Larry Vandergrift was a full professor with the Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute. This award was established in honour of this cherished colleague, mentor and friend, who passed away in November 2015. Over the course of his career at the University of Ottawa, Larry Vandergrift was involved in a number of projects not only at our University but also on the national and international stage. Deeply committed to his students, he gave his time generously and was always ready to support his colleagues both as a faculty member of the University of Ottawa and as an editor of the highly regarded Canadian Modern Languages Review. Considered a leading specialist by teachers and second language researchers in Canada, Larry Vandergrift carved out an international reputation as well. He conducted research on first language (L1) listening comprehension, second language (L2) proficiency, metacognition, sound discrimination ability and working memory capacity as well as on implementing the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages in French-as-a-second-language curriculum in Canada. In his research, he always succeeded in combining theoretical principles with the classroom context upon which he based his work. A language teacher, education expert and theorist, his work continues to make important contributions in the field of second language teaching.
The purpose of this fund is to allocate an annual award to the student in the Second Language Teaching undergraduate program at the Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute of the Faculty of Arts who has achieved the highest CGPA.
Please make a contribution and join us in honouring Larry’s memory through the Larry Vandergrift Memorial Award. Making a gift is simple — you can donate online, or by contacting Karine Charron, Development Officer, at 1-888-352-7222. ext. 2473.
Thank you.