Mount Royal honours contributions of employees

When Cindy Hamonic laughs, it’s easy to see why she became known as a welcoming figure at Mount Royal University.

"I like to say I came to Mount Royal as a child, in 1984," Hamonic said with a bubbling laugh. After 15 years of formal service — and a much longer informal history — Hamonic retired in June 2024. In many ways, she grew alongside the institution itself as it transformed from a college to a university.

At this year’s Long Service and Retirement Brunch on April 24, Hamonic’s journey was one of many stories honoured. She was one of 18 retirees and 37 long-service award recipients recognized at the event. Their contributions — in scholarship, leadership, mentorship, innovation and everyday dedication — have shaped MRU’s past, present and future, said Mount Royal President and Vice-Chancellor Tim Rahilly, PhD.

"All of you here today have dedicated many years — and in some cases, decades — to MRU. Your time and contributions have not only made this organization stronger, but have also created a workplace where people support one another, grow together and take pride in the work they do," Rahilly said. “While we celebrate today's milestones, we also acknowledge the friendships and connections that have been formed along the way. For those retiring, we know that while your daily presence will be missed, your influence will continue to resonate within these walls for years to come.”

Time to Celebrate U

The brunch was the first formal event held under the Celebrate U umbrella, Mount Royal’s revitalized employee recognition and reward program. Looking ahead, the Faculty Excellence Celebration takes place in May, followed by the Chancellor’s and President’s Excellence Awards in the fall. The awards honour the exceptional contributions of employees, students and community members who embody the spirit and values of Mount Royal, celebrating those who demonstrate outstanding service, leadership and a commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. Achievements will be recognized across six categories, reflecting the diverse ways community members contribute to Mount Royal’s success.

While the “celebrate” portion of Celebrate U is important, the program as a whole is about more than recognition. It’s about building a culture of appreciation and belonging, according to Arleen Gallo, associate vice-president, Human Resources.

“We take great pride at Mount Royal in our people and their achievements, from early milestones to contributions that stretch over a half-century. Letting employees know that their work is seen and valued is an important part of who we are as an institution,” Gallo said. “Whether it’s in the classroom or in a non-academic setting, our success depends on our shared purpose. Letting employees know that their efforts — from everyday tasks to large projects — are appreciated and a critical component of furthering our institutional goals creates a culture where people can be their professional and personal best.”

Growing along with Mount Royal

Hamonic’s path with Mount Royal was anything but linear. It’s a journey shared by many employees who return to the university after an initial period of employment. After first joining the Payroll department in 1984, Hamonic took time off to raise her three children, returning in 2000 in a casual role, and then again in 2010. "They called," she laughs, explaining how the familiar pull of MRU always seemed to find her at just the right moments.

Hamonic eventually found her true calling as a benefits and pension advisor — a position that allowed her to connect more directly with employees during some of the most important transitions of their lives. "I liked working with people who were retiring, employees going on maternity leave, welcoming new employees to Mount Royal. It was busy, but it was fun and filled with variety."

Over the decades, she witnessed Mount Royal transform from a small, tight-knit community to a vibrant, bustling university. "In 1984, when there was a get-together, everyone came and you knew everyone," she recalls. "Now it’s bigger. You still know your group, but you don’t know everyone. Still, it's remained very community-minded."

Her story reflects one of the core values that Celebrate U recognizes: the extraordinary impact that each individual brings to the university community through their time, talents and heart. Now embracing retirement, Hamonic has a full calendar, packed with travel, curling, and spending time with family and friends, with plans ranging from visits to Edmonton and Saskatoon to a river cruise through Eastern Europe. Her husband is joining her in retirement this fall, giving them more flexibility to spend time with their three children and one grandchild.

What advice would this former benefits and pension Advisor who regularly counselled those looking into retirement give others who are in the shoes she was last year?

"Don’t be afraid to retire," she advised with another laugh. "Have a plan."