Alberta Teaching Profession Commission – Roles and responsibilities

Adediwura (Wura) Odiase is an HR Executive with more than 25 years of experience in public and private sectors. Wura is the CEO of Pinnacle Human Resource Consulting and the director of culture, inclusion, and belonging at the Calgary Police Service. Additionally, Wura is a board director at the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC) and serves on the governance and sustainability committees. Wura holds an MBA and an MSc in global human resource management. She is a fellow of John Ware Institute.

Alana is an independent school vice principal who leads curriculum implementation by working closely with grade-level representatives to ensure effective teaching and assessment practices that align with the new Alberta curriculum. She supports teachers in planning and delivery, fosters collaboration across grades and is dedicated to the success and well-being of kindergarten to grade 5 students. Alana was a member of Alberta Education’s Practice Review Committee from 2017-2022 and has been on the Professional Conduct and Competency General Panel since 2023. Alana holds a master’s degree in Curriculum Development and Pedagogy, as well as a graduate certificate in School Leadership from the University of Alberta.

Alene Mutala is presently a trustee with Edmonton Catholic Schools after spending 27 years in the field as a teacher, school counsellor, religious education consultant and health and wellness coordinator. Alene holds a Bachelor of Education and Master of Education in School Counselling from the University of Alberta as well as a Graduate Diploma in Religious Education and Master of Religious Education from Newman Theological College. Alene has served on many different boards and is presently on the Alberta School Boards Association’s board of directors.

Allen Billy is the interim education manager at the University of Calgary’s medical school and has worked primarily in the post-secondary education sector, including as a dean, associate dean and faculty member. Allen was on the governance boards of the Canadian Association of Allied Health Programs and the North Shore Rescue Team Society and is a public member on the Alberta Council of Social Workers. Allen has received a Canada 125 medal for volunteer service. Allen has a doctorate in Zoology from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Science and Bachelor of Science from the University of British Columbia.

Avril Colenutt is a lawyer with experience in professional conduct and competency, professional regulation, procedural fairness, adjudication and ethics. Avril has served with the Health Disciplines Board, Community and Social Services Appeal Panel, Children's Services Appeal Panel, Conduct Committee for the Law Society of Alberta, and the Nursing Education Program Approval Committee for the College of Registered Nurses of Alberta. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with Honours from the University of British Columbia, a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick, and is a Master of Laws candidate at the University of Edinburgh.

Barry Litun is currently retired after having served as a teacher, vice-principal, principal, deputy superintendent and superintendent in Alberta, and as executive director for the College of Alberta School Superintendents. Barry Litun has served on a wide range of committees and boards related to education at the local, provincial and national level. Barry Litun holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and a Master of Education from the University of Victoria.

“I believe that to be successful is to touch many lives in a positive way.”

Seeking to share my passion, I received a Bachelor of Education and worked for many years as an Educator in many capacities including my own business (Learning Links). I have volunteered for countless organizations and causes over the years. I continue to diversify my knowledge by continuing education in various areas of life, including leadership, personal development, and community safety. I have enjoyed the pleasure of belonging to diverse boards including: Conference Chair 2022-2024 for Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association; Advisory Member, Rural Crime Capacity Project; Facilitator with Red Deer Rural Restorative Justice; Chairperson with the Red Deer Safety Advisory Ad-hoc Committee; Chairperson, Red Deer Native Friendship Society; and Chairperson both locally and provincially for Catholic Social Services. I was nominated for the Women of Excellence Awards in Central Alberta.

My life at home includes three grown daughters with partners and four grandchildren. I am blessed to have a strong faith and the support of my family, friends and peers. I continue to inspire a love for learning in my children along with those I come in contact with and have always encouraged the value of thinking outside the box. I exhibit an entrepreneurial and creative spirit that shines through in all I serve with love, in business, community and to family and friends.

I enjoy being in nature, walking, golfing, reading, traveling, cooking, music and theatre, along with spending time with family and friends.

