Meet the Team

Susan’s role is to oversee PLAR programming. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University, a Master of Education from Thompson Rivers University, and is currently completing her PhD with the University of Leicester. Her research focus is on career development, experiential learning, and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition.

Nicole's role is to support the maintenance and growth of PLAR and the department's day-to-day operations. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Certificate in Liberal Arts from Simon Fraser University. She has been with TRU-OL since 2010 and has experience in Program Advising and Accessibility Services. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys spending time with her family and friends, writing, travelling and enjoying the great outdoors.

With over 17 years immersed in the international landscape, Karie Russell has honed her expertise in event and project coordination, international mobility, and the development of partner relations programs. Her journey spans various roles, each contributing to a deep understanding of fostering global connections. Karie's approach revolves around collaboration and co-creation, a philosophy that propels student and faculty initiatives forward. Her dedication shines through in the successful oversight of the Study Abroad Mobility Program, recognized for its impact and innovation. Beyond her professional achievements, Karie is committed to advancing decolonization and the internationalization agenda. She enthusiastically believes in fostering inclusive spaces that honour Indigenous Peoples while raising awareness of global issues. Her pursuit of a Faculty of Arts Masters in Human Rights and Social Justice, coupled with a Project Management credential, signifies her unwavering dedication to continuous learning and growth. Karie Russell embodies a blend of extensive experience, a collaborative mindset, and a profound commitment to fostering global awareness and inclusivity .

Kristen's role is to support and guide students through the PLAR process. She holds a Library Information Technology Diploma from SAIT, and a Bachelor of General Studies degree and an Aboriginal Studies Certificate from Thompson Rivers University. Kristen is passionate about providing an inclusive and equitable experience for all students. She is a third-generation Scandinavian settler and a member of the Takla Lake Nation of the Carrier people. Kristen was born and raised in Kamloops, within the unceded traditional lands of the Secwépemc Nation. She likes travelling, meditation and reading. She also enjoys spending time with her family and in nature.

Mikayla’s role is to support and guide students through the PLAR process. She attained a Bachelor of General Studies on the unceded territory of the Secwépemc at Thompson Rivers University in Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc where she is honoured to have the privilege to continue to learn each day. Her interest in PLAR began when she was approached as a student to assist with a study that researched the factors impacting students’ success and persistence with PLAR. She has since continued supporting research in the PLAR field, including with the BC Prior Learning Action Network. PLAR’s potential to provide more equitable access to post-secondary education reflects Mikayla’s hopes to provide caring, inclusive support to students seeking an alternative pathway in formal education.

Natasha’s role is to support and guide students through the PLAR process. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (UBC) and a Community Support Worker certificate (UCC). She has been with TRU since 2019, starting as a Program Advisor with the Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics. Born in Victoria on the lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Territory, she has been fortunate to grow up within the unceded traditional lands of the Secwépemc Nation. Natasha loves working with students, but in her spare time she likes being active, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time exploring with her family, friends and her silly English Bulldog.

Tiffany’s role is to support and guide Indigenous students through the PLAR process. More specifically she supports the students from the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc nation. She holds a Bachelor of Education – Physical Education Specialized degree from Thompson Rivers University and a Master of Education in Administration and Leadership from the University of British Columbia.

Tiffany is a member of the Lytton First Nation which is in the heart of the Nlaka’pamux territory. Growing up immersed in the traditions of the Nlaka’pamux people, Tiffany has dedicated her professional career to provide the highest possible standards of education that includes the incorporation of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing for all of her students.

She enjoys playing basketball, running, beading and keeping active with her family.

Samantha is a dedicated and dependable administrative professional, with over 20 years’ vast experience. A master of organization and efficiency, providing support to upper management and her Team. She thrives managing seamless schedules, allowing for the team to focus on growth and innovation. She was born in Surrey, on the unceded traditional territory of the Katzie, Semiahmoo, Kwantlen and other Coast Salish Peoples.

She has her Medical Office Assistant Diploma and a Medical Laboratory Assistant Diploma. Since 2021, she has been a part of TRU and is known for her exceptional interpersonal skills and her ability to foster a positive work environment. She approaches all aspects of a job with a hard-working approach and is passionate about finding solutions to any challenges. Always eager to expand her knowledge and give assistance, Samantha supports the decolonization and indigenizing of PLAR.

Outside of the office you will often find her in the garden, cooking and enjoying Mother Nature with her friends and family.

Nic was born, raised, and educated in Thailand. He completed his Ph.D. in Education (Adult Education and Human Resource Development) at the University of Regina, SK. Nic started his career at Thompson Rivers University - Williams Lake campus and held a unique multi-faceted position as Open Learning Centre Facilitator, Sessional Faculty, Career and Education Advisor, Mental Health First Aid Instructor, Learning Strategist-Early Alert, and Learning Commons and Student Support Coordinator. Recently, he has focused his efforts toward his passion as the Indigenous PLAR Developer.

I'm Sam, a project manager with a background in the non-profit sector. I'll be joining the TRU PLAR department as the Project Manager for an exciting initiative to assess 50 microcredentials for university credit. My experience includes years of both project management and leadership positions, and I have my CAPM designation and am on track to obtain my PMP certification in 2025. I have additional education in leadership and Agile project management methodologies. Outside of work, you’ll often find me at the gym, engrossed in a good book, exploring new travel destinations, or tackling home renovation projects. I’m excited to collaborate with this talented group.

Brianna Bertoli Special Projects, Administrative Assistant Brianna holds a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Sociology from Thompson Rivers University. She has been working at TRU since 2021 and has experience in Program Advising and administration roles. Brianna loves taking on new projects and being a part of student success. In her spare time, she likes spending time outside riding her horses and enjoying time with her family, friends and dog.

Sarah’s role is to support and guide students through the PLAR process. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics and Medical Sciences from Western University, and a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Business Administration from Thompson Rivers University. During her time at TRU, Sarah worked for the Career and Experiential Learning Department as a co-op student and teaching assistant for COOP 1000.

She also completed a co-op work term with PLAR, where she assisted the team with various projects, including updating educational resources, restructuring Moodle sites, and creating visuals on Canva.

Sarah is excited to be part of the dedicated PLAR team and help students achieve their educational and career goals. Originally from Waterloo, Ontario, Sarah enjoys snowboarding, skiing, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.