Senate Election Biographies

Bryce Bulgis

My name is Bryce Kyle Bulgis, and I was born and raised in rural Saskatchewan. Coming from the prairies, I was quite involved in my community all throughout grade school and really got to understand the importance of supporting one another and how close people can be in a small-town environment. This support network helped me find success in my studies.

After graduating high school, I went to the University of Saskatchewan and excelled in my studies, completing a B.Ed. and a B.A. (Hons) in English. Since then, my teaching career has taken me to many places, but my travels have not caused me to forget where my post-secondary journey began, which is why I would be honoured to be a representative for the university senate so I can try to advocate for university students and help ensure that they get the best education that they deserve while furthering the university's aspirations of being the "university the world needs."

 

Zahra (Yasi) Doroudi

I am honored to stand as a candidate for the University Senate Member-at-Large position, driven by a shared commitment to our university's vision of contributing to a sustainable future.

As a proud graduate of the Master of Public Administration program, class of 2023, and a strategic planner in government, I've honed the skills necessary to navigate complex challenges and chart a course toward a brighter future. With a background in engineering, I am no stranger to the importance of innovation and forward-thinking solutions. I am dedicated to leveraging this knowledge to propel our university forward, ensuring that every student can thrive and contribute to our shared vision of a sustainable future.

As an international student, I have flourished in the inclusive environment at USask. I have built my career along my desired path with the practical skillset and the diverse experience I acquired during my student years. Now, it's time to give back to the community that has provided me with opportunities. I am aware that continuous effort is needed for sustained excellence.

Let us dare to dream and strive for excellence in all that we do.

I humbly ask for your support as we embark on this journey together.

 

Ziad Ghaith

Dr. Ziad Ghaith is a senior economist in the public sector, an educator, a scholar, and an active community member. Holding a PhD and an MBA, he has published several peer-reviewed articles and professional reports in areas related to economics, public policy, and international trade.

During his studies at the University of Saskatchewan, Dr. Ghaith was actively involved in the university community. He served as President of the University of Saskatchewan Graduate Students’ Association (USask GSA) for two consecutive terms and held positions as a student member of the University Senate and as a member of the Senate Executive Committee.

In 2018, Dr. Ghaith received a Leadership Excellence Award from the Usask GSA and was appointed as an Honorary Lifetime Member in recognition of his outstanding dedication and commitment to the association.

 

Robert Henderson

Robert Henderson is currently serving as a member-at-large of the University of Saskatchewan Senate, sitting on the Education Committee as well as the Membership Committee. Previously he also served on the Honorary Degrees Committee of Senate. He has a long history of service to higher education boards and committees. At the University of Saskatchewan, he has served on the Governance Committee of University Council and several College of Medicine committees. In 2016, he obtained a PhD in physics at the University of Waterloo and served on that institution’s Senate, Board of Governors, and dozens of committees. He previously earned an MBA from the Edwards School of Business and more recently an MD degree from the U of S College of Medicine. At the moment, Robert is taking his postgraduate medical training in Family Medicine in Saskatoon. Having a strong passion for communicating science to the public, he has also been very active with scientific outreach: Robert has worked at McMaster’s McCallion Planetarium, and later ran Waterloo’s Gustav Bakos Observatory for six years. Before coming to Saskatchewan, Robert was a Lecturer in physics and mathematics at the University of Waterloo. Robert is deeply committed to the University of Saskatchewan and in maintaining service to our community by representing members of convocation to our fine institution of higher education and ensuring there is strong and active dialogue between the community and university.

 

Audrey Hestand

Audrey Hestand, BComm, PS Gov, is a proud Saskatchewan Métis citizen; her family names are Blondeau, Klyne, Hamelin, and Desjarlais. Navigating her life and career with the intricate intersectionality of being Indigenous, Autistic and disabled, Audrey brings a nuanced perspective to the challenges many students face.

Audrey is a University of Saskatchewan alum, having obtained her Bachelor of Commerce from the Edwards School of Business in 2010, and completing the Public Sector Governance Program at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School in 2023.

As the Director of Training and Employment at the Gabriel Dumont Institute, Audrey has refined the Métis-specific "Relentless Support" model, prioritizing self-determination, cultural revitalization, and community cohesion.  She is a subject matter expert on the challenges Métis students face in post-secondary education.

Seeking a seat on the University of Saskatchewan Senate, Audrey is committed to ensuring diverse intersectionalities are considered in decision-making. With extensive experience in strategic planning, policy development, community engagement, and a passion for sustainable development, she aims to enhance the educational environment for all students. Audrey's dedication to good governance and educational excellence positions her as an invaluable candidate for the Senate, ready to contribute to the university's legacy of inclusivity and community engagement.

 

Ling Ma

Ling Ma is an experienced lawyer at Benesh Bitz & Company in Saskatoon, specializing in various legal areas including corporate and commercial issues, real estate and business transactions, civil litigation, and employment law. A 2015 graduate of the University of Saskatchewan with a Juris Doctor degree, Ling started her legal career as an articling student at MLT Aikins, following her call to the Saskatchewan Bar.

An advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion in the Canadian higher education system, Ling actively promotes collaborations among various sectors and groups to enhance EDI educational experiences. Ling aims to provide practical and goal-oriented advice and believes strongly in supporting organizations and activities that foster a robust, diverse, and inclusive higher education landscape.

Ling's dedication to community service is evident in her numerous contributions. Her roles have included serving on the Board of Revision for the City of Saskatoon (2017-2018), acting as Vice President of the School Community Council at Evan Hardy Collegiate (2017-2018), and holding a board director position at Jubilee Residences from June 2023 for a two-year term.

Married with three children, Ling is grateful for her family. Ling is enthusiastic about the prospect of serving the University of Saskatchewan through its Senate.

 

Zsuzsanna Papp

As an advocate for the University of Saskatchewan, I actively support academia, evidence-based decision-making and innovation throughout Saskatchewan. My diverse educational background, experience and initiative in science, leadership and service roles form a solid foundation for my candidacy as a Senate member.  Currently completing a three-year term on Senate, and as an appointed member on the University Council, I am involved in the governance processes of our institution.

With over 30 years as a Saskatoon resident and a PhD alumna of USask, I bring extensive knowledge of the university, the province, and the Canadian academic landscape. As a senior advisor at Mitacs, a prominent national not-for-profit organization, I connect and support researchers, industry partners, and community organizations, fostering partnerships and advancing students' careers across disciplines. Prior experience includes contributing to ecosystem conservation at Environment Canada and to research in life sciences fields: eco-toxicology, wildlife diseases, and viral vaccine development. Alongside my professional pursuits, and being a mother of three grown children, I engage in outdoor activities, gardening and sports, and have served in various roles at not-for-profit organizations and schools. 

My comprehensive background and dedication equip me to contribute effectively to the Senate's mission of shaping our university's future.

 

Samuel Rezazadeh

Samuel Rezazadeh graduated with a law degree from USASK in 2023. Prior to law school, he studied two master's degrees at USASK at the departments of English and Linguistics. He has an extensive experience by working at the University of Saskatchewan as a lecturer, research assistant, and cultural activities officer at various departments of the university. Samuel is passionate about representing the University of Saskatchewan in national and international settings. He also has experience in institutional governance through his membership as a member of the board of directors at the Saskatoon Open Door Society. In his spare time, Samuel likes to hangout with his family and friends and enjoy Saskatoon's diverse culinary cuisines.

 

Palash Sanyal

Palash Sanyal has been an exemplary leader and dedicated servant at the University of Saskatchewan and beyond since 2017. He received the "One to Watch" Alumni Achievement Award in 2022 for his profound commitment to water security and compassionate leadership. Palash strongly believes in the values of perseverance, collaboration, and community, which he applies to all of his work. His contributions range from environmental sustainability to education and aim to promote innovative and inclusive cultures. Palash also serves as a Board Director for organizations such as Sandbox Mutual Insurance, Royal College International, Jubilee Residences, and Trans Canada Trail, demonstrating his commitment to broader societal well-being. He holds multiple master's degrees, including a Master of Water Security from the School of Environment and Sustainability at the University of Saskatchewan. In his free time, Palash enjoys reading at local coffee shops, having breakfast with friends, officiating weddings as a marriage commissioner.

  

Sheila Serup

As a member-at-large, I wish to offer my diverse perspectives and experiences as a student and teacher, communicator and advocate for Canadians with disabilities.

With a Certificate in Teaching ESL (USask), I am focusing on enabling English language learners to reach their goals. My BA (UVic) and MBA in Public Relations and Communications Management (RRU) enhanced my communications and executive leadership roles in the non-profit sector. As a volunteer, I advocate for accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities and serve on many boards including the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association. 

Saskatchewan is experiencing steady growth and diversity as newcomers from around the world reside here. New citizens bring skills, specialized work experience, and qualifications to build innovation and greater knowledge. For some, literacy is a barrier in transferring their skills to Saskatchewan's economic and knowledge network.

The Senate is the University's window on the province, and the province's window on the University. It supports the university's outreach and engagement while upholding high academic requirements. There is huge potential for the University to broaden its diversity and to be inclusive of students who bring self-determination and a desire to further cultivate their international knowledge for the growth of Saskatchewan.

 

Lia Rianna Storey Gamble

I am Lia Storey-Gamble. I'm a recent Alumna of the College of Arts and Science receiving a Bachelor of Arts with High Honours in Regional and Urban Planning in 2023. I recently served as Vice President of Operations and Finance at the USSU where I sat on University of Saskatchewan committees such as Planning and Priorities Committee and Fee Review Committee. There, I gained insight and respect for the university governance structure and by the end of my term I knew I wanted to give back to the University and their emerging endeavors. I see the senate as an effective way to not only give back to by using my governance and non-profit experience but to also as a way to continue my education as a lifelong learner.  Over my fourteen years of active community service, I have had the pleasure to serve on boards of non-profits, work and volunteer for political and non-profit organizations and use my skills in a variety of ways to be what the world needs. I am ready and eager to do the work that is needed of an active senate member and be a representative voice for young, queer, disabled women like myself. 

 

Lorne Roger Vanin

Lorne is currently the Director of Finance for the Vaccine Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) at the U of S.  Prior to joining VIDO in 2011, Lorne worked for several years as the Chief Operating Officer in the Saskatoon office of a large Saskatchewan based law firm. Previously he was employed for over ten years at a large manufacturing business as their V.P. of Finance and Administration. During his work experience he was closely involved with the financial and strategic planning activities of these organizations as a member of the senior management team.

Lorne received a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the U of S in 1992 and is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CMA).

 

Andrea Wishart

I am a recent graduate of the University of Saskatchewan (PhD Biology 2023). I earned my BSc (Honors Biology, 2010) and MSc (Biology, 2013) from the University of Western Ontario in London, ON where I grew up. During my time at USask, I served on the Biology Graduate Students Association (Academic Representative 2018-19, President 2019-20), was a graduate student member of the College of Arts and Science faculty council, served on an internal decanal search committee, and taught third year evolution three times, first through the Teacher Scholar Doctoral Fellowship program (2019-20), and then twice more as a sessional lecturer (2021, 2022). I served a two-year term as Student Councilor on the Canadian Society for Ecology & Evolution's executive council. In 2022, after appearing as witness before the House of Commons Standing Committee for Science and Research, I co-founded the national grassroots organization Support Our Science, advocating for increased federal funding to support graduate and postdoctoral research in Canada, and now serve on its Board of Directors. I currently work as a journal development specialist at Canadian Science Publishing, an independent not-for-profit scholarly publisher, remotely from the Saskatoon home I share with my partner and two cats.

Plinio Danny Friere

Danny Freire is a proud USask alumnus who brings a wealth of experience in higher education leadership, international recruitment, registration processes, marketing strategies, and strategic enrollment management.

With a Master’s degree in Post-Secondary Education Leadership and several years of work experience in the postsecondary sector, Danny is an accomplished leader who is committed to continuous learning, innovation, success, and academic excellence.

Driven by professional and life experiences within various international settings, Danny has acquired working knowledge on global initiatives and strategically positioned USask in sustainable international markets during his previous role as Manager of Student Recruitment.

What makes Danny an exceptional leader lies in his ability to exercise a visionary mindset to plan for the future while continuously rejuvenating and modernizing administrative processes to support key stakeholders and the community. His role as a mentor and coach of diverse teams underscores his dedication to fostering talent and driving organizational success.

We enthusiastically nominate Danny Freire to the USask Senate, as we are confident in his ability to make meaningful contributions to support the institution’s governance and growth plans. With his leadership, vision, and dedication, Danny will assertively advocate for the interests of the USask community.

