GPESA | Werklund School of Education

Hannah Cheng, President

Hannah Cheng is a second-year MSc student in School and Applied Child Psychology. Her research examines how physicians and schools communicate and collaborate to support children with developmental, behavioural, and mental health needs. She also works as an academic interventionist at a psychology clinic in Toronto for children with learning differences. Having led student organisations at both the University of Toronto and the University of Calgary, Hannah is passionate about building community and creating spaces where graduate students can connect and support one another. Outside her studies she loves to dance, spend time outdoors, and travel whenever she can 😄

Vrenelli Obillo, Vice President, Academic

Vrenelli Obillo is passionate about helping graduate students feel heard, supported, and connected throughout their academic journey. She is currently a Master of Education student at the University of Calgary, specializing in Leading in Postsecondary Contexts, and holds an Honours BA in Political Science. Her work in academic advising has deepened her interest in student success and the ways university systems shape students’ experiences. With interests in postsecondary governance, political theory, and Indigenous politics, Vrenelli brings both curiosity and a student-centred perspective to her role and looks forward to advocating for and learning alongside the GPESA community."

McKinley Hogan, Vice President Student Life

McKinley is in the second year of her Master of Science in Educational Psychology, specializing in Counselling Psychology. Her research interests include child and adolescent development, the medicalization of mental health across family systems, and impacts of technology use. With a variety of experiences working in the mental health field with vulnerable populations, she brings strong communication skills, empathy, and compassion to the GPESA team. McKinley understands the importance of advocating for graduate students and looks forward to serving you!

Abdullah Al Mamun Bhuiyan, Treasurer

My name is Abdullah Al Mamun Bhuiyan, and I am pursuing a PhD in Educational Research, specializing in Curriculum and Learning. I previously served as a lecturer at a university in the Middle East for several years. My research interest focuses on Indigenous language teaching, Indigenous teachers' effectiveness in teaching Indigenous languages, Indigenous language rights, Indigenous policy and planning, and decolonization. As the treasurer of the GPESA, my role involves managing financial matters and seeking funding sources to organize community events throughout the year for the Werklund School of Education student body.

Mohammad Jahedul Hoque Shahin, Secretary

Mohammad Jahedul Hoque Shahin is a second-year PhD student in Educational Research (Leadership) at the Werklund School of Education. Before his doctorate, he spent nine years as a civil servant and lecturer with Bangladesh’s Ministry of Education, contributing to education policy, curriculum development, and teacher training. He holds a Master of Public Policy and a Master’s degree in Government and Politics. His research focuses on AI governance, educational leadership, policy implementation, and the responsible integration of emerging technologies in Canadian higher education. Drawing on his experience in policy, governance, and leadership, he serves as GPESA’s Secretary, supporting effective communication, organization, and democratic governance for the graduate community.

Kevin Chidozie Anaeche, Communications Liason

Kevin Anaeche is an educator, researcher, and educational leader with extensive experience in Mathematics education, teaching, administration, and student engagement. He holds a Master of Science in Education (MSc. Ed.) in Mathematics Education, a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education, and a Master of Arts (MA) in Leadership. He is currently a second-year Ph.D. student in Educational Research, specializing in Leadership, with research interests in how leaders navigate complexity, change, and institutional challenges to foster organizational resilience. His leadership experience includes serving as a university department head, program coordinator, and director of a professional education program. As GPESA Communications Liaison, Kevin is committed to strengthening communication, promoting graduate student engagement, and fostering an informed, connected, and inclusive Werklund community.

Alisha Brignall, Peer Mentor Coordinator

Alisha Brignall is a first-year doctoral student in Educational Research and a two-time University of Calgary alumna, holding a Master of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies. She is an experienced K–12 educator, sessional instructor, and graduate teaching assistant, and has spent the last six years mentoring pre-service teachers. Her academic interests focus on education policy, equity, and access to educational resources. Drawing on her experience supporting learners and emerging educators, Alisha is passionate about mentorship and community-building. As GPESA’s Peer Mentor Coordinator, she is excited to help graduate students feel supported, connected, and confident throughout their studies.

Adult Learning - Jame Bryan Batara

I have served in teaching, research, and community service roles in university and college settings in Canada and the Philippines for 15 years and counting. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Psychology with a concentration in Social Psychology and a minor in Clinical Psychology in the Philippines. In Canada, I completed my Master of Education in Post-secondary Curriculum and Instruction, and now I am in my second year of a PhD in Educational Research in the adult learning track. My research interests and projects span social and community research related to the Psychology of religion, spirituality, and health promotion among marginalized communities. In relation to my PhD work, I advocate for more equitable and accessible transnational higher education for students in developing countries, particularly in Southeast Asia. As the GPESA representative for EDER Adult Learning, I advocate for amplifying the voices of marginalized students and those who face challenges accessing services and support as graduate students.

Counselling Psychology - Sylvia Kolodziejczyk

Before coming to the University of Calgary, I completed my HBSc in Psychology through the French Stream at the University of Ottawa. I am currently a second-year MSc Counselling Psychology student working with Dr. Xu Zhao. My research interests include immigrant and newcomer families, identity development, gender, and sexuality. My professional experiences working as a recreation aide and serving as President of the University of Ottawa Cycling Club sparked my passion for organizing events and bringing people together. As EDSA Representative, I hope to create opportunities for connection, community, and engagement among Counselling Psychology students.

Language and Literacy - Jingyao Li

Jingyao Li is a doctoral student in Language and Literacy Education. With a background in applied linguistics and health literacy, she works in wellness and youth outreach, designing interactive programs to amplify the voices of marginalized groups. Her scholarly work explores language education and digital literacy, including how people use AI to understand health information. In her GPESA role, Jingyao hopes to foster inclusive dialogue across student perspectives and strengthen peer connections. She aims to build a supportive academic community centered on student well-being. Outside academia, she loves road trips and discovering the culture and beauty of each new place.

Leadership - Zohreh (Shina) Khajoueinejad

Zohreh (Shina) Khajoueinejad is a second-year PhD student in Educational Research (Leadership) at the University of Calgary. Her research focuses on leadership development for middle-level academic leaders in Canadian higher education, with particular interest in well-being, change agency, and institutional policy. She has a background in educational administration and works on research projects in postsecondary education. As the elected Leadership representative to GPESA for 2026–2027, Shina hopes to listen to and represent Leadership students and strengthen connections across the graduate student community.

Learning Sciences - Tahmina Hoq

I am a third-year PhD student in the Learning Sciences program at the Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary. Before joining UCalgary, I served as an Associate Professor at the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, where I spent over a decade teaching, mentoring students, supervising research, and contributing to academic development. My research explores climate justice, science education, and equity. Having experienced academia as both an educator and a doctoral student across different contexts, I hope to bring diverse perspectives, strengthen graduate student voices, and foster a more inclusive and supportive academic community through my GPESA role as Learning Science Representative.

Graduate Programs in Education Students' Association (GPESA)

2026 - 2027 Executive Officers