Meet the Team

Terra Bruhm: Student Success Advisor

As the first member of my family to attend university and as someone who had to rely on student loans, I found the transition from high school to university challenging. When I needed help, I was never sure who to turn to. I longed for a friend who could help me identify my academic and extracurricular interests; someone who could connect me to helpful resources and inspire me to grow into the best possible version of myself. I became a Student Success Advisor so I could offer students the kind of support I wish I had. I want students to understand that anyone, from any walk of life, can achieve success in university through self-reflection, hard work, and tenacity.

Three fun facts: I have visited 25 different countries (and counting)! Wonder Woman is my idol. I am writing a non-fiction book.

How I identify: Wife, sister, aunt and godmother of Indigenous, French-Canadian, Irish ancestry.

Clifton Strengths: Context, Intellection, Developer, Relator, Learner

Pronouns: She, her, hers

Jessica Chubb: Studying for Success Coordinator

I began my career in higher education in 2004 as a graduate writing assistant at Saint Mary’s University (SMU) while pursuing my master’s degree. After 5 years in that role, I went on to hold the position of manager of the SMU Writing Centre. In 2010, I became the coordinator of the Dalhousie Studying for Success (SFS) Program, where my main responsibilities include helping to develop students’ skills in becoming more effective learners. I think the best part of this role has been getting to interact with students, supporting them on their journey to success, and being able to witness positive changes in their academic life.

In addition to my primary work-related duties, my dedication to helping others learn can be seen in my pursuits. For 5 years, I volunteered on a weekly basis in the English Language Learning Program of the Halifax Public Library, where I tutored new immigrants to Canada. For 10 years, I taught students how to effectively write for academic purposes.

I hold an LL.B. (Hons.) degree from the University of London, a B.A. (High Hons.) in International Studies and Politics from the University of Saskatchewan, and an M.A. in International Development from Saint Mary’s University.

How I identify: Afro-Caribbean, cis female, daughter.

Clifton Strengths: Relator, Achiever, Harmony, Connectedness, Intellection

Pronouns: she, her

Makenna Cooke, Student Success Advisor

My first degree is a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Honours) and now I am working on my Bachelor of Social Work at Dalhousie. I’m from a small coastal community just outside of Halifax and have lived in Nova Scotia for most of my life. I completed the first half of my undergraduate degree at a small university in Quebec called Bishop’s University before I transferred to Dalhousie University. As a transfer student, and a student who studied away from home, I know how difficult it can be to get your bearings in a new place and get acquainted to all of the different resources that are available to you at university. I hope to help students like yourself navigate through the opportunities available to you and help with your academic and university related goals.

How I identify: Cis-Gender Female, Sister, Daughter, Able-bodied, White, Settler Canadian, Student

Pronouns: She, Her, Hers

Lindsay Currie: Student Success Advisor
Hometown: Hampton, New Brunswick

I originally studied Criminology in my liberal arts program at St. Thomas University because I wanted to be a criminal profiler. I later switched gears to focus more in Psychology and obtain a Masters in Counselling Psychology (MEd) from the University of New Brunswick, Fredericton. I have enjoyed almost 15 years experience in recruitment, admissions, and advising in post-secondary, mostly with Dalhousie. My goal for each advising session is for students to leave my office feeling better, more confident, or more organized than when they came in.

Fun facts about me: What’s most important in my life is people, not things. I love a good craft project and I need coffee and exercise to feel human. Being outdoors re-energizes me. I have been to China twice and at one time, played viola in the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra (music was a big part of my life growing up).

Tips for success: See your advisors regularly and reach out for help when you need it. Classes are a chance to learn from professors who are experts in their field – sit in the front row and ask questions. Find a good balance between school, work and fun. Put into university what you want to get out of it and you can't go wrong!

How I identify: mother of two, wife, sister, daughter, friend.
I recognize my privilege and am proud to be Canadian.

Clifton Strengths: Achiever, Strategic, Relator, Individualization, Responsibility

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Heather Dominey: Administrative Assistant

I provide support to our staff, students, and other university departments. You will find me waiting to help you as your first point of contact when visiting the Centre.

After working for the Cosmetology Association for 10 years, I started my career at Dalhousie in 2004 as a program assistant and finance clerk for the College of Continuing Education. I enjoy helping others, so came to Student Academic Success Services in 2010. Wanting to provide the best experience for students visiting the Centre, I have dedicated myself to providing a welcoming service to all of our students. I have learned from seeking out professional development opportunities, but the best knowledge I have gained comes from the students who have shared their experiences.

I grew up in Middle Sackville, just outside of the city, but now enjoy living in Halifax with my husband and son. During the summer, I enjoy the ocean while staying in Chester. 

I look forward to meeting and welcoming you to the Bissett Student Success Centre!

How I identify: White, cisgender, female, mother, wife, daugher, sister, aunt.

Pronouns: she, her, hers

Heather Doyle: Senior Advisor on Retention & Director Student Academic Success

My entire 20+ year-long career has been focused on helping students be successful at university. When I was a student I was heavily involved in student activities such as orientation and residence life. My university experience truly changed who I was as a person and my world view. After obtaining my master's degree in Counselling and working as a career counsellor, I returned to work in higher education throughout the East Coast and in Ontario. I have been at Dalhousie for the past 5 years, and feel grateful to work with such a positive, strong team who are all committed to supporting you! The focus of my work is grounded in an appreciative mindset, which means recognizing the strengths, talents, and abilities within my team and with students to help achieve the highest potential. 

How I identify: White, cis-gender female, able-body, daughter, friend, traveler, professional, feminist and ally.

