About the Authors
Angela Lyrette is a full time Professor and Educational Developer at Algonquin College. Angela holds a Master’s Degree in Education, specializing in workplace and adult learning from the University of Calgary, a Teaching Adult Lifelong Learners Certificate (with Honours) from Algonquin College, and a variety of financial services designations from the Canadian Securities Institute. A self-professed life-long learner, her curiosity and enthusiasm for teaching, learning, and serving the community is evident in her body of work.
Dr. Zainub Ibrahim is a full-time Professor in the School of Business and Hospitality at Algonquin College. She holds a PhD in Geography and Environmental Management from the University of Waterloo, a Master’s degree in Applied Environmental Studies (Local Economic Development — Tourism Policy and Planning), a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, and a Certificate in University Teaching from the University of Waterloo. Her work focuses on tourism planning, sustainability, and risk management, with a particular interest in fostering collaborations between academia and industry. Passionate about applied learning, she brings her experience to the classroom, where she encourages students to engage with real-world issues and develop solutions that make a positive impact.
Nadzeya (Nadia) Rahavaya is a dedicated partial load professor and communications specialist with extensive experience in post-secondary education, career advising, and equity-driven program development. She holds Master’s (Honours) and Bachelor’s (Honours) degrees in Linguistics from Belarusian State University, along with certification in Business Analysis (Honours) from Red River Polytechnic. Nadia has designed and delivered engaging courses in career development, workplace skills, and communications, tailoring her approach to meet the needs of both domestic and international students. Her passion for empowering students extends beyond the classroom through her work mentoring students, collaborating with industry partners, and fostering inclusive environments. Committed to opening doors and elevating potential, Nadia continues to inspire and support the next generation of learners.
Laura Vena is a full-time Professor and Program Coordinator in the School of Business and Hospitality at Algonquin College. She specializes in teaching practical, hands-on software application courses, with a focus on supporting individual student needs. Her teaching approach empowers learners to take ownership of their educational journey and prepares them for long-term success in the Office Administration field.
Matt Moore brings over 25 years of diverse experience in the hospitality industry, combining hands-on operational expertise with a deep understanding of business and asset management. For 13 years, he was the co-owner of Chances R Restaurant, where he honed his skills in leadership, operations, and customer service excellence.In 2014, Matt joined Algonquin College’s School of Hospitality and Tourism as a faculty member, sharing his industry knowledge and passion for hospitality with the next generation of professionals. Today, he serves as the Acting Academic Chair for the School of Business and Hospitality, providing strategic leadership while continuing to teach and mentor students.
Matt holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Carleton University and a Master’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Glion University, specializing in Asset Management. His expertise spans economics, entrepreneurship, and restaurant management, and he remains committed to adapting and evolving alongside an industry that continues to innovate and grow.
Asfrah Syed-Emond practiced law in the area of civil litigation: personal injury cases and estates prior to joining the faculty at Algonquin College – Legal Studies, This career was very rewarding for over 2 decades. She was looking for a new challenge when she found teaching. Asfrah is a Graduate of the University of Ottawa, holding an undergraduate degree in English Literature (BAHon) and a degree in Law (LLB). Member of the Law Society of Ontario since 2000. Diversity and inclusion have always been her lens to the world. Having lived in the Outaouais area all her life; born in Ottawa, raised in Quebec, and a world traveler. Her passions include learning, teaching, law and gardening!
Marc Brennan is a full-time Professor at Algonquin College. Marc holds an MBA in International Hospitality and Services Industries Management from the Glion Institute of Higher Education, with a specialization in Asset and Revenue Management. He also holds various professional designations in hospitality and tourism analytics, and takes part in the Teaching and Learning Advisory Group at Algonquin College. Marc’s combined industry and academic expertise allows him to bring real-world insight into the classroom, inspiring future leaders in the hospitality industry.
Victoria Barney received her LL.B from the University of Windsor and has been a full time professor in the Law Clerk program since 2010 (Coordinator since 2011) after a number of years spent at the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. Committed to the success of her students, Victoria’s philosophy centres around a student-focused approach, striving to adapt to the unique learning needs of each student. Her mentorship extends beyond the classroom, helping students with career advice, internships, and networking opportunities within the legal community to ensure students have the support they need to achieve their career goals.
Melanie Haskins has a bachelor of Social Science Honours Sociology, diploma in Early Childhood Education, and a Master of Business Administration. Her experience spans decades in the nonprofit, high tech, and educational sectors. Areas of expertise lie in the global business strategy, channel partner acquisition and development, as well as traditional and digital marketing communications.
