Job title: Assistant Dean, Development and Alumni Engagement
Hometown: Born in Toronto, grew up in Vancouver
How long have you worked at LFS/UBC?
7 months with LFS, was at UBC previously for 6 years
What are three adjectives that describe you?
Adaptive, creative and optimistic
Let’s talk work…
Describe what you do for LFS:
The Development and Alumni Engagement team’s role is to enhance the University’s and the Faculty’s strategic plans by engaging alumni and private sector constituents in meaningful relationships to increase philanthropic support for the Faculty’s priorities.
What are you currently working on?
With a new fiscal year beginning in April, we are focused on planning next year’s activities.
What do you enjoy the most about working for LFS?
The energy and passions of the students, staff, and academics are infectious. It is important for me to have a job with meaning. To support students and researchers tackling today’s global concerns with financial support from donors is gratifying.
What challenge have you dealt with that you are most proud of?
Our team has seen a few transitions in the past two years. I am proud of everyone keeping focused on our fundraising and alumni engagement goals. We are at 150% of our fundraising target and 99% of our alumni goal with 3 months left in the fiscal year.
Let’s get personal…
How do you like to recharge?
You will find me on a beach, sailing, hiking, snowshoeing, or biking on weekends.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
Teleport. No more commute and think of the travel….
What was a favourite vacation or trip you’ve taken?
Greece wins for times visited, but in my last position, I had the opportunity to visit several cities in China. I can understand how Hangzhou has inspired artist and poets for centuries.
What was the last book you read?
I am trying to keep up with alumni UBC online book club. So far I have only read the first book, the Power of Habit. Check out all the books here.
What’s the best meal you’ve ever had?
Anything from Pizza da Franco in Sorrento.
Who inspires you and why?
On a daily basis, the students in the hallways. They aren’t looking at their phone but engaged with each other.