Brad Walls is an emergency communications officer with extensive experience in governance and operations. Brad has served as a councillor for the Town of Strathmore and held leadership roles such as secretary-treasurer and past president of the Strathmore and District Agricultural Society. Brad’s operational expertise includes overseeing large-scale projects, including facility design and construction. Brad is certified as an  emergency medical dispatcher (EMD) and an emergency fire dispatcher (EFD), demonstrating his commitment to public service.

Caitlyn Cameron holds both a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and a Master of Educational Studies from the University of Alberta. She is a passionate educator who enjoys teaching junior high math and science. Caitlyn is the principal at an Alberta-based independent school, with a preschool-through-Grade-9 program.

Carolyn graduated from University of Alberta with her B. Ed. in 1995. She completed her master of education through the University of Portland in 2021 and the graduate certificate of leadership through the University of Alberta in 2022.  She has held various teaching and leadership positions within the private and public-school sectors in the Greater Edmonton region. Beyond the school context, she has served on the board of a charitable organization for 10 years and is currently its vice chair.

Cathy McCauley is currently retired after over 30 years in education as a teacher, school administrator, central office coordinator and as the Executive Director of the Calgary Regional Consortium. She has also served on education related committees locally and provincially, and is a member of the College of Alberta School Superintendents. Cathy holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Saskatchewan and has a Master of Arts Integrated Studies from Athabasca University.

Cathy Wanyandie is the board chair and past vice chair for Northland School Division. In addition, she is a board member for the governance committee on behalf of the Aseniwuche Winewak Nation as well as the secretary treasurer for Aseniwuche Winewak Nation. Cathy has worked in various roles at Aseniwuche Development Corporation. Cathy is a very active member of the Aseniwuche Winewak Nation and has extensive experience, skills and knowledge from working with First Nations, community boards and various industries. Cathy is a former student of Susa Creek School.

Cheryl Przybilla has over 30 years of experience in both the classroom and at Alberta Education. She moved from teaching high school social studies to a rewarding career in the High School Curriculum and Provincial Assessment sectors. As an executive director in each of these sectors, she led a variety of high profile projects and participated on a variety of boards/committees. Coming full circle, Cheryl has returned to the classroom as a guest teacher.

Cory Albrecht has been in education for 25 years. He has served as a teacher, assistant principal and principal across all levels of education K-12. He is currently the principal at W.D. Cuts Junior High. Cory received degrees in Science and Education from the University of Alberta. He has coached a variety of youth sports and been an executive member on boards for lacrosse and rugby. Cory works hard to foster effective relationships amongst all stakeholders and enjoys working with the many different groups committed to public education.

Dan Lower serves as the Deputy Superintendent of Red Deer Public Schools, where he leads the Learning Services department. He supports the division in delivering exceptional teaching and learning opportunities.

Dan holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and a Master of Education in Administration from the University of Lethbridge. Prior to his current position, he served as Principal of Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School. He has also held leadership positions as Vice Principal at both the Lindsay Thurber and Hunting Hills high schools.

Before entering school administration, Dan began his education career in Sylvan Lake and Stettler. He was a dedicated classroom teacher, teaching science at Lindsay Thurber.

A strong advocate for youth sports, Mr. Lower has served on the boards of Red Deer Minor Baseball and The Kings Volleyball Club. He also volunteered as a coach for his sons' Red Deer Minor Hockey and Baseball teams.

David Bouma has a variety of experiences that have helped him develop his leadership, instructional, supervisory and interpersonal skills as a teacher, university instructor, administrator and superintendent across numerous learning environments including elementary, junior high school, post-secondary and senior leadership. His experiences and education, along with his deep understanding of the Alberta curriculum and the Education Act, have served to inform his practice as a teacher, teacher mentor and evaluator.

Elizabeth (Betty) Turpin is currently in her 19th year as superintendent with the Holy Family Catholic Separate School Division located in Peace River. Previously, Betty served three years as deputy superintendent for Grande Prairie Catholic School District with her main duties being in Human Resources and Student Services. She has a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Special Education and Master of Educational Administration. For 38 years, Betty has had a positive and successful career in education.

