Jennifer holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s of Social Work from McMaster University and a Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh. She has over twenty-five years of experience in practice, policy, and research in the fields of Child Welfare, Social Justice and Disability. She currently works as a Diversity & Inclusion Specialist with the Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN) and is also a part-time Sessional Instructor with the School of Social Work at McMaster University.
Jennifer is the current Chair of the Board of Directors for the Canadian Down Syndrome Society, and she is the Parent Advisor on the Advisory Committee for CanChild at McMaster University. Her work is guided by social justice and a strong desire to positively impact the lives of people who have disabilities.
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we acknowledge that we live, work, and gather on the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, including the Blackfoot Confederacy—comprising the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani Nations—as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina Nations.
This land, known as Moh’kinsstis in the Blackfoot language and encompassing what is now Districts 5 and 6, is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland.
We recognize and honour the deep connection these Nations have to the land, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share in its stewardship.
As we continue our work, we commit to learning from Indigenous knowledge systems, uplifting Indigenous voices, and fostering relationships rooted in equity, understanding, and reconciliation.
