2011-2012

News Release

REF NO.: 16

SUBJECT: Student LIFE forum set for Saturday, Sept. 24

DATE: September 22, 2011

The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Memorial University of Newfoundland hosts the third annual Student LIFE Forum on Saturday, Sept. 24. The event kicks off at 11 a.m. at Pete’s Place (first floor Hatcher House) and members of the media are encouraged to attend.
            The forum is sponsored by the Angus Bruneau Student Leadership and Innovation Fund in Engineering (LIFE) Program, which is a $1 million donation by Drs. Angus and Jean Bruneau, to encourage and support student leadership and innovation in engineering education, research and community service. In addition to the LIFE forum, the Angus Bruneau Student LIFE program also sponsors financial awards for Memorial Engineering students.
            In addition, the Angus Bruneau Student LIFE Program provides funding for student-led initiatives that significantly enhance the experience of students in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Memorial University, and supports initiatives that would not normally be funded through the faculty’s operating budget.
            “Memorial engineering students will use the day to learn about student leadership and innovation in engineering education, research and community service,” said Dr. Ramachandran Venkatesan, dean pro tempore, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “The Student LIFE Forum is a great opportunity for our students to hear from leading professionals working in the field while also learning to work together with their classmates.”
            The 2011 Student LIFE Forum will feature discussions on leadership, sustainability and innovation. The day begins with a keynote speaker who has benefitted from many years, and a variety of positions, in the engineering profession. This is followed by breakout sessions, during which small interactive groups will discuss ways engineers and engineering students can display leadership and innovation, both in the classroom and in the workplace.
            “These sessions will give students the opportunity to share their thoughts on a topic as they are guided by an expert in the area,” said Dr. Andy Fisher,
associate dean for undergraduate studies with the faculty. “A major goal of the forum is to remind engineering students that by using their education, they have the ability to initiate positive change in the world.”
            There is no registration fee for the event and lunch is provided for the participating students. The forum concludes with a prize draw in recognition of the efforts and contributions made by the students taking part.   
            “The Student LIFE Forum is another example of the contribution Dr. Bruneau and his family have made to the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science,” said Dr. Venkatesan. “Dr. Bruneau was the faculty’s founding dean in 1968 and helped make it one of the top engineering and applied science programs in the country. He continues to support engineering students, research and innovation today. His contributions have produced lasting effects.”
            Registration for the 2011 Student LIFE Forum begins at 10:30 a.m. The day-long event is expected to wrap up at 5:15 p.m.

- 30 -