Stapleford Lecture to examine Senate reform

Posted: March 7, 2014 1:25 p.m.

Historian and Saskatchewan's 20th Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Gordon Barnhart, S.O.M. Photo courtesy of Dr. Barnhart

The Stapleford Lecture is presented annually by the Faculty of Arts and features a distinguished guest lecturer to speak in the area of human justice, the status of women, the education and care of children, the rights of disadvantaged groups, and/or the history and art of Saskatchewan.

This year’s lecture, Senate Reform: Is it necessary and can it be done? is scheduled for Thursday, March 13 and will be presented by historian Dr. Gordon Barnhart, S.O.M. who is a recognized expert on the Canadian parliamentary process and served as Saskatchewan’s 20th Lieutenant Governor.

Senate reform has been much debated; it has even become an oxymoron. It’s a bit like the weather – everyone talks about it, but no one does anything about it. Barnhart’s lecture will explore the topic of Senate reform, drawing on his extensive research of the subject and experience serving as Clerk of the Senate. He will outline the many past attempts at reform and make suggestions for possible future action.

Barnhart obtained a MA in History from the University of Regina and earned his PhD in History at the University of Saskatchewan, where he taught political studies and served as University Secretary.  Barnhart has extensive experience in government that includes 20 years as Clerk of the Saskatchewan Legislature and five years as Clerk of the Canadian Senate. He also served as Saskatchewan’s 20th Lieutenant Governor, Chancellor of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, and Vice-Prior of the Order of St. John in Saskatchewan.

The Stapleford Lecture is presented through the generosity of the Ernest William Stapleford and Maude Bunting Stapleford Lecture Fund provided to the University as an endowment from Dr. Elsie Stapleford as a memorial to her parents. Reverend Ernest Stapleford was president of Regina College from 1915-1934 while his wife Maude was active in Regina’s community, taking a particular interest in the arts and the advancement of women’s and children’s rights.

Stapleford Lecture: Senate Reform: Is it necessary and can it be done?
Presented by: Dr. Gordon Barnhart, S.O.M.
Date: Thursday, March 13
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Education Building, ED Wing 106.1, University of Regina main campus, 3737 Wascana Pkwy, Regina

All are welcome. Refreshments to follow the lecture. Park for free on campus in lots 13M & 14M or use pay parking at kiosks and meters across campus. Please call 306-585-4226 for more information or visit the lecture website.