New leadership for MHC’s School of Health & Community Services
Medicine Hat College (MHC) is pleased to announce a new dean for its School of Health & Community Services.
Jason Openo has served as the director of teaching and learning at MHC since 2014, providing vision and leadership to support effective library services, teaching and learning practices, educational technology, and opportunities that enhance student learning and faculty instruction. He also filled the role of interim dean for health and community services following the departure of Dr. Harrison Applin in July 2022.
“We are excited to welcome Jason to this role, recognizing the depth of his professional capacity, coupled with institutional knowledge, will provide significant support to the School of Health & Community Services,” says Clay Bos, interim vice-president academic and provost. “Jason provided exceptional leadership through the summer months and we look forward to the insight he will continue to bring in this permanent position.”
Openo holds a Doctor of Education in Distance Education from Athabasca University, a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Washington and a Bachelor of Arts - Political Science from the Gerald R. Ford School for Leadership in Public Policy and Service. He has also co-authored a book on authentic assessment, book chapters, along with numerous peer-reviewed articles, and presented at educational workshops and conferences worldwide.
His past career experience is diverse, with roles ranging from social work and community services to library management and program development.
With a passion for teaching and learning, Jason now looks forward to supporting faculty in new ways.
“I love Medicine Hat, Medicine Hat College, and Southeast Alberta. Strong communities need strong community colleges, and the stars seem to be aligning for the School of Health and Community Services,” says Openo. “Alberta 2030 outlines that the future of post-secondary education in Alberta is to build skills for jobs. This is also MHC’s role as a comprehensive community college and part of our strategic priorities. We need to focus on developing skills, improving access, and enhancing the student experience.”
Openo will move into the dean role on Oct. 1, 2022.