University of Calgary Senators

Dr. Kristin Baetz is the Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Calgary and an award-winning fundamental biomedical scientist, specializing in functional and chemical genomics. Dr. Baetz holds a PhD (2000) from the University of Toronto in medical genetics and microbiology and a BSc Honours (1995) from Queen’s University in biochemistry. She currently sits on the board of Research Canada, a national, broadly based alliance dedicated to advancing health research through collaborative advocacy.

Richard is a project manager with over 37 years of practical experience in reservoir engineering, simulation, Enhanced Oil Recovery and thermal projects. He holds both 2 Bachelor’s degrees and a Masters degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Calgary. In addition to authoring and co-authoring 60+ technical papers, he has been Adjunct Professor at the University of Calgary and sat on the Faculty of Engineering Advisory Board. He helped development the 4^th year Design Capstone courses for the University of Calgary.

Amanda Bisson is a Doctor of Business Administration student at the Haskayne School of Business. She is studying Human Resource Management, with a focus on Early Talent Acquisition. She is honoured to be representing the Graduate Students Association's 8,500+ students for this academic year. 

Michael has a passion for the integration and communication of science and technology in the community, and actively seeks ways to bridge gaps and support entrepreneurs, including volunteer roles with Business Link AB, the Calgary Youth Science Fair, the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurship, the University of Alberta DiscoveryLab series, and various other community initiatives. 

Ann is a seasoned academic and community leader who has worked in the arts and education in Calgary as a senior executive (Dean, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Calgary). As a member of the University’s leadership team, she led governance, research, budget, program design, fund-raising, and strategic planning projects over 20 years.

After graduating from the University of Calgary with a BA in Political Science, Anette worked briefly in publishing and lived abroad before returning to Calgary and embracing a career in human resources, primarily in the growing tech industry.

Max is a member of the Executive Leadership Team for Enbridge Inc., and was appointed Senior Vice President, Operations and Engineering for Liquids Pipelines in July 2025. Max holds a degree in Economics from the University of Calgary, and an MBA from Dalhousie University. In 2022, Max was named one of Canada’s Top 50 Changemakers by Report On Business Magazine. Max was also the recipient of the 2024 Mentor of the Year Award by Ascend Canada.

Olive is a full professor at the Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary. She has a BSc (Combined Hons.) in Mathematics and Physics, BCom. in Financial Accounting, MSc in Mathematics, and PhD in Mathematics Education. 

Ali is a dedicated professional with a strong academic background and extensive experience in strategic planning. As the Director of Strategic Initiatives at Roynat Capital, Ali plays a pivotal role in driving business planning and supporting strategic objectives across all business units nationally. He oversees and directs special projects that enhance Roynat's portfolio and business initiatives. Passionate about mentorship and continuing education, Ali is committed to sharing his knowledge and experience with others.

Chief Lee Crowchild, former Chief of Tsuut’ina Nation (2016–2019), retained the hereditary title of “Chief” and ran for National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations in 2021. He is recognized for helping introduce the TAZA development and strengthening government relations, working with all levels of government to tear down the invisible fences that kept both sides apart and distrustful of "The Other." Chief Crowchild has travelled the world, sharing insights on identity, relationships and the environment. A Tom Longboat Award winner, he works alongside UCalgary to champion Indigenous and Community Relations.

Sarah is a Manager within Deloitte's Nation Building Advisory practice. With a background in marketing and communications, she specializes in strategy and implementation planning, change management, communications, and stakeholder engagement for First Nations, government, public sector and non-profit organizations. She holds a BA Honours in Communications from the University of Calgary.

Dr. Sandra Davidson, appointed Provost effective July 1, 2024, has held pivotal roles at the University of Calgary, including Dean of the Faculty of Nursing from 2018 to 2024 and Deputy Provost from 2021 to 2023. Her distinguished career spans diverse academic and healthcare environments, encompassing private for-profit, public not-for-profit, and various public universities. Dr. Davidson is renowned for her entrepreneurial acumen and creative innovation across these sectors.

