As Vice President of National Programs Jaime provides strategic leadership to the delivery of Shad programs and experiences across the country.

Jaime believes everyone can make a difference in the life of someone. She is proud of the unique opportunity Shad provides youth to discover their own gifts and passions, learn how to share those gifts and contribute to the world around them, and create action that leads to positive change and lasting impact.

For over 20 years, Jaime has worked in the chartable sector serving the community by gaining insight and understanding into social challenges, developing and providing responsive programs and services, and striving to influence system-level change leading to long term impact. Jaime leads and fosters a culture that values equity and wellness, offers experiences and connections that honour individuals for who they are while opening doors to learning and growth, and creates spaces where people feel a sense of security and belonging.

Outside of her work at Shad, Jaime enjoys spending time with her family playing games and exploring the outdoors, as well as volunteering and participating in community tables and events.

As the Director, National Programs, Leanne is responsible for the implementation and delivery of Shad’s summer program.

Leanne is honoured to be involved with a program that purposefully unleashes the extraordinary potential in our leaders of tomorrow and she believes our world will be in good hands.

Leanne brings a wealth of operational leadership and management experience to the role as well as a robust knowledge of post-secondary educational institutions and student life best practices. In her spare time, Leanne loves experiencing life with her grandkids, completing DIY projects, knitting and spending weekends at the trailer.

As Shad’s Director of Advancement, Mary leads Shad’s fund development efforts, helping attract the financial resources essential to deliver Shad’s programs and mission.

Mary loves being a part of Shad because she gets to support the development of young people who she believes will create an even better Canada.

She’s a journalism graduate who worked in communications, PR, marketing and business development before joining the not-for-profit sector. A fundraising pro who secured her CFRE in 2013, Mary is committed to fostering deep, sustainable relationships with Shad’s donors. Away from work, you’ll find her listening to live music, reading, riding one of her many bicycles, or hustling and flowing at her favourite fitness studio.

As the Shad community cultivator, Deborah leads the strategy to build an engaged network of Shads and create meaningful opportunities for alumni to connect with Shad Canada and with each other.

In her role, she works with, and is inspired by, an incredible community of over 19,000 emerging and established innovators, entrepreneurs, influencers and changemakers who are passionate about making a difference across the country and around the world.

With over two decades of experience working in the not-for-profit sector, Deborah thrives on building meaningful, collaborative and ongoing relationships for positive change. Deborah has been a long-time volunteer in Waterloo Region and is the current Chair of the Kitchener Waterloo Community Foundation Board, cultivating her deep understanding and passion for Canada’s philanthropic landscape to flourish.

As Shad’s Director, National Program Initiatives, Jennifer works to adapt Shad’s month-long STEAM and entrepreneurship program to other environments. Alongside the CEO, Jennifer works with potential partners to design, implement, and bring the Shad program to life in alternate settings.

Jennifer’s natural curiosity and expertise in design thinking and Universal Design for Learning contribute to her innovative approach to program design and development. Jennifer spent nearly a decade as a Special Education Coordinator, designing professional learning and coaching educators through an inclusive education lens.

Jennifer holds degrees in Life Science and Education from Queen’s University and her specialist qualifications in Special Education and Mathematics. She obtained continuing education certificates from Columbia University, the University of Minnesota and Harvard University Graduate School of Education.

Jennifer has been involved with Shad since 2005 and has spent many years as the Program Director for Shad Queen’s. Outside the office, Jennifer enjoys travel, hiking, gardening and exploring new cuisines.

As Shad’s Director, Digital Programs, Elissa provides leadership and oversight of Shad’s digital programs. Alongside the National Programs Team, Elissa works with partners from within and beyond educational institutions to provide highly intentional and meaningful online opportunities for Canada’s youth.

Elissa’s years of educational experience in grades K-12 have fostered in her a passion for learning that matches Shad’s mission to explore innovative approaches to education and creatively imagine the future of learning.

Elissa holds a BSc in Biology with minors in Women Studies, Mathematics, and English from Mount Allison University, and a BEd conjoint with a Technology Education Diploma from Memorial University. When she is not at Shad, you might find her crocheting a hyperbolic plane, completing an open-water swim, or playing a board game with friends and family.

As External Relations Manager, Alvina supports Shad’s relationships and partnerships with post-secondaries and governments. She is based in Edmonton but happily travels from coast to coast to coast.

Alvina is inspired by the authentic, immersive learning that happens in the Shad program and the sense of community that Shads develop.

Prior to joining Shad, Alvina was an Assistant Professor at MacEwan University and spent years working with students and teachers across Alberta as an educator, researcher, and advocate for accessible education. She has previously taught pre-service educators at Syracuse University and worked for the Edmonton Public School Board, the U School Program at the University of Alberta, Edmonton Public Library, and the Art Gallery of Alberta. She holds a PhD in Education from Syracuse University, and an MSc and two BA degrees (one in Art History and one in Linguistics and Anthropology), all from the University of Alberta. Outside of the office, Alvina spends time with her critters (she shares her home with three dogs and two cats!) and is a University of Alberta Senator.

