Adult Education & Community Development Alumni
Our graduates are leaders in various types of postsecondary institutions. They pursue administrative, research, teaching and policy careers in colleges and universities, work in student services and student development; and in the professional sector, such as: health engineering, law, law enforcement and more.
Master of Arts (MA) Alumni
Megan Haggerty, Master of Arts 2007
Consultant, World Bank
"Many new doors were opened for me through my MA in the Adult Education Program and Comparative, International, and Developmental Education Collaborative Program.
At OISE, I got involved with the Canadian Global Campaign for Education (CGCE), which was just being founded by Professor Karen Mundy. I became the CGCE鈥檚 first coordinator and project manager. Here, with the help of many others, I produced the national 鈥淪end my Friend to School鈥 and then the 鈥淓very Child Needs a Teacher鈥 curriculum. These works aimed to teach Canadian children about the international crisis in educational access, quality and equity, and give them the tools to join other children around the world in advocating for "Education for All."
I wove this activist/advocacy stream into my thesis, which explored a national education network's impact on education policy in Tanzania. I had the pleasure of working with Karen Mundy and Daniel Schugurensky 鈥 both world-class academics and leaders in their fields.
Since graduating, I have been consulting, advocating for and writing to improve international support (particularly Canadian support) for quality education in Southern countries. The connections I made at OISE and since have given me the opportunity to work with the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), the Consultative Group on Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), and UNICEF-Canada."
![Megan Haggerty, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/megan-haggerty.jpeg.webp?itok=1iYi9VuD)
Winnie Ng, Master of Arts 1995
Unifor Sam Gindin Chair in Social Justice and Democracy, Toronto Metropolitan University
For over three decades, Winnie has championed the rights of workers through her involvement with various labour organizations and networks. Her research interest in anti-racism, equality, and capacity-building draws upon her extensive experience in social justice. She's recognized for her leadership in the Canadian labour movement, and recipient of numerous distinctions including the Urban Alliance on Race Relations Leadership Award, the United Farm Workers' Cesar Chavez Black Eagle Award, and the YWCA Women of Distinction.
![Winnie Ng, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/winnie-ng.jpeg.webp?itok=s0OQhA4T)
Master of Education (MEd) Alumni
Nadine Atwi Ammache, Master of Education 2020
Published writer, Poet, Adult educator, Instructor at the University of Toronto鈥檚 School of Continuing Studies
As a teacher, Nathasha's experience studying at OISE allowed her to build a network of peers and learn from a world renowned faculty.
At an early age, and as a daughter of immigrant parents, Nathasha found it challenging to relate to teachers. Her drive to become a better teacher arose from this disconnection. She aspires to become a role model to her own students.
Nathasha鈥檚 interest focuses on inclusive education as an avenue to promote equity and inclusivity to all students. Through inclusive education, Nathasha feels that communities and cultures are valued which enhances learning experiences, increase confidence and overall well-being for a long-term growth. In the future, Nathasha hopes to become a high school principal and teach at a post-secondary institution.
For the past nine years, Nathasha has taught Business Studies at the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board. In her current role, Nathasha has mentored new teachers and developed new teaching resources. She has also initiated and led student and community events that promote diversity within the school and at the school board level.
Recently, she worked at the Newcomer Assessment Centre at the Peel District School Board to help assess new immigrant students in Math and English before they could be placed in secondary schools.
![Nadine Atwi Ammache, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/nadine_atwi.jpeg.webp?itok=wMoqxsXT)
Adam Benn, Master of Education 2019
Manager, Human Rights, Equity & Diversity Centre for Human Rights, Equity & Diversity, Humber College
In his current role, Adam manages education and training, Humber鈥檚 compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and supports initiatives to integrate equity, diversity and inclusion throughout the College.
He has more than ten years of experience working with diverse populations, including racialized people, persons who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/transsexual, queer (LGBT2SQ), and persons with disabilities, in non-profit and community healthcare organizations. He has developed and delivered trainings and workshops on equity focused topics through an intersectional lens and his training approach is grounded in critical theory and anti-oppression practice.
