Online Learning and Degree Programs

Instructor Profiles

Each term we feature a few of our instructors.
This page is a compilation of featured instructors.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

Susan Allan

Susan is a certified Professional Co-Active Coach with 20 years experience as a public school teacher. She is passionate about working with children and their parents and supports people to make important changes in their lives. “My goal is to empower parents to communicate more effectively with their children and thereby improve the quality of their relationships.”

Carmela Allevato

Carmela Allevato, LLB, has negotiated collective agreements, developed and implemented bargaining strategy campaigns, and was a BC Federation of Labour officer. Currently practicing labour law with the Canadian Union of Public Employees, she is regularly invited to instruct continuing legal education and conferences on labour, human rights and privacy law issues. Carmela teaches in our online Health Services Administration Diploma Program.

Vaughan Allin

Vaughan Allin has practiced law in Vancouver and Nanaimo for 33 years. His speciality is civil litigation. He likes to help people in business stay in business by minimizing their risks through increasing their knowledge of employment issues. Vaughan enjoys showing students just how accessible law is these days due to the internet

“Law doesn't have to be a mystery. All you need to learn is how to look it up.”

Madhuri Anand

Madhuri Anand has been teaching for over 33 years and her passion and skill has evolved into a best-selling cookbook Authentic Indian Cooking with celebrity appearances throughout BC.  For Madhuri, cooking is a way to connect with people and to care for those she loves. Her classes are so popular that many of her students return over and over again.

Suzanne Anderson

Suzanne Anderson is the self-published author of two books and feels strongly that self-publishing is gaining popularity in Canada. As publishing houses cope with financial and market stresses, there is a larger niche for those of us who prefer to do it ourselves. Suzanne is an experienced teacher, is passionate about self-publishing and loves meeting students who have written a book.

Shane Andre

Shane has been involved in post-secondary communities for many years, having earned his B.Sc. from Johns Hopkins in 1958, his M.A. from Claremont Graduate School in 1959, and his Ph.D. in Philosophy from Claremont Graduate School in 1966. He did post-graduate study at Oxford University in 1973-74. He has taught at various post-secondary institutions, including San Diego State College, Simon Fraser University, California State University, Senior University at CSULB, Northern Lights College, and at VIU in its community college days. He now returns to Vancouver Island University with the philosophy that however controversial certain moral issues are, they seem to be an inescapable part of human life.

Judy Annis

Judy has a BA from the University College of the Fraser Valley, her MA in Distance Education from Athabasca University, as well as over 30 years accounting experience. She loves helping people learn about money and feels that everyone can learn how to live within their means – it just takes a little planning and discipline.

Victor Arcega

Victor Y. Arcega, artist and writer, is one of the few sought-after instructors of drawing and painting across the island. Currently a faculty member of Victoria College of Art, he has also taught painting and drawing as faculty staff for Vancouver Island University and the University of Victoria, where he obtained his MFA degree. Victor draws from a wide-range of professional experience including as news and art editor, advertising writer and martial arts sensei.

Abbie Aspin

Abbie Aspin has over 40 years experience in the painting and sign trade. He relocated from the BC Interiour to Vancouver Island 35 years ago, where the warmer weather has helped him to better pursue the “art” of sign painting and graphic art. It is a field that is ever evolving due to product enhancements and an endless imagination. From custom signs and lettering to Hot Rods, Abbie is looking forward to helping others unlock their artistic potential. 

Martin Barnett

Martin Barnett was educated in England and came to Canada in 1977. Together with his family he ran bakeries in Victoria and Vancouver and more recently was with The Fairmont Empress Hotel. He has been instructing the professional baking and pastry programs at VIU since 2000. Martin just returned from a 3 month tour of Artisan Bakeries in Australia and is excited about the future creative possibilities surrounding the new Wood Fired Brick Oven at VIU.

" Our trade is continually redefining itself and marrying the classic products and their traditional skill sets with modern approaches and techniques. The resurgence of craft baking and all that it entails is very exciting!"

Adda Besseghieur

Adda Besseghieur, B.Sc., came to Canada in 1979 from Algéria. He has taken several graduate courses at University of Saskatchewan and Université Laval in Québec as well as several courses on Adult Education. Adda has taught university-level French since 1986, and is presently in charge of French language training for public servants in Nanaimo region (Formation Linguistique Canada). Adda enjoys teaching adults, exchanging experience, and building bridges through language.

Suzanne Beyrodt-Blyt

Suzanne Beyrodt-Blyt is a past graduate of the Medical Office Assistant program and has been instructing different components of the program for four years. She is a past chapter president for the M.O.A. Association of BC and appreciates the professional and ever changing environment of the medical office.

John Black

John Black, M.A., Ph.D., has taught in VIU’s Liberal Studies program for 15 years. He has travelled to Europe 10 times teaching and supporting programs. John is excited by witnessing the tremendous growth exhibited by students young and old. His goal in teaching is to facilitate learning of the highest order.

" My goal in teaching is to facilitate learning of the highest order: to use the excitement of curiosity to stimulate the student’s development as an autonomous critical and creative intellect in a community of intellects."

Vaughan Blackman

Originally from South Africa, Vaughan has a Masters of Science in ecology, an honours degree in African Wildlife Management and an undergraduate degree in Botany and Zoology. He has worked as a professional ecologist in South Africa for the last six years before moving to Canada. As a professional guide he has run safaris from Kenya in central Africa all the way to South Africa and most of the wilderness places in between.  

Denis Bouchard

Denis started working with radios in 1967, and in 1975 became a member of the Alberni Valley Rescue Squad. In 1981 he started instructing land VHF communication and has provided instruction to many of the search and rescue teams on Vancouver Island, as well as the 911 operators in Port Alberni who have since transferred to Courtenay.

Paddy Briggs

Paddy Briggs, Managing Partner of Dental Education Consulting, is a practice management consultant. Paddy has developed and presented comprehensive management and training programs for various BC educational institutes and the dental profession.  She works with dentists in an advisory capacity. Her warm humorous style of communicating promises a rewarding presentation.   

Devon Brownsey

Devon Brownsey runs Tall Tree Photography in Duncan, BC. She specializes in people photography - weddings, babies and families. She loves capturing an expression or a nuance. To find out more about Devon, visit her blog at www.talltreephotography.blogspot.com

Wendy Bruce

Wendy Bruce, a certified ASL instructor, has taught ASL for 15 years. She likes to help people learn ASL and finds it rewarding. She wants to see more people be aware of deaf culture. She has also taught sign language to families of children who hear but do not speak.