Emmanuel Kofi Owusu works with the Alberta Human Rights Commission as Director of Complaints Management. He previously acted as the Director of the Commission, an order in council appointment, for a year. Emmanuel is a member of the University of Calgary's Senate and a co-chair of the City of Calgary Anti-Racism Action Commission. Emmanuel has an LL.B from KNUST, Ghana and a Master of Laws degree from the University of Calgary.

Evan Holstein loves to learn and is passionate about serving others. Evan has served as a teacher, pedagogy lead, grade coordinator and vice principal, and is currently the Principal for the Greater St. Albert Catholic Schools. He has experience as a member of the Policy Advisory and Professional Development Committees for GSACRD. Evan holds a valid Leadership Certificate as well as a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Leadership from the University of Alberta.

Hamish Henderson has practiced law in Alberta for over 36 years. He has appeared before all levels of the Alberta courts, as well as various boards and tribunals. He is also extensively involved in mediations and the collaborative family law process. Mr. Henderson has been involved as a member of several boards, including various legal aid appeal boards and as chair of the Insurance Councils Appeal Board. He is also a part-time adjudicator with Alberta Correctional Services and a member of the Attendance Board. He believes in relationship building and being a team player, as well ensuring a collaborative, fair and balanced approach to problem-solving.

Mr. Ian Gray is the Superintendent of Aurora Academic Charter Schools in Edmonton, Alberta.  He has 29 years of teaching and administration experience, has been an Online Learning Coordinator and a Director of Technology, and has held multiple principalships. He holds both leadership and superintendent leadership certifications in Alberta. He earned a Master of Education in Leadership degree from the University of Portland and is currently completing doctoral work to support research and innovation in his school authority and partnerships with community and academic institutions. Mr. Gray is past President of The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools, an organization committed to promoting and facilitating public charter school education in Alberta. Currently, he serves on the Alberta Research Network Steering Committee as well as Alberta Education's Professional Conduct and Competency Panel.

Jag Sidhu is the principal for a K-12 school. He’s the founder of the first Punjabi school in Alberta, Headway School. Jag has 21 years of experience with his school board. Jag is a teacher certificated in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario. Jag is a certified Special Education Resource teacher (Manitoba) and Special Education Coordinator (Manitoba) and a certificated teacher leader in Alberta. He holds a queen’s jubilee medal for being a contributor to Albertan and Canadian life. Jag started teaching in 1983 and has been a principal since 2001. Jag holds a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Special Education.

Jason Harley is Senior Legal Counsel and Ethics Officer at EPCOR Utilities Inc. During his time in private practice, Jason was a litigator with a focus on labour and employment law, workplace investigations and alternative dispute resolution. He was previously a sworn member of the Edmonton Police Service. Jason holds a Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Alberta and a Master of Arts from Royal Roads University.

As a principal with St. Albert Public Schools, Jennifer Bruinsma leads a vibrant grade 5-9 school community at École Hillgrove School. Jennifer holds a Master’s in Education from the University of Calgary and a Certificate in School Management from Harvard Graduate School of Education. In 2009, she was nominated for the Alberta Excellence in Teaching Award, and she was again nominated in 2011, becoming a semi-finalist award recipient.

Jennifer Galarneau is a lawyer with a passion for professional regulation and protection of the public. She has extensive experience with administrative tribunals and disciplinary processes for self-regulatory organizations. Jennifer has worked as a complaints director, enforcement counsel and as a chairperson for a disciplinary panel. Jennifer has a Bachelor of Science, a Juris Doctor, and a Master of Laws with a focus on professional regulation.

Jessica Thomas is the Superintendent of People Services at the Calgary Catholic School Division (CCSD), where she oversees 6,000 people within the People Services department. Jessica is also a certificated teacher and is pursuing her Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation. She holds a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Alberta and a Human Resources Certificate from Mount Royal University. Jessica also has nearly 20 years of volunteer experience with the Calgary Stampede.

