One is immediately struck by Joanie Webster’s passion, exuberance and energy. The 1980 Recreation in Education graduate was a “builder” and student leader at UBC from the mid 1970s through 1990, particularly in the areas of Intramurals and Recreation. Together with Nestor Korchinsky, both of whom are visionaries, Joanie helped develop the UBC Co-Recreation program, outdoor recreation and intramurals generally into becoming the top program of its type in the country. In 1983 Joannie, with her everlasting passion for UBC, became the first full-time Associate Director hired in UBC Rec/Intramurals.
By 1990 UBC’s Recreation and Intramural programs led by Nestor and Joanie stood above those in other Canadian universities in terms of its student led administration and its unique programs. Joanie was also played an integral role in the creation of “The Point” newspaper which reports on campus events, students and sports and for bringing international students into UBC recreation and intramurals.
In 1990 Joanie started a family and a little over 20 years later has re-engaged with UBC as an active alumna. She is now mentoring students in Kinesiology and is volunteering her creativity and energy to UBC Recreation and Intramurals. At the same time, she serves as an advocate for youth at risk at Covenant House. Joanie doesn’t hesitate to mention that she feels fortunate to have been at UBC at a time when male leaders on campus fully supported the females.
Joanie, with her flare for event planning and community building, could well be considered one of UBC’s “treasures.”
Written by Fred Hume, UBC Historian