Born and raised in Calgary, Jeff Davison is best known for his skill at bringing people together, finding common ground, and building policies and programs that work for everyone. Jeff is currently Chief Executive Officer of the Prostate Cancer Centre, an innovative model for medical access and wrap-around clinical care for individuals with prostate and other urological cancer in Alberta. (Currently on leave)

Eryn Dewald is a leadership coach and senior advisor with Alberta Health Services. She brings over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and public service, supporting leaders and teams through change with a focus on equity, compassion, and collaboration. Eryn is passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and inspired to contribute. She is a proud mom of four, GG to two grandkids she adores, and partner to Travis. Her work, and her life, are grounded in purpose, connection, and community.

Patti is a distinguished business leader, has leveraged her MBA and extensive business experience to make significant contributions to Calgary's art and design community. She currently sits on the management advisory committee for Haskayne Business School and has served on the Board of Calgary Arts Development for six years. Her dedication to the arts extends to her involvement in various local arts and culture committees, reflecting her passion for fostering a vibrant community. 

As part of his passion to give back to the profession and community at large, Mr. Dullat dedicate his volunteer time as an experienced Coach/preceptor for individuals preparing for various leadership roles, precept University level students nationally and internationally and provide his services to “The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada”.

With over 35 years of business experience, Donna’s passion and ability to quickly synthesize information and create integrated strategies has earned her high praise from Boards and Senior Management teams struggling with competitive realities.

Wendy's impact extends beyond her career, as demonstrated by her five years as a mentor in the Haskayne School of Business, where she actively contributes to the development of future business leaders. Beyond her professional achievements, Wendy enjoys golf, reading and spending time with he daughter and husband.

Karen Gallagher-Burt is a seasoned social work professional with over 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, trauma-informed practice and community engagement. A celebrated foster parent, educator, and licensed marriage celebrant, she’s known for her authentic leadership and commitment to social impact. Karen brings humour, heart, strategy and insight to every role she undertakes.

Hong (May) Han, a 3-time Government of Alberta Award for continuous 3 years including a Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal Recipient (nominated directly by the Premier), has always been a strong advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion & reconciliation in the community, with strong voices for women, children, and youth, people of colour, people with disabilities, especially since the pandemic.

With an extensive 16-year background in the education sector, Crystal stands out as a dedicated and passionate Program Specialist overseeing the Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Development program at the University of Calgary. As one of the two senators representing AUPE, she plays a crucial role in advocating for the university community.

Dr. Nick Holt is the Dean of the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. As Dean, Nick oversees the Kinesiology academic program along with four business units: Active Living, Dinos Athletics, Sport Medicine Centre, and Olympic Oval. He also remains an active scholar, whose research focuses on youth development through sport. Nick was a youth soccer coach for many years. He is now a keen and slow trail runner and cyclist, and a big Dinos fan.

Rachel Hughes is a two-time graduate of the University of Calgary, holding a Bachelor of Commerce and a Master of Business Administration. She brings diverse experience in corporate strategy, human resources, and management consulting. Passionate about strengthening communities, Rachel serves on the boards of local and national non-profit organizations and actively mentors UCalgary students. She is dedicated to supporting student success and advancing the university’s connection with the broader community. Rachel is proud to give back to the university that has shaped her journey.

Saqib Jalil is a CPA, CA, with over 20 years of experience, primarily in the Oil & Gas sector. He has worked for E&Y Canada and Enbridge Inc. and is currently working as Manager, Coastal GasLink, Finance, TC Energy. He has delivered lectures at The University of Calgary and serves as a Senator at the University of Calgary. Saqib is also a member of the Awards Review Committee, CPA Alberta and member of the Audit and Finance Committee at Wood’s Homes. 

