saturday public event. Here schools bring whole classrooms to the event for scheduled activities. This is great because sometime kids do not have the resources to come to the event on the weekend. One time during the Cloud Bubble activity a 5th grade student yelled out “This is so awesome! I wanna go to university to be a scientist”. Another time a bunch of kids collected all their soapy water bowls together with dry ice and they blew on them at the same time as they gathered around the bowls in a circle. A giant mushroom cloud of water vapor went up into the air all around them and the whole room got excited! Another time a 3rd grader draped a wet paper towel across her bowl and then poked a hole in it with a pencil. Water vapour came spewing out like a volcano. Then all the kids tried to do this with their bowls. I am always impressed by the creativity of the students trying things I had never thought of.”