“Have you always wanted to learn sign language? Do you want to talk to deaf people efficiently? This course would help you achieve your goal for personal or professional use.”

Cathie Cameron

Cathie is the Public Education Coordinator for Canadian Mental Health Association-Mid Island Branch and she holds a degree in Social Work from the University of Victoria. Cathie strongly believes in the idea that to teach is to learn.

Joan Casselman

While completing paramedic training, Joan has been actively working as a paramedic. In the classroom, the theoretical knowledge comes alive because of her ability to share her practical job experiences. While maintaining a professional manner, Joan teaches with warmth and humour, enabling her students to enjoy the process of acquiring vital life-and-death skills.

Bill Code

Dr. Code was a specialist in Anesthesiology and Pain Management. When he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1996 he and his wife Denise, a Registered Dietitian, began seeking healthy, non-drug solutions to manage the neurological deterioration, depression and pain. He has chronicled his journey towards recovery in three previous books. In his most recent book, “Winning the Pain Game”, written with Denise, he outlines a roadmap to reducing chronic pain through nutritional choices.

Maureen Connelly

Combining a science background with a professional affiliation as an architect, Maureen Connelly developed the vision, oversaw the construction and instrumentation, and continues to direct the strategic research planning process at the Centre for Architectural Ecology at BCIT. Maureen developed the first credited course on green roofs in Canada, and she has received the BCIT Earth Apple Award as well as the BCIT Applied Research Award.

Jim Crist

After university graduation, Jim served on board U.S. Navy nuclear submarines and taught nuclear physics. He managed at Ontario Hydro Nuclear and Children’s and Women’s Health Centre of British Columbia. Upon retirement, Jim became active with the ElderCollege Board of Management and Arrowsmith Community Justice Society. Despite being somewhat retired, Jim consults in human resource management.

Linda Cornell

Linda Cornell, originally from Dryden, Ontario, has a sense of adventure that brought her to Vancouver Island. Linda has her M.S. in curriculum studies, her B.Sc. in Nursing, and beginning levels of Therapeutic Touch and Level 2 Reiki. She has taught at Vancouver Island University since 1985, in the RN and BSN program, and she has volunteered for several years with the Red Cross presenting relationship violence and abuse prevention sessions in middle and high schools. Linda believes that touch and relationships are important, and that a person’s “way of being” can affect their own health and the health of those around them. She is excited to have the opportunity to support others in their exploration of complementary healing and how it can work in consort with conventional medicine.

"Exploring complementary healing is both humbling and exciting."

Doug Corrin

Doug Corrin, R.P.F., B.Sc., M.Sc., holds a Certificate in Applied & Theoretical GIS. He has taught in forestry since 1985, and began teaching GIS in 1990. He states that an over-simplified definition of GIS would be “computer mapping”. GIS is a sophisticated tool for viewing and analyzing spatial data (“maps”).

“People are utilizing spatial data more now than ever before. Everyday examples include getting directions from MapQuest, viewing satellite imagery with Google Earth, using navigation systems in automobiles (e.g. OnStar).”

Steve Crowhurst

Steve Crowhurst has been teaching business courses since 1983. An artist, author, and photographer, he has been involved in tourism sales and has owned and operated his own travel agency. As a keynote speaker, he has addressed audiences around the world, including tourism organizations in BC, Alberta, Manitoba and the Northwest Territory. In addition, he has been the keynote speaker of the Addison Travel Trade Show in 13 cities.

John D’Aigle

John D’Aigle, Journeyman Carpenter, has always had a passion for building and creating from wood and other materials. The owner/operator of a home inspection business, John has 18 years’ instructional experience as well as being self-employed as a general contractor. Passing on his knowledge and experience makes John feel good. He feels that this is something that is lacking in today’s society, especially in the building trades.

"Knowledge and experience not shared die with the person."

Michaela Davidson

Michaela Davidson is an award winning artist, who lives and works at her Art & Gift Gallery, situated in Lake Cowichan, BC. Michaela finds the exciting medium of watercolors perfect for expressing the spirit and movement of the beautiful rolling mists and pristine waterways of Vancouver Island. Her painting’s have been said to depict the unique beauty and tranquility of our area and can be found in many private and corporate collections worldwide.

Joan Davis

Joan Davis lived and worked on the West Coast for a few years but recently returned to Sault Ste. Marie. She is eager to continue her VIU teaching experience through online instruction of courses she knows best – Microsoft Office Skills Training. Joan’s background is in computer instruction and Information Technology support.

Ken Dawson

Ken Dawson moved to Victoria at the ripe age of five, having previously lived in Honolulu. In the 1950’s, he moved to Nanaimo. An alumnus of the BC Vocational School in Nanaimo, Ken studied accounting then went on to take computer courses through Vancouver Island University. Ken has worked in accounting since 1962, and began working in the computer field in 1982. He has been self-employed in both fields since 1984.

"I love helping people learn new things. I really enjoy seeing the lights go on when they achieve full understanding of the subject."

Kim DeEll

Kim DeEll graduated from VIU’s Practical Nursing Program in 1993. She returned to Malaspina in 1998 to take her Registered Nurse training, graduating with her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing in 2002. She has worked in medical, surgical and extended care, as well as in the Special Care Nursery. She now works on call at Cainsmore Place in Duncan, as well as instructing in VIU’s generic and access nursing programs.

Warren Delaney

Warren has been instructing at the post-secondary level for over 24 years. A former paramedic with the BC Ambulance Service, he is also a First Aid Attendant and an instructor with Vancouver Island Health Authority. Warren has experience instructing Red Cross, WCB First Aid, AED, O2 Therapy, and Marine Advanced First Aid courses.

Bill Dellert

Bill became enthralled by music ever since he heard Elvis, Chuck Berry, and Johnny Cash and others from the 50’s. His interest has continued with the folk era, psychedelic rock, country rock, blues, and into the current music scene. Bill has played with a number of bands over the years, and has taught guitar in secondary schools and at VIU, as well as privately.

“I’ve always been amazed at the excitement generated when someone realizes they can play an instrument. I believe that with patience, interest and practice, anyone can achieve a level of personal satisfaction and enjoyment out of playing music.”

Bonnie Dillon

Bonnie Dillon earned her Interior Design degree from Ryerson University in Toronto where she studied both manual drafting and Autocad. After several years at HOK Canada’s Toronto office, Bonnie has returned to Nanaimo. Presently, as the sole operator of the Interiors Division of Graphic Office Interiors Ltd – Nanaimo, Bonnie focuses on construction packages for commercial renovations.

