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On Thursday September 4, members of the Biological Sciences department gathered for the annual Welcome Party. Jointly hosted by the department and the graduate caucus, the party was a chance to welcome new graduate students and staff while enjoying pizza and snacks. This year, we celebrated Professor Tony Williams' exemplary service as department chair, most recently from 2022 to spring 2025! Thank you, Tony!! 

Held in the BioChem courtyard, attendees heard from Leslie Dodd, Greenhouse Technician, who told us about the Mesozoic Garden. Leslie pointed out the unique plant specimens and features, including the refreshed replica of the Glen Rose dinosaur trackway, originally proposed by Joan Sharp and installed in 2012. 

Leslie thanked the many people who have played a role in bringing the garden to life, including Kathryn Coukell, Luiza Gomes, Alison Hadwin, Tiia Haapalainen, Cheryl Leonard, Paul MacDonald, Miranda Meents, Krystal Ness (Associate Director of Building and Grounds at SFU), Maya Piddocke, Joan Sharp, Aron Weir, and Tony Williams. We should thank Leslie herself for her vision and passionate advocacy of the garden! After the talk, Leslie and Joan Sharp led a small tour. Stay tuned for opportunities to learn more, and watch the garden grow! 

A huge thanks to Leslie and Joan for the tour, and to the graduate caucus for a great party! The caucus entertained everyone with welcome bingo and a variety of board games. The party festivities continued into the evening, with new and old department members getting a chance to connect.

Welcome all and best wishes for the fall semester!