In Shape: A Strategic Plan of Impact, the University of Alberta places people at the foundation of everything that we do. They are at the core of our mission — education, research and engagement. Supporting people is absolutely central to delivering on the university’s mission and vision.
On Oct. 22, we hope you can join us as the university will launch the People Strategy, which sets out a path for the university to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive community where people at all levels of the organization can thrive.
We asked a few people across the university what qualities make their workplace great. We share their answers below.
Sherry Ann Chapman
Sherry Ann Chapman (middle), practicum coordinator in the Department of Human Ecology, meets with field supervisor Dylan Lynch (left) and practicum student Ysabel Dagta (right).
Full name: Sherry Ann Chapman
Position title: Faculty service officer (practicum coordinator), Department of Human Ecology
Number of years at the U of A: 24
What qualities make for a great work environment? "My work environment is great because what I do is meaningful. I introduce students to human ecology in two areas: clothing, textiles and material culture and family science. Then I place students with partnering field supervisors for practicums. Together, we build a community of practice that celebrates a shared passion for enhancing everyday life."
Rob Ford
Rob Ford, supervisor of Residence Services and Student Engagement at Augustana Campus, connects with students.
Full name: Rob Ford
Position title: Supervisor, Residence Services and Student Engagement, Augustana
Number of years at the U of A: 38 (6 as a student, 32 as an employee)
What makes for a great work environment? “Being able to be authentic in the workplace makes it great. When I was a student, and in the early years as an employee, the environment for 2SLGBTQ+ employees was not very good. In 2015, I was very emotional when the pride flag was hung in the Faith and Life Lounge on campus. Personally, it was a profound symbol of acceptance. Being able to be authentic reduced the amount of distraction and energy needed to navigate people’s attitudes and feel safe.”
Lacee Wuttunee
Lacee Wuttunee, onîkânîw (leader) of Student Services at First Peoples' House, welcomes First Nations, Metis and Inuit students to a stew and bannock lunch.
Full name: Lacee Wuttunee
Position title: onîkânîw (leader), First Peoples' House
Number of years at the U of A: 1.5
What makes for a great work environment? “It's important for me that a work environment addresses more than just professional needs. Addressing the emotional, physical, mental and cultural aspects of our wellbeing empowers us to reach our full potential.”
Elizabeth Onyango
Elizabeth Onyango, assistant professor of Healthy and Sustainable Communities, harvests African vegetables at the Green and Gold Community Garden alongside Killa Maragang (left), cultural broker with the Multicultural Health Brokers and Destiny Otoadese (right), public health graduate student.
Full name: Elizabeth Onyango
Position title: Assistant professor, Healthy and Sustainable Communities
Number of years at the U of A: 2
What makes for a great work environment? “Collaboration with a supportive, respectful, humble and gracious team allows everyone to learn and grow, and it fosters equitable opportunities and inclusivity.”
Sofyan Alhamid
Sofyan Alhamid (middle left), lecturer at Campus Saint-Jean Académique, chats with students Joshua Blais (left), Sama Bitar (middle right) and Eden Bentz (right).
Full name: Sofyan Alhamid
Position title: Teaching professor
Number of years at the U of A: 13
What makes for a great work environment? “A great work environment prioritizes respect, equity, diversity, inclusion and awareness.”
