Stuart Schwartz - Academic Head

Hobbies and Interests

I was a literature major in university serveral years ago now, so reading is an abiding interest of mine - these days, I have a special interest in Haruki Murakami's stories (in translation, of course) (thanks, Kumiko S.!). I can't wait to read his newest book.

I love travelling, although it's sometimes hard with two small children. We went to Alaska in '04, and more recently, Cuba, in '05, where I tried unsuccessfully to speak basic Spanish - " La gente me gusta mucho."

I enjoy the 45 minute walk to/from work in any season - it's great exercise, and I think the air and sky in Winnipeg are exhilarating (I'm a confessed jaywalker, though).

Finally, I'm a real movie buff - my favourite is "Life is Beautiful" (volte, volte . . . Junko H.).

Teaching Moments

In the winter of 2003, my eldest daughter was hospitalized for several weeks with a serious, but unknown illness. It was the most difficult time of our lives. One weekend, as my daughter was sleeping, I took a walk in the hall, and was completely surprised to see one of my students and his friend - they had come to see how my daughter was and had brought two teddy bears as presents for her. I'll never forget what their act of kindness meant to her and me at that difficult time, nor the lesson it taught me - to value the ties which we, as learners and teachers, form with each other.