Special Guests
David Shepherd
MLA for Edmonton City-Centre, Alberta NDP
David Shepherd is an ever-present and dynamic advocate for the communities he represents in downtown Edmonton. David has been a fierce champion for the technology and innovation sector, affordable housing, mental health and public healthcare. During his time as an MLA, David worked extensively on anti-racism policy, including the Anti-Racism Act, which provides a framework for gathering race-based data.
Outside of his role as the MLA for Edmonton-City Centre, David is an avid cyclist and a life-long resident of Edmonton. Before entering politics, David worked in communications and as a musician and studio engineer.
Dr. Lisa Ross-Rodriguez
Assistant Deputy Minister of Newcomer and Multicultural Supports at the Government of Alberta
Dr. Lisa Ross-Rodriguez is a distinguished executive with over 20 years of experience in both academia and public service. Currently serving as the Assistant Deputy Minister of Newcomer and Multicultural Supports at the Government of Alberta, she oversees programs aimed at facilitating the integration of newcomers. Her work includes managing English language programs and creating employment opportunities for internationally trained professionals.
Dr. Ross-Rodriguez has spearheaded several significant initiatives, such as providing emergency support for Ukrainian evacuees and forming key advisory groups, including the Alberta Black Advisory Council. Her leadership also extends to fostering diversity and inclusion within the Public Service Commission, where she is responsible for workforce development and the implementation of inclusive learning programs for 25,000 employees.
She holds a Ph.D. in Medical Sciences from the University of Alberta, where she has also contributed as a sessional instructor and research associate. Her academic background complements her practical experience and has earned her recognition for her contributions to policy development and safety legislation. Dedicated to mentoring the next generation of leaders, Dr. Ross-Rodriguez actively supports initiatives that promote wellness, diversity, and leadership. Her extensive experience highlights her commitment to leveraging social capital to build inclusive and supportive communities.
Mayor, Amarjeet Sohi
Mayor of Edmonton
Mayor Amarjeet Sohi came to Canada when he was just 18 years old and had little to his name. But he was lucky. He wasn’t in just any city. He was in Edmonton. He learned to speak English in schools and public libraries and found friendship and community by playing sports and performing in the arts. He got to discover the city through the windows of city buses—until one day he got a job driving one.
Eventually his bus stopped at City Hall when he was elected as city councillor where he served for two terms. He worked hard for a city that invested in him through public services. His passion for Edmonton took him all the way to Ottawa where he served as the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and the Minister of Natural Resources, overseeing billions in investments in our economic future. From bus driver to city councillor to member of parliament and now Mayor of Edmonton, his experiences have shown him what it takes to bring people together—and build a thriving city for all.
Tsi’nass’hkoomaapii = Gros. Ventre Boy, Traditional Spirit Name
European Name: Lance Scout
Miyo-Pimatisiwin Indigenous Student Centre Cultural Advisor
Tsi’nass’hkoomaapii is a member of the White Weasel Tribe located in Treaty Seven lands. Lance has provided cultural awareness, teachings and understanding for over Thirty Years and has branched out into Treaty six lands with passion and vision. Through sharing the Indigenous ways of being and mentoring in humility, we can begin to release the cycle of adversity and enter the circle of healing. “Culture is Prevention.” Cultural Awareness, Teachings and Understanding are founded on cultural principles and values that motivate and provide pathways of inspirations to become culturally creative in practice.
The miyo-pimatisiwin Indigenous Student Centre values: Culture, Community, Health & Wellbeing, Healthy Relationships & Self-Awareness and Healing.
Dr. Norma Schneider
Academic Vice President, NorQuest College
Norma Schneider is the Vice President of Academic and has been with NorQuest College for 20 years. Norma is passionate about learning and believes the power of learning transforms lives. In her time at NorQuest, she has been successful in significantly increasing student satisfaction and employee engagement, growing the number and breadth of programs available for learners, quality improvement, and promoting staff and faculty development.
Norma is involved in additional leadership and volunteer roles in the community including organizations and initiatives dedicated to ending poverty such as Homeless Connect or those that promote both formal and informal learning such as the City of Learners. Norma graduated from University of Alberta with a Master of Education in Adult Education and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Athabasca University.
Dr. Jennifer Mah
Dean for the Faculty of Health Studies, Norquest College
Jennifer Mah is the Dean for the Faculty of Health Studies at NorQuest College and has over 25 years of experience in leadership and education. She focuses on creating an environment that cultivates excellence and innovation by valuing people and enabling them to make a difference in health and the community. In 2023 Jennifer received the “100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World Award”. This award is given to Filipina women who are changing the face of leadership in their local communities.
Jennifer is an idea person and a driving force for innovation. She works well with ambiguity, enjoys challenges, and is a positive person with a collaborative, respectful leadership style. Jennifer is a Registered Nurse with a master’s degree in nursing, a certificate in leadership, advanced training in intensive care, and has been accepted into doctoral studies. Jennifer uses the pronouns she/her and is passionate about equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism.