Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I have been fortunate to work as a recreation therapist for over 25 years across Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Canada. For 12 years, I worked in outpatient neurorehabilitation in Calgary, a role I found deeply fulfilling. As a mature student, I returned to graduate school, and upon completion, I felt ready for a new challenge in my career. When a position became available at ULethbridge, home to Alberta's only therapeutic recreation degree program, just as I was defending my thesis at the University of Calgary, the timing felt meant to be. I transitioned from clinical practice to focus on preparing the next generation of recreation therapists.
How long have you been at ULethbridge, and what do you do here?
I joined ULethbridge in fall 2023, and it has been a wonderful experience. As an instructor, I aim to share insights from my clinical work in ways that resonate with students. I recall how meaningful it was when my own instructors shared field experiences during my college years, those stories truly brought the material to life, and I hope to provide that same connection for my students.
What's the best part of your job?
Without question, it's the relationships with students. Their enthusiasm for therapeutic recreation and the fresh perspectives they bring energize me. I value the informal moments, such as arriving early to chat, sharing music and laughter, and getting to know them as individuals. I've been honoured by their recognition through a Students' Union Faculty of the Year nomination (2024-2025) and an invitation to join the Golden Key International Honour Society, which affirms that they sense my genuine investment in their success. I've also appreciated connecting with colleagues across campus through the Teaching Centre, peer mentorship, the ISW program, various committees, the ABC Advisory Council and campus events. While leaving my position with Alberta Health Services and the community I'd built over decades was difficult, I've been grateful to find such a welcoming environment here. I hope to contribute to ULethbridge for many years to come.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Seven years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer, which I continue to manage today. This experience has reshaped my priorities and how I spend my time outside work. I volunteer with Ovarian Cancer Canada as a Patient Partner in Research, participate in speaking engagements, and advocate for improved research and care. This year, I was honoured to receive the Peggy Truscott Award (Western Canada) for this work. Recent activities have included presenting at the Canadian Cancer Research Conference in Calgary and serving on the planning committee for the OCC Lady Ball, which raised $200,000 for research. My team, Tiff's Teal Team, has contributed over $25,000 through the OCC Walk of Hope, which is something I'm grateful to have achieved with the support of family and friends.As an Indigenous woman, I spend time attending ceremony, beading, drumming, connecting with Elders and being in nature whenever possible. My partner and I also enjoy travelling within Canada and internationally, a recent highlight was visiting family in the Yukon and experiencing over 20 hours of daylight!