What was your last career change?
For the past 15 years, I have held the role of Chief Administrative Officer at the University of Ottawa, where I’ve had the privilege of working across multiple services and within the Faculty of Law.
What made it successful?
I had the privilege of providing strategic guidance to individuals unfamiliar with the academic environment, as well as to faculty members who had never worked within administrative services. They operate very differently, so creativity and communication are key to success.
What was the biggest challenge in adapting to your new role?
Managing expectations is key—bringing unique knowledge doesn’t equate to knowing everything, and fostering collaboration helps bridge those gaps.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career change?
Learning has always been my cornerstone for growth, and I will never stop encouraging it. It drives achievement, joy, and personal gratification. Seek out mentors and inspiring people who will challenge you, ignite your curiosity, support your development, and nurture your passion
How can colleagues help someone transition into their new responsibilities?
Create a culture of inclusion, knowledge sharing, and mentorship—always ensuring communication remains open and accessible.
What do you look forward to in your day?
I make it a priority to embrace each moment, maintain positivity, and uplift others. My goal is to end every day with gratitude, thinking, “That was another great day!”
If you were a chocolate bar, which one would you be?
Cadbury Caramilk Salted Caramel
What ingredient should never be found on a pizza?
Pineapples
What three items would you bring if you were shipped to a deserted island?
A fully loaded big suitcase, a fully loaded big backpack, and a fully loaded large purse.
What are the most common cybersecurity threats staff should be aware of?
AI, Phishing, Malware, Weak passwords.
What’s the single most important thing someone can do to stay secure online?
Multi-factor authentication platform (MFA).
How often should staff update passwords or use multi-factor authentication (MFA)?
Passwords: constantly, MFA/all the time.
Do you have recommended training or reading about Cybersecurity?
I actively engage in Digital Self-Defense Training and Cybersecurity Awareness initiatives to stay informed and help foster a secure environment.
What are the most common mistakes people make during an attempted security incident?
They open an email from an unsecured source, share their passwords and/or personal information.
What is your preferred Cybersecurity tip?
Always stay aware and informed! Embrace lifelong learning and continuously question assumptions.
How can staff contribute to building a stronger cybersecurity culture?
Share tips and lessons from phishing simulations and encourage peers to adopt secure practices. Stay current through ongoing training, simulations, and microlearning. Communicate openly about suspicious emails or incidents and report promptly to prevent escalation. Treat security as part of every task—not just IT’s responsibility.
What are some of the latest cybersecurity threats that staff should know about?
These past few weeks, I was surprised to learn how fast smishing and vishing are evolving especially with AI.
How does AI or new technology affect our cybersecurity risks?
Recognize that cybersecurity and AI are ongoing pursuits, demanding resilience and lifelong learning.