Spring/Summer 2011 - St. Jerome's University

SJUUPDATEAn Evening with David MorrellRecipient of the 2011Distinguished Alumni AwardDespite the chilly January temperatures, Dr.David Morrell (BA ’66) joined alumni andfriends at St. Jerome’s for a wonderful eveningof sharing stories of SJU in the 1960s and incelebration of the 50th Anniversary of theUniversity of Waterloo’s English department.He inspired the audience with anecdotes ofhis career as an award-winning author of morethan 30 books and reflected fondly on hisbeginnings as an SJU English graduate in 1966.His message was simple – the St. Jerome’scommunity provided a solid foundation for hiscareer. His academic studies with professorssuch as Dr. Laurence Cummings and hisfriendship with fellow English student RobertWiljer (BA ’66) (who turned up to see him atthe event), gave him the support he neededduring his time at St. Jerome’s. It was greatto hear Dr. Morrell’s enthusiasm and fondreflections about his time on campus.In his line of work, research is key to strong andaccurate plot and character development. He is trainedin wilderness survival, hostage negotiation, assumingidentities, and defensive driving. All of this research goesinto the writing of his bestselling books. His first novel,First Blood, featured the character John Rambo, whichspawned the movie Rambo, starring Sylvester Stallone.There are 18 million copies of his work in print, and hisbooks have been translated into 26 languages. No smallfeat for the Kitchener-born writer.Dr. Morrell shares his thoughts following the event: “I thoughtit was a wonderful group, and I thoroughly enjoyed catchingup with everyone.”He is a three-time recipient of the coveted Bram StokerAward. During the SJU event, he received anotherhonour: the Fr. Norm Choate 2011 DistinguishedAlumni Award. This award recognizes thecontributions Dr. Morrell has made to the literary world,with action thrillers such as The Naked Edge, Creepers,and The Spy Who Came for Christmas, as well as hisachievements in community life.Dr. David Morell now lives in New Mexico with hiswife, Donna (BA ’65) – a fellow SJU grad.St. Jerome’s University 2011 Memorial MassMonday, October 31, 2011 at 12 p.m. ~ Notre Dame ChapelJoin us at this annual event where members of the SJU community celebrate the livesof their loved ones who passed away in the previous year. A memorial service and aninscription of names in our Memorial Book are followed by a light lunch. To attendthe 2011 Memorial Mass or to have a loved one celebrated, please contact NadineCollins at ncollins@uwaterloo.ca or 519-884-8111 ext. 28255.9