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
Alejandra Bravo, Master of Arts 2021
Toronto City Councillor, Ward 9- Davenport
Alejandra Bravo was elected City Councillor in 2022. She has a 25-year history of leadership with civil society organizations. Driven by a commitment to equity, Alejandra's work has focused on helping communities understand and influence the government decisions that impact them. She was Director of Leadership and Training at the Broadbent Institute, where she built training capacity across Canada and led the institute's convening and work on democratic renewal. She was simultaneously the Director of Power Lab, a leadership learning initiative co-created with the Atkinson Foundation that was focused on local organizing for a more fair economy. Prior to that, Alejandra was the Manager of Leadership and Learning at Maytree, where for a decade, she designed and delivered innovative political and civic training for emerging and diverse leaders.
For more than twenty-five years, I have supported community and worker organizing efforts, including in the development of leadership. The Adult Education and Community Development program had always been my goal, both to deepen my own practice and to be part of a learning community committed to enabling economic and social transformations.
Through the years, I completed my MA part-time, I grew into an adult educator and a more effective community leader. Today I am chair of the Economic and Community Development Committee of Toronto City Council and am accompanied by what AECD has allowed me to learn about making material change with and for people. In my own unfinished process of learning in collective action, being part of an academic community profoundly connected to practice sustains me as I face the challenges of my work.
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’s first coordinator and project manager. Here, with the help of many others, I produced the national “Send my Friend to School” and then the “Every Child Needs a Teacher” 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 – 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."
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.
Master of Education (MEd) Alumni
Wenke Wang, Master of Education 2022
Academic advisor, IELTS teacher at SeedFuture International Education.
Wenke is an accomplished alumna of the Adult Education and Community Development program and is currently pursuing her PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy. Her research is centered on key areas such as international education, equity in education, and the development of post-secondary systems. As an international student herself, Wenke has gained rich, multicultural learning experiences that have broadened her perspectives. Additionally, her teaching experience has honed her skills as a compassionate leader and innovative researcher, qualities she intends to bring to future academic and professional endeavors. She is committed to making a lasting impact on the educational landscape, striving for inclusivity and access to quality education for all.
Wenke is currently a PhD student in the Educational Leadership and Policy program at OISE
Nadine Atwi Ammache, Master of Education 2020
Published writer, Poet, Adult educator, Instructor at the University of Toronto’s 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’s 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.
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’s ‘Family as Faculty’ training program, Payal co-taught the ‘Social Work and Disability Practice’ 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.
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’s 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.
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’s 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." .
Judy Grant, Master of Education 2016
PhD Student, Department of Leadership, Higher & Adult Education, 91ֱ
One of best parts of Judy’s 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.
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’s current role, she works with organizations to design and deliver leadership development programs. She’s also been researching the challenges that women in the GCC face with respect to entering and succeeding in leadership positions.
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."
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’s intersections; leading Humber College’s 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."
Robert Roopa, Master of Education 2013
Lead Therapist, Counselling Services for York Region
Robert has a Master’s 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.
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’s 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.
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’s 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.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Alumni
Kelly Kay, Doctor of Philosophy 2023
Executive Director, Provincial Geriatrics Leadership Ontario
Dr. Kelly Kay brings more than 30 years of varied health system experience to her full-time work developing system infrastructure for clinical services focused on older adults in Ontario. She holds a Master of Arts in Leadership (Health Specialization) from Royal Roads University and a PhD from the University of Toronto (OISE: LHAE, Adult Education and Community Development).
Dr. Kay has participated in the development of quality health standards at provincial and national levels. She is an adjunct professor at Ontario Tech University and a Research and Teaching affiliate with the Institute for Life Course and Aging at the University of Toronto. Her research interests include health system co-design with older adults and interprofessional team-based care models. Her work fosters collaboration with older adults and health professionals to create new possibilities for integrated, person-centred care for older adults living with complex health needs and their caregivers in Ontario.
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Genevieve Ritchie, Doctor of Philosophy 2021
Lecturer, Western Sydney University
After completing her PhD in Adult Education and Community Development, Genevieve joined Western Sydney University to design the Bachelor of Youth Work. The first accredited Youth Work degree in Sydney, the program centres on critical approaches to working with young people. Genevieve works with nongovernment organizations in the Western Sydney area to build close connections between youth work curricula and the sector.
Genevieve’s research utilises a variety of feminist and participatory methods to critically interrogate conditions of displacement, dispossession, racialization, youth resistance, public pedagogy, and democratic transformations. She works with community groups, artists, and youth-led initiatives to develop community engaged research, teaching, and education.
Derya Tarhan, Doctor of Philosophy 2020
Assistant Professor, University of Guelph
Derya Tarhan’s research and teaching focuses on the theory, practice, and intersections of social and solidarity economy (SSE), community and capacity development, and just and participatory socio-environmental change. In his community-engaged research, Derya investigates the impact, limitations, and potential of SSE organizations, including but not limited to co-operatives, in enacting socio-environmental change, with a keen eye on popular democratic participation and social justice. Weaved through his research program are public policy design and implementation processes, social movements and community-based activism, and adult education and learning. Dr. Tarhan has also been involved in renewable energy co-operative development in Ontario and serves as a board member of the Canadian Association for Studies in Co-operation.
Michelle Coombs, Doctor of Philosophy 2018
Executive Director, The Jean Tweed Centre
Michelle is a nonprofit sector leader with over 20 years’ 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.
Simon Adam, Doctor of Philosophy 2017
Assistant Professor, York University, Faculty of Health
Simon is an assistant professor at York University’s 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’s 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.
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’s 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.
Bethany J Osborne, Master of Art 2009; Doctor of Philosophy 2014
Program Coordinator and Professor, Honours Bachelor of Social and Community Development, Sheridan College
“What our communities need is leaders who are trained to listen, to be accomplices and to work collaboratively towards structural change. I am thankful for the learning and opportunities that I received through the Department of Adult Education and Community Development at OISE. I rely on that learning and on the community that I built through the program, as I support emerging leaders on their learning journeys”.
Bethany is an educator and community organizer with over 30 years experience working in the nonprofit and voluntary sector. She has an arts-based practice that she integrates into both her community and academic work. Bethany has worked with diverse communities for the past three decades, with a focus on finding ways to amplify voices from systemic excluded populations. Bethany has an interest in how interpersonal and structural violence impact our communities, and how communities impacted by violence can support each other in the process of healing, and in restoring a strong sense of agency.
For the past decade, Bethany has been a faculty member in the School of Community Studies at Sheridan College. She was hired to collaboratively develop a degree completion program called the (launched in 2022) for students graduating from human service diplomas, providing students with an opportunity to complete their honours bachelor degree in two years. Graduates from this program go on to impact communities supporting and mobilizing change across the sector, some taking a path through OISE’s program in Adult Education and Community Development.
Shama Dossa, Doctor of Philosophy 2011
Director 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.
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.
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.
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.