![Adam Benn, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/adam-benn.jpeg.webp?itok=tokSufge)
Deirdre Gomes, Master of Education 2015
Development Officer, Stewardship & Donor Relations, University of Toronto
"I took to the Adult Education & Community Development program because it really prides itself on transformative learning. It鈥檚 a program where you can build in your own experiences in discussions and amongst your peers. It also offers a supportive environment where you can express your thoughts and opinions, and learn from your peers who come from varying backgrounds.Through the program, I was able to learn much more than I had ever before." .
![Deirdre Gomes, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/deirdre-gomes.jpeg.webp?itok=DOCZUGc6)
Judy Grant, Master of Education 2016
PhD Student, Department of Leadership, Higher & Adult Education, 麻豆传媒集团
One of best parts of Judy鈥檚 experience in the Department of Leadership Higher & Adult Education was the support she received from staff, faculty and classmates. During her Master's Judy connected with academics, practitioners and colleagues who helped challenge her perspectives and develop her academic acumen. These relationships have been instrumental in her academic and professional life.
Judy is now a PhD student in the department. Her goal is to work with women at the grassroots level to promote consciousness and build capacity. She believes that being part of OISE's rich and supporting environment will enable her to succeed her academic and activist pursuits.
![Judy Grant, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/judy-grant.jpeg.webp?itok=fQuGzPuF)
Lisa Gulesserian, Master of Education 2013
Consultant, Abu Dhabi University Knowledge Group
For the past 12 years, Lisa has been working in corporate learning and development for organizations such as KPMG, Ernst & Young, Rotman Executive Programs (U of T) and most recently at Abu Dhabi University Knowledge Group in the United Arab Emirates. She has also been a part-time faculty member at George Brown College.
In Lisa鈥檚 current role, she works with organizations to design and deliver leadership development programs. She鈥檚 also been researching the challenges that women in the GCC face with respect to entering and succeeding in leadership positions.
![Lisa Gulesserian, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/lisa-gulesserian.jpeg.webp?itok=eEiFerPV)
Payal Khazanchi, Master of Education 2020
Director, Inclusion Initiatives, Community Living Ontario
Payal is currently serving as Director of Inclusion Initiatives at the Community Living Ontario. She was a family leader at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and has held key leadership roles on the Family Advisory Committee, including the pandemic recovery planning and the Health Equity Steering Committee.
Through the hospital鈥檚 鈥楩amily as Faculty鈥 training program, Payal co-taught the 鈥楽ocial Work and Disability Practice鈥 Masters level course at the Factor Inwentash School of Social Work, University of Toronto. In year 2019, Payal was the recipient of Margaret I. Hambly Memorial scholarship at OISE and is also the recipient of the for the year 2020.
![Payal Khazanchi, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/payal_khazanchi.jpeg.webp?itok=BexoGgvC)
Tracey King, Master of Education
Aboriginal Human Resources Consultant, Toronto Metropolitan University
"As a first-generation student, I learned that my Aboriginal perspective and worldview is very much needed in academia. My OISE MEd has enabled me to understand, navigate and apply my knowledge in the work I do as Canada's first Aboriginal human resources consultant in the higher education industry."
![Tracey King, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/tracey-king.jpeg.webp?itok=eoxE5iXq)
Jason Merai, Master of Education 2014
Inspector, Ministry of Community Safety & Correctional Services, Government of Ontario
"I pursued my Masters in Adult Education & Community Development in order to develop pedagogical approaches to education as a vehicle for sustainable change. I had the opportunity to work with wonderful professors like Jack Quarter, Sherida Ryan, Sara Carpenter and David Levine. They were instrumental in determining the need to apply intersectional approaches to education, adapting to different learning styles, and constantly being aware of the need to be innovative in supporting marginalized and disempowered communities.
I firmly believe in community development as a measure for keeping institutional power accountable, as well as empowering individuals to accomplish transformative change.
