Student Experiences and 2021 Open House

Dora Chan
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

I’ve worked for a number of different non-profit organizations in communications, event-planning and administration on a range of issues, from civil liberties and human rights, to open access and equity in education, and most recently sustainable food systems. I om interested in applying what I’ve learned in the non-profit sector to o career in the public service and was attracted to the combined emphasis on academic rigor and professional skills development that is o cornerstone of Carleton’s MPPA program. One thing that hos really stood out to me about the program so for is how supportive my professors and fellow students hove been. Even though we will be online for this year, my fellow students hove created a vibrant online community where peers support each other In navigating careers and job applications, research projects, and even our fitness goals.

Mackenzie Mumby
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

I chose SPPA because it is the oldest and one of the most respected schools of public policy in the country. I hove particularly enjoyed learning from my professors who are all well-known in the public policy community and have challenged my perspectives since day one. It is also an honour to learn alongside so many bright students located all over the globe who share the same passion of changing the world as I do.

Prior to joining SPPA, I was an undergraduate student at Carleton studying public affairs and policy management, while working in the government. The incredible experience I gained as a policy undergrad only made me want to continue my studies more at the master’s level.

Avee Purohit
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

Carleton has always been my first choice to study policy because it offered the right balance of academic and quantitative rigor, excellent faculty, course flexibility and institutional reputation along with a student body that is passionate about affecting change. I was also drawn to the SPPA due to its location in Ottawa at the heart of the Canadian federal government. Since this program is both interdisciplinary and extensive, I am certain that it will comprehensively prepare me to pursue my professional and personal goals of contributing to the process of domestic and global policymaking. And, while I came to the SPPA to learn public policy, what I have learned to value here the most are its people and the resources available at a world-renowned institution like Carleton.

Carleton SPPA has an unparalleled faculty and world-renowned experts who bring with them varied subject matter expertise. I have been inspired to see how we utilize so many different paradigms in our evaluation and analysis – ranging from intersectionality, feminism, GBA+ to positivist theories and structural functionalism. The program has pushed me to expand my perspective and to think creatively and critically about different policy issues I care about such as immigration, climate change, renewable energy, sustainable development, and local economies. I am excited at the prospect of playing a role in implementing policy that may one day address the most pressing social and economic issues in Canada and beyond. Moreover, being part of a diverse and celebrated community of policy leaders, and the lifelong connections made here at the SPPA is something I will cherish for years to come.

Travis Gordon
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

Prior to joining the SPPA, I enjoyed a five year career working in and around politics including time on Parliament Hill and serving several Health Ministers. This work helped solidify my overall career outlook in terms of a desire to serve Canadians. I finished this section of my career as a Senior Policy Advisor to the federal Health Minister specializing in nutrition, environmental, chemicals/pesticides, and medical device regulation which was particularly interesting during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

I had already been living in Ottawa for some time, and Carleton was the natural choice. The curriculum looked well-rounded, funding was generous, and the faculty appeared to have a great diversity of research interests. The Co-op Program was also particularly attractive, as I had my eyes set on trying out a new policy area or two.

I have enjoyed being in the middle of a big group of people who are just as nerdy as I am! I have also appreciated targeted course offerings on regulation, which is a personal interest area of mine. The faculty is a mix of traditional academic researchers as well as policy professionals active in their careers, offering an important diversity of perspectives. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue building my skills through the SPPA to enhance my impact as a public servant and to leverage the broad network of alumni as I start a new career.

Fahad Soomro
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, Current Student

I was a career banker and used to interact frequently with government and policymaking institutions, but it was during my time as a pro-bono consultant for National Rural Support Program (Pakistan) that I was able to see the effect of public policy on the most vulnerable and fringe communities. It was an eye-opening experience that enabled me to understand the impact of public policy in the real world. I was motivated since then to pursue a degree in public policy and found the Carleton University MA Sustainable Energy policy program to be immersive and unique as it offered a blend of engineering and public policy courses. The program is structured to widen the perspective and enable a holistic understanding of public policy challenges that are prevalent today. Within the first few months in the MA-SE program, I have been introduced to the public policy theoretical foundations and practical applications, which are the key drivers of policy formulation and analysis.

Joyce Wamambo
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

I did my undergraduate degree in Public Health and since graduating, I’ve spent the last few years working in the non-profit sector. My experience as a social worker was rewarding and challenging. My passion for empowering and advocating for the most vulnerable people in my community inspired me to further my studies in public policy. I was attracted to the SPPA program at Carleton University as I wanted to learn more about public policy development and the complexities of public administration. Additionally, I was impressed by the co-operative education program as I value the opportunity to gain practical work experience. I aspire to use the knowledge and skills I will gain from this program to build and strengthen resilient and inclusive communities. Although school is online this year, I have learnt a lot about public policy, and I am grateful for all the extra support that Carleton has provided me. I am looking forward to all the upcoming opportunities that will help me grow both professionally and personally.