Joanne Hunt has worked as a teacher, system level administrator and high school principal within Alberta.  Her extensive experience has encompassed public, separate and private school systems. She holds a Bachelor of Science, a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Education, and was previously registered as a psychologist within Alberta. In addition, Ms. Hunt has worked in the not-for-profit sector and has provided many years of service related to the teacher profession on a variety of committees, including as a long-time member of the Calgary Board of Education's Critical Incident Response Team.

Jody is the Director of Student & Staff Formation (Faith, Curriculum & Wellness) at Elk Island Catholic School Division. Open and authentic, Jody acknowledges her imperfections but strives to lead faithfully, fulfilling the calling God has placed on her life. Originally from Newfoundland, she relocated to Fort McMurray in 1996, marking a significant blessing in her journey in education and family. Jody is a proud wife and mother to three sons, and her dedication extends to her community through coaching, officiating and board roles in sports.

Jody holds a Bachelor of Arts from Memorial University of Newfoundland, a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education from the University of Alberta, a Native and Child Family Development Social Work Diploma, and Human Resources Certification from Keyano College, as well as a Master of Education in Leadership from the University of Prince Edward Island.

With 25 years in Catholic education, Jody’s diverse experience includes roles as an educational assistant, teacher, counsellor, 15 years as a school-based administrator and three years as a system leader. Her commitment to faith and education continues to guide her work in forming students and staff to thrive spiritually, academically and personally.

Joseph Banke is a Teacher with the Wild Rose School Division and previously taught with the Calgary Board of Education. He is also a senior officer in the Naval Reserves with the rank of Commander. Joseph has board experience as the Chair of the Naval Museum of Alberta and experience on the Local of the Alberta Teacher Association. He holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary, a Bachelors of Arts in Political Studies from Queen's University and a Master of Science from American Military University.

Karyn Barber is an Associate Superintendent with Chinook's Edge School Division, serving approximately 11, 000 students and their families with high quality, diverse educational programming. Karyn has over thirty years of experience in K-12 education, working with several Alberta jurisdictions. She holds a Master of Education, specializing in Educational Leadership, as well as the Superintendent Leadership Quality Standard.

Lana Thompson is a proud wife, mother of two and current Wolf Creek Public Schools trustee. In her trusteeship, she looks to be an advocate for Alberta's children. She is currently on the audit committee; grievance committee; advocacy; community engagement and public relations committee; the student review committee; the health in action committee and the Public School Boards’ Association of Alberta. Thompson commits to providing important oversight while ensuring parents' voices are heard and students' goals are reached. Her aim is for the overall success and wellness of all students.

Lorrie Sparks is an elementary teacher who works with young children to help them develop positive relationships and succeed academically, socially and emotionally. Lorrie has experience on the current Practice Review Committee for educators for the past 3 years and also sits on the board for McMan Central Region. Lorrie holds a Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education from the University of Alberta.

Lyne Bacon is an assistant superintendent, Human Resources who works at the Southern Francophone School Board to oversee collective agreement negotiations, administrative policy, employee wellness and conflict resolution sessions. Lyne has been involved with the Alberta Teachers’ Association as a member of the Professional Conduct Committee. Lyne is a certified teacher with accreditation from the International Baccalaureate North America. Lyne holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Ottawa and a Master of Education from the University of Alberta.

Mark Owens is an Associate Superintendent with Northland School Division. Mark has experience as a facilitator in Restorative Practices, is trained in Fierce Conversations and is a member of the Supervision and Evaluation Committee. He has 14 years of experience in school and divisional administration and over 20 years with the Alberta Sport and Athletic Association as the Northwest President for the last 6 years. Mark holds a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Physical Education from the University of Alberta and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from University of Calgary.

Maryanne Kingma has a law degree with a Master of Laws from Dalhousie University Health Law Institute. Maryann has worked extensively in administrative law. Maryann has served various boards and tribunals in adjudication and professional regulation, including for workers compensation, immigration and refugee appeals, health and social service boards, criminal injuries compensation and correctional services. Maryanne is committed to respectful, transparent and fair legal processes for dispute resolution.

