Richard Dixon — Dean Of Business, Athabasca University

In 2021, I took part in the first delivery of Athabasca University’s ADMN 405 — an AI-powered course that was the first of its kind, leveraging artificial intelligence to create a cooperative learning experience. Upon completion, I was invited back to assist with grading and with the ongoing development of ADMN 405 — work I continue to support today.

In short, then-Professor Richard Dixon, through ADMN 405, stretched my mind and opened doors to what becomes possible when we are encouraged to think bigger and push further — forever changing the trajectory of my life.

Darryl Davies — Professor Of Criminology, Carleton University

The late Professor Darryl Davies, a Criminology professor at Carleton University and one of Canada’s foremost scholars on RCMP and policing issues, gave me the opportunity to work with him, learn from him, and observe his approach to teaching and research. I’m deeply grateful for that experience, and I draw on it today in how I engage with learners, colleagues, and thinkers.

"WE TEACH WHAT WE KNOW, BUT WE REPRODUCE WHAT WE ARE."

In my role supporting co-op learners, I work with learners across all lines of difference, helping them navigate everything from academic transitions to significant personal challenges — including physical injury, trauma, isolation, and moments of crisis. This has included supporting learners recovering from major accidents and others facing severe emotional distress.

Some LGBTQ+ learners have even shared that being explicitly affirmed — including hearing that they do not need to change who they are — was profoundly meaningful. For learners who have spent years concealing parts of their identity, creating an environment of safety, dignity, and belonging is life-changing.

My work focuses on mentorship, confidence-building, connection to community resources, and cultivating spaces where learners feel seen, valued, and capable of succeeding — inside and outside the classroom. I also design my own learning materials, including custom slide decks built from real experiences, research, and leadership frameworks. These resources combine storytelling, practical tools, and clear structure to help learners connect ideas with real-world action.

Richard Dixon — Dean Of Business, Athabasca University

Darryl Davies — Professor Of Criminology, Carleton University

"WE TEACH WHAT WE KNOW, BUT WE REPRODUCE WHAT WE ARE."

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