External Relations Manager, Shad Canada
Alvina (she/her) began her Shad journey as the Recruitment Manager in 2022, and is now Shad’s External Relations Manager. She has had the opportunity to support soon-to-be Shads as they tackle the Shad application, current Shads during the month of July, and Shad alumni through the Shad Ambassadors program. Throughout all of these settings, Alvina has been constantly in awe of the curiosity and openness of Canada’s youth to learning and experiencing new things.
Alvina holds three degrees from the University of Alberta (in Anthropology, Linguistics, and the History of Art, Design, and Visual Culture), and completed her PhD in Education at Syracuse University in 2020, where she was awarded the All-University Doctoral Prize for excellence in research. Prior to joining the Shad team, she was an Assistant Professor at MacEwan University in Edmonton.
Outside of work, Alvina is a University of Alberta Senator and a volunteer member of the Edmonton Community Foundation’s Hilltop Awards and Bursaries Committee. She spends her free time with her family of three doting dogs, two snuggly cats, and one awesome person.
Executive Coordinator, University of Alberta, Augustana Campus
Mary-Anne Falk (she/her) joined Shad as Program Director for the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus in 2025. She was inspired by Shad’s commitment to empower youth to think boldly, collaborate creatively, and engage deeply with real-world challenges. After visiting two Shad campuses, Mary-Anne was energized by the students’ creativity, passion, and friendships. She witnessed firsthand what’s possible when curious minds come together in a collaborative environment.
Mary-Anne brings extensive experience in both healthcare and university administration to her role. As Executive Coordinator in the Dean’s Office, she contributes to a wide range of initiatives including academic leadership, campus event programming, and community engagement. Her role focuses on ensuring effective processes, managing campus and faculty budgets, supporting governance, and coordinating major events. She works closely with the leadership team, local government, and student organizations to strengthen meaningful connections between the university and the wider community.
Outside of work, Mary-Anne enjoys a busy family life with her four children. She loves photography, baking, camping, kayaking, fitness, cross-stitch, and travelling—and can often be found snuggling her senior dog or volunteering with her children’s schools and sports teams. Family is her top priority, and she strives to be a positive role model both professionally and personally.
Mary-Anne is thrilled to welcome Shad participants to the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus and is eager to create an inspiring and memorable summer experience where every student can explore their creativity and realize their potential.