Michael Hauptmann: Former superintendent, former Executive Director of the Council of Catholic School Superintendents of Alberta, Former Acting Executive Director of the Evidence and Learning Sector, Alberta Education. He has also volunteered his time in the education sector for organizations like the College of Alberta School Superintendents, Alberta School Trustees' Association among others position. His life’s work has been dedicated to the support of education from a variety of perspectives and roles. Currently, Mr. Hauptman is the Director of M2 Educational Consulting Ltd.
 

Nabil Malik has a Bachelor of Arts with Special Honours in Geography and Urban Studies and a certificate in Migration and Refugee Studies. He also holds a Master of Environmental Studies and a graduate diploma in Democratic Administration. He is a statutory planner and development officer within Northern Alberta. Nabil upholds strong ethical and professional standards as a candidate member with the Canadian Institute of Planners and the Alberta Professional Planners Institute, and as a member of the Alberta Development Officers’ Association.

Noor (Noorie) Jadavji holds a bachelor of arts in law and psychology from Carleton University. She is currently the program officer with Focus Canada Humanitarian Assistance. Her work is specifically aimed at the strategic resettlement of refugees through participation in the Government of Canada’s economic immigration programs, supporting both employers and candidates with effective recruitment strategies.

Noorie has a substantial foundation in career development education and has supported student success for more than 25 years. She has worked at both the University of Calgary and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.

Noorie has further developed expertise in career advising, as well as equity, diversity and inclusion through various coaching certifications and courses. Known for fostering meaningful connections with employers, Noorie has also mentored youth through community volunteer work, showcasing her commitment to supporting individuals' personal and professional growth.

Pamela Rath is a former school board trustee from Calgary Catholic School Division. During her tenure, she served on various committees and sat as director for the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA).  Her passion has always been centered around students, the protection of classroom dollars and the importance of parents being the primary educators of their children.

In addition, Pamela has held various leadership positions in the non-profit sector for over 25 years and volunteers within her community to assist families needing a hand up.

Pamela holds a BSc Engineering (Petroleum) from the University of Wyoming.

Sanah Sidhu is the Director of Professional Conduct with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta. She leads the complaints and hearings portfolio with a specific focus on public protection. Sanah is an active member with the Law Society of Alberta and has achieved both a Juris Doctor from Bond University and Bachelor of Commerce from MacEwan University.

Sean is an independent school principal who works with students ranging from junior kindergarten through Grade 5. He leads a team of over 30 teachers, 15 support staff and more than 600 students. Sean also works as a Designated Signing Authority evaluating independent school teachers for their permanent teaching certification. Sean holds a Bachelor of Science with a Major in Mathematics, a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Education with a focus on School Leadership, all from the University of Lethbridge.

Shane Parker, K.C., is a practicing lawyer who graduated from the University of Alberta in 1991 and was admitted to the Law Society of Alberta in 1992. Shane has served on numerous boards over 30 years and continues to advise boards in both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors.

Trent Kenyon was a sworn member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for 15 years and spent a total of 17 years in the law enforcement field. He currently is a junior high math and physical education teacher in the Fort Vermilion School Division and has pursued coursework towards an alternative dispute resolution designation. Trent holds management and physical education bachelor degrees from the University of Lethbridge and a Bachelor of Education degree from Concordia University of Edmonton.

Trevor J. Smith has been a Social Studies teacher at St. Michael's School in Pincher Creek, Alberta for 25 years. In addition to teaching, he was a member and Chair of the Alberta Teachers’ Association’s Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) and Professional Conduct Appeal Committee (PCAC) for 15 years. Trevor holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta.

Yifei Wang is a growth and innovation specialist in work-integrated learning (WIL) at Mount Royal University, collaborating with faculty and WIL coordinators to integrate real-world experiences into students' academic journeys. She holds a Ph.D. and MA in Curriculum and Pedagogy, specializing in Media and Technology Studies, from the University of British Columbia. An award-winning educator in Alberta, Yifei has taught educational technology, instructional design, and cross-cultural communication at leading universities.