Administration Staff
Originally from northern BC, Sarah-Kim (SK) has a background in applied anthropology and policy. She holds a double major in Asian Studies and Anthropology and an MA in Asian Pacific Policy Studies from UBC. Her doctorate examines institutional behaviour in response to heritage issues with the University of Leiden. SK’s diverse teaching background extends across global business, law and policy into academic writing, and cross-cultural communication. She has worked for various academic institutions in Canada and abroad while working on an educational capacity-building project in Southeast Asia. SK lives in Nelson with her family.
Melanie is a detail-oriented administrative professional with 15 years of combined local and international experience in both academic and the corporate sectors. She stands out in providing adept support to leadership, students, and faculty within the culturally diverse environment of a post-secondary institution. Holding a Master's Degree in Educational Management and a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education, she is dedicated to enhancing productivity and operational efficiency at KCC. In 2023, Melanie and her family landed in the wonderful town of Nelson.
Since graduating with a degree in International Development from the University of Guelph, Hailey has been on a journey driven by her passion for fostering sustainable change. Specifically, Hailey focuses on sustainable agriculture as a means to build resilient and socially just food systems.
Building on her experiences, Hailey pursued a certificate in Sustainable Agriculture at the University of British Columbia following her internship with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) of the United Nations.
Recently, Hailey relocated to Nelson to immerse herself in the region's natural beauty, pursuing outdoor activities such as rock climbing and skiing.
Lilith comes to KCCIHS with a strong background in administration and communications. She has a lifelong interest in a holistic approach to health. Her wilderness farm upbringing gave her the opportunity to learn firsthand about the importance of knowing how to maintain the health of humans and the critters.
Lilith holds a Diploma in Computer Information Systems from Selkirk College and a Bachelor of Commerce from Royal Roads University and has spent a number of years working in administrative roles in academic and medical-related organizations. These skills enable her to be of support to students, faculty, and fellow staff in her role as Administrator.
Lynndel has lived in Nelson for 7 years. Before being in an administrative role for the past 5 years, she ran her own CranioSacral practice in Alberta. Fun facts: she loves dogs, being on the water, and jumping out of airplanes and off tall bridges.
Asa made Nelson his home in 2020 with his wife and beloved dog, JOJO. With a Diploma in Digital Arts from Selkirk College, he brings a range of skills and work experiences to his role at KCCIHS. Asa's life is a blend of outdoor adventures and the simple pleasures of home, reflecting his dedication to embracing both the extraordinary and everyday joys in life.
Ben has a Bachelor of Commerce and a Post Graduate diploma in Accounting. He comes to KCC with 7 years of academic and work experience in Finance and Accounting. He has been serving as the Finance Officer for Kootenay Columbia College since December 2023.
When he is not crunching numbers, Ben enjoys listening to and creating music and is currently learning to play the guitar.
I'm kaushik, an accountant at KCC, and I recently wrapped up my MBA journey after five years of balancing work and study. I'm all about growth, both personally and professionally. At work, I'm crunching numbers and ensuring everything balances out smoothly. But outside the office, you'll find me exploring the world, soaking in new cultures, and picking up new skills along the way. Whether it's learning a new language or trying out a new recipe, I'm always up for a challenge.
Paul Gaucher, R. TCM. P, R. Ac.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Program Manager
This 4-year full-time program involved intensive studying of acupuncture, herbalism, diet, nutrition, and emotional health.
At a young age, Paul had a fascination with nature and biology. This innate curiosity about life inspired him to study the patterns of the natural world, and ultimately to embrace TCM.
Paul has a passion for bringing people to their full health potential and seeks to bridge the roots of the guiding principles of TCM with modern health challenges. He’s genuinely motivated to help individuals with a wide range of health issues.
Paul is an instructor, clinic supervisor and our Program Manager within the TCM program at KCC. His primary responsibilities include ensuring program alignment with CTCMA and Canadian healthcare standards, contributing to the development and management of course curriculum, and overseeing instruction to meet objectives of the TCM Program. Paul is the main point of contact for clinic supervisors, instructors, dispensary, and clinic coordinators.
Judith Barta
RMT Program Manager
Kootenay Columbia College proudly welcomes Judie Barta as the RMT Program Manager. Judie graduated from the Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy in 1996 and has been involved in the Kelowna wellness community for almost thirty years, equating to many CECs! Her passion for wellness and environmental stewardship creates the foundation for everything she does. While keeping her accreditation current, Judie has continually challenged herself with new endeavours, including building businesses in other industries. Now that her daughters are creating their own lives, Judie looks forward to sharing her knowledge and experience with the students and faculty of KCC as our RMT Program Manager. Judie looks forward to exploring Nelson, the Kootenays, and our mountain life when she is not teaching. When you see her in the hallways, please extend your warmest welcome to Judie.
Allie Bates, R. TCM. P
TCM Clinic Coordinator
She enjoys the dynamic yet easygoing Kootenay lifestyle and connecting with other practitioners in a community that embraces health and wellness. Allie is excited to be joining the KCC team to help coordinate the Chinese Medicine clinic. She is eager to cultivate a vibrant space for students, staff and patients!
Annie Fortin, RMT
Massage Student Clinic Manager
Annie is a graduate of the first cohort of Registered Massage Therapy students at Kootenay Columbia College. She is a successful clinic owner and massage practitioner.
Annie has a genuine passion for wanting to help people, which led her to the health profession of massage therapy. She graduated from the Registered Massage Therapist Program here at Kootenay Columbia College (KCC) in 2019 and opened her own private practice, Blue Lotus Therapeutics. She knows firsthand the transformative power of manual therapy. She holds also a diploma in business administration, and has experience owning a retail store, and a dog day hiking business. Annie finds joy in helping others pursue their dreams, which is what leads her back to KCC. She enjoys camping, traveling, being on the water and in the mountains.
Chris Holland has enjoyed over 25 years in post-secondary and adult education. He has a passion for helping people find their career path and prepare them for future opportunities. He believes that promoting the unifying properties of health and education is key to a prosperous community. Over the years Chris has worked in many different industries and disciplines from business consulting and recruitment to marketing and teaching. In all of his opportunities he has focused on understanding the unique qualities of each situation to foster strong relationships. He looks forward to working with students, staff, and alumni to help everyone reach their true potential. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact him.
Abhay is a second-year postgraduate diploma student specializing in Business Management. With a solid academic foundation and a commitment to excellence, he brings strong critical thinking abilities, effective communication skills, and adaptability to new challenges. He is an ambitious and innovative professional with a passion for leadership and problem-solving. He looks forward to meeting the Kootenay Columbia College community in his role as Social Media Coordinator.
