Alix Olson

Denyse's Bio

Denyse Dawe is a Wildfire Science Analyst with the Canadian Forest Service. Denyse got her start in forestry by working as a field technician for a variety of research programs, spanning from identifying plants in bogs, electrofishing to learn more about fisheries’ species at risk, to collecting grizzly bear hair samples.

After doing a Masters in fire ecology and conservation, she found herself working for the CFS where she’s now been for five years. Denyse supports fire ecology science, fieldwork, and fire risk studies with the Wildfire Group at CFS.

Northern Forestry Centre

Hyerin's Bio

Hyerin is excited to answer any questions you may have about the environmental and forestry-related programs at the University of Alberta!

Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences

Elder's Bio

Elder Heather Poitras, a member of the Sawridge First Nation (Treaty 8), is currently serving as an Elder for her Nation. Elder Heather grew up by the Kehewin Cree Nation (Treaty 6). Proud of both her First Nation and Métis culture, she has dedicated her 25+ year federal career to Indigenous awareness and culture. 

As the Elder-In-Residence at the Northern Forestry Centre (NRCAN) in Edmonton, she also played an instrumental role in the establishment of the We Walk Together Forward – Indigenous Learning Centre at the Northern Forestry Centre, Edmonton, Alberta.

Elder Heather Poitras, a descendant of Big Bear, comes from a long line of leaders. Her chapan (Cree for great-grandfather) J.F. Dion, one of the founders of the Métis Nation of Alberta, ensured that the Métis in Alberta had land base. The only province to do so.  

Elder Heather strives to ensure that her people, the original people of this country, are included in every aspect of society. She has been dedicated to creating awareness of Canada’s true history, to help with the healing process of reconciliation, and to improve relationships.

Northern Forestry Centre

Sithara's Bio

Sithara Fernando is a pioneering force in STEM, challenging conventional norms and advocating for diversity within environmental careers. As a woman of colour and a member of the LGBTQ2S+ community, she brings a unique perspective to our panel.

Sithara has worked in a variety of Environmental roles in both the Public and Private sectors. She is currently the Academic Program Manager of STEM Programs at NorQuest College assisting students to find careers in Environmental Technology, Energy Management and Machine Learning. Sithara is also a supporter of the 1000 Women for STEM scholarship, which assists females to enter non-traditional STEM fields.

NorQuest College