Dong Ngo
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

Pursuing a career in government has been a goal of mine since I was young. I believe the best way to contribute back to and improve society is through effective public policy. I pursued my undergraduate in public sector management at Dalhousie University which provided me with a balanced perspective of how to manage both public and private sector organizations. Upon completing my degree, I wanted to learn more about the public service and develop practical skills that would enable me to craft policy and navigate through the internal workings of the public service.

I chose to pursue my masters through Carleton’s MPPA program for two reasons. First, I was impressed with the program’s course offerings and the diverse academic backgrounds of the faculty. Secondly, the flexibility of the program gives me the option to pursue independent research. All of these reasons satisfied what I wanted to achieve from a master’s in public policy— to acquire in depth knowledge of specific topics in public policy with the option of pursuing independent research in public sector reforms.

Despite these unprecedented times, my experience at Carleton has been great. One aspect of the program that has stood out to me is the strong sense of belonging and support that exists throughout the student body. Even though we are separated by provinces and come from different backgrounds, we have been able to come together and form the connections we ordinarily would have made in person. I’m excited to see what lies ahead for both my peers and our program.

Sancho Angulo
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

Growing up just outside of Toronto, few people around me wanted to pursue a career in government. I was initially drawn to Carleton for the Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management program. Over my first four years, I was surrounded by people equally passionate about serving Canadians, and gained meaningful experience working directly in government. After graduating, I began my career in public service, but I was persuaded to stay at Carleton for another two years for the MPPA, knowing that it would help me further refine my leadership and management skills for future opportunities. The MPPA offers unparalleled flexibility and support that enabled me to pursue further education, while balancing the responsibilities of a full-time job.

Sherlyn Assam’s
Master of Philantropy and Non-Profit Leadership, Current Student

Since high school, my career goals have centered around storytelling and helping people who are trafficked for sex. I began at Carleton in 2016 with an undergraduate degree in journalism and a minor in political science. In my fourth year, I learned about Carleton’s philanthropy and nonprofit leadership program. Based on my familiarity with Carleton, relationships with my professors, and an engaged and responsive administration, I knew Carleton’s MPPA would give me the same challenging and welcoming education I received in the past four years.

The Masters of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership presented me with an opportunity to work in a sector dedicated to serving people and improving communities. Previewing the fundraising, organizational development, public policy, and impact investing courses showed me I could research topics I wanted to pursue, while being equipped as a multidisciplinary nonprofit professional. As a previous communications volunteer at an abolitionist organization and a current communications employee at a media nonprofit, I looked forward to the theoretical and practical training the PANL program offered to understand every area of operation in nonprofits.

Three semesters into my degree, and I am content with my decision and hopeful for the future. Though my cohort is not together physically, we are still encouraging each other as we learn, eager to lend a helping hand. We come from a wide range of educational backgrounds and serve in several philanthropic areas. This, coupled with esteemed leaders and academics for guest lecturers, makes the learning process rich and exciting. The courses also operate through a feminist, intersectional, and postcolonial lens, equipping us to critique the nonprofit sector, which will ultimately lead to innovation and reform as we progress in our careers. I am excited to complete my degree and apply these experiences help me improve Canadian philanthropy

Kieran Maingot
Master of Philantropy and Non-Profit Leadership, Current Student

After completing an undergraduate degree in sociology, I knew wanted my life’s work to aid the realization of more just systems. I always envisioned working in the non-profit sector, having had considerable exposure to the exceptional work done by organizations in providing care to and advocating with those made vulnerable by our systems. This passion and insight made the MPNL program at Carleton, a one-of-a-kind in Canada, an obvious choice.

Further to this, I chose the program for several more reasons. First, it was enticing to get the opportunity to learn with and from a diverse cohort of students that included recent graduates and seasoned professionals with years of experience. Not to mention, the program is built with this in mind, enacting a “pracademic” approach to learning that provides a mix of practical and academic content adaptable to anyone’s experiences and interests. And no lesser, the program’s content is not shy to critique, actively encouraging discussion of contradictions and holding space for theoretical development where innovation thrives.

Although this year has not been without its challenges, I have been impressed with the ability of the program to pivot to an entirely online pedagogy with valuable supports in place. I am extremely honoured to be a member of the 8th MPNL cohort, and I am excited as the program continues to leave me inspired for an enduring career in the non-profit sector.

