Academic Advising for Undergraduate Students

I graduated from the University of Toronto with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree double major in Linguistics and East Asian Studies. Working in the education field for 14 years and taking on various positions have provided me with valuable opportunities to engage extensively with students, parents, educators and administrators. I started my career as an academic advisor, where I helped students of ESL background to have a smooth transition to a new learning and living environment, and guided them through their academic journeys.

I was also a program manager. I have administered international projects of many kinds such as international educator’s training programs, summer study-abroad programs for undergraduate students and an international school principals' forum. I worked collaboratively with educational partners ranging from government sectors and education associations to higher education institutions.

I find my value in the position of an academic advisor. It is rewarding to make a difference in students' lives both academically and personally. I am proud to be a new member of an excellent team at Dalhousie University, where I will continue my passion for engaging with students. Together we will develop the best pathway to success!

Fun facts: I love travelling to various places/countries to embrace the culture and language. I love cooking, listening to music,and playing sports with my daughter.

How I identify: Cisgender female, immigrant, daughter, mother, wife, friend.

Pronouns: She/her/hers

As an immigrant and having had the experience of using academic advising and career services when I landed in Canada in 2011 from Brazil, I feel privileged to have the opportunity to do the same for others. I am a compassionate person who likes to work in a team environment and have a true passion for helping others succeed.

I have over five years of work experience in the education field in Canada, and have worked in a private ESL training institution where I assisted students from several countries.

I can understand the possible challenges that usually appear in this transitional phase of our lives, leaving our vulnerabilities and insecurities in plain view. My goal is to strengthen connections by exploring the best academic options available, aligning with personal and professional goals. I believe my background in education and communication contributes to this process.

I love hearing about students' life stories, motivations and choices. I believe there are countless paths that can be taken in this construction.

Hobbies and fun facts: Food lover, especially sweets, cooking, reading, watching medical TV series, the first from my family that moved to another country.

How I identify: woman, immigrant, daughter, sister, mother, spouse, friend.

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Michele.Pimenta@dal.ca

I graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, focusing on English Cultural Studies, Sociology, and Psychology. I joined Dalhousie in 2012 as an Undergraduate Academic Advisor with the Faculty of Management. In 2020, I was honoured to receive the Faculty of Management Impact Award for Inspiration. I have a true passion for facilitating student success in higher education, and I am a proud believer in developing future leaders who manage with integrity and make things happen!

Fun fact: I have lived in four different countries (Canada, Spain, England, USA).

How I identify: Cisgender female, white, Canadian of European descent, able-bodied, partner, mother, daughter, friend, mentor.

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Julie.Tarry@dal.ca

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (90 credit hour) with a concentration in Sociology and Social Anthropology from Dalhousie and then went to Saint Mary’s University and earned my Certificate in Human Resources. I began working at Dal through a temporary agency, but soon found a permanent role in the Faculty of Graduate Studies. From there, I worked at the Registrar’s Office and now as an Academic Advisor in the Undergraduate Advising Office. I really enjoy building relationships with students, watching them develop and helping them find their way! Helping students align their interests with their program or career path is something I find very rewarding.

Fun fact: I studied at Dal, I work at Dal, and I had my wedding reception at Dal.

How I identify: Cisgender female, daughter, mother, wife.

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Colleen.vandoninck@dal.ca

I’m a proud Dalhousie alum, having earned my Bachelor of Arts in History in 2011. Since then, I’ve continued to expand my academic and professional horizons by taking courses in Indigenous Governance at the University of Victoria and Social Work at Dalhousie.

In a previous role at Dal, I worked with the Aboriginal Health Sciences Initiative, where I led outreach and communications efforts. My career has since taken me through meaningful work in community engagement with local non-profit organizations, as well as experience within government.

I’m thrilled to return to Dalhousie in this new role within the Faculty of Management, where I have the opportunity to support students and contribute to a vibrant academic community.

I’m deeply passionate about community engagement and arts-based facilitation. Over the years, I’ve led workshops, delivered public presentations, and helped organize conferences and events—all rooted in a commitment to inclusive, creative, and community-driven approaches. My volunteer work has been a cornerstone of this journey, allowing me to connect with diverse communities and foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

Hobbies and fun facts: I like reading, snowboarding, skating, beading (occasionally) and other craft-based hobbies.

Pronouns: she/her

Isabella.Marble@Dal.Ca

Javiere is a dedicated Jamaican Canadian professional committed to fostering equity and inclusivity, particularly for Black and African Nova Scotian students and communities. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, complemented by a graduate certificate in Human Resources Management. In his current role as the Program Pathways Navigator in the Faculty of Management, he leverages his expertise to guide and support Black students in their academic and career journeys.

Before joining Dalhousie, Javiere worked as the African Canadian Community & Cultural Liaison Coordinator in the Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion Office at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC). In this capacity, he worked tirelessly to bridge gaps between the institution and the African Nova Scotian communities it serves, ensuring that their voices were heard and valued.

His commitment to community engagement is further evidenced by his work with the Valley African Nova Scotian Development Association (VANSDA), where he focused on empowering local African Nova Scotian communities through various initiatives. Additionally, Javiere has volunteered with the CBC Nova Scotia community advisory board, contributing his insights to enhance the representation of Black narratives in the media.

Through his professional journey and civic involvement, Javiere has made a meaningful impact by championing inclusivity and amplifying first-voice perspectives, especially for those who are equity-deserving. His dedication to fostering trusted relationships with local communities uniquely positions him as a credible advocate for equity and inclusion in Nova Scotia.

Fun Facts: I am a huge soccer fan, and Arsenal FC is my favourite team. Also, in my spare time, I love to visit historic sites with my family.

How I identify: Cisgender male, black, able-bodied, father.

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Javiere.Gordon@dal.ca

I am a proud alumna of Dalhousie’s Bachelor of Commerce Co-op (major in International Business) and Master of Public Administration (Management) programs. I joined the Faculty in 2008 after spending some time working overseas at a university based in a castle in England before returning to become a recruiter for Dalhousie’s undergraduate programs.

I am passionate about incorporating a global experience into every student’s education. Global experiences are not only about going overseas but also learning from your peers, professors and staff members in the university community. My goal is to show you that global experiences are within your reach and the amazing opportunities that arise when you step outside your comfort zone!

Fun facts: I love food and being adventurous! In another life, I would have been a tour guide for students around Halifax and Nova Scotia. Feel free to contact me about ideas on where to go for fun and food!

How I identify: Cisgender female, mother, daughter.

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Katie.Haigh@dal.ca

I began my career as a temp in electrical engineering. I was hired by the Faculty of Management in 2004. One thing I love most about my job is seeing students succeed and watching them walk across the stage at convocation!

Fun fact(s): I love working in the yard, knitting, and laughing with my husband!

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Margie.Muise@dal.ca

I joined Dalhousie in 2006 and began working as the Program Manager for the Commerce (Co-op) program in 2010. I really enjoy helping students get the most out of their education and  watching them progress through their educational careers as well as begin their professional careers.

Fun facts: I enjoy adventure, whether that is back-country camping, or traveling the world, and anything in between including off-road racing my '82 CJ7 Jeep many years ago!  I am able to combine this love with my volunteer work with Girl Guides of Canada where I have taken two groups of young women on life-changing trips to Fance/Switzerland and to Thailand/India.  Being able to make a difference in someone else's life just by helping them believe in themselves and experience different cultures is very rewarding!

How I identify: Cisgender female, mother, sister, daughter.

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Carrie.Hunter@dal.ca