If you’ve ever admired a snapshot of student life on the Mount website, marketing materials or program brochures, chances are the image has a connection to Janice Landry, a part-time faculty member in the Department of Communication Studies.
Janice initiated the project idea for her Audiovisual Communications students to conduct still photography with the Mount as a ‘client.’
Janice saw it as an opportunity for both the University and her students. “I want my students to think outside the box – to not be afraid to try something new,” she says. “This project gives students the chance to be challenged creatively, and to see first-hand how their work can benefit clients in their communications efforts.”
Creativity is something Janice has in bulk. Her passion for writing influenced her decision to study Journalism at the University of King’s College in Halifax, and her journey has continued to flourish. Janice spent 12 years working with CTV-Atlantic before starting her own company, Groundhog Productions. Janice has since worked with many well-known community leaders, organizations and businesses in the Atlantic Region on projects that rely on her writing, producing and directing talents.
Janice’s heart will always be in finding – and telling – a story. Meeting new people and writing is still a big part of her life. Janice, a self-professed storyteller, feels that her background allows her to bring a different perspective into the classroom. “It’s nice to have a mix of professors on campus,” explains Janice. “Some are true academics and then some are like myself, instructors who also work professionally on a daily basis.”
In addition to her roles at the Mount and Groundhog productions, Janice is also devoted to family, crediting her daily inspiration to husband Rob and daughter Laura. Janice thrives on the energy and enthusiasm of her students, and is a sought-after mentor.
Janice grew up with mentors of her own, ranging from an elementary school teacher to university professors. The knowledge they imparted on her, she says, is carried in her teachings every day. But perhaps the biggest mentor to Janice was her own father, the late Baz Landry, who she credits for teaching her work ethic and the importance of always giving 100 per cent.
In January, Janice completed her first book, which she dedicated to her late father. “Writing a book was a bucket list goal for me,” she says. “I was so excited to hold the final product in my hands.”
The book, titled ‘From the Ground Up’, is a biography about the life of Consul of Lebanon to the Maritimes, Mr. Wadih Fares. Fares emigrated from Diman, Lebanon, escaping civil war as a teenager, studied engineering at the former TUNS and Dalhousie University, and is now one of the most successful developers in Atlantic Canada.
With more than a decade of teaching experience at the Mount, it’s no surprise Janice has been a previous nominee for a Teaching of Excellence Award. The Mount community wishes Janice every success as she continues to leave a lasting impression on the many worlds around her.
(With contributions from Haley Beaton, Mount Public Relations student)