Alizeh Jaffrey
Master of Philantropy and Non-Profit Leadership, Current Student

My education and career journey has been a striking juxtaposition of the for-profit and nonprofit sectors. I did my undergraduate degree in business administration at the Schulich School of Business and then pursued a career in social sector development, which proved to be an incredibly fulfilling decision every day. For the past few years, I have been working in fundraising, and I chose Carleton University’s Master in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership program as the next step in a constant learning journey to introduce disruptive and ground-breaking ideas to the philanthropic sector. The MPNL program is structured to allow students to continue working full-time, and I have found the balance between work and studies to be both manageable and positive.

The unparalleled professional experience and expertise of faculty members, as well as the tight-knit cohort experience specifically drew me to the MPNL program. The program facilitates both academic and peer-to-peer learning, which creates an incredible overall experience. Two semesters in, I am thoroughly enjoying learning about aspects of the nonprofit sector that I don’t interact with in my daily work, as well as selecting courses that allow me to develop my area of professional specialization.

Although courses are online this year, Carleton University has adapted the MPNL program to allow for an uninterrupted learning process. As a cohort, we have built virtual friendships and continue to support each other as we learn together. I am excited to continue collaborating with this wonderful group of professors and classmates over the coming year.

Kelsey Johnson
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

As a journalist, I om insatiably curious ta learn more about the world around me. After seven years working as a political reporter, I wanted to better understand the way policy makers think and how public policy is crafted before it’s presented to Canadians. My hope is that an MPPA can grant me this insight, while making life-long friends along the way.
P.S. Now, about my secret wish for grad student life to be slightly slower paced than the 2020 news cycle … Well, that’s still a work in progress – albeit, a fun one I

Jules Morden
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

I recently finished my undergraduate degree in Political Science at the University of the Fraser Valley, a small university based in BC. During that time, I worked as a research assistant on two projects examining patient safety in Canadian healthcare and the intersections of race, gender, and indigeneity in care outcomes. This experience with hearing patient voices firsthand inspired me to continue my research and pursue further studies in public policy. I chose Carleton University because I knew Carleton would offer me a top-rate education and opportunities to learn more on the job through practical work experience. Since starting the program this Fall 2020, I have been hired by Dr. Frances Abele to work as a research assistant on the Rebuilding First Nations Governance Project. While just getting started, the work has already been very rewarding. This year has been a unique one to navigate, but I appreciate Carleton’s faculty who have been encouraging and empathetic regarding the changes we have all had to make moving online. That, and our cohort has found ways to support each other online as well. Looking ahead, I am excited about the many upcoming opportunities that will help me grow professionally.

Vincent Beaudry
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

I was a Paralegal in Quebec before joining the before going to University. I initially decided to pursue my Bachelor’s degree because I dared myself that I could do it. But very early on a friend of mine told me about the possibility of completing a Master’s degree after and to enter the civil service through the academia. While working for the Department of Immigration I applied to numerous schools, but Carleton was my favourite because the programme just had, in my opinion, the most interesting course load. With a heavier focus on economics, political economy, and a number of core courses that felt relevant to what I experienced while working in government. Now that I am here, I’m experiencing a participative and approach to learning. I know that I’ve made the right choice. I also like how everybody acts like one big family, I felt welcome from day one.

Dana Passmore
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

I ended up in the SPPA thanks to a series of contributing forces. I was studying criminology in my undergrad and became interested in the idea of policy analysis after cannabis was legalized in 2018. Knowing that an unprecedented legalization framework would be put into force on the national level got me interested in how legalization would work, so I got a job in a regulated cannabis shop a month after the AGCO cleared them to open in 2019. From there, I started attending cannabis policy conferences and absolutely fell in love with the idea of pursuing research on cannabis justice and the practical shortcomings of the Canadian legalization framework. I did my undergrad at Carleton and knew that it housed a school of public policy with a global reputation for excellence, and with the timing of legalization, it honestly felt like I was destined to go on to complete a MPPA research project at the same university that moulded my passion for critical research. And here we are, on track to do just that!

My time so far in the SPPA has not gone as I had expected prior to starting the semester, but I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. I am so thankful to have met so many like-minded peers, to have the opportunity to gain knowledge on policy issues I had never considered, and to engage with working professionals in the public and non-profit sectors where I could one day see myself working.

Silke Popsecu
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, Current Student

After I completed my undergraduate degree in Public Affairs and Policy Management (PAPM) at Carleton University, I was unsure of where to go. Though I enjoyed my studies in public policy, I was looking for a change. I came across the Sustainable Energy Engineering and Policy program and was immediately intrigued. It appealed to my desire to continue my schooling within the field of policy, my ongoing passion for environmental protection, and my interest in not writing long papers for every single class (shout-out to engineering and economics courses). With the support of the phenomenal professors of the program, I have learned so much and grown both academically and personally. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the program and I now look forward to making a meaningful contribution to efforts to make a cleaner and brighter future for Canada and the world.