“AutoCAD has dramatically changed how designers, architects and engineers communicate their ideas. I love my profession even more since this program has drastically simplified the execution of construction drawings.”

Donald Dony

Donald W. Dony, FCSI, MFTA has been an investment professional for over 20 years, first as a stock broker in the mid 1980s and then as the principal of D. W. Dony and Associates Inc., a financial consulting firm. He is the editor and publisher of the Technical Speculator, a monthly international investment newsletter, which specializes in major world equity markets, currencies, bonds and interest rates as well as the precious metals markets.

John Dunn

John Dunn has extensive experience in occupational health and safety in construction, heavy industry and municipalities. His “specialties” are developing OH&S programs, confined space entry, respiratory protection, risk assessments and auditing. He is a WorkSafeBC Education Partner able to deliver WorkSafeBC certificate programs. John has a very open, friendly style drawing on his many years of experience using practical examples keeping participants actively engaged.

Bonnie Edwards

Bonnie Edwards has been a member of Romance Writers of America for 20 years and has published articles, novels and novellas. She loves storytelling and sharing experiences about publishing. She loves sharing the writing experience with fellow authors and finds creating characters and situations fascinating. There's nothing quite like it.

"Writing fiction is not for the fainthearted, but a dedicated writer can train to meet whatever challenges the market brings."

Nathan Enge

Nathan Enge has always had an interest in all things military, loved maps and had an eye for art. When he discovered GIS, he realized he’d found a way to combine all three into one rewarding career. He has a degree from UBC specializing in Urban Geography, a post - graduate Advanced GIS Diploma from BCIT, and is a graduate of the Canadian Forces School of Communications and Electronics specializing in Signals Intelligence and Electronic Warfare.

Cheryl Fitzpatrick

A strong belief that learning should be fun, experiential and applied to real life situations, is the core of Cheryl’s coaching and facilitation style. As a senior executive with 30 years of business experience in the telecommunications and in global, petrochemicals industries, she has a broad range of real life stories and experience to share and to illustrate the theories of business, management and leadership.

Ralph Frank

Ralph Frank has a Masters degree in Communications Studies from SFU and many years professional experience in counselling and social work. While in Northern Thailand, he spent several months living in Buddhist temples studying Vipassana (Mindful) Meditation. Ralph’s life has been profoundly influenced by years of involvement with the Aboriginal culture and traditions, and as a psychotherapist, he is inspired to share the lessons of wise elders and masters with others.

"Like a raging river, life has a way of hurtling debris downstream. We are often swept up in this rampage, losing control. There is another option. Standing firmly upon the riverbank, we can deal with what speeds past us from a calm centre, never losing sight of our inner strengths and resources."

 www.steppingstonesworkshops.com

Quote:
Like a raging river, life has a way of hurtling debris downstream. We are often swept up in this rampage, losing control. There is another option. Standing firmly upon the riverbank, we can deal with what speeds past us from a calm centre, never losing sight of our inner strengths and resources.

Greg Fraser

Greg Fraser has been a teacher, counselor and administrator in the BC public school system for 33 years in Vernon and Nanaimo.  His major teaching areas are World and Canadian History, Business Education and First Nation Studies.  He has a BA from the University of Victoria and an MA from San Diego State University.  He is presently teaching at VIU’s Elder College and is pursuing an interest in Aboriginal Treaties in Canada.

Frank Fucile

Frank has worked in education and training for over 20 years, primarily in the areas of electronics and computer technology. He has had a wide and varied career – high school technology teacher, college instructor, instructional designer, on-line instructor, and course developer. Throughout his career, he has been developing and delivering technology-based information courses through certification programs, seminars, and web-based training. With a diverse background in high school, college/university, and the corporate sector, he brings a relevancy-based and hands-on approach to education and training. As he puts theory into practice, he is also pursuing his Bachelor’s Degree in Adult Education.

Don Genova

Canadian journalist, Don Genova, B.Sc. (environmental studies), MA (food culture), University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy, has been featured on CBC Radio and Television, The Food Network, and National Public Radio in the U.S., among others. Living on the Southwest coast of BC. Don says, “is one of the most exciting areas in the world when it comes to food and wine.”

Rick Germann

Rick has practiced accounting in the Cowichan Valley for thirty years. He spends his time assisting small and medium-sized businesses achieve their financial goals. He wants to assist business people and individuals to improve their knowledge of income and other business taxes.

Karen Gregor

Karen Gregor, B.A., M.Ed., has her Advanced Certification in Critical Incident Stress Management and a background is in dual diagnosis and best practices in integrated supportive housing and vocational programming. She has worked in community-based mental health programs and has developed and taught courses related to disabilities and behavioural challenges.

Gordon Grenon

After spending 36 years in Vancouver, Gordon and his wife, Joyce, retired to Nanaimo in 1996 and began pursuing new interests. In 1997, they read a magazine article on hypertufa, and it sparked their interest in using this medium to create hand-built garden containers. Since their initial project, he has developed and built a mixer, lathe, rubber and metal moulds to make and lathe hypertufa into various shapes such as Japanese lanterns, water fountains, garden masks and more. Gordon is pleased to share his experience and expertise in this medium through his courses.

" I enjoy the enthusiasm of the students and the enjoyment they get from the classes when they leave with something they have built themselves."

Cecelia Grinham

Cecelia Grinham has her Bachelor of Commerce degree in Accounting and CMA designation. She has taught Introductory Bookkeeping for about 10 years. After a full day’s work, she feels energized after teaching an evening class. She brings “real life” to her subject, making it less boring than people think it should be.

John Gunton

John was born in Halifax, Yorkshire, England. He earned his B.Sc. in Geology at Durham University, UK, and his Ph.D. in Geology at Queen’s University in Ontario. He has a special interest in the distribution of natural resources. John spent 30 years in exploration and development of oil and gas around the world, and this has given him a lifetime perspective of minerals and hydrocarbons as depleting resources. In the context of understanding geological time, he is keen to share his awareness of the importance of understanding energy and its influence on lifestyle choices. John is the Chairman of Pacific Offshore Energy Association, of Seiber Energy Inc., and of the Parksville/Qualicum ElderCollege.

Tom Hedecar

Tom Hedekar, RPF (Retired), RFT (Retired) worked in the forest industry and as a forestry instructor in Prince George and Nanaimo. Early on, he discovered the pleasure and reward in helping adults learn about things he had come to know and love. Instructing became a passion; he never looked back.

