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Dr. Neil Fassina became ������Ƶ's President in April 2021, drawn to the institution for its reputation for transforming lives and communities.

Fassina holds a PhD in Management from the Rotman School of Business at the University of Toronto, a BSc in Psychology from the University of Calgary and is a chartered professional in human resources (CPHR), and a chartered director through the Institute of Chartered Directors (ICD.D). As an active researcher, he has authored or co-authored a number of refereed articles, a Canadian Human Resource Management text, and pursues research interests in negotiations, applied decision making, and the role of education in shaping societies.

Prior to joining ������Ƶ, Fassina was the President of Athabasca University (2016-21). He served previously as Provost and Vice President Academic at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) and the Dean of the JR Shaw School of Business and School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts. He has taught as part of his academic career at the University of Toronto, the University of Calgary, the University of Manitoba, and in executive environments.

Cindy Battersby was an ������Ƶ employee for 30 years prior to her retirement in 2021, most recently as a Financial Awards Analyst with Student Services.

During her career, Cindy served as Vice President, Administration for the BC Association of Student Awards Professionals. She also held various roles with the British Columbia General Employees Union (BCGEU) including  Vice President, Component 7 (Education, Science, Tech and Admin), as well as the role of Treasurer from 2011 to 2019. Cindy studied Business Administration and attended studies at both ������Ƶ and Mount Royal College. She lives in Peachland with her husband.

Dustyn Baulkham is the founder and CEO of Rebellious Unicorns Production Company. Previously he was the General Manager of the Kelowna Pride Society and the Executive Director of the Arts Council of the Central Okanagan. Mr. Baulkham is active in his community currently serving as a Director on the Central Okanagan Foundation and previously as the President and Treasurer of the Kelowna Pride Society. He holds a Bachelor of Management from UBC Okanagan.

Gurjit Chand is a human resources professional with over 15 years of HR experience across public and private sectors, and is currently the Director of Human Resources and Professional Strategy at the Association of Interior Realtors. 

Gurjit believes in lifelong learning and is enrolled in the Masters of Industrial Relations program at Queens University, in addition to holding a degree in Business Administration from the British Columbia Institute of Technology, and Human Resources Management certificate from Simon Fraser University. Gurjit holds a designation from Chartered Professionals in Human Resources British Columbia and Yukon.

JoAnn Fowler is a Mentor for new Social Workers for the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD). Previously Ms. Fowler was a Delegated Social Worker with MCFD. During her career at MCFD, she worked in Child Protection, with Adults with Disabilities, Children with Special Needs, in Youth Services and in Guardianship. Ms. Fowler also was Seconded as a Resource Social Worker and Director of Child Welfare Department for the Splatsin Band.   Active in her community, she is President of the Shuswap Children’s Association, Treasurer for the Enderby and District Community Resource Centre, and a Member of the Ashton Creek Riverside Community. Previously Ms. Fowler was Chairperson and Shop Steward for the BC Government Employees’ Union Local 605. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Victoria. 

Kevin Fukushima (he/him) has worked at ������Ƶ since 2014 in several support and administration positions before his current role as Manager, Risk and Safety Services.  Kevin is a passionate life-long learner who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Thompson Rivers University, a Certificate of Risk Management from the University of Toronto, and an Occupational Health and Safety Certificate from ������Ƶ.  Kevin also holds professional designations in risk management (CRM) and business continuity planning (ABCP).

Kevin’s experience working in both support and administration positions has allowed him to develop relationships throughout the organization and gives him a unique perspective and understanding of the activities, operations, and culture of ������Ƶ.  Kevin is an advocate of continuous improvement and positive change sitting on ������Ƶ’s Accessibility and Wellness Committees.

Kevin strongly believes in the mission, vision, and values of ������Ƶ and finds great meaning and reward in supporting the transformation of lives and communities through education.  Kevin is excited to bring his enthusiasm and expertise in risk management and health and safety to the Board of Governors to support the effective governance of ������Ƶ.