Ariel Root
Current PhD Candidate

I spent the summers of my undergrad and grad school fighting forest fires in Kenora ON for the MNRF. Near the end of my first year in the HSTP grad program at Carleton, I shared my honest culture shock (and ignorance, really) being in Kenora, with the lead investigator for Carleton’s CHAIM centre. She invited me to explore the social determinants of health for Kenora’s urban Indigenous population through blog submissions to the CHAIM centre. This opportunity sparked my interest of understanding the health status of Indigenous people living in northwestern Ontario. So I enrolled in the “Indigenous Health Policy” course as an elective during the final year of my masters. I quickly realized that to understand Indigenous health, you must also understand the politics, history, and culture. I applied to the Public Policy program in SPPA because I wanted to understand the determinants contributing to the mental health crisis of First Nations youth living on-reserve. Broadly, my dissertation focuses on the methods by which organizations delivering preventative mental health programs engage youth in decision-making. Being neither from these territories nor Indigenous, I felt it essential I reside in Sioux Lookout (coined “the hub” to 31 remote First Nation communities) to help generate a project that was informed and meaningful. After the first year of courses in Ottawa, SPPA was more than willing to support my distance education. Many of the faculty are supportive and genuinely interested in the research students are conducting, as well as our overall wellbeing. While I finish my dissertation, I contribute to the local research interest by working as the Anishininiiw Nanandowi’kikendamowin (research) Program Manager for the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority

Bob Masterson
MA in Public Administration, 2002

It’s a busy world and we all lead very busy lives. The pace of activity and the pressures of work, family, and life mean we seldom give adequate reflection on the individuals whose contributions had the most impact on us. Like many Graduates of the Carleton SPPA program, I know that when I do have the opportunity to reflect, I recognize that Dr. Glen Toner has been one of the most important difference makers in my life. During my time at SPPA, and since, Glen has been there for me, both professionally and personally. I have been fortunate to return to SPPA regularly and have been able to maintain contacts with a broad network of colleagues, influencers, and decision-makers whom also benefitted from the SPPA experience. Through those experiences I have come to recognize that I am not alone. It seems that Glen has been a primary difference maker for many of us – providing the same support and encouragement and exposing us all to the same opportunities and challenges so that we each might reach our own fullest potential. In recognition of Dr. Glen Toner and on the occasion of his retirement from SPPA, I hope you will join me in providing a meaningful contribution to the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship fund and to ensure future students will have similar opportunities through their time with Carleton SPPA.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Brie Morrison
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2019

Graduate school was an incredibly formative time in my life and I can say unequivocally that the personal and professional growth I experienced was a product of Glen’s dedication to the SPPA and his students. Glen brought unparalleled knowledge of his field and infectious enthusiasm for change and betterment to every SEP class and event. He is not only an outstanding professor but also a mentor who is 100% committed to his students and their futures; I am a better writer, learner, professional and activist for having had the opportunity to study under Glen. Glen has written more letters of recommendation for me than either of us can count, opening doors and creating opportunities that have shaped my professional life. As a critic, cheerleader, professional networker, and – most of all – as a leader, Glen has helped create a community of incredibly talented and dedicated alumni, many of whom I am lucky enough to work with everyday. I continue to be grateful for the wonderful experience I had at Carleton and the role Glen played in that time in my life. Congratulations, Glen! A retirement well-earned.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Carey Frey
MA in Public Administration (ISE), 2004

By the time a student reaches the post-graduate level, they invariably have been exposed to numerous educators. It is also probable that most of those students were fortunate enough to develop a special relationship with a teacher that resulted in a profound impact on their lives. With Glen Toner, many students discover a commitment to teaching that exists on an entirely different level than what they have likely experienced in the past. Glen’s infectious optimism, his profound networking skills and his leadership in public policy influence his students far beyond the reach of his classroom.
The challenge Glen issues to students is evident immediately in the first engagement between teacher and student. Most of Glen’s subjects present students with difficult, long-term global issues that are overwhelming to newcomers at the beginning. Students frequently object that public engagement and potential support for his point of view are low or non-existent and that existing systems are too entrenched in the status-quo to change. However, Glen makes the point that if that is the case, then everyone in case should pack up and go home.
As students continue studying with Glen, they learn that the world can be changed and that they can personally make a contribution. His abilities continually provide inspiration to his students and work as a force multiplier for good.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Daniel Rosenbloom
MA in Public Administration (ISE), 2011; PhD in Public Policy, 2019