 

Logan Huard

My name is Logan Huard and I use he/him/his pronouns. I graduated from the University of Saskatchewan in 2019 with a Masters in Political Studies, a year after completing my BA Hon. in Political Studies with a certificate in Global Studies. I am particularly passionate about accessibility, gender justice, and internationalization. My time as a USask student was full of student governance including being a founding member of the Political Studies Students' Association and my membership in the Arts and Science Student's Union (ASSU). My involvement in the ASSU demonstrates that I not only have the interest in governance at USask but also the experience on voting on Senate matters. Currently, I sit as the Co-chair of the board of directors for the Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation where I also chair the Membership and Awards Committee and sit on the Policy and Governance Committee. With these roles, I engage in member selection, strategic planning, performance reviews, risk assessments, and choose the winners of the Global Citizen Awards. I look forward to the opportunity to once again contribute to the USask community, this time as an alumni and senator.

 

Karen Mosier

Karen E. Mosier was born and raised in Saskatchewan. She is a proud Saskatchewanian. Karen has called campus her home since 1996 where she started out as a student. She has a BA in Psychology and a MSc in Pharmacy both conferred from the University of Saskatchewan. She has worked in different departments and colleges over the last 18 years, including the Department of Psychiatry, the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, and currently in the Department of Surgery. As a Research Coordinator, Karen primarily helps faculty to find funding opportunities and guides them through the grant writing process.

Karen is an active member in the Administrative and Supervisory Personnel Association (ASPA). Currently, she serves on the ASPA Executive and chairs the ASPA Education Committee and co-chairs the ASPA Social Committee. Karen is also very involved with the Canadian Association of Research Administrators (CARA). She is on the CARA Executive and co-chairs the CARA Professional Development Committee. In addition, Karen is involved with the USask Speakers Bureau and has given several talks on “Soft Skills & Professional Tips for the Office” to local organizations like the Saskatchewan Intercultural Society and the Saskatchewan Newcomers Society.

 

Roland Nordick

I hold B.A. B.ED. degrees from the U of S.  During my 37-year career I taught in Alberta, Lloydminster and Saskatoon.  While teaching in Saskatoon, I participated in the development of the Alternate Education Curriculum as well as the development of English Language Arts Courses for On-line teaching for the SPSD.

Professionally I have served as President of the Lloydminster Teachers’ Association.  As an Executive member of the Saskatoon Teachers’ Association, I received the SASKATOON TEACHERS’  ASSOCIATION SERVICE RECOGNITION AWARD for exemplary service to the teachers of Saskatoon.  Upon retirement I joined the Executive of the Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon Chapter (2016-2022).

My community involvement included the position of President of READ SASKATOON, receiving CANADA’   S LITERACY VOLUNTEER AWARD, in recognition of outstanding community service and achievement in the field of literacy.  I also served as the President of SASKATOON NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH, member of Parish Council, as well as 20 years as a member of the JLCA Board of Directors. Currently I am Past-president, PROBUS Club of Saskatoon, as well as Director for PROBUS Canada Districts: Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Northern Ontario.

My professional affiliation(s), as well as years of service on various Community Boards has provided experience pertinent to this nomination.

 

Jim Pulfer

Professional Profile:

A meticulous researcher, a dedicated teacher and lecturer, a persuasive public speaker and writer. Lectured in Computational Physical Chemistry. MA(Theoretical Chemistry) University of Saskatchewan, 1968; Ph.D.(Applied Mathematics/Physical Chemistry), McGill, 1975. Published over 30 scientific papers.

Relevant experience:

Elected Dean (declined), Faculty of Science, University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). Dean of Students UPNG, Associate Dean of Students, Faculty of Science, at UPNG and the National University of Lesotho. Member of Senate, National University of Lesotho. Member, the AFRICA committee, charged to identify savings & generating revenue, National University of Lesotho. One of three commissioners nominated to restart UPNG, 1993. Appointed to represent the Faculty of Science on the Board of the Faculty of Medicine, UPNG. Member of Senate, University of Saskatchewan 2012-2018 and member of the Task Force charged with revising Senate bylaws, UofS, 2012/13 and again in 2014. Chair of the 2014 task force. Member, Senate Executive, 2016/17 and reappointed, 2017/18. Member of Council representing the Senate, UofS, 2014-2017. Judge, 3 Minute Thesis Competition (3MT), sponsored by the Graduate Student’s Association, 2017 & 18.