Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up on a farm near Foremost, Alberta, where 4-H sparked an early appreciation for community and volunteering. After high school, I completed a certificate in Fashion Marketing at Olds College before continuing my education at ULethbridge. I tried to make the most of my university experience, getting involved with the Management Students’ Society, IME, co-op, a work-study in Malaysia and volunteering as a student ambassador. Community involvement remains a big part of my life: I serve on the boards of the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce and Country Meadows Community Association, am active in Rotary, and was incredibly honoured to recently be recognized as one of Lethbridge’s Top 40 Under 40.
How long have you been at ULethbridge and what do you do here?
My first employment at ULethbridge was as a student through a co-op placement with the bookstore, where I worked on brand and sales strategies. I joined the Dhillon School of Business in November 2013 in a student position researching professional development programs and developing events and workshops, helping lay the foundation for the Student Professional Development program I’ve had the pleasure of growing over the past 13 years. Today, as Manager of Community Partnerships and Student Engagement, I work at the intersection of student skill development and evolving industry needs, creating connections and opportunities between our students, the school, industry and the broader community. I also serve on the ULethbridge Advisory Council on Work-Integrated Learning and Career Development and the General Faculties Council Strategic Planning Committee.
Are you a ULethbridge alum? If so, what program and year?
Yes! I completed my Bachelor of Management in Marketing, with a minor in Corporate Social Responsibility, at ULethbridge in 2014, graduating with Distinction.
What’s the best part of your job?
The people and seeing the impact. I love watching students build confidence, make connections and develop skills that help them figure out where they want to go next. It’s especially rewarding when a former student comes back years later and shares that a workshop, introduction, experience or piece of advice made a difference. I also love being a connector and finding ways to bring our students, the university and the broader community together.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy volunteering and being involved in the community. My husband, Justin, owns Donahue Electric and I’m also involved in the business. I never set out to be an entrepreneur, but it’s been rewarding to put my background to work helping him grow the business. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends, travelling, golfing, and playing with our two miniature dachshunds, Saucee and Oscar.