Today@Dal

Three questions, each answered in 150 words or less. One-Minute Meeting is a quick and easy way to get to know more about your colleagues, new and old. Learn how you can nominate someone at the bottom of this post.

Today's meeting is with Vanessa Jackson, Executive Assistant, Dean’s Office, Faculty of Medicine.

What’s your favourite thing about working at Dal?

My favourite part about working at Dal is being a part of the change. I have been given the opportunity to work on a project that will bridge a gap for African Nova Scotian and Indigenous students. Having five children of my own this gives me a sense of pride to know that I had a hand in helping to possibly broaden their career paths and hopefully they will graduate from one of these programs and be future Dal Alumni.

Which has been more valuable in your career, your education or your experience, and why?

My experience, I have been very blessed with different administrative positions from entry-level to high-level in great organizations where I have gained an abundance of experience. Through these positions I have gained knowledge in leadership, project management and since working at Dalhousie, I’ve gained more confidence in my ability to work independently. At the same time, through supporting an executive team, I’ve also learned how important it is to be a well-rounded team player.
 
Is there a quote that motivates you?

“It always seems impossible until it’s done” – Nelson Mandela

This quote motivates me because I feel that we tend to look ahead, sell ourselves short or over think things. Instead of taking things one day or task at a time. When I feel overwhelmed or start doubting myself, I read this quote and it helps me put things back in perceptive. One day at time, one task at a time I will get things done.

Now, nominate someone you'd like to see on One-Minute Meeting.

Is there someone at Dal you'd like to know more about? Email today@dal.ca to suggest them for a One-Minute Meeting. Please provide contact information for the person you are nominating and let us know if you are comfortable with them knowing you nominated them (in case they ask). We'll then send the nominee an email seeing if they'd like to participate.

Previously on One-Minute Meeting:
 

Tracy Kittilsen, Manager of Extended Learning at the Faculty of Agriculture

Jennifer Devitt, Training Coordinator in the Office of the University Veterinarian

Kim Stewart, a Registration Officer on the Student Services Team with the Faculty of Open Learning & Career Development

Alexandra Fenton, Executive Director of SuperNOVA

James Martin, Program Manager, University Preparation in the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development

San Patten, Instructor in the College of Sustainability