Dr. Walter Epp
History and Canadian Studies Teacher, Lakehead University
Dr. Epp has been teaching History and Canadian Studies at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ontario since 1991 and in 2005 won the Lakehead University Distinguished Instructor Award. During 2004-2005, he was seconded by the University of Calgary for work on the Kosovo Educator Development Program as senior advisor to the Dean of the Faculty of Education of the University of Pristina, Kosovo. Since 2005, Dr. Epp has guest lectured extensively in Canadian Studies Centers in Central Europe and has connected Canadian Studies Graduate students in the Central European region in a virtual on-line learning community while conducting research on Canadian involvement and contribution on the Eastern Front during WW1.
Dr. Epp is excited about the opportunity to contribute towards the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge in April 2017.
“I am very grateful for the opportunity to participate in this exciting venture,” explains Dr. Epp. “Programs like the Beaverbrook Vimy Prize and the upcoming Vimy Ridge Week, both sponsored by the Vimy Foundation, offer young people excellent opportunities to learn about the First World War outside of the classroom, an approach I support wholeheartedly.”
Dr. Epp will provide key guidance to the Vimy Foundation in the improvement of educational programs for Canadian youth. His involvement will allow the organization to further expand into the Thunder Bay area, a region with a strong connection to the First World War. The 52nd (New Ontario) Battalion was raised in the area and participated in many key engagements in Europe, including Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele. Many soldiers, including Victoria Cross winner Chris O’Kelly, earned medals for gallantry and bravery during those battles, some of which are on display in the Thunder Bay Military Museum.