Research Advisory Group

The Brenda Strafford Foundation is fortunate to have an external group of academic researchers advising on how to identify and implement research initiatives that benefit the residents we serve and contribute to advancing knowledge and practice to support the improved health and wellness of seniors. This group is comprised of a network of researchers from disciplines including medicine, nursing, environmental design and kinesiology.

Introducing Members of the Research Advisory Group:

Dr. Jayna Holroyd-Leduc (co-chair)
Medical Director Specialized Geriatric Services, Alberta Health Services Calgary Zone
Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary

Navjot Virk RN MN (co-chair)
Research and Innovative Practice Coordinator, The Brenda Strafford Foundation

Dr. David Hogan
The Brenda Strafford Foundation Chair in Geriatric Medicine
Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary

Marc Poulin PhD
The Brenda Strafford Foundation Chair In Alzheimer Research
Cumming School of Medicine and Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary

Jeanne Besner RN, MA, PhD(N)
Previously Director of Health Systems and Workforce Research Unit, Alberta Health Services

Lorraine Venturato PhD
Chair in Gerontology, Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary

Dr. William Ghali
Scientific Director of the O’Brien Institute for Public Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary

John Brown PhD
Interim Dean, Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary

Dr. Michelle Grinman
General Internal Medicine Specialist, Alberta Health Services and Clinical Knowledge Lead at Seniors Health Strategic Clinical Network

Wayne Giles PhD
Board Member, The Brenda Strafford Foundation
Human Performance Lab, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary

Susan Slaughter PhD, GNC(c), RN
Associate Professor, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta

Dr. MaryJane Shankel
Medical Director Bow View Manor and Wentworth Manor, The Brenda Strafford Foundation

Mike Conroy
President and CEO, The Brenda Strafford Foundation

Jenny Robinson RN, BN, M.Ed, CHE 
Chief Operating Officer, The Brenda Strafford Foundation