I think the term “teaching” is an overused misnomer because I don’t believe that you can teach anyone anything unless they are interested in learning about it. The role of the instructor is therefore to help and motivate interested learners to learn.

Vanessa Haentjens Dekker

Vanessa Haentjens Dekker’s passion for photography began in her High School’s darkroom where she became fascinated watching images appear out of nothing in the red light. After taking the Photo Journalism Arts diploma at S.A.I.T. in Calgary in the early 90's, she travelled around the world documenting the people and places she visited. She later completed a degree in Anthropology at Vancouver Island University, where she was trained to observe the details and subtleties that most people don't see, and strives to combine this with her photographic, creative ability.

Susanne Hale

Susanne Hale, B.Sc., owns and operates an architectural ceramics studio, hand making tile, larger architectural pieces and mosaics, and installing her own products. She teaches hand building, guiding clients wishing to create their own functional art. Teaching mosaics was a natural progression in response to requests from clients.

"I love seeing my students have fun learning and experiencing the “ah ha” moments."

Ken Harper

Ken has served as Executive Pastry Chef at Fairmont Empress Hotel, Victoria; Assistant Pastry Chef, Edmonton Convention Centre; Chef de Partie at Pan Pacific in Vancouver, and at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Resort, and Second Cook at Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. He has won gold and silver medals in international culinary competitions as an individual, and as part of culinary teams; as well as in regional competitions in Calgary, Vancouver, Victoria, etc. He is a member of the Island Chefs Collaborative(ICC); Canadian Association of Chefs(CCF) and the US Pastry Alliance.

Imke Heimann & Thorsten Heimann

Imke and Thorsten facilitate personal growth and healing processes with individuals, couples and groups since 1993. Both are Healing Touch and Humanistic Energy Therapy Practitioners and have been described as gifted healers. They own and operate the Institute for Humanistic Energy Therapy as well as a private counselling and healing practice where they educate and support people to develop a fulfilled, healthy and happy life-style.  Visit www.heimann.ca for more information.

Fred Henton

Fred has been welding since 1974, and has been instructing for VIU’s Continuing Education for the past 23 years. He has worked as a welder at Madill’s, the forest industry and in small industry. His projects have included everything from ornamental welding to working on “stretching” the ships of the BC Ferries coastal fleet. Fred’s philosophy is one of stressing safety in a fun, learning and sharing environment.

Bela Hermanek

Bela is from the former Czechoslovakia and loves Russian literature, ballet, music and art. She has a degree in Slavonic Studies and History of Art from Basel University in Switzerland. Growing up behind the Iron Curtain has made her passionate about the sharing of knowledge and she believes that learning about another culture contributes to world peace.
End instructor bio

John Hossack

John Hossack is a lawyer whose preferred area of practice is estate planning including Will planning, estate probate and administration. John has practiced in the Parksville–Qualicum area since 1976, and served two terms on Parksville City council in the 1980’s. John is a graduate of Brandon University with a BA in Political Science and Economics and he received his law degree in 1973 from Queen’s University in Kingston Ontario.

John Hough

John has always “had a knack for numbers”. He is a Certified General Accountant, and has been practicing in Nanaimo for the past sixteen years. John has taught continuing education courses in bookkeeping since 1991.

“I always enjoy meeting new people, and the interaction of life experiences with my students. I particularly enjoy observing the expression on students’ faces when the light goes on.”

Norma Jackson

Best known for her portraits, Norma is an award-winning Canadian artist living in the Cowichan Valley. Her passion is the human condition, whether it is to portray strength or frailty or to imbue and excite the viewer. Some say it is in the eyes that Norma brings her subjects to life. Others feel they are drawn in by the depth and shadows of her West Coast images and new signature "Emerge Art" pieces that combine sculpture with painting.

Krisanna Jeffery

A vacation and the discovery of island life brought Krisanna Jeffery here 26 years ago. She has a private counselling practice in Nanoose. As a life-long learner, with a Bachelor's degree in Social Work and a Master's degree in Education, Krisanna has also trained as a hypnotherapist and in the field of Energy Psychology. She feels her most valuable training has been through the process of her own healing journey. Join Krisanna for a day of self-care and find innovative ways to increase vitality and balance in your life.

"My passion in life is to be as conscious as I can be and help others who are interested in doing the same. Both in my teaching and work as a therapist, my goal is to remove blocks which prevent clients and students from living their potential".

Lynn Jetter

Lynn’s focus, as well as teaching Reiki, is on understanding the connection between grief and illnesses caused by suppressed immune systems. Lynn has been a volunteer with the Hospice Society in Nanaimo since 2001, and is grateful for the rich experience this has provided her.

Paula Johanson

For more than twenty years, Paula has worked as a writer for magazines, newspapers, radio and books. Her most recent books are “Making Good Choices About Fair Trade”, “World Poetry: Signs of Life”, and the novel “Tower in the Crooked Wood”. An accredited teacher, she has written and edited educational materials for the Alberta Distance Learning Centre and eTraffic Solutions in Canada. She is a long-standing member of SF Canada, the national professional association of speculative fiction writers.

Bob Kitching

Master Mariner Bob Kitching holds his M.Sc. in Navigational Technology. Starting at sea as a Royal Navy cadet, he spent 15 years in the Merchant Navy. Ashore, Bob held management positions in the Port and Terminal Industry before joining the Port of Prince Rupert as CEO. Later, Bob was appointed Associate Dean and Head of the BCIT Marine Campus. Upon retirement, Bob formed Maritime Education Associates, believing that everybody should be able to train close to home.

Nicole Koch

Nicole is a Certified Professional Coach who also holds a Masters of Arts in Coaching Psychology. Nicole has taught Life Coaching both in-class and online for a number of years and is enthusiastic about the changes that Life Coaching can make to individuals and organizations.

Ken Lacroix

Ken was born in St. Thomas, Ontario, and spent most of his working career in Manitoba, including acting as advisor to the Minister of Labour for the Manitoba Provincial Government. The scenery and the moderate climate brought him to Nanaimo, where he takes advantage of the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and nature. Ken became interested in instructing occupational health and safety courses from understanding why accidents occur and what can be learned to prevent them from reoccurring. Ken believes that everyone should have the knowledge to make the worksite a safe environment. The information he provides assists in this knowledge.

“All changes to improve a Safety Program are important and the priorities need to be established. All changes occur from small steps that progress over time.”

Margaret Lamb

Margaret has worked as a Medical Office Assistant ever since graduating from the Vancouver Island University program in 1984. Margaret has great respect and admiration for the first MOA she worked for, a woman who encouraged her to teach. Margaret finds something new to learn every time she teaches, and she enjoys meeting new students and seeing their enthusiasm for their subject.

