Rachael M. ClasbyRachael’s Bio:
I was born in Dawson Creek and grew up in Burnaby. During my undergraduate studies, I attended Capilano College and Simon Fraser University before completing my degree in Human Geography at UNBC in 2003. In January 2004, I began a Master’s in Natural Resource and Environmental Studies. My topic explores the role of local governance in responding to population aging in the town of Mackenzie, a resource-dependent community (pop’n 5,500) in northern BC. In the summer of 2004, I participated in the Mackenzie and Area Seniors’ Needs Overview study. Final Reports from this project are available for downloading below.
Jessica McGregorI completed my degree in Human Geography at UNBC in April 2005 and shortly thereafter commenced graduate studies in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies. My thesis will identify the health impacts of land use changes resulting from mining development in a First Nations community in northern British Columbia.
In 2003-2004, I participated in a collaborative research project that used Geographic Information Systems to measure access to 24 hour emergency services in northern British Columbia. The results are published in the Canadian Journal of Rural Medicine and are accessible online at http://www.cma.ca/index.cfm/ci_id/44834/la_id/1.htm.
Pamela PriorIn 2005, I graduated from UNBC with a degree in Anthropology. I am currently working on an Interdisciplinary Masteršs Program with a focus on Aboriginal Health and my research interests include food security in rural and remote communities and impacts that may have on health outcomes.
I am trained as an ophthalmic technician and had worked in the field of ophthalmology in both urban and remote communities in both Newfoundland and British Columbia. I am interested in continuing my education in the prevention of chronic disease through the study of culture, place, and health.