When I started my academic career at Carleton in the MAPA-ISE program, I was principally interested in getting an education. What I received, however, was a far more profound lifelong challenge issued by Professor Glen Toner (and reinforced by his colleagues at SPPA). From Glen’s first seminar onward, he has challenged me to realize my full potential, make a mark in my field, and to continue building the edifice he has helped construct. Simply put, Glen is a builder: of individual intellectual trajectories, of broader academic institutions and research units, and of networks of social capital. I can think of no better way to honour his tremendous contributions to this enterprise than the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship. It is my hope that this scholarship will continue to echo Glen’s challenge for personal and professional development as it helps bring up future cohorts of SPPA students. And so, it is with both deep appreciation and trepidation that I wish Glen the best in his retirement. Appreciation because of the tremendous impact Glen has had on my own trajectory and trepidation because Carleton must say goodbye to one of its finest.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

David Cherniak
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2014

I first met Glen by phone while on a backpacking trip. I had applied to a couple of programs at Carleton and was considering my options. Glen reached out to discuss the programs at the School of Public Policy and Administration; he wanted to ensure that I had as much information and resources as possible to make an informed choice for my graduate studies. However, with Glen nothing is ever quite that simple and straightforward. After a few short emails we ended up having an hour-long chat over the phone where we quickly moved from academic interests to family backgrounds, sports obsessions to life goals. I remember hanging up the phone that day thinking “man, that was a lot of effort for this professor, whom I’d never met, to go through for a student he’d never met.” Little did I know how much that phone call would impact my career.
The passion that Glen had that day and the willingness to engage, was the start of our relationship and I can say that nobody has done more to encourage and challenge me since I moved to Ottawa to do my master’s. Glen’s passion for his students, his recognition of hard work, willingness to challenge a less than thorough effort and his commitment to environmental sustainability, are just a few of his trademarks in the classroom. He pushed me as a student, guided me as a colleague and remains an excellent mentor and friend to this day. I am thankful for having had a chance to work with him as a student and am grateful for his friendship today. Carleton will lose a truly “one of a kind” professor when Glen decides to hang up the keyboard. This scholarship will help ensure that futures students will be able to benefit from the foundations that Glen helped build.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Erik Koskela
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2019

I have never been more engaged in a classroom than during my time with Dr. Glen Toner. He has an extraordinary ability to push his students outside of their comfort zone, encourage them to think critically, and prepare for the next steps in their careers. I attended grad school as a part-time student and initially had many reservations, but he made the experience exceed my expectations.
I’ve seen the results of working with Dr. Toner translate directly into my professional life, and will be forever grateful for the two courses I took with him and the subsequent directed study under his supervision. I could not think of someone more deserving to have a scholarship fund in their name.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Grace Martin
Master of Public Policy and Administration, 2018

I am so grateful for the time I spent in Carleton’s School of Public Policy and Administration and for the mentorship of Glen Toner! Glen helped me and so many others in countless ways and is truly a huge inspiration. He is an incredible leader in his own right, but he also fosters leadership in his students. Thank you, Glen, for challenging me and encouraging me to embark on paths and think in ways I had never before considered. All the best, Grace.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Harris Berton
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2016

There are very few graduate programs in Canada that have both as much value and relevance as the MAPA-ISE stream and the Sustainable Energy Policy Program for young professionals in energy and environmental policy. Glen offers his students an unparalleled knowledge of the evolution of energy and environmental policy in Canada and the world, and his classes gave me the opportunity and framing to dive into topics that I continue to draw on in my career. However, it is Glen’s enthusiasm and commitment to students that truly makes these programs standout. Glen is always pushing students to maximize their opportunities, and he won’t accept anything less. SPPA will not be the same without Glen, but his impact will be felt for many years, and he sets a high standard for his successors and for alumni to maintain their invaluable engagement with current students. Glen makes it clear to student that you get out of grad school what you put into it, and I this scholarship is a wonderful way to help keep that critical insight front and centre in the minds of SPPA graduates and alumni.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

John McNally
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2019

It’s hard to imagine a more passionate professor than Dr. Toner. It’s equally hard to imagine how any professor could make any more of an effort to be attentive and available to students than he was. Glen pushed every years crop of students to be the best versions of themselves, to learn and to grow as professionals, and to realize their potential every time they came to class. It was an honour to be in classes, and it’s heartening to know that Glen’s characteristic style and influence will continue to support the careers of sustainability leaders in the years to come.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Mary Marquez
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2019

One of the first things that Professor Toner said to our class was something along the lines of “I will be pushing you in this class because I want to see you succeed, but I will support you along the way.” This is a bit intimidating for any first year graduate student to hear. However, as the semester passed, this phrase became less intimidating and much more reassuring. The support Professor Toner provided us represented important resources and tools necessary for our course assignments and papers, but which also directly translated to our professional lives. Our assignments -as well as our course- were structured as training for the tasks we would receive in the jobs we would eventually step into -both during our co-op positions and throughout our careers. This was in no way a coincidence, it was of course intentional, and is one of several reasons why this program, and Professor Toner’s courses, have been so useful to me in my career. The approach of this program, and the varying teaching methods, keep students on their toes and constantly up to date on the latest developments in the space of energy policy and everything sustainability. It was a long, tough road, but very much a worthwhile one to take.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Matt Jones
MA in Public Administration, 2001