"To always want to learn something new is the essence of teaching."

Guy Langlois

Guy is a Journeyman Carpenter with over 30 years of construction experience, and he has built and
retrofitted hundreds of houses to R2000 standards. Currently the Farm Manager at MCSEEDS Farm (mcseeds.org) he loves to show people that natural building can be an easy to learn construction method that enables people to build affordable shelter without having an impact on the ecosphere.

Jimmy Lapointe

Jimmy Lapointe’s hairdressing experience started at Nanaimo’s Malaspina College, now Vancouver Island University. He trained with Vidal Sassoon, Toni & Guy, and Chris Baron. In 2004, Jimmy opened a hair salon called Pin-up Hair; in 2006, he became artistic director for Axis Salon, Assistant Educational Director at Axis/John Casablanca's Hair Art Design Program, and was named BC’s best hair dressing instructor. Jimmy’s started Vanity for Charity, a hair makeover fundraiser for women’s organizations on Vancouver’s Downtown East Side. He is training as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fighter.

Tanya Lester

Tanya Lester, B.A., has been doing and teaching tea leaf reading for 11 years. Her Lebanese grandmother and great-grandmother were tea leaf readers, something she did not know until after she had begun doing workshops and readings. She enjoys providing people with information and experiences, helping them understand and use their intuition.

”This ancient art and form of divination opens up a realm where you can enjoy tapping into your intuition. It helps expand any limitations that you might think you have.”

Imogene Lim

Imogene Lim is a third generation Canadian of Chinese descent, who received her BA Hons from SFU, and AM/PhD from Brown University. Her "food credentials" are part heritage (Chinatown restaurateur father) and part academic. She teaches a food and culture course at VIU, as well as, studied early Chinese American restaurants while a Rockefeller Humanities post-doctoral fellow at the Asian American Center, Queens College, CUNY.

Lynn Longmuir

Lynn is a Registered Aromatherapist (R.A.) and has been practising for 14 years. Aromatherapy is her passion. It has given her self-empowerment and great joy. She believes in life-long learning and has continued to develop her skills and techniques by attending workshops and professional development courses.

Rick Lutz

Rick brings twenty years of experience in supervision and management to his continuing education courses. He also holds a certificate in personnel management (BCIT), and is a certified Human Resources Professional and Achieve Global Trainer. Rick is currently working with Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, and as a training consultant focussing on supervision, human resources, and labour relations. He has been teaching management skills courses with Continuing Studies since 1994.

“Teaching allows me to use my experience and pass skills on to others. Hopefully I can help them move closer to their goals”.

Laura Luz

Laura Luz is a certified Mediator both provincially and nationally and has assisted families for over 20 years. She is committed to a compassionate response to conflict. Her strength lies in creating skills for participants to engage confidently in “the difficult conversations”. Laura is able to accurately assess dynamics and shift the existing paradigm into a more collaborative and positive level.

Susan Lymbery

Enchanted by the Cowichan Valley, Susan brings a varied background in banking, advocacy, and civil service from the Niagara area with a wealth of experience teaching English and Computers to mature students. Computers have provided a whole new world of opportunity for her disabled son. Passionate about learning with and from her students, Susan’s motto is “If you’re not laughing, you may not be learning.”

Lynne Macdonald

Lynne has worked in libraries for over 20 years. She is a published writer, an editor, a book club member and voracious reader. A member of the BC Federation of Writers, a judge for the VanCity Book Prize, and a founding member of the Adult Literature Roundtable, Lynne has been the discussion leader for a number of book clubs at the Vancouver Public Library. Lynne believes in bringing books and readers together. She is excited by giving her students the necessary tools to continue on without her once her course is over.

Neil Macmillan

Neil Macmillan has a Canadian degree in Education and a Scottish technical degree, enhanced with relevant courses. The combination is very helpful in teaching technically-oriented material. Neil has worked in web design and development since the Internet emerged publicly in 1994, and enjoys the ongoing challenges of that field. Neil finds it rewarding to pass on skills and watch people develop ideas as they learn some fundamentals.

" It’s never a case of me doing all the teaching and the students doing all the learning. I learn a lot as well from teaching these courses."

Captain Gary Marsh

Captain Marsh, Fishing Master 1st Class and Command Endorsement, started out with the Royal Canadian Navy. He joined the fishing industry in 1978 and gained experience on Canada’s East, Arctic and West coasts. Gary began teaching in 1981 at the Nautical Institute in St. John’s and taught for many years at the Pacific Marine Training Institute (BCIT).

Joanne Martin

Joanne Martin is originally from Burnaby and moved to Nanaimo in 1989. She always looks for opportunities to introduce or complement a person’s knowledge of computers, and she works by linking a learner’s past experiences and future goals into her training sessions. Joanne loves to share her knowledge with new learners in a non-threatening way while helping experienced users enhance their productivity with time-saving techniques and understanding of how programs should be utilized.

Sandey McCartney, M.A.

Sandey has over 25 years’ experience in the helping profession, including facilitating therapy groups and co-coordinating and implementing educational programs. She and David Raithby share a private counselling practice, co-lead personal and professional development courses at the Haven Institute on Gabriola Island and have co-written the book, “Living With Passion”.

Doug McLean

Doug has a BA in Communication Studies and MBA specialty in Business Ethics. A Malaspina/VIU team member since 2003 instructing in the Applied Business Technology program and Introductory Computer courses, Doug also uses computers extensively to keep track of his busy life operating a record store and limousine service. He didn’t learn computer use until his thirties so he can relate to adults being ‘technophobic’.

Ron Mecredy

Ron Mecredy is a Registered Forest Technologist, an Accredited Timber Evaluator and a Licensed Residue and Waste Scaler. He has been a timber cruiser and waste surveyor for most of his career, which began when he was granted a Forest Resource Technology Diploma from Malaspina College, now Vancouver Island University. He enjoys outdoor recreation, and working in the forest industry has given him the opportunity to see the entire province of beautiful British Columbia. Ron, along with Barry Ostrand, will instruct this year’s Residue and Waste Survey Course.

Malerie Meeker

During her 20-year tenure as the Executive Director of the Powell River Association for Community Living, Meeker directed the development of 10 new residences and the association grew from a small support agency of 20 staff and 3 programs to 250 staff and 20 programs. Malerie acts as a director on the BC Association for Community Living and the BC Association of Community Response Networks. She holds a Masters in Leadership from Royal Roads University and coordinates the Human Services program at the Powell River campus of Vancouver Island University.

