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Eight UNBers have been honoured as part of the province’s “Stepping up for my New Brunswick” program.

Nominated by members of the community, the initiative named 89 individuals who stepped up during COVID-19 and contributed to the province’s economic or social recovery efforts.

Among those recognized were several UNB staff, faculty members, students and alumni.

Professor Pam Pastirik, from UNB’s faculty of nursing, was honoured for her work as part of NB COPES Child and Family Grief Centre, which supports families grieving the loss of a pregnancy, child, sibling or parent. Throughout the pandemic, Prof. Pastirik continued with this important work during a time when isolation posed further challenges for those dealing with grief.

“I’m so honoured to be recognized in this way,” says Prof. Pastirik. “The pandemic affected people in different ways and for those dealing with grief, isolation presented further difficulties for families as many were unable to access their support system. I am pleased that the work of NB COPES Child and Family Grief Centre was able to provide support to those who needed it.”

Also nominated was Brenda Anthony, Student Support Services Coordinator within the faculty of nursing. Ms. Anthony worked with Masks in Need, which supplied those who were unable to socially distance with masks and PPE in order to keep themselves safe. She works closely with the vulnerable people and is affectionately known as “Lovey” to those she helps.

“Masks in Need is an important initiative aimed at supporting people to keep themselves safe,” explains Ms. Anthony. “I am honoured to be recognized as part of the team. I have a wonderful connection with the people who are facing very challenging circumstances. We must all pull together in these trying times. I am just so pleased that I was able to be part of such an amazing team.”

The full list of nominees is available from the Government of New Brunswick. The following members of the UNB community were also recognized:

Andrea L. Crossley (BN’93)

As a Nurse Manager of Labour and Delivery at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton, Ms. Crossley demonstrated exceptional leadership in ensuring the safety of the staff, nurses, doctors and their families, while also providing outstanding care to patients and keeping everyone apprised of critical information.

Sherry G. Steeves (BSc’03, BN’06)

Ms. Steeves was recognized for her compassion and kindness and for the countless volunteer hours she spent booking visitation for the residents of the Jorden Life Care Centre and their families throughout the pandemic.

Dr. Kanza A. Hashmat (current MIDST student)

Dr. Hashmat was recognized for her tremendous generosity and compassion in supporting immigrant families and international students by assisting with travel considerations and access to halal food and mental health resources throughout the pandemic.

Gabrielle R Pitt (BN’19)

Ms. Pitt, a registered nurse, was recognized for her dedication, commitment and concern for the wellbeing of others by volunteering in Moncton when the region was significantly affected by the outbreak and in need of support.

Chief Sacha LaBillois-Kennedy (BBA’99)

Chief LaBillois-Kennedy was recognized for her concern for the wellbeing of the members of her community, particularly the Elders.

Ralph G. McRae (BBA’87)

Reverend McRae was recognized for providing a site for COVID screening at the St Joseph’s Catholic Church and for his care and compassion toward workers and volunteers.

Media contact: Fiona Hendrie

Photo: Brenda Anthony and Prof. Pam Pastirik