As Shad’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Manager and a Shad 2003 alum, Michelle’s passion is extending the Shad program to talented and curious youth with diverse lived-experiences, perspectives, and strengths. In addition to fostering relationships with program partners, Michelle provides guidance and support regarding program development and youth engagement. These efforts work to ensure that Shad environments are inclusive and accessible for students who have been historically underrepresented in STEAM, including Black youth, Indigenous youth, and youth with disabilities.

Michelle believes that the diverse experiences and backgrounds of all students across Canada belong in the “boardroom” within STEAM careers for meaningful change to take place. She aspires to eliminate barriers to a career in STEAM, and to bring a sense of belonging among traditionally underrepresented students in STEAM.

Michelle graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Health Science degree and from University of Toronto with a Master of Science degree. She has a background of medical (MD) training in the U.S., and equity, diversity, and inclusion advocacy experience within the field of Medicine with pre-medical students, medical trainees, and physicians. Outside the office, Michelle enjoys mentoring youth and travel.

As Shad’s Advancement Manager, Christine’s focus is developing meaningful donor relationships and attracting financial resources required to support Shad’s innovative and transformational programs.

Christine is passionate about the opportunity that Shad provides young Canadians to experience new and creative concepts and push their boundaries. She believes that by empowering our youth to learn and explore we help to create strong and vibrant young leaders.

Christine brings 15 years of experience working in the not-for profit sector in a variety of leadership and fund development roles and she has dedicated her career to making a difference to lives of youth. In her spare time, Christine loves to read and travel and she is always up for playing a round of golf.

As the Manager, National Program Operations, Katie works with the National Programs team to deliver the Shad summer program.

Prior to Shad, Katie spent several years designing peacemaking and innovation programs for children and youth as the founder of an education nonprofit. She is passionate about empowering youth to build the skills they need to be changemakers of today and tomorrow.

Katie holds a B.A. in Peace and Conflict Studies from the University of Waterloo, certificate in Conflict Management and Mediation from Conrad Grebel University College and an M.Ed. from Wilfrid Laurier University. Outside of the office, Katie enjoys playing board games, listening to podcasts, and volunteering with various youth and peacemaking organizations.

As the Manager of National Program Operations, Brendan works with the National Programs Teams, dedicated to delivering an exceptional Shad Summer Program experience.

Brendan’s extensive background encompasses a diverse range of fields, from student affairs and event management to sports and business, and even museum exhibit curation. Brendan holds a Master of Education in Student Affairs from Wilfrid Laurier University, a BA in Recreation and Leisure from the University of Waterloo, and a Diploma in Recreation Administration from Mohawk College. His broad expertise enables him to approach youth support from various angles to create enriching experiences that foster exploration, curiosity, and experiential learning.

Outside of work, Brendan’s passion for youth development extends to the soccer pitch, where he has dedicated over 20 years to refereeing, mentoring, and coaching young players and new referees. As well, he cherishes quality time with his family, driving to and watching his children participate in activities, and finds joy in cycling, golfing, and spending time in the garden.

In her role as Manager, National Program Operations, Miranda works to support the adaptation of Shad’s summer program to reach more youth in alternative settings.

Prior to Shad, Miranda spent several years working in Engineering Outreach and Recruitment, creating and delivering STEAM programs and professional development workshops for students and teachers from grades K-12, with a focus on underrepresented students in STEAM.

With an M.A. in Anthropology from Memorial University and a B.Arts.Sc. from McMaster University Miranda believes deeply in diversity and interdisciplinary learning. Before that, she explored her passion for learning as a Shad participant and Program Assistant and hopes to bring the Shad experience to students who have not been able to access it before.

Outside of the office, Miranda enjoys baking the occasional cookie, hiking in provincial parks, and playing guitar.

As the Manager, National Program Operations, Sam works with the National Programs team to deliver the Shad summer programs across Canada.

Sam brings with them a passion for empowering youth and creating inclusive spaces that foster leadership, innovation, and collaboration. With extensive experience managing diverse programs and initiatives, Sam has developed an expertise in program development, operational management, and stakeholder engagement. Their work has consistently focused on supporting and building meaningful connections within the community.

Sam holds a B.A. in Honours Sexuality, Relationships, and Family Studies with a Minor in Legal Studies from the University of Waterloo, where they cultivated their understanding of social systems, equity, and community building. Outside of the office, Sam is also actively involved in local advocacy initiatives, contributing to governance, strategic planning, and advocacy efforts to promote equity and inclusion within their community. They bring a commitment to creating opportunities for young people to explore their potential, develop skills, and tackle real-world challenges.

As Shad’s resident stats nerd and lover of spreadsheets, Kyle is responsible for organizing and securing Shad’s data in Salesforce so the team can make decisions based on numerical evidence. He believes that youth across Canada deserve to know about Shad’s opportunities. Kyle attended Shad’s summer program at Acadia University and knows its life-changing impact first-hand.

Kyle graduated from University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Mathematics degree and spent 17 years in telecommunications as a software developer, build architect and best practices advocate. The role that inspires him most is working with a new Shad cohort each July as a live-in faculty member. Away from Shad, Kyle is an inspirational speaker, avid birdwatcher, published nature photographer and significant contributor to citizen science projects eBird and iNaturalist.

