PETITION FOR THE REINSTATEMENT OF JOHN KADZ

This is a big mistake. This just proves continuing education cannot run the conservatory!

Please reconsider your decision.

John Kadz is a world class artist and teacher. His loss does irreparable damage to the conservatory 's reputation.

We all recognize that these are difficult economic times, however the manner in which changes to the Conservatory have been implemented reveal, in my opinion, a disregard for those who are supposed to benefit the most—the students. It is a sad reality that education institutions and their administrators often lose track of why they exist in the first place. A question that might be asked regarding the treatment of John Kadz is this: As it is abundantly clear that John's presence in the Conservatory attracts many students who, in turn, generate revenue—and that changes brought about in recent months are clearly aimed at reducing costs—what reasons can there be for his exclusion from MRU? On MRU's website there appears in the Offices & Governance link the following statement: (Dr) “Docherty is committed to a strong undergraduate experience and admires the excellence in teaching found at Mount Royal University.” Hopefully this admiration of excellence in teaching extends to re-instating John Kadz.

When doing a diploma program at MRU 8 years ago, my colleagues and I were told on the first day of classes that we would have to study with a different prof in order to earn our credits. We were outraged, and consequently forfeited our diplomas, choosing instead to earn our credits though the UofC as unclassified students. This kind of action is not only irreparably damaging to the conservatory but also deeply disrespectful of its current students and patrons. I sincerely hope that the board will listen to these resounding messages and take responsibility for this destructive act.

John Kadz was my cello teacher for 10 years. He instilled in me all of the values that I strive to instil in my students: musical appreciation, work ethic, confidence, teamwork, amongst many others. His nurturing of professional relationships at institutions across the globe built bridges for musicians far and wide. The invaluable support that he granted to his students has caused countless of us to pursue careers in music. His mentorship continues to influence me as cellist and human being. Pedagogues and community-builders like John are extremely rare.

My family moved to Calgary in 1991, and found a passionately committed, visionary faculty at the (then Mount Royal College) Conservatory, headed by John Kadz. At that time, John was already known across North America as a premier teacher of cello. His reputation has continued to grow over the last twenty years, while his approach to the nurturance and unconditional support of his many students has remained the same: John truly loves his students, and is committed to finding the best way to help them grow, both as cellists and as human beings. The astonishing number of accomplished cellist his studio has produced is ample proof of his merit, and clearly demonstrates the tremendous loss to the Mount Royal Conservatory his removal would entail. Those of us whose good fortune it has been to work with John, and to have our children taught by him cannot fathom any justification for his being denied a teaching contract.

John Kadz is one of North America's finest teachers of the cello. He should be rewarded for his success and remain in Calgary.

Mr. John Kadz comes highly regarded and admired from students and the community. Return him to his post so he can continue to inspire students and musicians alike.

John Kadz in the information provided reads as a valued faculty member. Thus; a contract worthy to renew.

John Kadz is the most incredible cello teacher, mentor, advisor and inspiration and it is imperative that he is reinstated on faculty at MRU

John Kadz is one of the best cello instructors in North America. His name draws many students to the Mount Royal Conservatory. Many students have come from cities far away to be taught by him regularly. He is a huge asset to the Acadmy and Advanced Performance program.

Reinstate!

John Kadz has given his life to music education. I cannot imagine what his precipitated this decision but should he not be reinstated, the reputation of your fine institution will be greatly compromised.

This is a travesty. I hope that clear minds will prevail and the John will be reinstated asap.

In support of the petition! Thanks!

This would be a travesty for the musical life of our city. Mr. Kadz is a once in a lifetime teacher. MRU, what have you done?

I've only met Mr. Kadz on one occasion. I do know his passion for his students through three young women he has taught. I you want MRU to listen implore alumni to stop their donations to the school. That they will understand.

I attended several concerts of John Kadz's students. It was amazing, very high level performance. Please, don't deprive the young talents from the best education possible offered by their wonderful teacher, and us from future wonderful concerts. Thank you.

How could you consider not keeping one of North America's most highly regarded and successful cello teachers? He has defined the excellent reputation of the Conservatory for generations. This is disgraceful!