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By Vivian Kereki
Warbeck. Photo: Vivian Kereki Lauren Warbeck credits a passion for her study area combined with a commitment to her professors for her 8.0+ GPA. The women’s studies major/environmental studies minor student is one of only four humanities students with such high academic standing graduating this November.
“I was blessed with incredible professors who are invested in their students,” comments Warbeck. “I felt like I was valued and my perspectives were valued. I wasn’t just another number.”
Warbeck describes her relationships with her professors as mentorships. “I am inspired by the way they speak and live and discuss their politics.” She would like to especially acknowledge Drs. James Rowe and Duncan Taylor in the School of Environmental Studies, and Drs. Jo-Anne Lee, Annalee Lepp, Christine St. Peter and Christine Welsh in the Department of Women’s Studies.
Warbeck was born in Red Lake, ON, but has lived in Victoria since she was 15. After attending the University of PEI for the initial part of her post-secondary studies, Warbeck decided to return to Victoria to complete UVic’s highly regarded women’s studies program.
She felt that combining the two disciplines was a natural choice. “I think there is an important connection between social justice work and environmental justice work. Many of the same themes run through both social and environmental problems. I think that has a lot to do with isolation and a lack of egalitarianism in our culture.”
During her time at UVic, she has been an active member of the UVic community as well as the larger Victoria community. She was the co-coordinator of the Women’s Studies Equity and Outreach Committee in 2007–08, she teaches bicycle mechanics at Victoria High School (from which she graduated), and she worked with the Bike Lab Society to co-found the Free Hub Bike Cooperative, a non-profit bike shop. She also makes videos to promote cycling.
In May 2009, Warbeck was recognized for her efforts with one of eight UVic Blue and Gold Awards (see The Ring, May 2009).
Warbeck doesn’t see a defined path for her career but is confident that her many interests will continue to allow her to realize her beliefs. Some possibilities for her future: developing a cooperative-style housing community, film-making, law school, mediation or farming.
In the meantime, you can find Warbeck riding around town on her second-hand Biemmezeta bike or serving tasty treats at Bastion Square’s Rebar restaurant.
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