Professional Milestones
My career has been filled with learning opportunities but not all of these have been positive from the outset. The importance of these experiences is acknowledging that they have an impact on my practice and my ongoing commitment to serving others.
These experiences also challenge and reaffirm my personal values so that I may continue practice my philosophies across the realms of educational development, teaching in higher education, and strategic academic leadership.
While there are many to choose from, I have selected a few experiences so that I can offer a transparent and honest perception of how I grow as a practitioner.
Professional Update: Promotion…
I shared a short reflection about my promotion to Dean as a regular update but was surprised by the positive reception that I received provincial and nationally within higher education. The support of community members with the academic development space was a welcomed and gave me strength to forge ahead as a reflective practitioner.
A Personal Reflection on a Beautiful Journey…
As the Ontario College sector continued to struggle financially in 2024-25, many colleges began mass layoffs by removing positions and dissolving entire departments. I was notified in February that my position would be impacted by these changes and I was being laid off without cause.
Although my departure was not performance-based, it was challenging to realize that I would no longer be part of this beautiful community. I choose to address this news head on by sharing my reflection in a post that would result in beautiful messages of hope and appreciation.
Public Recognition for Leadership Award…
I shared a short reflection thanking the college community for an award that highlighted my commitment to leadership excellence and impact on HigherEd. The reception was positive but also reaffirmed that my leadership philosophy was resonating not only within one institution but provincially within the sector.
It is with Mixed Emotions…
I had the opportunity to learn from an amazing mentor, Julie Johnston, during my tenure at St. Lawrence College. As Julie’s supervisor, I had the honor of sharing her announcement that she would be retiring after 35+ years of service.
This post summarizes my reflections on the impact she had on the community but also reinforces the importance of using stronger language in celebrating others.