As the Student & Campus Club Lead at Shad, Andrea works to empower the Student Leaders to build, broaden and share their passion for science, social change and community building in the form of Shad Campus Clubs.

Andrea’s time working in outdoor education, summer camps and a variety of workshops has given her an appreciation for the power of learning outside the classroom, making her an enthusiastic supporter of Shad’s approach to pushing learning beyond the classroom by providing educational opportunities to students in diverse settings.

Andrea completed her Bachelor of Education at Wilfrid Laurier University, as well as a Bachelor and Masters of Environment and Resource Studies at the University of Waterloo. In her spare time, she loves to hike, draw and spend time with her family.

As Shad’s Marketing and Communications Lead, Rachel uses her love of words and passion for storytelling to spread the word about the transformational powers of Shad.

Through her engagement with the stories of Shad alumni, Rachel understands the potential of the program to positively influence the lives of our students in countless ways and works to inspire youth from all walks of life to see that they have a place within the Shad community.

Rachel graduated from the University of Waterloo with an Honours BA in Psychology and Social Development, and went on to complete her MA in Communications at Wilfrid Laurier University. Hoping to fine-tune her existing skills, she completed a Digital Marketing Certificate at York University, which has allowed her to combine the theoretical and technical perspectives needed to create and execute modern marketing strategies. When not at work, you’ll find Rachel running on the trail, travelling the world with her husband, or curled up on the couch with her cat and a good book.

In his role as an Accounting Specialist, Stacy plays a key role in supporting the accounting team, leveraging over 10 years of industry experience. His primary focus is on streamlining processes while upholding the high standards of success at Shad.

Stacy is passionate about supporting Shad’s mission to ignite young minds by broadening their perspectives and opening them to the vast impact opportunities available to them.

Outside of work, Stacy stays active through sports, keeps informed on international affairs, enjoys reading, volunteers in low-income communities, and cherishes time spent with family and friends. He holds an advanced diploma in accounting from Sheridan College and has continued to expand his expertise through various certifications over the years.

As an in-house designer, social media aficionado and digital communicator, Katie is passionate about spreading awareness of the Shad brand and ensuring we look good as we do it.

Katie is inspired every day by the young leaders who aim to make a lasting change on our world. She believes Shad is the place where these dreamers see that their goals can become reality.

She is an alumna of Wilfrid Laurier University with an HBA in communication studies and a post-graduate certificate in corporate communications from Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning. Katie has both theoretical insight on communication practices and intensive experience developing and executing various marketing plans and strategies. In her spare time, you can find her chasing after her little ones, at a local barre class or using her love for design to create designs and décor for friends and family.

As the Social Media Lead at Shad Canada, Morgan is key in amplifying the organization’s online presence. He navigates social media, advertising, and innovative platforms to share Shad’s programs. Morgan’s approach is about creating connections and sparking engaging conversations. His mix of creativity, strategic planning, and understanding of digital trends ensures messages resonate with audiences. His marketing and public relations expertise shapes Shad’s digital narrative effectively.

Off work, Morgan is passionate about the latest tech gadgets and traveling. These hobbies keep him inspired and fuel his creativity, providing fresh perspectives that are invaluable in his work. He enjoys exploring different cultures and technologies, bringing back unique insights that enrich his approach to projects and problem-solving.

As the primary liaison with our Shad candidates, Cheryl coordinates the selection process from initial application to host university placement. Her responsibilities include working with our online systems, coordinating the evaluation process and placing students at their Shad campuses.

Having been with Shad for over 30 years, Cheryl is also our historian and general problem solver. She has devoted her life to helping youth discover their true potential and make a difference. The Shad community is like a second family to her.

When not working, Cheryl is an avid sci-fi collector, enjoys reading & photography, plus football, tennis and basketball – as an armchair athlete.

As the Office and Project Lead, Amelia keeps the four functional areas at Shad on track, organized, and performing at exceptional levels. She brings a diverse skill set into Shad having worked in high tech, for a non-profit and in the field.

Amelia lives for the moment and is always open for experiences. With this mindset she inspires others to reach outside their comfort zone and loves how Shad challenges youth to explore and think outside the box.

While not in the office, Amelia spends her time on the sidelines of the soccer field with her knitting needles while supporting her kids. She also enjoys singing in the choir, dabbling in real estate and travelling, whenever the opportunity arises.

As Shad’s Creative Marketing Lead, Mohamad is responsible for developing and implementing design solutions that support Shad’s marketing strategies. From concept to completion, Mohamad’s natural eye for crisp designs and creative ideas help the Shad brand truly come to life.

Even with a growing alumni network, the Shad experience is unique and special to those who actually get to live it. Mohamad loves being able to capture the energy of the program through his designs, and wants to encourage more high school students to see themselves as changemakers at Shad.

Prior to joining the team, Mohamad spent 14 years in the marketing and public relations sector in roles that required competent supervision, professional design, branding, and detail-oriented logistical coordination. Outside of work, you can find Mohamad exploring trails and parks with his family, mastering new artistic and design techniques, and learning new languages.