Clifton Strengths: Strategic, Individualization, Empathy, Futuristic, Adaptability

Pronouns: she, her, hers

Tyler Hall: Student Success Advisor

As a student success advisor, I enjoy helping students identify their strengths and use them to increase their sense of thriving at Dalhousie. My 10 years of experience with the university in multiple areas allows me to connect students with a wide range of resources so you can get the most out of your university experience—whether it's research, studying abroad, volunteering, clubs and societies, or academic success.

As someone who changed degrees part-way through my education and career goals 2 times, I understand the ups and downs of the university experience and am here to help you navigate this exciting and challenging time. 

Hobbies: Dance, figure skating, board games, cheese making... To name a few!

How I identify: White, cis-gendered male, LGBTQ+, able-bodied

Clifton Strengths: Maximizer, Empathy, Communication, Developer, Positivity

Pronouns: he, him, his

Cheyenne Henry: Student Success Advisor

I was born and raised in Winnipeg. As an Anishnaabe (Ojibway) woman from the Prairies, I would also like to acknowledge the Mi’kma’ki territory I now reside in. I am honoured to be exposed to the rich culture and traditions of the Mik’maq. 

I received my Bachelor of Arts from the University of Manitoba in 2004. I spent many years working in community development in Winnipeg’s inner-city as well as academic advising and program coordinating with the University of Winnipeg. I have extensive experience working with urban Indigenous communities and inner-city communities in areas of housing, poverty, economic and community development, adult literacy, and learning and youth programming. I am also a visual artist who has contributed to many community arts projects and programming in Manitoba. 

I am excited to have joined Dalhousie’s Bissett Student Success Centre in the summer of 2017. I believe learning is a lifelong journey, and students come to university to not only gain knowledge and a degree but also to contribute ideas, to inspire and be inspired, connect to peers, and gain new experiences. These are all important and vital part of one’s educational path. I aspire to always provide an environment where students feel safe, heard, and encouraged to seek out and share pieces of their journey with me. I look forward to serving our diverse, progressive and ambitious students of Dal! 

Clifton Strengths: Developer, Arranger, Empathy, Connectedness and Responsibility

Craig Larsh: Student Success Advisor

I came to Dalhousie in 1998 from a farm between Tilbury and Chatham in southwestern Ontario. Ever fascinated with science, I started in the Integrated Science program, which helped me discover passions in physics and mathematics. I graduated with a double major in 2003 and began working in the Dalhousie Registrar’s Office. Over the past 15 years I have coordinated campus tours, gone on recruitment trips to meet prospective students in their home towns and administered scholarships. I was also the manager of the degree audit reporting system (DARS) for 11 years! But of all the roles I have held on campus, advising is my greatest passion. Helping students find the program(s) that resonate most with them and guiding them through the, sometimes complicated, university landscape is so rewarding. I want my students to enjoy the best possible overall student experience.

Three fun facts: I love to curl, take ballet classes & bicycle to work

How I identify: husband, son, brother, uncle, able-bodied, cis-gendered gay man, English-Canadian with French ancestry

Clifton Strengths: Harmony, Achiever, Consistency, Developer, Analytical

Pronouns: He, him, his

Amy McEvoy: Career Programming Coordinator

In my 15-year career in Student Affairs I have been fortunate to work in orientation, transition programs, communications, recruitment, learning and instructional development, and advising. Much of my experience has been working with new students and supporting their successful transition to university life. I received my Master's of Education, with a specialization in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Calgary, and have conducted research in student retention and student satisfaction.  

Like many students, I wasn't 100% sure what I wanted to study when I began my university studies. I explored both Arts and Sciences before I found my perfect academic fit. Now I have the privilege of helping students navigate their university journey and I'm excited to share my knowledge and expertise with them. I work primarily with first- and second-year Arts and Science students, as well as first-year Engineering students.

As an advisor, I am passionate about empowering students to meet their academic, career, and personal goals. I can work with you to help you explore your interests, connect you to resources and supports, and help you develop a plan for success!

How I identify: Mother, daughter, sister, spouse, sports fan, and the first in my family to attend university.

Clifton Strengths: Individualization, Learner, Includer, Developer, Input

Sarah Ready: Student Success Advisor

I found my way to Dalhousie from Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island and came in as a new student from high school. I found an interest in the science of the human body and graduated with a Kinesiology degree in 2009. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I worked and participated in extracurricular activities on campus. Through this, I found a passion for working to support students transitioning to university. I started professional roles in Student Affairs after graduation to continue to support students. 

With my background working in Student Affairs, I understand there are a variety of factors that affect student success. I want to work with you to create a plan for your time at Dalhousie that is reflective of your dreams and aspirations. With that in mind, I want to ensure that you are connected with the supports that work for you to achieve success towards your goals.

Fun Facts: In my free time, I enjoy playing and watching sports. I spent almost 12 years of my life living in residence buildings.

How I identify: she/her, cisgender female, daughter, sister, able-bodied

Clifton Strengths: Positivity, Developer, Empathy, Achiever, Arranger

Pat Shappert: Student Success Advisor

I want to know more about who you want to become, and not so much what you want to become. I’m passionate about helping you find a path to explore and achieve these life goals.

My experience as a school social worker, study skills coordinator, academic advisor, and accessibility advisor, have led me to my current position. Training in applied psychology, career development, and special education help me understand that your undergraduate education is not about checking off boxes to completion, but about promoting both personal and intellectual growth as a lifelong learner.

How I Identify: Elder, spouse, sister, hearing impaired, and Canadian with French ancestry.

Clifton Strengths: Learner, Context, Individualization, Relator, Strategic