Dr. Arran Lamont’s legacy honoured in new memorial scholarship

The Dr. Arran Lamont Memorial Award, valued at $1,500, pays tribute to the well-rounded personality of the late Dr. Arran Lamont (DVM), a WCVM alumnus who passed away in 2022. Originally from Lloydminster, Alta., Lamont had a deep passion for animal welfare and excelled in his career as a small animal veterinarian in numerous clinics across Western Canada.

While other awards recognize the academic or clinical achievements of veterinary students, this one celebrates individuals who have a strong personal interest in subjects or areas that aren’t related to the veterinary profession.

The award’s first recipient is Gavin Fleck, a third-year veterinary student from Lampman, Sask., who learned how to play banjo, mandolin, fiddle and guitar during his childhood and now performs in a local band.

“I was ecstatic when I found out that I won this award,” says Fleck, who is grateful to receive the award and be recognized for his musical talents. “I know that there are many students at the college with strong passions, so I feel honoured to win.”

Fleck received the award at the WCVM’s fall awards program in September 2024, where he met with some of Lamont’s family members and classmates and learned more about his life.

“He was an outgoing type of person that was very interested in the lives of others. It’s humbling to talk with his classmates and find out that they thought my essay [submission] reflected his values,” says Fleck.

Dr. Sarah Hanson (DVM), a veterinarian at Magnolia Veterinary Services in Bonnyville, Alta., was one of Lamont’s classmates and a close friend.

“He was the life of the party, always laughing and having a good time. He was a truly special person,” says Hanson, who was instrumental in founding the award in Lamont’s name.

Hanson first got to know Lamont when they were undergraduate students in the animal sciences program at the University of Alberta and later as WCVM classmates. Known for his upbeat personality and charismatic charm, Lamont had a natural way of making meaningful connections with those who knew him.

Hanson says that Lamont’s eclectic interests and curious nature made him a social magnet at the veterinary college.

“People were drawn to him because he was an interesting person. He was a trained dancer, which he got started with at a young age and he also really enjoyed music. He’d stay up to date on the latest social trends and events, which made him someone that was easy to talk to,” says Hanson.

Lamont’s death brought together his former classmates to organize a tribute in celebration of his life. At the class’s 10-year reunion in 2023, the group decided to establish a student scholarship — a project that was spearheaded by Hanson and Dr. Eddie Rasmussen (DVM), Lamont’s close friend.

“Arran’s philosophy on life set a gold standard for how one should conduct themselves and that was the inspiration for this award,” says Rasmussen, who is part of the clinical team at Castledowns Animal Hospital in Edmonton, Alta.

“I’ve never met another person like Arran. He showed a commitment to building bonds with those around him, and he was very genuine in his pursuit of knowledge.”

Rasmussen’s friendship with Lamont evolved, beginning as classmates at the WCVM and then roommates after graduation. Lamont kept in touch with his friends by regularly checking in and sharing his latest activities with them. After his passing, Rasmussen received support from Lamont’s family in creating the scholarship as a tribute to an extraordinary individual.

“I genuinely believe that this memorial award will continue to inspire students to become well-rounded individuals and positive influences on society. I think Arran would be proud of what we’ve constructed in his memory,” says Rasmussen.

Hanson says that the class was determined to create a scholarship that was as unique as the friend they memorialized.

“We gathered class input and then worked closely together to make sure all of the fine details of the award reflected Lamont’s life and personality.” says Hanson. She adds that the class wanted to promote the concept of a proper balance between the academic workload and the personal lives of students.

“In the veterinary profession we’re really invested in the lives of animals and owners, and that can take a toll on your mental health. Finding a balance between work and personal life is crucial to your well-being and is something we want to encourage.”

Fleck says he can relate to this message in how he manages his current studies, ensuring that he makes time for creativity.

“It’s really important to have a way of relieving stress because this profession can be demanding. I’ll pick up my guitar for a few minutes in between study sessions and that goes a long way for me because I can fully immerse myself in it and refocus my mind,” he says.

Fleck’s talents are also displayed as a member of Sask Steel, a local country-rock band. As a multi-instrumentalist and harmony vocalist in the band, Fleck says it’s a satisfying feeling to perform live shows at venues around Saskatchewan and bring joy to audiences.

“When people are dancing and singing and enjoying the music, that’s what makes it fun for me.”

Fleck also points out that his musical aptitude is closely related to how he approaches veterinary medicine.

“I’m using my talents and abilities to serve others when I’m playing, and I think that that’s one of the main goals that I’m striving for in veterinary medicine,” he says.

Lamont’s example of finding fulfilment in life by pursuing hobbies and helping others has encouraged Fleck to use his talents in a similar way.

“When you invest time and effort into things that you enjoy, it’s rewarding to see the kind of payoff that you can have for yourself and others.”

Rasmussen says that Fleck’s essay was impressive and was a strong representation of Lamont’s outlook on life. For Fleck as well as for future recipients, Rasmussen hopes that this award can be beneficial in multiple ways.

“It provides financial support for students, but it also shows encouragement to try new things. Discover what brings you joy because that’s how Arran lived his life.”