The B.A.R.K. program simply would not be possible without the dedication and passion of our student volunteers. Each year, we conclude the academic year by celebrating our graduating students. This year we show our appreciation for, and celebrate the achievements of, four wonderful volunteers who have dedicated over 20 years between them to the B.A.R.K. program! To celebrate their graduation, we asked them to leave us with a comment that summarizes their favourite aspects of volunteering with the program.
Camille Rousseau – PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies (‘24) All while balancing her own research, Camille has been involved with the Friday drop-ins, BARK2GO, our Building Confidence and Kindness through K9s program with Gr 4-8, our stress-reduction program at the RCMP, and many research projects/special events for over 6 years! We will miss Camille’s enthusiasm, hard-work, and expertise but we wish her all the best in her future endeavours. “Being a part of the B.A.R.K. program afforded me the opportunity to my bolster canine-assisted intervention research skills and be a part of something larger than my own research. There is something special about being part of a distinguished, research informed program that holds the potential to brighten people’s day”
Amelia Willcox – BSc in Biology, minor in Psychology (‘24) Amelia began volunteering with B.A.R.K. in 2018 and quickly became an integral member of the B.A.R.K. team, especially in the behind-the-scenes running of our programs and research studies. Amelia has also been a wonderful advocate of the program and has presented at numerous international conferences on behalf of B.A.R.K. and UBC! We will miss her infectious energy, tireless commitment, and enthusiasm but wish her all the best in her future in Animal-Assisted Play Therapy. “I have gained so many valuable research and interpersonal skills. I also got the opportunity to work with pretty amazing people! My favourite part? The friends I made, the time I spent talking to other volunteers and guests of B.A.R.K., and petting the dogs!”
Meg Allan – BSc in Biology, minor in History (‘24) Whether it’s helping to run a session, welcoming attendees at the check-in desk, running a BARK2Go station, or tirelessly keeping us up to date with data entry, Meg has been a passionate and dedicated member of the program since 2019. We will miss their passion for working with people and animals, their willingness to help with any task, and their friendly, kind, and empathetic nature. We wish them all the best in their move to the University of Victoria to pursue a B’Ed in Education. “The best bit? The community. I am leaving this program having made countless new friends and having found a space that is kind, inclusive, and incredibly fun. I am so grateful for the opportunities this program has given me to grow and learn as a volunteer, a student, and a researcher. I’ve learned so much about research, canine welfare, student welfare, and even myself”
Hugo Tanade – BMgt in Management (‘24) Often seen running a BARK2GO station in the library, hosting VEDA sessions, or at drop-ins on Fridays, Hugo has been volunteering for B.A.R.K. since 2019. A ‘dog-guy’ through and through, Hugo’s friendly spirit and passion for contributing back to his community has made him an integral member of the B.A.R.K. team. We will miss his positive attitude, ability to connect with people (and dogs), and infectious smile, but we’re excited to see him successfully launch into his career. “BARK has really helped me to polish my public speaking skills and it’s been an amazing experience to talk with everyone who comes to sessions, to share these moments, and see students leaving sessions with smiles! My favourite part is being part of the community and having the opportunity to work with all the wonderful volunteers, supervisors, dog handlers, and of course the lovely dogs!”
