Emeritus
Celebrating distinguished service.
Emeritus is Latin for "those having merited discharge by service". It is an honorary title conferred to retiring or retired faculty members and professional staff to recognize their distinguished service to an organization. Langara College introduced the Emeritus/Emerita Designation Policy in 2013.
2025 Emeritus Award Recipients
Gerda Krause
Dean Emerita, Faculty of Science
With over 45 years of service to Langara, Gerda has excelled in various roles including instructor, department chair, division chair, and dean. She also chaired the Education Council and served on Langara’s Board of Governors. Her exceptional leadership, mentorship, and compassion made a significant impact on the Langara community. Gerda co-founded 49Women in Science, supporting women's representation in STEM, and secured funds for scholarships and bursaries. She played a key role in the Tri-Mentoring program for female engineering students, bridging the knowledge gap and fostering their growth. Beyond the College, Gerda has served on various committees within the Mennonite Church and supports community projects such as transition houses. Her unwavering commitment, generosity, and desire to make a positive difference enriches the lives of those she encounters. Gerda wears her heart on her sleeve, always caring for others and striving to make Langara and the community better.
Stephen Phillips
Faculty Emeritus, Political Science
Dr. Stephen Phillips retires in 2025 after 31 years of dedicated service teaching political science at Langara. He studied law and political science at the University of Alberta before earning his PhD at UBC in 1999. During his tenure at Langara, Stephen served as department chair and political science co-ordinator for a total of 17 years. Long active in the BC Political Studies Association, he served as its president, organized several conferences, and presented numerous papers. Stephen contributed to scholarly literature by writing book chapters on politics and public affairs. He also enhanced Langara’s academic reputation by submitting written briefs to various public bodies. Stephen was a frequent participant in Langara's community lecture series and was keenly involved in the Langara Faculty Association (LFA), serving on its board of directors and co-editing its newsletter, Faculty Affairs.
