Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) alumni are responding to the COVID-19 situation with policies, recommendations, and actions in professional roles that span the public and private sectors, and non-governmental agencies.
We heard from twelve MPPGA alumni about what their current policy work entails and how is it impacting their organization and key stakeholders, both in Canada and across the world. They also illustrated how the MPPGA program prepared them with the skills, perspectives, and knowledge they needed to address a rapidly changing situation. Each of them is working towards positive change, to meet an unprecedented health crisis that has growing impacts on society and the global economy.
Learn more about MPPGA alum, Adrianna Spyker, in her career spotlight below:
Photo Credit: Adrianna Spyker
Adrianna Spyker, Community Health Specialist, Population and Public Health, Fraser Health Authority
Currently I am working for the Fraser Health Authority within Population and Public Health as a Community Health Specialist. In my role, I conduct research, analyze and apply data to prepare reports, and provide presentations on practice and evidence to inform local government and the Health Authority on community health initiatives. Recent topics I have worked on from a public health lens include food security, vaping, vulnerable and housing insecure populations, settlement and newcomer engagement, mental health and addictions.
Currently, my role has be focused on COVID-19 response. During this time, there are many questions and uncertainties. As a liaison for the Health Authority, I collaborate and engage with municipalities and community organizations in their response and planning for COVID-19 as the Health Authority representative. I work with multiple-stakeholders, which include top decision-makers and community organizations, by providing information and support for decision-making and operation in addition to identifying and connecting missing-links or gaps.
This is a very unique time and this is a challenging and dynamic role in which flexibility, coordination, strong and effective communication, as well as critical policy and data analysis are important. The MPPGA program prepared me with skills to confidently assert myself in this position.
The seriousness of COVID-19 reinforces the need for effective and meaningful engagement with strategic and informed decision-making. I appreciate the MPPGA program’s emphasis on policy strategy, processes and collaboration. The implementation and functions within the policy cycle are complex and challenging however, if individuals can understand not only each step of a policy process but have the skills for research, engagement and collaboration it will assist in a more effective outcome or process. The skills techniques taught directly or learned indirectly throughout the MPPGA program are valuable and have prepared me for professional policy work.
Each day, there are new developments of issues or challenges. The diverse learning experience of the MPPGA program has helped me navigate through my role so that I have be able to provide meaningful contributions to our communities’ response to COVID-19.
