Samuel Gamtessa is coming to Briercrest from teaching at Mount Allison University in New Brunswick. He will begin teaching economics at Briercrest in the fall.

Where is home?

I was born and raised in Ethiopia. My home is in Edmonton, Alberta.

What excites you about the opportunity to teach at Briercrest?

The people, the mission, and the growth prospects.

Do you have any special areas of study?

Economics: Specializing in energy, natural resources and economic development. I also closely follow international trade and finance, and money and banking. I love quantitative analysis.

What is your proudest moment?

When I was able to finance my father’s expensive medical treatment. As a poor farmer in Ethiopia, he could have died early if I was not able to do this.

What are your hobbies?

I can now say that physical exercise is my hobby – although I started it due to health scares related to overweight.

What is your favourite book?

Amrtya Sen’s Development as a Freedom.

What are two top selections in your music collection?

Just James by J. Moss

Lead Me to the Cross (performed by) Hillsongs

What’s on the top of your bucket list?

I wish I could answer this. There are a lot . . . I can’t even prioritize them. All appear to be equally urgent and important.

If you could spend the day with any two famous people (living or dead) who would it be and why?

Onesimus Nesib – Perhaps I could get some inspirations from his extraordinary dedications to work and service.

George Bush (Junior) – I would thank him for his commitments to help the AIDS/HIV victims in Africa.