John Merriman

John Merriman, M.Ed., did his major paper on wildlife/human conflicts. He was a conservation officer, an instructor, and now a VIU sessional instructor. Informing students is important to him, and he enjoys promoting career aspirations. His love and enjoyment of the outdoors is balanced by knowing all wild animals demand respect.

Dr. Tonia Mitchell

Dr. Tonia Mitchell grew up in Vancouver and knew from a young age she wanted to combine Nature’s ancient wisdom and modern science in a career in Naturopathic Medicine. Passionate about educating the public on health and wellness, believing the body can bring itself back to healthy, natural states, her treatments focus on diet, stress reduction, herbs, and acupuncture. She has a busy Nanaimo practice, is an active community volunteer, BC Naturopathic Association treasurer, and writes for healthtopics.ca.

Gary Moore

Gary Moore has faced the trials and tribulations of travel photography. He has been an award-winning photographer for 15 years and has traveled all over the world including hotspots such as: Haiti, Colombia, Palestine, El Salvador. His photographs have been published in magazines and newspapers such as The Washington Post to National Geographic and Discovery. You can see more of Gary's work on his new website real world photographs which highlights some of the world's social issues through photography.

Emily Morgan

Emily Morgan is an internationally recognized professional sculptor and teacher with works of art held by collectors including Elizabeth Arden, Levi Strauss, Long John Baldry, and Upjohn Pharmaceuticals. Her most recent commission for the Government of Canada is a commemorative medallion in pewter. She comes to us with a “diligent and committed approach to her work and can always be relied upon to contribute exactly what is required” Jera May, Richmond School of Art, England.

Daniel A. Murack

Daniel is one of our long-distance instructors. He lives and works in southern Ontario and teaches finance-related courses for us online. Dan is involved with municipal government in a finance administration capacity, and is on the Board of Directors for his local CGA (Certified General Accountant) chapter. His strengths include budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and analysis, information systems and technology, as well as online teaching.

Dr Edward Murdoch

Dr. Murdoch graduated from the University of New Brunswick with his B.Sc. He received his degree in Dentistry at Dalhousie University in Halifax and also attended Eastman Dental Center in Rochester, New York, where he received certification in T.M.J. disorders and his certificate in orthodontics. He continues to keep current with new orthodontic procedures through involvement, both locally and internationally, with seminars and orthodontic study groups.

Ed O’Brien

Ed O’Brien, BASc., MASc., DMD, FAGD, FPFA, FACD, graduated from the University of British Columbia in 1978. After running a large dental practice for over 25 years, he retired to the lecture circuit and writing articles about dental-related employment issues. He served as the liaison to the Canada Revenue Agency and Employment Standards Branch on behalf of the dental professions, and has served on various committees for youth, community and environmental organizations.

Eveline O'Rourke

Eveline O'Rourke grew up in a musical family and has studied music since the age of six. She believes that by increasing our knowledge of music, be it baroque, classical, contemporary or modern, we gain an understanding of the beauty of form and expression of emotion which contributes to greater listening pleasure. She is a long time and active member of the Vancouver Island Symphony Society, currently serving as vice-president.

Jeannine Oakes & Angela Jiggins

Jeannine and Angela were both born and raised on Vancouver Island and are both active volunteers at one of their favourite places, Milner Gardens. They love to share their expertise in making wreaths and swags and get great satisfaction out of the joy that students show after creating such beautiful pieces.

Zbigniew Olak

For Zbigniew Olak, B.F.A., the mutual thrill of discovery is the pleasure in teaching. A photographer and sculptor, Zbigniew has worked as photo illustrator for Forest Management as well as exhibiting his work in galleries throughout the West. He has been inspired by such diverse people as physicists, film-makers, and photographers.

Simone Padur

Cowichan Valley born and raised, Simone holds a BFA Multidisciplinary, a Professional Certificate in Multimedia Technology and a BFA in Art Education. Her illustrations have been reproduced for posters and children’s books, and she recently returned from teaching in England where she and her students produced a piece for the Museum of Childhood in London. Simone accesses her varied arts background to create a diverse and rich environment that empowers students to discover their voice as an artist.

Beth Page

Beth is President of Dream Catcher Consulting, which offers organization development, executive coaching and leadership development to clients throughout North America and beyond. She is a Faculty Member of the MBA and MA in Leadership program at Royal Roads University and is the author of Done Deal: Your Guide to Merger and Acquisition Integration.

Dr John Pappel

Dr. Pappel graduated from the University of Toronto with his B.Sc. He received his degree in Dentistry at the University of McGill and then received his certificate in orthodontics and his Master’s degree in a two year residency in Minnesota. A Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and a member of the World Federation of Orthodontists, Dr. Pappel lectures advanced education courses locally and internationally.

Jeanie Patterson

As a coach, facilitator, and consultant, Jeanie is highly committed to supporting individuals and organizations who have a genuine interest in cultivating strategic vision, authentic leadership, coaching effectiveness, enhanced communication, organizational development, creativity, and wellness in the workplace strategies.
She has a MA in Leadership Studies, has completed Professional Coaching, Appreciative Inquiry, and Personality Dimensions certifications, and assists personal & organizational clients through her private practice - Full Spectrum Coaching & Consulting Services.

Perry Perry

Perry Perry, M.B.A., CELTA, has taught ESL courses to adults since 1998. She has helped college and university students in Korea to prepare for study, work, and daily living abroad. Most students were Korean. Some students were from China and Nepal. Before immigrating to Canada, she tutored international students at Harvard and was an international student in Germany. Perry has enjoyed living and working with people from many cultures. She is happy to be part of their learning and to help them reach their goals.

Alexander Pevec

Alexander Michael Pevec teaches BBA and MBA courses in the areas of Management Information Systems, Knowledge Management, and Business Information Systems, at Vancouver Island University. Prof. Pevec conducts research into teaching with web-based technology, and pricing systems, speaks regularly at professional and academic conferences and consults to a variety of companies in those areas aligned with his interests.

Roberta Piechnik

Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Roberta has lived in the Cowichan Valley for over 30 years. A graduate of the Applied Business Technology program, she received the Creativity in Desktop Publishing Award and an award of Excellence in Presentation Skills for Best Presentation in PowerPoint Administrative Assistant Specialty. She is keenly interested in graphic arts and computer enhanced imagery, and is especially skilled at working with Inkscape.