Since graduating, I have participated in giving platform to numerous social justice issues, including: serving a Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) internship in South Africa supporting the development of Rural Co-Operatives in Mthatha; hosting a television show on Rogers TV to address bullying and it鈥檚 intersections; leading Humber College鈥檚 first Gender-based Violence Prevention project; and serving as Executive Director of the Urban Alliance on Race Relations, a human rights organization addressing racism in Toronto."
![Jason Merai, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/jason-merai.jpeg.webp?itok=4u739pQt)
Robert Roopa, Master of Education 2013
Lead Therapist, Counselling Services for York Region
Robert has a Master鈥檚 degree in Counselling Psychology and Adult Education, both attained at OISE. He was named Lead Therapist at and holds registration titles as a Psychologist in Ontario and New Brunswick. Mr. Roopa has also been named Resident Supervisor at the , which is a practice dedicated to helping individuals who experience difficulties with obsessive compulsive disorder and related anxiety disorders. He is passionate about counselling, helping others, community development, and building relationships.
![Robert Roopa, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/robert-roopa.jpg.webp?itok=plcuPohF)
Nathasha Swaminathan, Master of Education 2007
Teacher, Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board
As a teacher, Nathasha's experience studying at OISE allowed her to build a network of peers and learn from a world renowned faculty.
At an early age, and as a daughter of immigrant parents, Nathasha found it challenging to relate to teachers. Her drive to become a better teacher arose from this disconnection. She aspires to become a role model to her own students.
Nathasha鈥檚 interest focuses on inclusive education as an avenue to promote equity and inclusivity to all students. Through inclusive education, Nathasha feels that communities and cultures are valued which enhances learning experiences, increase confidence and overall well-being for a long-term growth. In the future, Nathasha hopes to become a high school principal and teach at a post-secondary institution.
For the past nine years, Nathasha has taught Business Studies at the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board. In her current role, Nathasha has mentored new teachers and developed new teaching resources. She has also initiated and led student and community events that promote diversity within the school and at the school board level.
Recently, she worked at the Newcomer Assessment Centre at the Peel District School Board to help assess new immigrant students in Math and English before they could be placed in secondary schools.
![Nathasha Swaminathan, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/nathasha-swaminathan.jpeg.webp?itok=mD1SFm-f)
Kathleen Wynne, Master of Education 1995
Former Premier of Ontario
Kathleen Wynne was the 25th Premier of Ontario and is a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, representing the riding of Don Valley West for the Liberal Party. She was elected to the Ontario legislature in 2003 and re-elected in 2007. She served as Minister of Education for more than three years, leading the government鈥檚 efforts to bring smaller classes to the early grades, improve test scores and create more opportunities for high school students to reach their full potential. Prior to becoming an MPP, she served as a school trustee in Toronto.
![Kathleen Wynne, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/kathleen-wynne.jpeg.webp?itok=Qu37C4Pj)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Alumni
Alex Abramovich, Doctor of Philosophy 2014
Independent Scientist, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
An internationally recognized leader in the area of LGBTQ2S youth homelessness, Dr. Alex Abramovich works closely with municipal and provincial governments to develop strategies that address the needs of LGBTQ2S youth experiencing homelessness.
At OISE, their doctoral research investigated homophobia and transphobia in Toronto鈥檚 shelter system, looking at the experiences that LGBTQ2S young people have in the shelter system and how broader policy issues serve to create oppressive contexts for LGBTQ2S youth. In 2019, Alex was selected as member of for Canada's Poverty Reduction Strategy.
![Alex Abramovich, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/alex-abramovich.jpeg.webp?itok=0-GE4m-x)
Simon Adam, Doctor of Philosophy 2017
Assistant Professor, York University, Faculty of Health
Simon is an assistant professor at York University鈥檚 Faculty of Health, in the School of Nursing. His program of scholarship centres around the mental health industry, its various institutional and discursive dimensions, the consumer/survivor experience, and alternative and counter-hegemonic ways of conceptualizing human suffering, pain, and crisis.
