You have an interesting perspective to share with UPEI students: you were a student, a student-athlete, and now you work here as director of UPEI Athletics and Recreation. 

I had graduated from UPEI in 2003 and travelled the world in my twenties and ended up living in Vancouver for 10 years when I returned back to Canada. When I decided to return to the Island to be closer to family and friends, the role of ceremonies and events manager was posted and I knew it was meant to be, based on my past experience working in events.

As director of athletics, I provide strategic leadership to a passionate and driven team of department staff, coaches, and students, who promote and sustain an organization that offers comprehensive recreational, health and wellness and competitive sports programming for students, staff, faculty, and community members. Daily we encourage participation and support by students, the University and the public at large.

What was your time as a student and varsity athlete like?

It was the time of my life. I loved UPEI and had the best experience coming to school here. I love the size of the school and classes and how well I got to know my professors. I had the opportunity to go on an international exchange program to France in my fourth year, which enriched my university experience even more. 

The varsity athletics experience was also amazing—teammates from those years are still my best friends to this day—I have been in their weddings, and we've travelled together. Those friendships don't come around often and I am so fortunate to have friends that are like sisters from my time playing here.

What kinds of opportunities have you experienced because you're working at UPEI, or because of the Island location?

UPEI is a world-class institution and the staff and faculty are fantastic. There might not have been a better place to be during the pandemic than Atlantic Canada and in particular PEI. The last year has really shown me the importance and the value of a small place with a tight knit community. We are small but mighty. And have you seen our beaches?!

What's unique about UPEI, in your experience?

I loved the size of the classes at UPEI when I was studying here and how easy it was to get to know all of my professors and peers.

What would you tell a high school student considering a UPEI program, or starting at UPEI as a new student? 

Get to know your professors early on, they love to help out! Get involved with the campus community to enrich your experience and if possible go on an exchange program abroad. I can't recommend this enough. It is life changing.