Meet the TeamPrior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Susan Forseille PLAR Director

Susan’s role is to oversee PLAR programming. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University, a Master of Education from Thompson Rivers University, and is currently completing her PhD with the University of Leicester. Her research focus is on career development, experiential learning, and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition.

Nicole Borhaven PLAR Manager

Nicole's role is to support the maintenance and growth of PLAR and the department's day-to-day operations. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Certificate in Liberal Arts from Simon Fraser University. She has been with TRU-OL since 2010 and has experience in Program Advising and Accessibility Services. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys spending time with her family and friends, writing, travelling and enjoying the great outdoors.

Natasha Langevin Micro-credential Project Manager

Natasha’s role is to support and guide students through the PLAR process. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (UBC) and a Community Support Worker certificate (UCC). She has been with TRU since 2019, starting as a Program Advisor with the Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics. Born in Victoria on the lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Territory, she has been fortunate to grow up within the unceded traditional lands of the Secwépemc Nation. Natasha loves working with students, but in her spare time she likes being active, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time exploring with her family, friends and her silly English Bulldog.

Tiffany Adams (on leave) Indigenous PLAR Developer

Tiffany’s role is to support and guide Indigenous students through the PLAR process. More specifically she supports the students from the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc nation. She holds a Bachelor of Education – Physical Education Specialized degree from Thompson Rivers University and a Master of Education in Administration and Leadership from the University of British Columbia.

Tiffany is a member of the Lytton First Nation which is in the heart of the Nlaka’pamux territory. Growing up immersed in the traditions of the Nlaka’pamux people, Tiffany has dedicated her professional career to provide the highest possible standards of education that includes the incorporation of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing for all of her students.

She enjoys playing basketball, running, beading and keeping active with her family.

Kristen Johnson PLAR Advisor

Kristen's role is to support and guide students through the PLAR process. She holds a Library Information Technology Diploma from SAIT, and a Bachelor of General Studies degree and an Aboriginal Studies Certificate from Thompson Rivers University. Kristen is passionate about providing an inclusive and equitable experience for all students. She is a third-generation Scandinavian settler and a member of the Takla Lake Nation of the Carrier people. Kristen was born and raised in Kamloops, within the unceded traditional lands of the Secwépemc Nation. She likes travelling, meditation and reading. She also enjoys spending time with her family and in nature.

Mikayla Overton PLAR Advisor

Mikayla’s role is to support and guide students through the PLAR process. She attained a Bachelor of General Studies on the unceded territory of the Secwépemc at Thompson Rivers University in Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc where she is honoured to have the privilege to continue to learn each day. Her interest in PLAR began when she was approached as a student to assist with a study that researched the factors impacting students’ success and persistence with PLAR. She has since continued supporting research in the PLAR field, including with the BC Prior Learning Action Network. PLAR’s potential to provide more equitable access to post-secondary education reflects Mikayla’s hopes to provide caring, inclusive support to students seeking an alternative pathway in formal education.

Sarah Brydges PLAR Advisor

Sarah’s role is to support and guide students through the PLAR process. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics and Medical Sciences from Western University, and a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Business Administration from Thompson Rivers University. During her time at TRU, Sarah worked for the Career and Experiential Learning Department as a co-op student and teaching assistant for COOP 1000.

She also completed a co-op work term with PLAR, where she assisted the team with various projects, including updating educational resources, restructuring Moodle sites, and creating visuals on Canva.

Sarah is excited to be part of the dedicated PLAR team and help students achieve their educational and career goals. Originally from Waterloo, Ontario, Sarah enjoys snowboarding, skiing, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.