The School of Public Policy and Administration, and Glen and his courses in particular, introduced me to the issues of sustainability and climate change and gave me the opportunity to have a career focusing on these important public policy issues. What I thought was a four month co-op placement was in fact the beginning of a long and rewarding career. Glen cares about each of his students and as much as anyone I have known, he is committed to ensuring that they realize their potential. He pushed us to get the most out of us. He called in personal favours to get leading experts into his classes. He launched the SIGNALS network to link current students with established professionals. What sets Glen apart is how much he cares. He cares about environmental issues and sustainability; he cares about his students and he cares about preparing them to become leaders in this field. I am fortunate to have had the career that I have had and all of the rewarding experiences that have gone with it. Glen had a lot to do with setting me on this path and I am hopeful that this scholarship can help prepare more students to make big contributions.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Milana Simikian
MA in Public Administration, 2012

I first had the good fortune of meeting Glen during the second year of my undergrad in Public Affairs and Policy Management. He was teaching PAPM 2000, a Policy Analysis course that I remember distinctly because it was my very first introduction to environmental public policy and Glen’s passion for it was contagious. At the time, I was sure that I would be pursuing a career in foreign affairs, but perhaps it was just then that Glen gave me the idea that environmental policy work was a path worth considering.
Fast forward to 2010 and here I was again sitting in Glen’s class, only this time as a MAPA grad student in a room of 6 others looking at a very, very long list of readings on climate change. I remember feeling a bit scared and intimidated by the workload and Glen’s expectations of us but I was also excited and proud to be part of Glen’s class because I knew that I would learn a great deal. I will admit that I spent more time preparing for Glen’s classes and assignments than I did for any other of my classes. See, Glen has this effect on students. He believes in you before you believe in yourself. He sets the bar high and expects you to shoot even higher. So that’s what I did. I worked hard to make Glen proud and aimed higher than I ever thought I could.
Glen’s another remarkable quality is that when he sees potential and hard work, he rewards it. With me, it was a research assistantship job. For over a year, I got to work directly with Glen, Dr. James Meadowcroft, and a few other grad students on an innovative climate research project sponsored by Carbon Management Canada. Not only did this job take my research and writing skills to the next level, but it had also positioned me to secure a job immediately after graduation at a time when such opportunities were scarce. Glen provided me with a solid reference to help me land that first job. He continued to give me this kind of support as I moved forward in my career.
Glen’s latest contribution to my professional development and career growth was only a couple of years ago. Drawing on his wide network of people, Glen got me in touch with another former MAPA student who is now Assistant Deputy Minister overseeing the implementation of Canada’s climate plan and clean growth. His office was hiring and I was already in a government pool of pre-qualified candidates for a similar position. Timing could not have been more perfect. Thanks to Glen (again!), I now have a dream job for which he made sure I would be well prepared just a few years ago.
Dr. Glen Toner has been instrumental in my professional and personal growth. I could never thank him enough for the continuous support, encouragement, and guidance he has given me and others throughout all those years. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to be his student, his mentee, his staff member, and his friend. I am delighted to see the creation of the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship fund as it now provides the perfect way for me and others to express our sincere gratitude for Glen’s unparalleled leadership and lasting impact on so many lives.

This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Travis Dagg
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2018

Assistant Deputy Minister, Environment and Climate Change Canada
The School of Public Policy and Administration, and Glen and his courses in particular, introduced me to the issues of sustainability and climate change and gave me the opportunity to have a career focusing on these important public policy issues. What I thought was a four month co-op placement was in fact the beginning of a long and rewarding career. Glen cares about each of his students and as much as anyone I have known, he is committed to ensuring that they realize their potential. He pushed us to get the most out of us. He called in personal favours to get leading experts into his classes. He launched the SIGNALS network to link current students with established professionals. What sets Glen apart is how much he cares. He cares about environmental issues and sustainability; he cares about his students and he cares about preparing them to become leaders in this field. I am fortunate to have had the career that I have had and all of the rewarding experiences that have gone with it. Glen had a lot to do with setting me on this path and I am hopeful that this scholarship can help prepare more students to make big contributions.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Zak Jacques
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2017

