Kevin Vickers with the previous director of the French Centre, Mary-Lou Kaitting.
Oct. 31, 2014
Kevin Vickers: Hero is one of ours
House of Commons sergeant-at-arms studied at French Centre in 1990s
Last week’s events in Ottawa revived bright memories at the university’s French Centre, where Kevin Vickers — now the House of Commons sergeant-at-arms — was a stalwart in the 1990s.
Every day, he would arrive at the same time, bearing a big box of doughnuts to share with students and staff.
Kevin Vickers and Eileen Lohka, current director of the French Centre, second from left, eat donuts.
He came to practise his French, speak in the language of his native province, and learn and improve his skills. He registered in upper-level conversation courses, in one-day seminars, and in immersion weekends.
He was very present for all activities organized by the French Centre, even giving presentations in French. He was a role model for students who admired his motivation, professionalism, and generosity.
Kevin Vickers and Nicolas Corbeil in Miramichi, New Brunswick, in the summer of 1995.
His concern for women’s safety stemmed from tragic criminal cases he had investigated as part of his duties as an RCMP officer. He never failed to advise female students of potential dangers and was always ready to give pertinent information to avoid unnecessary danger.
He was a valued member of the Francophone family on campus and many of us appreciated his friendship. We were not surprised then to hear that Kevin had stepped forward in a most challenging situation and done his duty as he saw fit. We were not surprised either to note his humble demeanour and graciousness in the House of Commons.
MERCI, Kevin!
(Eileen Lohka is director of the French Centre; Odile Rollin is an instructor.)