Tell us about your role and what you like most about it.
As the Director of Academic and University Counselling, I love having the opportunity to help students plan their next steps regardless of whether it is choosing courses for the next academic year or researching university programs– even more so when I have had the opportunity to teach them in the Middle School. I feel honoured to be a part of their journey.
What is your favourite thing about Elmwood?
My favourite thing about Elmwood is our community. Over the years, I have developed amazing friendships with my colleagues and lasting connections with students. I love having the opportunity to spend time at lunch chatting and walking in the neighbourhood with a friend and colleague or bumping into a former student on the ski hill; it is in these moments I am reminded of how fortunate I am to be a part of this extended family,
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received, and from whom?
Early in my career, when I taught at a public high school in York Region, my then department head, Peter Purcell, told me - ‘if you plan on staying in this profession for a long time - have fun!” I have done my very best to follow his advice, and I still love being a teacher because, quite honestly, it’s fun!
What is one thing that would surprise people about you?
I am not sure this fact would surprise people who know me even a little, but maybe not everyone knows how much I love taking courses and learning new skills. Over the years, in addition to professional courses, I have taken a variety of classes and qualifications like canoe tripping level 1, yoga instructors, aerobic instructors, cooking courses, tennis lessons, golf lessons and most recently, level one ski instructors. In the future, I plan to continue with adding to my ski instructor qualifications, and I would love to take a few stand-up paddleboard yoga classes, possibly furniture refinishing and maybe some creative writing courses. I really do enjoy learning new things.
What is your favourite extravagance?
I have two extravagances: clothing from my favourite local Ottawa Designer and boots! I just love a good pair of quality boots.
What is your favourite way to treat yourself?
The list is long…, so if boots are my extravagance then, I suppose I treat myself by going to bed early with a good novel.