George Plumley

George has been a web developer for over 16 years and started working with WordPress two years ago. He holds a Masters in Philosophy from York University as well as a Masters from Washington University in St. Louis, was ABD at Rutgers, and has taught at all three universities as a grad student. He is the author of the recently-published “WordPress: 24-Hour Trainer” and speaks regularly on WordPress and related topics.

Christine Pollard

Christine Pollard, B.Sc., is active with American and Canadian Horticultural Therapy Associations. Through Cowichan Community Land Trust Society and Vancouver Foundation, she facilitates the development of a community garden in the City of Duncan. Christine’s love of life and people inspires her to speak internationally advocating health benefits of horticulture. Her own 7 acre farm produces meat, vegetables and value-added products for her family with enough surplus to offer Community Supported Agriculture to other families.

Donna Pollard

Donna comes from a family of artists and avid photographers. She has operated her own business since 1987, working in freelance art, graphic design, web writing and editing, and digital editing. Working with quickly changing technologies has required Donna to constantly learn and experiment with new software and hardware. For her, this created an excitement for new technology – especially digital technology, which is her passion.

“I like to see people overcome their fear, resistance and apprehension about technology. What I teach helps people to explore their creativity in new ways. I get to see students grasp hold of new technologies, and open a whole new beautiful world.”

Jamie Popkin

Jamie Popkin, B.Sc., holds a double major in Geography and Biology and an Environmental Technician diploma. Jamie has seven years’ consulting experience with private and public groups in managing geographic data. Fascinated by how computers can increase the functionality of geographic data, Jamie loves talking about GIS and computer technology.

Debbie Preissl

Debbie Preissl, CDA, a motivational practice management consultant and speaker, designs customized educational dental programs. Her experience & expertise have assisted dentists all over Canada implement effective management systems. Ms. Preissl consults on behalf of the College of Dental Surgeons of BC and is a Managing Partner of Dental Education Consulting.

Captain Walter Premier

Originally from Zimbabwe (Rhodesia), Captain Premier joined the merchant navy when he was 17. He has worked as a deck officer, marine surveyor, marine firefighter and hazardous materials instructor, a firefighter and a marine safety inspector. He has a Master Intermediate Voyage certificate, a BA and a BC Provincial Instructor diploma. He believes that safety should be everyone’s top priority, especially on vessels.

“One ounce of prevention is better than 10 tons of cure”

Deborah Provencher

As a registered Recreation Therapist, Debbie has taught with Vancouver Island University for 16 years. She is passionate about empowering individuals in their practice as recreation professionals. One of her specialties is programming for individuals with dementia. Debbie brings energy and enthusiasm into each of her classes. She is often full of surprises, practical in her presentations and leaves students with ideas to think about and use in the future.

Della Rice Sylvester

Cowichan First Nation’s, Della Rice Sylvester has studied plants as medicine all her life. She studied Medical Anthropology at UVic and worked with the Pacific Networking Association and BC Wild’s Leadership Initiative for Environment. Della believes healing and improving health can be found in the roots, leaves, feel and smell of the plants. “Each plant has its own way, its own personality like each of us, and each of our children.”

Blair Russel

Blair Russel, M.A. LLB., has a particular interest in the Canadian legal system and criminal justice. He has worked as a teacher, college instructor, and lawyer and focuses on wills and estate law, real estate law, and criminal law. He finds teaching rewarding, particularly the interaction between student and instructor.

“It is the students that make teaching any course worthwhile.”

Victor Sanchez

Born and raised in Argentina, Victor earned an International Business degree and gained experience in several large import and export companies. After immigrating to Canada, he earned a Canadian Certified Customs Specialist diploma and is working towards his USA Customs designation and Business Administration diploma. Victor makes his material interesting and engaging.

Judith Schweers

Judith trained with the founders of Therapeutic Touch, Dora Kunz and Delores Kreiger, and brings over 25 years of Therapeutic Touch experience to her teaching. Her approach revolves around healing through a deep sense of compassion and our innate sense of Oneness. For the past 10 years, Judith has been teaching Therapeutic Touch in the US and Canada, is a member of Therapeutic Touch International and facilitates a TT Practice Group through the Cowichan Valley Hospice Society.

Andy Shutse Lou.jpg

Andy Shutse Lou was born and raised in China and received a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of North Texas. He has taught Chinese Brush Painting courses at UBC, SFU, UVIC and VIU. His mixed media cross-cultural paintings have been exhibited and collected widely in Canada, U.S.A. and China. He blends old and new techniques to forge a contrast between the ancient traditions of Chinese painting and the rapidly changing world of Western art.

Richard Sillery

Richard Sillery got his first camera at the age of 10. He has since used everything from speed graphic to digital. Richard sells to stock houses and enters competitions world-wide. His skills in the art of image enhancement began in a darkroom. Now, he uses Photoshop’s magic. Richard enjoys teaching people simple ways to get the most out of their equipment and how to enhance their photography.

"Our aim should be to show the natural world, almost as if we did not exist."

Captain Harry Silvester

Captain Harry Silvester is a Master Mariner with 40 years experience in the marine industry. A former officer in the Canadian Navy, he has taught senior courses at a marine institute and served in a senior capacity in passenger ships. Captain Silvester specializes in safety and security planning and training, ISM audits and all aspects of nautical surveying.

Ron Sitter

(M.Sc. Human Resources Management) Ron’s career has spanned more than twenty years of private sector business experience specializing in Human Resources and Management functions. His career has involved many industry sectors including manufacturing, telecommunications, energy marketing, pipelines and oil & gas production. Ron has facilitated supervisory, general management and human resource courses in many educational institutions including the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and the University of Calgary.

Laurie Smith

Laurie Smith has completed instructional courses at VIU and UVic, and is currently enrolled in the Certificate in Adult and Continuing Education (CACE) program at the University of Victoria. 25 years ago, she responded to the need for cashier training. She has instructed ever since, teaching in many parts of the province, and meeting interesting people.

"I hope that the students’ experiences in this course have enhanced their existence as much as they have mine. Many thanks to all of them!"

Donna Soules

A graduate of the Justice Institute’s Conflict Resolution Program, Donna also holds a Master’s degree in Conflict Resolution and Mediation. Since 1993, she has been in private practice, specializing in mediation, working extensively with youth, family and workplace conflicts. Donna’s enthusiasm for her work lies in seeing the shift people make when they have skills and understanding of collaborative problem-solving.

“Whether the conflict is in a marriage, workplace, or with youth, developing an atmosphere of respect and understanding, where people feel listened to, will greatly improve communications.”