Simon鈥檚 other interests include social movements, activism, and resistance, particularly in the context of the medicalization of mental health. He has worked as clinician in the emergency department and volunteered on street outreach and harm reduction initiatives in Toronto, Canada.
![Simon Adam, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/simon-adam.jpeg.webp?itok=D7i8t-JQ)
Michelle Coombs, Doctor of Philosophy 2018
Executive Director, The Jean Tweed Centre
Michelle is a nonprofit sector leader with over 20 years鈥 experience working with homeless men, women and families and people living with mental health issues and addictions. Her theoretical interests include how discourse constructs notions of gender, difference and leadership and how this relates to the practice of leadership in the charitable sector. In her sector work Michelle applies an adult education approach to her leadership and community work.
She is presently the Executive Director of The Jean Tweed Centre, an organization that supports women and their families in the pursuit of health and well-being, and the Chair of West Toronto Community Legal Services.
![Michelle Coombs, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/michelle-coombs.jpg.webp?itok=6gz4sONJ)
Shama Dossa, Doctor of Philosophy 2011
鈥嶥irector Evaluation Research and Learning Unit, Aga Khan Foundation
Shama is a researcher and community development practitioner with over fifteen years of experience working in the Asia Pacific region. Her interests include participatory research methodologies, qualitative research, arts-informed research, empowerment theory and youth leadership.
She recently completed her tenure as Director Evaluation, Research and Learning with Aga Khan Foundation in Afghanistan where she headed the AKDN Quality of Life Study for Afghanistan. Previously, Shama worked with the Asia Pacific Resource and Research Center for Women (ARROW) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Shama has also held academic posts at Ryerson University, Aga Khan University, and Quid-e-Azam University.
![Shama Dossa, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/shama-dossa.jpeg.webp?itok=BltjCuOx)
Chris Glover, Doctor of Philosophy 2018
Adjunct Professor, York University
MPP, Critic Colleges and Universities Standing Committee on General Government
Dr. Glover is an Adjunct Professor at York University, teaching courses on education and public policy, and has taught at the University of Toronto and East York Collegiate. He has worked internationally, developing and teaching health programs for children in India, Kenya, and Turkey. Working as a research consultant, his clients include Toronto Public Health, the United Way of Greater Toronto, Parent Action on Drugs, and Trustees of the Toronto District School Board. His projects have successfully promoted high school students, and have evaluated community health and education needs. Chris is currently an MPP, representing the electoral district of Spadina-Fort York.
![Chris Glover, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/chris-glover.jpeg.webp?itok=iTvfWPDD)
Sohelia Pashang, Doctor of Philosophy 2011
Professor and Academic Coordinator Social Service, Immigrant and Refugee Program, Seneca College
Dr. Pashang's research explores the lived conditions of non-status women and ways in which these women manage to navigate the system with limited access to human services, human rights, health, and legal support.
Prior to her studies at OISE, Sohelia worked as a social worker and therapist assisting immigrants and refugees, children and families dealing with psycho-socio-physical challenges, survivors of war and torture, victims of sexual and physical abuse, people dealing with mental health and addictions, and other marginalized groups.
![Sohelia Pashang, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/sohelia-pashang.jpeg.webp?itok=GHqJPW2b)
Jorge Sousa, Doctor of Philosophy 2005
Associate Professor, Department of Educational Policy Studies, University of Alberta
Dr. Sousa's research falls within the context of the intersection between community development and adult education, including community governance models, participatory decision-making, and housing policy and practice. Currently, Jorge is working with stakeholders interested in converting public housing into a tenant managed arrangement. The objective is to develop learning strategies to institute a process that can account for the needs of citizens and their housing community.
![Jorge Sousa, OISE Alumni.](/home/sites/default/files/styles/inline/public/2022-09/jorge-sousa.jpeg.webp?itok=XQpO7tfP)