A Journey with Donalda Cormier

Donalda Cormier has led an impactful career at University of Calgary Continuing Education, teaching the course Powerful Presentations. Although she had always wanted to be a teacher as young child, her journey into education happened by chance. "I would say it was more by accident than by design," Donalda recalls, as a conversation with one of the professors in her master's degree led her to an opportunity to teach one of their courses, and into the teaching profession.

You are the presentation; your technology is not the presentation.

Donalda's professional experience extends beyond the classroom. Her diverse background as a life skills coach and organizational development consultant has greatly influenced her teaching. "Because of the background that I brought from my other work, I was able to listen from a whole different perspective," she says. Her ability to provide feedback on both the structure and content of students' presentations, drawn from her extensive career, has been a significant benefit to her students.

Her passion for teaching is evident in her work, especially in the way she helps students grow and develop practical skills. She recalls students who have returned to share how they applied what they learned in her courses, and how some even influenced their entire organizations, leading to a ripple effect of learning and growth. She recalls two young men in particular who were initially uncomfortable with the idea of presenting. Through her encouragement, they not only improved their skills but also went on to influence significant policy changes within their organization. "I really saw their courage," she reflects.

Teaching for many years, Donalda has observed the evolution of students, particularly in their relationship with technology. "Technology has changed dramatically, but human biology has not," she notes, highlighting how despite technological advancements, the fundamental human needs and fears remain constant. She emphasizes the importance of personal connection over technology, telling her students, "You are the presentation; your technology is not the presentation."

I think part of why I am here is my commitment to living, and also my commitment to continue to learn and find ways to make a difference.

Donalda's perspective on teaching is deeply intertwined with her commitment to lifelong learning. Despite facing significant health challenges, including stage four cirrhosis of the liver caused by a rare autoimmune disorder and overcoming ovarian cancer years prior, she continues to learn and adapt. "For me, learning is a lifelong journey," she shares. Although she was told her prognosis is poor, she believes the reason why she has persevered is her commitment, "I think part of why I am here is my commitment to living, and also my commitment to continue to learn and find ways to make a difference."

Reflecting on her time at the University of Calgary, Donalda expresses deep gratitude for the support she received and the learnings she's accumulated along the way. With teaching the program, she says, "I learned things that I wouldn't possibly have had the opportunity to know about." Recognizing this unique inseparability of teaching and learning has made Donalda's personal journey all the more rewarding.

Donalda Cormier, Continuing Education Instructor