Marie Jurcevic is an experienced sustainability leader with a deep commitment to equity, community development, and civic engagement. She brings over 15 years of experience advancing sustainability strategy, stakeholder engagement, and responsible energy development through senior roles at leading oil and gas companies. Marie serves on the board of Canadian Business for Social Responsibility and co-founded Diversity in Sustainability, a nonprofit working to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion in the sustainability field. She holds an MSc in Sustainability from the University of Bath and a BA in Sociology from the University of Calgary.

Doug is an engineer and environmental professional with over 25 years of industry experience in the upstream oil, gas, bitumen, and mining sectors. Doug values mentorship, making connections and trying to seek consensus on energy development. He is currently a Senior Industrial Engineer at the Alberta Energy Regulator managing environmental approvals for oil sands and coal mines in Alberta. He volunteers as a mentor with the BMO Mentorship Program at Haskayne and the SEDV Mentorship Program at the School of Public Policy.

Melissa is an accomplished finance professional and leader in the energy sector in Calgary.  In her role as Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer at Enbridge, Melissa is accountable for Enterprise FP&A, Financial Reporting, Internal Controls, and Accounting Research as well as FP&A and Accounting for all Enbridge Business Units.

Julia Law is the Vice President External at the Students’ Union for the 83^rd Students’ Legislative Council. Law also serves as the Chair for the Calgary Student Alliance, an organization representing 90 000 students across Calgary from institutions including the University of Calgary. She has a passion for community engagement, including within the University and the Calgary-at-large area. Law’s hope is to connect her constituents to the greater University community, facilitating the flow of communication between community members and post-secondary students.

Courtney is a seasoned, industry agnostic customer experience professional. She has scaled customer support teams from the ground up including operating procedures, knowledge bases, training, quality assurance and systems. She currently manages facets of customer experience analytics as well as customer retention programming and communications at Direct Energy Canada. She is an avid volunteer leader with UCalgary, having been heavily involved in student leadership when studying at the university and now via years of service as an alumnus including being elected Vice Chair of the UCalgary Alumni Association Board of Directors.

The University of Calgary welcomed Dr. Sheila LeBlanc as the Director of Continuing Education in July 2015. In early 2022, Sheila became Associate Vice-President (Continuing Education). Sheila brings a wealth of both academic and industry experience to the Continuing Education team and has a self-proclaimed passion for both teaching and lifelong learning.

Jennifer currently serves as the President of the Alberta College of Occupational Therapists (ACOT) Board of Directors. She holds a Bachelor of Science and Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Alberta, and an MBA from Queen's University. 

Kate is a proud Calgarian and graduate of the University of Calgary. She has been active for over twenty five years in the Public, Private and Non For Profit sectors within the Human Resources realm. Her most recent Committee experience was with the Federal Judicial Advisory Committee, where assessing and recommending candidates for the Judiciary in Alberta was the mandate.

Nidhi Lodha completed her medical degree in India with a specialization in Ophthalmology. Since 2013, she has been actively involved in a community organization named RANA Calgary currently serving as President. She has helped raise funds for various health and education-related initiatives in Calgary and India. At UCalgary, she mentors students and has started a Hindu lunch initiative where participants discuss the relevance of religion in daily life over lunch which aims to support students experiencing food insecurity and homesickness, particularly international students.

Teri McKinnon is a relationship builder and leader with experience at UCalgary, Bow Valley College, Olds College, BASF Canada, and the Calgary Stampede Board. She has advanced national health strategies, rural workforce development, apparel technology, and customer experience. A Canadian Leaders at Sea alumna, she founded Ship to Shore, an inquiry-based program connecting students with the Royal Canadian Navy to explore navigation, globalization, and innovation.

With over 30 years of public affairs and business expertise, Duane has worked in a breadth of industries encompassing real estate, energy, the environment, technology, and education. Recently Duane had been the Administrator-CEO and Principal Advisor to the Chair for the regulatory body governing Alberta Real Estate.

