It is with sadness we announce the recent passing of a respected and former colleague, Dr. Garth Pickard – Professor Emeritus. Dr. Pickard joined the Faculty of Education, University of Regina in July, 1978 following Faculty appointments at Brock University, York University and the University of Alberta. He retired from the University of Regina in December, 2011.

During his 33 year tenure in the Faculty, Dr. Pickard taught undergraduate and graduate courses in Physical Education, Outdoor Education and Educational Leadership. In addition, he also held the administrative positions of Associate Dean of Student Services and Undergraduate Programs; Director of Professional Development and Field Experiences; Director of the Centre for International Teacher Education as well as the Director of the Canada, China University Linkage Program. Following his retirement, Dr. Pickard remained active and steadfast in his passion and work with UNESCO – International Network for Re-orienting Teacher Education towards Sustainability and the United Nations University Regional Centre of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development.

Garth was widely known for his dedication, commitment and service to teacher education locally, provincially, nationally and internationally. Garth challenged and inspired his students to be independent thinkers and trust their own abilities and intuition in their pursuit of positive change. His love and stewardship for the outdoors was the foundation of his teaching philosophy. Garth’s professional accomplishments are numerous and he will be remembered by his colleagues as a hard-working, devoted colleague and dear friend.

Garth’s family will remember him privately. In Garth’s memory, donations may be made to the Nature Conservancy of Canada.