August 8, 2016

Medicine Hat College (MHC) is excited to announce that Cindy Slenders has been appointed the director of the Brooks Campus and regional stewardship, effective immediately.

A resident of the Brooks area for four decades, Slenders brings expertise in special needs/inclusive education, academic guidance, and adult education in the fields of English as a Second Language (ESL) and GED preparation. She has leadership experience in the public school system, serving as vice-principal, principal and district principal. She also has directed community/not-for-profit agencies as CEO.

According to David Petis, vice-president of advancement and community relations, Slenders will be a key component of the college’s plan to collaborate with community partners in the development a plan that will lead the Brooks Campus to a vibrant and sustainable future. 

“We are working towards a complete revitalization of the Brooks Campus. We envision a shared environment that plays a vital role in the community as not only a place of education but also an economic driver and a hub for social service access and innovation,” says Petis. “We feel Cindy’s understanding of the region and depth of knowledge both on the academic and operational side of things will be beneficial in helping this vision come to fruition.”

Slenders says, “Being a long time resident in the community, I see the potential that the Brooks Campus has. The possibilities are exciting and I see that there are so many good things that we can be doing here. I am eager to get into the research and implementation phase and help make new and innovative offerings happen for the campus. I want to ensure that what we are providing is relevant for our community, our region and our future learners and leaders.”

Slenders has a Bachelor of Education from the University of Lethbridge and a Master of Education (Educational Leadership) from Concordia University Online.

She is very active in the community and has volunteered for organizations and events such as the Scandia Centennial Community Celebrations, Newell County Band Association, Calgary Stampede Show Band, district and provincial 4-H programs, Brooks Community Adult Learning Council and Edson and Area Special Olympics.

If you are interested in learning more about MHC’s Brooks Campus visit www.mhc.ab.ca/brookscampus.