Laiba Nasir is a dedicated advocate, researcher, and community health leader pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Community Rehabilitation with a focus on Disability Studies. A passionate advocate for healthcare accessibility, Laiba received the 2024 City of Calgary Youth Award. This inspired the development of a health management platform to support medically compromised individuals. In addition, Laiba consults on the Mental Health Research 4 Kids Youth Council at The Summit and the Child and Youth Advisory Council at the Alberta Children's Hospital.

Lorraine Ndovi is the Students' Union's Vice President Internal for the 83^rd Students' Legislative Council. She is also currently the Board Chair for CJSW, the campus' own radio station. Being a Social Work student, she is dedicated to leaving the spaces she is in, better than she found them. Ndovi hopes to use her positions to support students experiencing hardship and amplify their voices. 

Emmanuel Owusu is a senior leader with experience working in academia and in the field of Human Rights, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In his current role, Emmanuel is part of the senior leadership of an independent government organization that has a mandate of reducing discrimination in Alberta. Currently, Emmanuel serves as the co-chair of the City of Calgary's Anti-Racism Action Committee where he leads a group of community experts to support the City's efforts to make Calgary an anti-racist city.

William O’Yeung is a Chartered Professional Accountant with an MBA from Nova Southeastern University in addition to his UCalgary degree. During his thirty-year career at Shell Canada, he held various positions including accounting, planning, project management and leadership roles. He is currently the Vice-President/Vice-Chair of the UCalgary Alumni Association as well as the Co-Founder and Director of Escape with STEM, a non-profit organization inspiring Indigenous youths to learn more about STEM.

Amanjot holds a Master's degree in English from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar & has worked in roles varying from Banking to Media industries. Currently, he works as Director Operations for Canada's Shadow Minister of Finance. He is also a recipient of Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for his continued service to the province of Alberta. 

Josh Pentland is a policy, government relations, and community engagement specialist, with experiences ranging from sustainable energy development to municipal tax policy. He has held various positions in the public, private and non-profit sectors, fostering a deep passion for finding creative, innovative, and inclusive policy solutions.

Victoria Person is a strategic communications leader with over 20 years of experience in the energy, homebuilding, and government sectors. A proud Calgarian and UCalgary alumna, Victoria is also an active volunteer and board member in the city’s recreation and sports communities.

Dr. Jeffrey Priest, PhD, is a Professor (Geotechnical) within the Dept of Civil Engineering within the Schulich School of Engineering. He is the Associate Dean, Graduate Studies and MEng within the school. Since his arrival at the University of Calgary, he has also collaborated with colleagues in Geoscience and Physics to improve our understanding of hydraulic fracturing of shale reservoir rocks and their link to induced seismicity.

Amber is a 4th-year biomedical engineering student with a digital minor in AI and machine learning. She is very passionate about the intersection of medicine and technology and has been involved with a variety of clubs and teams within this community, both within research fields and advocating for students. She is also a varsity rugby player for the Dino’s. In her free time, she loves skiing, learning new languages, and solving puzzles. She is always interested in meeting new people.

Satish R Raj MD MSCI is a heart rhythm cardiologist After moving back to Calgary in 2014, he founded the Calgary Autonomic Investigation & Management Clinic. He is currently the Director of Education at the Libin Cardiovascular Institute and Professor of Cardiac Sciences at the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine. He currently serves on the General Faculties Council and the GFC Executive Council. He runs an active Human Autonomic Physiology research program. His primary research interests relate to understanding and better treating postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), vasovagal syncope, and orthostatic hypotension.

Ali is a Lead Admission Advisor and Community Liaison Coordinator at Columbia College. He supports more than 300 students annually in achieving their academic and career goals and oversees the entire admission process. In addition, Ali plays a crucial role in connecting the organization with its community and stakeholders. He is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal and an Alberta Premier’s Advisory Council member.

