Celebrating a Legacy: Bethe Goldie’s Journey of Impact

When Bethe Goldie arrived in Grande Prairie in 1975, she and her husband, Leigh, expected it to be a short stay. But nearly five decades later, Bethe is still proud to call this community home—and generations of students, faculty, and friends continue to feel the impact of her work.

A long-time instructor in Physical Education and Athletics—later known as the PEAK department—Bethe's teaching career was deeply rooted in her passion for student growth and well-being. After a few years away to work in the public school system and raise her two children, she returned to campus full-time in 1988, continuing her career until retiring in 2014.

"The Best Job in the World"

Reflecting on her time in the classroom, Bethe says, 

“I think I had the best job in the world because the students were fabulous.”

She loved watching students grow—not just academically, but as people. One of her favourite memories is the college’s annual “Hug Day,” a lighthearted event that reflected the warm, connected culture she valued. “We’d ask people if it was okay to give them a hug, and if they agreed, we’d sign each other’s sheets. It was a fun competition—and I often won,” she laughs.

A Champion for Students and Sport

A proud supporter of the Wolves Athletics teams, Bethe was a fixture in the stands, especially when Leigh was coaching men’s volleyball. Many of the athletes were also her students, and she helped organize the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Wolves Volleyball program to keep alumni connected to each other and to NWP.

In every role, Bethe found ways to bring people together—from alumni events to creative classroom experiences. Her dance classes often turned hesitant learners into enthusiastic movers, and her passion for creating inclusive, supportive spaces left a lasting impression.

Continuing to Make a Difference

Since retiring, Bethe has continued giving back. She helped develop Studio 50, a program offering educational courses for older adults. When funding ended, she transitioned the program into a community hub that connects seniors with learning and volunteering opportunities.

She also founded the Seniors Reading Theatre, which evolved into Generations Readers Theatre—an intergenerational initiative that brings older and younger participants together. Today, Bethe remains active with the Centre for Creative Arts and has added pottery to her creative pursuits.

Rooted in Connection

Bethe’s care for students extended far beyond the classroom. Often called the “momma wolf” of her department, she offered support and encouragement to those facing challenges, and her PEAK colleagues became like family.

Many of her former students have gone on to become teachers, coaches, and leaders in their communities—something Bethe is incredibly proud of. “The legacy remains in the lives of the students,” she says. “That’s the greatest reward.”

Looking Ahead

Having recently returned from a trip to Bali with a former colleague, Bethe is now looking forward to spending more time with her grandchildren and enjoying springtime gardening.

Asked to sum up her teaching career in three words, her answer is simple: “Best job ever.”

And her advice to anyone joining the NWP community? “Jump right in.”