During my time at Carleton, I was one of many students that benefited from Glen Toner’s mentorship and teaching. What sets Glen apart from other professors is the level of sustained, personal commitment he shows to his students in both their professional and personal development. Whenever I asked, Glen was always there to help or provide advice, and would follow-up to see how things unfolded. He also actively went out of his way to create opportunities that he knew would help with my professional development. When I reflect on many of the unique opportunities that were afforded to me at Carleton (e.g., participating in conferences, meeting senior executives from Canada’s energy sector, or working on collaborative research projects) Glen is somehow involved in making almost all of those experiences take place. He did this for my peers as well – in many instances paving the way for students to start their careers in the field of sustainability.
In many of our conversations, Glen would reinforce lessons and values that he has held throughout his career. One that he has instilled in me is the importance of giving back, and I can’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate Glen’s retirement than setting up a scholarship in his name that will set-up a student to work in the an area he has dedicated his life to furthering – sustainable energy and environmental policy. In celebration of Glen’s outstanding career, dedication to giving back, and mentorship, I encourage you to donate to the Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Zoé St Pierre
MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, 2019

When I started my graduate studies at Carleton, I felt a bit like I didn’t belong. Coming to a new city, a new school and a new program, it was intimidating. I was surrounded by some of the smartest people I’ve ever met, and I had trouble believing that I too, had what it takes to be among them. It wasn’t long into my first term that I realized how devoted Glen was to his students. I decided to talk to him about some of these worries and he assured me that I wasn’t the only one who feels like this when they start grad school. In fact, Glen made a point from then on to encourage me to voice my thoughts, my opinions and my ideas at any time. His interactive classes were structured in a way that permitted all of his students to feel challenged, to grow their confidence and to participate in a meaningful way (whether they wanted to or not at 8:30am). To any future student reading this, if you can take even one class with Glen, I promise that you will not regret it.
Thank you for being such a great mentor, Glen. Your genuine support and encouragement throughout these past few years has helped shape the next chapter of my academic and professional life.

This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Bengamin Cashore

I was so very fortunate to have taken Glen Toner’s public policy class as an undergraduate at Carleton at the very beginning of his remarkable career. I remember him teaching us really interesting theories of the policy process, and what they all meant for helping governments and society address critical challenges – from wise management of energy and resources to understanding how responsible environmental policies might be fostered.
My memories are of a professor who took a keen interest in student advancement – even undergraduates. He made it a point to invite us to attend really interesting public policy workshops that showcased faculty research on critical questions. And, I remember he was always keen for engaging students in thoughtful conversations about the key public policy issues of our times. When I was in Ottawa on sabbatical in the fall of 2017 he invited me to that year’s launch of the student journal he created, ISEMA, where I was able to witness, over three decades later, his unwavering interest in showcasing past and present students around research and outreach.
One of my fondest memories was during the graduation ceremonies at the National Art Center in the fall of 1986. Glen made it a point to seek out my parents, who had travelled from Vancouver, to congratulate them for what their son had achieved at Carleton. I remember beaming widely. It was those personal touches, keen mind, and problem orientation that combine to make Glen such a cherished and devoted faculty member for so many. Indeed, Glen’s mentoring played a key role in my eventual recognition that I, too, wanted to engage problem focused public policy research around key domestic and global challenges. I think it therefor fitting that 33 years later, I conclude my recognition of Glen’s path breaking achievement at Carleton by thanking his parents for raising such a fine son.
This reflection on the student experience was offered as part of a fundraising effort for the Dr. Glen Toner Scholarship Fund.

Pam Provis
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

I have many friends and colleagues who have graduated from SPPA and I have heard many stories throughout the last 15 years about the quality of academia and calibre of professors. Consistent feedback year after year is a good indicator of a respected school. Covid forced/allowed me to slow down and think strategically about my learning path and how I want to continue my career in contributing to a greater good. After reviewing the various course options and the quality of professors in SPPA, it seemed like a natural fit. It is daunting to go back to school after 15 years, and even more daunting to tackle this program while also juggling a full-time job and personal life, but the flexibility of course options has made this such a smooth transition back to student life.I am a life-long learner and believe strongly in continuous development by pushing myself out of my knowledge comfort zone. It is an honour to be surrounded by such diverse thinking in this program. It allows me to challenge my own thinking and acquire new perspectives. I am also really excited about being back on Carleton University campus, and learning from this incredibly diverse group of thinkers – students and professors alike. Navigating Carleton University is very different than when I graduated from my undergrad at Carleton in 2006 fifteen years ago, which is exciting in itself.

Eva Grabinski
Public Policy and Program Evaluation, Current Student

Prior to starting the graduate program in SPPA, I was working as a senior expert in digital transformation including human-centered design and business architecture and analysis. I was interested in a career transition that draws on my academic background in social science to work in areas more directly applicable to social change which improves the lives of people in Canada.

The DPPE program in SPPA focuses on the evaluation of policy and programs. I learned about evaluation through volunteer work for a non-profit organization. This sparked my interest in learning more about evaluation. My research made the DPPE program an obvious choice. The program is recognized as a world-leader in practical and applied evaluation training.