Carmelina has worked in roles across Canada and most recently was based in The Hague leading various initiatives for Shell’s global capital projects. She is interested in sharing her skills and experience with Corporate boards and is currently on the boards of ABC Life Literacy, Prosper Canada and World Heart Caregivers. She was on the CPA Energy Advisory Board and recently served as VIP Liaison Officer to the Energy Minister for Romania at the World Petroleum Congress. 

Brad Salmon has a background in veterinary assistance, addictions and community service work. Originally from London, Ontario, he moved to western Canada in 2012, initially working in Banff before joining the University of Calgary in 2015. Brad is passionate about continuous self-improvement and empowering others, always striving to help people reach their full potential and succeed alongside him.

Wilma is a Commissioner with the Alberta Human Rights Commission and a sports law instructor in the Faculties of Law and Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. She holds an LLM in Sports Law (DMU) and a Juris Doctor from UCalgary. Called to the Bar in 2011, she previously worked for Alberta Justice as a Prosecutor and Barrister and Solicitor for 10 years. Active in the legal and sport community, Wilma is a Board Director with Alberta Lawyers’ Assistance Society, Association of Women Lawyers, Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers, Sport Calgary, and the Head Coach of the Special Olympics Calgary badminton program. 

Harpinder Sidhu is an immigrant from Punjab, India who decided to move to Canada for a better life several years ago. Always there to help those who are in need and have extensive insurance experience. Having a professional degree in B.Tech (Electronics and Instrumentation) from Punjab Technical University and obtained CHS designation from Advocis. His dreams came to fruition when he stepped into the Insurance sector.

Nathan is interested in helping others better understand their respiratory health. With a focus in pulmonary diagnostics, he is involved in the assessment of lung function, as well as the management of conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He is a believer that discussion does not end at treatment itself, but rather continues with questions and education.

Linda is a seasoned executive and corporate director who has spent over 30 years living, working and volunteering in Calgary, in a variety of industries including consumer packaged goods, technology, education & telecommunications. Her leadership roles span finance, product management, marketing, sales & supply chain; most recently as Senior Vice President, Finance, at Shaw/Rogers Communications.

Katherine is an architect and associate with DIALOG, an international integrated architecture and engineering firm. She is a past president of the Alberta Association of Architects and is an alumni and was a sessional instructor for the University of Calgary School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape. Katherine has been a board member with the Calgary Arts Development, the Calgary Public Art Board and the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board and is a commissioner with The City of Calgary Planning Commission. 

Cynthia Watson is Chief Evolution Officer of the charity Vivo for Healthier Generations Society. She brings perspectives from the spectrum of healthcare, health promotion and chronic disease prevention, grassroots to Olympian-level sport, and community wellbeing, recreation and active living. She is dedicated to championing diverse communities of belonging to have their voices in leadership roles.

Keely is a UCalgary alum, with strong ties to the Dinos Women’s Rugby program. She spends her days connecting people with the information they are seeking through her role in The City of Calgary’s Chief Administration’s Office, and her evenings on the rugby pitch coaching her kiddos.

Timothy is a Federal Crown Prosecutor with the Public Prosecution Service of Canada. He also serves as a reserve naval officer with the Cadet Instructor Cadre Branch of the Canadian Armed Forces. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Calgary. He also holds a Master of Laws from the University of Toronto. Timothy is a proud alumnus of the University of Calgary. During law school, he volunteered extensively with Student Legal Assistance and later completed his articles of clerkship there.

Mohamud has called Calgary home for almost 45 years. During that time, he has worked in a wide variety of technical and leadership roles in the oil and gas industry with Cenovus Energy and its predecessor companies. He has a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Alberta and is registered as a Professional Engineer and has his Project Management Professional (PMP) designation. Mohamud is very passionate about community and voluntary service and has also served in voluntary and leadership capacity for over 30 years in various faith based and non-profit organizations locally, nationally and internationally.