Peter Spohn

Peter Spohn is a resident of Duncan who has been teaching and painting landscape in the Cowichan Valley for over twenty years. He has an MFA in painting and art history from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. N.Y. and is an exhibiting artist whose work is held in public and private collections. Peter is well known in the valley for his warm-hearted and encouraging approach to teaching painting. Check out Peter’s recent oil paintings and prints at www.sacredmountainstudio.ca

Harry Sumner

Through education and work, Harry has gathered considerable horticultural knowledge and experience to become a professional gardener who specializes in offering gardening consultations and advice to local homeowners. His easy-going, conversational style appeals to both beginners as well as very experienced master gardeners. You are guaranteed to learn something new in an enjoyable, informative style.

Marilyn Swallow

Marilyn graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in 1992 and continues to advance her academic and professional training using Neuromuscular technique, muscle energy, craniosacral therapy, first aid/CPR, Jin Shin Do, and Touch for Health. She has worked in clinics in Vancouver, Queen Charlotte City, Princeton and Duncan, and volunteered at sports events, childbirthings and music festivals. Marilyn believes compassion and a love for all things natural and healthy are the foundations of the healing arts and a happy life.

Steve Telosky

Steve Telosky has 37 years’ experience in the logging industry. A qualified supervisor trainer for falling, he has taught the Forest Practices Code. Steve feels he can make a difference by showing new workers ways to reduce injuries and save lives. He is proud to be part of formal falling training.

“All accidents are preventable, and it’s through proper training and procedures I feel that will make the difference. I feel I can achieve this. Unsafe is unacceptable.”

Frank “Fenix” Theuerkorn

Fenix was raised in California near the wine regions and visited Vancouver Island for several decades before making Nanaimo his home. An oenophile for over 20 years, he has certifications from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and the Court of Master Sommeliers, and trained as a winemaker at UC Davis. Teaching is one of his passions and he enjoys sharing his knowledge to help people better appreciate the world of wine.

Susan Tremble

Susan Tremble, B.Sc.N., and a graduate of Toronto General Hospital School of Nursing, became inspired to pursue the foot care nursing specialty. Finding this training was unavailable in BC, she became determined to provide it. She partnered with VIU and developed unique courses in nursing foot care.

"It is rewarding to know that my foot care courses have helped nursing staff to meet the needs of the elderly and others in their communities".

Dr. Alex Tsisserev

Dr. Alex Tsisserev is a full-time faculty member of Mal U-C's music dept. As a composer and music producer, he is signed to Sony Music and has had his compositions placed in projects by Disney, Dreamworks, Warner Bros and Universal. Alex was inducted into the Canadian Encyclopedia of Music and Dance for his collaboration with Ballet Jazz de Montreal .He has also composed works for Miami City Ballet, National Ballet of Canada, Ballet British Columbia and California Dance Theatre. Alex holds a doctoral degree in Music Education from UBC and has just completed creating and teaching a series of sessional courses for SFU that directly relate to his personal passions.

Emma Van der Klif

Emma has a double certification from the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) in Third-party Mediation and Negotiation, and is working on a Masters in Conflict Analysis and Management from Royal Roads. With her husband she has operated a training/consulting business for 20 years dealing primarily with disability issues. She has long been interested in finding non-coercive, non-adversarial ways to support inclusion and change.

Nick Versteeg

For the past fifteen years Nick has specialized in the culinary field and produced a variety of specials for the US and Canadian Food Network including “The Next Great Chef”, an eleven part series for Global Television. Today he lives in the Cowichan Valley and specializes in productions ranging from documentaries on culinary stories worldwide to specialized shows on food issues, food security and food sustainability.

Holly Volk

Holley Volk is a certified parent coach and public speaker as well as an Independent Love and Logic® Instructor. She has more than 20 years experience working with children and families, and feels that the more tools parents have to work with when it comes to children, the better off they are. She has worked as a Social Worker in California as well as taught courses for various Family Life and Child Care Resource agencies.

Norman Wagenaar

Norman Wagenaar has more than two decades of experience capturing eye-catching images for community newspapers, magazines, and his sport event photography website at www.personalbestphotography.photorelfect.com.  He lives in Nanaimo.

Nancy Watters

Nancy is a vibrant speaker, author, and organizational development psychologist. Her presentations draw from more than 20 years of multi-disciplinary experience in educational leadership and community development. She has received awards of over $1 million in grants for innovative educational programs. She received her MA from the Adler Institute of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois, and is a certified facilitator of The Virtues Project™. In 2003, she worked with a United Nations Development Program in Samoa to promote human rights in families. She is co-producer of the video Family Success: The Story of Family Literacy.

Duane Weaver

Duane, who has 18 years in the high tech, research/development, and tele-communications field, brings experience, humour and excitement to the classroom. He has an innate ability to relate to all learners. In addition to completing his Master's in Distance Education, Duane is co-owner and consultant of 2Birds1Stone Media Inc., which specializes in Internet based marketing, training and media production. Duane brings to his courses a diverse range of experience while valuing the sharing of skills and knowledge with others.

Richard White

Richard, originally from Leeds, England, is a self-taught herb grower, gardener and chef who has operated the gardens and greenhouses at Hazelwood Herb Farm for twenty-two years. He inherited his father’s green thumb while working alongside him in the family garden and loves helping others learn to put their new knowledge into practice. Richard’s passion for cooking prompted his interest in growing culinary herbs.

Norm Wilhelm

Norm Wilhelm is a consultant and trainer specializing in the areas of Workstyle Coaching, Recruitment and Selection, Workforce Development, and security-related subjects. Born in Victoria, BC, Norm has traveled extensively worldwide and has been employed in numerous countries as part of his previous years of service with the Canadian government. His areas of expertise include cultural diversity, information management, strategic analysis, competitive intelligence, time and project management, curriculum development, change and crisis management, team-building, presentation techniques, behavioural analysis, and professional interview techniques.

Sheila Williams

Sheila Williams has been teaching Horticultural courses for the past 15 years. She has also had the opportunity to work alongside various indigenous peoples teaching courses for various specialized projects both in North and Central America. Sheila learned from and worked with the Mopan Maya in identifying the cultural, medicinal and culinary uses of rainforest plants.

Juhree Zimmerman and Mary Ellen Sanajko

Mary Ellen and Juhree co-lead team facilitation and development engagements to support organizations in creating teams that work respectfully, acknowledge individual and collective successes, and resolve conflict while working harmoniously and productively. Their unique blend of health care and executive management backgrounds equips them to offer high quality facilitation and training. They are among the first certified Organization and Relationship Systems Coaches in the world (as of January 2009).