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AnX area named The Annabelle and Herb Mays Education Commons

Dr. Annabelle Mays (left), along with Dr. Ken McClusky, Dean of Education; Kevin Lamoureux, Associate Vice-President of Indigenous Affairs; and Dr. Annette Trimbee, Vice-Chancellor and President; unveil the plaque that will be located in The Annabelle and Herb Mays Education Commons in the lower level of the AnX. ©UWinnipeg

Dr. Annabelle Mays (left), along with Dr. Ken McClusky, Dean of Education; Kevin Lamoureux, Associate Vice-President of Indigenous Affairs; and Dr. Annette Trimbee, Vice-Chancellor and President; unveil the plaque that will be located in The Annabelle and Herb Mays Education Commons in the lower level of the AnX. ©UWinnipeg

The University of Winnipeg’s Faculty of Education today unveiled a plaque naming the lower level of the AnX The Annabelle and Herb Mays Education Commons. The area consists of classrooms, offices, and a student lounge.

Annabelle and the late Herb Mays were instrumental in the early creation of what is today, a flourishing Faculty of Education. Prior to 1998, education students could take only their first three years of study at UWinnipeg: the final certification year had to be completed at the University of Manitoba. As Director of Education throughout those early years, Annabelle created, crafted, and built everything from the ground up. She championed a Bachelor of Education Program for UWinnipeg and managed – virtually singlehandedly– to lobby it into existence. During her years as Associate Dean of Arts, Dean of Education, and Dean of Continuing Education, Annabelle continued to nurture, refine, and grow the vibrant Faculty of Education that is in place on campus today.

Herb served UWinnipeg in a number of capacities, including Chair of the History Department, Director of Research Administration, Associate Vice-President (Academic), and Associate Vice-President (Student Services). In his various capacities, Herb worked closely with Education to help establish the History major in the ACCESS Program, to develop several important research grants and projects, and to establish the unique advising structure that has served the Faculty so well over the years.

“Annabelle and Herb were a highly effective and tireless team, and their contribution to the University of Winnipeg is significant,” said Dr. Ken McClusky, Dean of Education. “By formally recognizing this space we are ensuring that the next generation of UWinnipeg educators understand and value the Mays’ legacy.”

The Anx space is dedicated to early and middle years Education and features an inclusive learning environment, innovative and flexible furnishings, and six large classrooms to accommodate courses in language arts, science, math, social studies, art, music, and drama.

Find out more about the Faculty of Education.