Introducing St John’s College newest fellows
Welcoming four academics to our community from across campus
St John’s College is proud to welcome four academics to our fellowship this spring.
The new fellows come from across UM, representing both the Faculty of Science and Faculty of Arts, and include a former Warden and Vice-Chancellor of SJC.
We caught up with them to see what joining the St John’s community means to them.
Jenna Tichon: Faculty of Science, Department of Statistics
Dr. Jenna Tichon focuses her research on experimental design, where she looks to find optimal split-plot designs for industrial and agricultural experiments. Jenna uses programming and simulation to develop a deeper understanding of statistical concepts, data visualization, and creating accessible research.
Jenna shares her excitement about learning from other academics and making new connections.
“I’m most excited about meeting and working with new people, learning about their research, and contributing to making the University of Manitoba a more vibrant and friendly place to work and learn. Every fellow speaks about what a strong community they felt at the College and how much they learned by sharing experiences with colleagues from all around the university.”
Aleeza Gerstein: Faculty of Science, Department of Microbiology and Statistics
Before moving back to her hometown of Winnipeg, Aleeza studied in the Zoology Department at the University of British Columbia, where she focused on evolutionary genetics using the budding yeast, and held a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Minnesota.
Her research applies evolutionary principles and statistical methods to understand the factors that influence how and why fungal populations evolve.
About joining St John’s, Aleeza says,
“I greatly welcome the opportunity as a Fellow to form additional relationships with others across the university community. Creating and fostering community is an overarching thread that has driven much of the service I have undertaken as a faculty member.”
Gregg Olsen: Faculty of Arts, Department of Sociology and Criminology
As an esteemed sociologist, Gregg Olsen has spent over three decades researching socio-economic inequality and strategies to eradicate it. A recipient of the Arts Award in Internationalization, he has given public addresses and conducted research in over twenty nations. His cross-national approach has furthered his understanding of why inequality varies dramatically across countries and time.
Murdith McLean: Former Warden and Vice-Chancellor of St John’s College
Murdith McLean is no stranger to St John’s College, having served as Warden and Vice-Chancellor from 1980 through 1997. He was also an adjunct professor in the UM Department of Philosophy and served in several important roles at the University. He was a Senate appointee to the Board of Governors, and member of the President’s task force on strategic planning.
The former Warden returns to St John’s College as a retired fellow.
To learn more about St John’s College fellowship, visit our website.