Meet the Team

I love being part of such a dynamic and supportive educational community. Learning guides everything we do. I learn something new in every interaction with students from our member schools. At our inter-school student programs, I marvel at how our enthusiastically our students engage with learning, each other and the world around them. It’s powerful to see theatre students learning in a workshop led by a Stratford Festival actor or to see Middle School students tackle a design-thinking challenge around a social justice issue at the Future Prize Challenge.

 

Two years ago I was looking for a new challenge after more than 20 years playing a variety of teaching and administrative roles in three independent schools. After years of powerful and meaningful experiences within the CIS Ontario community of member schools, I saw the opportunity to serve as its executive director, as a way to give thanks and to continue the tradition of excellence. Now, instead of being a champion of one exemplary school, I am the chief promoter of 48 of them!

 

What's the one thing you want people to know CIS Ontario can do for them?
CIS Ontario is a welcoming community of learners who are passionate about their professional growth. The dynamic educators who work in our member schools are committed to excellence and innovation. And, they share this commitment through their volunteerism within the association. Our varied programs and events rely on the contributions made our member school volunteers. Members of our community know that when they connect through our inter-school events and networks, they will find like-minded peers and will gain powerful network of colleagues and new friends.

I love to work with our schools to help organize professional learning opportunities for teachers and leaders. I’m excited about my involvement with student programs; I love to watch young people perform and showcase their talents.

 

I’ve been both an executive assistant and event manager at Kingsway College School then the Canadian Educational Standards Institute (which later merged with the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools).

 

What's the one thing you want people to know CIS Ontario can do for them? Support: We’re here to help our colleagues do their jobs more effectively by providing workshops, conferences, training and networking opportunities.

I enjoy working with a group of highly motivated individuals who continually improve upon programs offered within the Conference of Independent Schools of Ontario Athletic Association.

 

My entire 37-year career was spent at Hillfield Strathallan College (HSC) in Hamilton. I was provided with many opportunities, in addition to the roles of mathematics and physical-education teacher. I also served as the director of athletics, principal of the Middle School and later, the deputy head of College. I also served on the board of governors.

 

CIS Ontario will continue to support the students in our member schools by providing a variety of co-curricular opportunities in arts, athletics, drama, leadership and music. These opportunities will continue to enrich the lives of each and every student. The CISAA is known for each and every student having an opportunity to try a variety of new sports and develop his/her skills in a safe, caring and nurturing environment.

I really enjoy presenting information in a way that helps people discover opportunities for learning and networking. It’s always exciting to be able to connect with our community members through various channels. Communicating via several modalities; such as social media, email, print and through our website allows us to reach people where they feel most engaged. If something that I have made available online makes your life a little easier or better today then that makes me happy.

 

Throughout my career I’ve worked in Communications both in-house at Havergal College, Upper Canada College and Kingsway College School, and as an independent communications consultant with several other independent schools.

 

Community building. It’s amazing what can be accomplished by working together. Attend a networking event, join in on an online discussion, and connect with your peers. Your next opportunity could be one connection away.