“Jeff started working at the UBC Bookstore on July 2, 1986—a year when Vancouver had just invited the world to come see Expo 86 and parking at the UBC B-lots had just gone up to 35 cents a day.

“He was originally hired for three months for the back-to-school rush. That three months turned into a 38 year-long career at the Bookstore.

“Starting out in the warehouse, Jeff soon moved into sales and eventually became the head buyer and retail supervisor for the computer shop.

“Jeff is looking forward to travelling and woodturning in his retirement, and we wish him well in his endeavours.”

— Shane Gopaulsingh, Store Manager, UBC Bookstore

“Lee has been a loyal educator and colleague at UBC Child Care for over 30 years. In her role as a Senior Early Childhood Educator at Raven, Lee mentored and supported many educators along the way.

“The team at Raven has been together, like a family, for many years now. This is a true credit to Lee’s compassionate and dedicated leadership. She will be missed by many here at UBC Child Care, and we wish her and her wife all the best as they embark on their next chapter of life. We hope there is lots of fishing in their future!”

— Karen Vaughan, Director, Child Care

“Rene Atkinson has been a part of the Food Services family for over 20 years, and during that time many thousands of residence dining guests and staff members have been lucky enough to be the beneficiary of her time, talent and passion for amazing food and service.

“Originally, Rene began her career as a supervisor and, soon after, she advanced to management roles. Her career progression was a direct result of her true roots as a foodie, along with her depth of care for people and the daily experience of her staff and customers.

“Her passion for amazing food and experiences is fuelled by an avid immersion in the Vancouver food scene, with regular visits to new and favourite restaurants alike, which allow her to keep up with industry trends—and enjoy nights away from cooking!

“Rene has made immense contributions to the department during her 20 years, primarily as the face of Feast residence dining hall at Totem Park residence, where she has ensured top notch food service for thousands of first year students each year, along with our summer group guests.

“For the summer catering side of the business, she has been pivotal in growing and developing client relationships. From young clients participating in english language or athletic camps to adults attending a conference or retreat, Rene and her team have served them all faithfully.

“Plus, Rene has been a crucial part of the service delivery for two Congress of the Humanities events, the 2010 Olympics and the 2015 Special Olympics—just to name a few of the major events we’ve hosted at the Vancouver campus.

“Never shy to don a costume, plan an event, swing a golf club or host a dinner party, Rene is always the first to have some fun, both at work and in her free time. With her retirement date coming up fast, she will have plenty of time to enjoy her passion for gardening, golf, good wine, concerts, theatre, great friends and time with her husband, Charlie. Their retirement destination of Kelowna will be an amazing place to continue these pursuits.

“Please join us in celebrating Rene’s retirement and share in our gratitude for her many years as a leader, peer and friend in Food Services.”

— Loriann McGowan, Associate Director, Residence Dining, Food Services

“Edwin started off his tenure with Food Services in 1999, working the Tube Steak hot dog cart. After several years we finally allowed him to come work indoors—first at Edibles in the basement of the Scarfe building and later Yum Yums.

“Following that he worked in many of our locations, including Pizza Pizza, 99 Chairs, Pacific Spirit Place, and residence dining at Totem Park and Place Vanier. Over the past ten years, Edwin has worked as a baker at our Tim Hortons locations.

“To the staff he is know as “Papa”, and he always seems to have a smile (or a smirk!). 

“In his spare time he likes to watch sports and babysit his grandkids. During his breaks at work, he’s often found playing Candy Crush—in which he’s reached level 11,024!

“After his 25 years of dedicated service, we wish Edwin all the best in his retirement.”

– Brian McLaughlin, Senior Supervisor, Retail, Food Services

“Bruce began his tenure at the Bookstore in 1981, initially joining for a short-term role during the back-to-school rush. However, his exceptional work ethic and dedication quickly earned him a permanent position. Over the years, Bruce has handled various responsibilities, from processing books to eventually rising to the role of warehouse supervisor.

“Bruce has remained a cornerstone of our organization, making an indelible impact on colleagues and stakeholders alike with his unwavering dedication and warmth. His charismatic and funny nature, combined with a great sense of humour, has always lit up his team and everyone who interacts with him. His presence has truly been an institution, earning the affection and admiration of all who have had the pleasure of working with him.

“We also celebrate his remarkable contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. His 43 years of outstanding service have left an enduring mark on the UBC Bookstore, and his influence will be felt for years to come.

“We wish him all the best in his retirement and thank him for his unwavering commitment and the joy he brought to our workplace. Bruce’s departure marks the end of an era, but his spirit and the memories we’ve shared will remain a vibrant part of our history.”

– Ana Munoz, Operations Manager, Bookstore and Campus Mail

“Please join me in congratulating Joanne Thember, as she is soon to embark on her retirement—after an outstanding 30 years of service!

“Joanne started her career at UBC in 1994 as a supervisor within Food Services. Her talent for delivering high-quality service experiences and supporting staff was quickly recognized by the department. As the Food Services department continued to grow, the need to establish a formal Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) program emerged.

“In 1997, Joanne was called upon by the Food Services Director to utilize her OHS certificate from BCIT and establish the first formal OHS program within the department. From 1997 to 2024, Joanne has tirelessly advanced safety within Food Services and across the entire SHCS portfolio.

“Joanne’s passion for helping people, both in the workplace and outside of work is unparalleled. I am so proud to call Joanne a trusted safety colleague and friend. Thank you, Joanne, for your amazing contributions to improving SHCS operations and making UBC a safer workplace. Wishing you well in this next exciting phase of your life.”

– Gontran Paget, Senior Manager, Safety Management Systems, SHCS