Meet Jackie Howard, Director, Continuing Professional Development.
Name:
Jackie Howard
My pronouns:
She/her
Title:
Director, Continuing Professional Development
Campus:
City Square
How long have you worked at the UBC Faculty of Medicine?
Two months. I’ve been with UBC for 11 years though, at the Sauder School of Business Executive Education.
Tell us what you do at the Faculty in one or two sentences:
I lead the Continuing Professional Development unit (CPD), where we create, deliver, accredit and evaluate lifelong learning for health professionals in B.C. and beyond. Our mission is to design and deliver exceptional learning opportunities that improve care and respond to emerging health needs.
What’s your favourite thing about your work?
I love working at the intersection of education and real-world application. I can see the positive impact that learning can have on individuals, organizations and communities firsthand. It’s especially meaningful in the health care space! I also love that our team and the work we do is so collaborative.
What’s one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
Most people are surprised to learn that I have Chinese heritage. My mum is from Hong Kong.
Where is your favourite vacation spot, and why?
I love to be warm, so tropical beach vacations are my preference — Railay Bay in the south of Thailand is one of my favourites. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and it has a sentimental connection for me. I grew up in Thailand and have been going to Railay since the early ‘90s (before it got over-developed). And of course, the food is a huge bonus!
What do you do regularly to invest in your mental and/or physical health?
I make sure I get outside for a walk at some point every day, ideally several times a day — it’s so important to get a break from the computer screen! I also do hot yoga regularly and get into nature on hikes with my family.
What trait do you most admire in others?
The ability to find innovative solutions. Problem solving requires creativity and resourcefulness, and it’s something I’m lucky to see in the CPD team every day as we work with partners to address needs in the health community.
Published: June 2023