The focus on current theory and practice in evaluation makes the program relevant. The dedication and commitment of the instructors to the program stands out. Evaluation is a great fit for me that enables me to draw on both my academic and work experience to focus on areas of social change that can improve the lives of people in Canada.

Alex MacLellan
PhD Public Policy, Current Student

Before joining the SPPA, I worked in various roles for Employment and Social Development Canada for 12 years. Most recently, I worked as a researcher looking at various labour market issues immigrants face. I also studied the Master’s in Public Administration program at Dalhousie University, and before that a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Finance and Economics. I have also been volunteering to help with the English as a secondary language teaching at the Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization.

I found out about the SPPA during my Master’s studies at Dalhousie as the faculty and other students were well aware of its impressive reputation. In addition, as I was already living and working in the National Capital Region, many of my colleagues at ESDC were familiar with the SPPA. I was hoping ever since my Master’s to do my Ph.D here as it has a strong reputation in Canada. The access to the National Capital Region and its unique opportunity to collaborate with public servants and being able to learn from so many faculty and students at the top of their fields compelled me to study here.

I love collaborating with so many faculty and students and learning from their diverse interests and backgrounds. I think it enriches the intellectual journey to expose oneself to many ideas. And collaboration is of course essential to anyone with any role in policy making. It’s also great socially. I’ve made many new friends since starting. This has me even more excited to pursue a new career as a professor where I can deepen this collaboration. I would look forward to guiding students to the many career paths a public administration degree offers and pursuing a research topic about which I am very passionate.

Camille Belanger
Master of Public Policy and Administration, Current Student

Prior to joining the SPPA, I completed a Bachelor of Arts at McGill University where I majored in Psychology. I then worked for two years as a consultant in communications. Having the chance to work there is really what piqued my interest in a public service career. It gave me a concrete perspective on how organizations can be affected by economic events, public affairs, and policies in their regular activities. This is what I was doing when the COVID-19 pandemic first started.

What convinced me to choose the SPPA was the feeling to be entering a tight community. I was impressed by the responsiveness of the SPPA staff, welcoming activities that were organized for incoming students, and the strong co-op program. A quick look at what alumni were doing with their career convinced me that it was a good choice.

I really like the people and my classes. Even in an online environment, we have a tight cohort with students who help each other out. I also really appreciate the fact that I had to take economics and political science prerequisites in order to complete the program. This has no doubt given me solid basis to build on during the rest of my studies and demonstrates the rigour put into designing the SPPA programs of studies.

Annie Yeo
Master of Public Policy and Administration, 2021

My experience at the SPPA enabled me to dive deeper into my policy interests. I was able to take courses specializing in labour relations, environmental sustainability and indigenous governance. Special thanks to my professors and classmates for all their positivity and support.

Thanks to the co-op program, I am a policy analyst for the Labour Program at Employment and Social Development Canada.

Wynonna Smoke
PhD Public Polcy, Current Student

Prior to joining the SPPA, I was employed full-time as a Policy Analyst at Employment and Social Development Canada working on labour market research in fulfillment of the Nunavut Agreement. I continue to work in this capacity while attending SSPA

I first heard of the PhD in Public Policy by attending the Canadian Health Economists’ Study Group (CHESG) conference where a past student presented. I was compelled to study within SPPA as the school has a focus on Indigenous policy, which is an interest of mine.

I am very excited to be involved in the Rebuilding First Nations Governance (RFNG) project with Dr. Abele and I look forward to contributing to the project.

Wynonna Smoke
MA Sustainable Energy, Current Student

I obtained a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Food Science and Nutrition degree at Carleton University before joining SPPA. During this time, I was heavily involved in the Food Science student society and worked as a student at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. As a result of this time, I developed an interest in food safety, sustainability, and security. My interest in regulatory, scientific, and economic aspects of my field was able to be explored through this interdisciplinary degree. In my undergraduate experience, I realized there are many variables that can influence food quality, safety, and sustainability. At that point, I began looking for a program that would enable me to explore these variables in great detail.

At the end of my final year of study, I realized that I was interested in exploring sustainable food production and food security in relation to renewable energy sources. When I was at the SPPA Open house, I found out that Carleton University offered a master’s program focusing on Sustainable Energy. Based upon discussions with previous students and current professors, I decided to join SPPA in order to gain a better understanding of my passions and to continue to grow as an interdisciplinary student.

It excites me to explore how sustainable energy options could increase our production of food without harming the planet. As I explore the links between science and policy in the energy sector, I am excited to see how we reduce our carbon footprint in agricultural practices and renewable energy production in the future. As an SPPA student like myself, I want to make a difference by integrating food and agriculture sector expertise in order to explore more sustainable energy and climate change solutions. Moreover, I appreciate the opportunity to explore a discipline with so many opportunities and challenge myself. With professors who teach at the cutting edge of their field, you can’t help but want to join SPPA and learn more.