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Alumni Connect

Apr 8

A solar eclipse is not just a marvel—it's a window into the universe's deepest secrets.

And one will be visible in North America on Monday, April 8! Here's a primer from Dr. Martin Connors, Professor of Astronomy at #AthabascaU. LINK IN BIO for full article. #Eclipse #SolarEclipse #Eclipse2024 #SolarEclipse2024 #Astronomy #BlackHole

Apr 5

On #WorldHealthWorkerWeek we thank all the health-care workers far and wide for your tireless dedication to patient care.

Tag a health worker who needs to be shouted from the rooftops for all they do!

Apr 4

"Online learning at Athabasca University was a game-changer for me that redefines the meaning of flexibility in education."

Completing the Master of Nursing – Nurse Practitioner at Athabasca University (AU) offered Leisha Vandermey unmatched flexibility and balance. She was able to continue with a demanding schedule of a health-care professional without compromising their family life, work, or personal commitments. Check out the LINK IN BIO to read her entire story.

Apr 4

We're excited to announce that #AthabascaU is piloting Nearpeer, a new platform for #AthabascaU students to connect online. It will be rolled out to undergraduate students in phases, so look for your email invitation soon! LINK IN BIO for more information! #OnlineLearning #OnlineEducation #OnlineEd #DistanceEducation #DistanceEd #OnlineUniversity #University #Learning #Education #OnlineEducation #OnlineLearning #OpenEducation #OpenEd #OpenLearning #Goals #GoalSetting #Recharge #Studying

Mar 31

With unprecedented attacks on the rights of trans and gender non-conforming folks all around the world it's now more important than ever to support this marginalized community.

An #AthabascaU counsellor shares 6 ways to do that. #TransDayofVisibility #TransgenderDayOfVisibility #TransgenderAwareness

Mar 21

“Before learning about Athabasca University, I had given up on my academic career.”

Struggling with learning disabilities, traditional education led to setbacks for Deanna Malanchen. AU's flexible online platform reignited her passion, allowing her to balance work and her studies. And support from Accessibility Services—a team committed to accommodating students with disabilities to ensure they have equitable access to AU's learning environment—was invaluable in helping her overcome obstacles and gain confidence.

Now halfway through her political science degree, Malanchen has leveraged her education to assist small businesses in Alberta with digital transformations. For her, #AthabascaU is not just about obtaining a credential, it's about empowerment and community support.

Here's to the journey ahead for Deanna! LINK IN BIO

Mar 14

Congratulations to Dr. Terra Manca who has been appointed #AthabascaU’s newest Canada Research Chair in Regulation, Social Governance, and Inequities in Health.

Her research will focus on vaccination in pregnancy to improve vaccine uptake and explore ways to reduce health inequity for all Canadians.

“There are gaps in the evidence and communication about vaccination while pregnant or breastfeeding,” said Dr. Terra Manca.

Mar 8

March 8 is International Women’s Day, and we are proud to celebrate the inspiring women who contribute to #AthabascaU’s mission, or who have turned to Athabasca University to advance their education, careers, and impact on society.

Today, we are dedicating all our social media channels to feature the stories and work of inspiring women in our community. By celebrating women today—and every day—we hope to empower girls and women of all ages to pursue their dreams in learning, research, service, and beyond. Check out our link in our bio to read more.

Dr. Angela Workman-Stark has dedicated her career to creating healthier, inclusive workplaces as a researcher and associate professor of organization behaviour.

Dr. Josie Auger of Bigstone Cree Nation has seen the lingering impact of sexual violation and loss on Indigenous women in her community and beyond. She explores these issues as a researcher and associate professor at AU.

Master of Counselling student Karli Jahn’s research into weight stigma helps shed light on society’s biases against larger bodies. Her interest in the topic is influenced by her own experiences with an eating disorder.

Claudette McGown (MBA ’11) has worn several hats over her career in cybersecurity. Her cybersecurity startup, Protexxa, puts her at the forefront of an explosion of cybercrime targeting organizations.

Brieann Baldock has spent the last six years supporting students through her role as Accessibility Services advisor. She also inspires as a member of Canada’s Paralympic goalball team.

Natasha Donahue (Bachelor of Science ’21) wanted to be an astrophysicist as a young girl but encountered challenges as a Métis woman, single mother, and a high-school dropout with a learning disability. Today, she is an educator in Edmonton.

Dr. Gina Martin works with teens to better understand how climate change affects their mental health. She notes that young people will experience the impact of climate risks more than any other generation.

By age 16, Celia Koehler (Master of Business Administration ’23) was addicted to crystal meth and living on the streets of Edmonton. Today, she is a mom of two and a successful HR professional.

Mar 7

Do you have trouble adjusting to time changes? It's almost time to "spring forward" on March 10.

#AthabascaU researcher and dean of the Faculty of Health Disciplines Dr. Steven Johnson offers advice for making the adjustment easier on your body.

🌞⏰ Don’t let daylight saving time catch you off guard! Here are some tips to help you adjust smoothly to the upcoming time change:

🛌 Adjust your bedtime and when you wake up: Gradually shift your sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up 15 minutes earlier each day leading up to the time change. This can help your body adapt more easily.

🚫 Prioritize sleep quality: Remember, it's not just about quantity—the quality of your sleep matters too. Create a calming sleep environment and practice relaxation techniques to improve sleep quality.

⏰ Reset your rhythm: Expose yourself to natural light when you wake up to help reset your internal clock. This can help you feel more refreshed and alert.

📉 Be mindful of how sleep affects health: Disruptions in sleep patterns can have various health implications, including an increased risk of cardiovascular incidents and decreased productivity.

Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in helping you adjust to daylight saving time smoothly. Prioritize your sleep and well-being for a happier, healthier transition! LINK IN BIO for full article.

Mar 5

“He should have survived, but he didn’t have somewhere to go.”

After a man died of cold exposure near the Athabasca River in winter 2020, Athabasca resident and #AthabascaU employee Krystal Zahara knew she needed to do something. She soon founded the not-for-profit Athabasca Cares Community Housing Society, and recruited a board of like-minded folks concerned about housing insecurity in the region.

2 years later, the group secured funding from the Rural Development Network and opened the doors to the town's only shelter. Before the shelter, unhoused people would sleep in bank lobbies, makeshift shelters by the river, business entryways, and in bushes under tarps.

After 2 years of operation, the shelter has seen demand more than double. So far this winter, they have supported about 25 individuals—including about 9 who stay there every night.

Operating on harm-reduction principles that aim to reduce risks associated with drug use, the shelter offers more than just a warm meal and a warm place to stay.

Athabasca Cares Community Housing Society is a testament to the power of compassion and community. The shelter represents more than just a place to stay—it symbolizes a community's heart and determination to care for its most vulnerable members. LINK IN BIO for the full article.

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