Please join us in celebrating Program Advisor Christine Graham and Professor Deborah O’Connor as they retire following over three decades of service at UBC!
Christine Graham
Christine Graham has worked at UBC for over 37 years, supporting students as the Program Advisor for the BSW, MSW, and PhD programs in the School of Social Work for the past 20 years.
She says that working with students across all programs has been the most rewarding aspect of her job.
“I will miss supporting our School of Social Work students in their academic journey,” Christine said. “I really admire their hard work and persistence – it has been an honour to witness them.”
As Advisor, Christine saw over 2,000 students graduate during her two decades of service. As she retires, she looks forward to continuing her lifelong learning journey by taking classes in French and learning to horseback ride.
Deb O’Connor
Dr. Deborah O’Connor has served as a faculty member in the School of Social Work for over 30 years, where she specializes in social care across the lifespan.
Deb’s work took place at the nexus of research and practice, serving as Director of the Centre for Research on Personhood and Dementia while maintaining an active social work practice.
“Theory and practice have always gone hand-in-hand in my lifelong work combatting stigma and discrimination against dementia,” Deb said. “What has been most rewarding in my career is seeing the treatment landscape around dementia change over time. I also enjoy encountering former students in my social work practice!”
Deb looks forward to devoting herself to an active lifestyle in retirement, spending time sailing, kayaking, paddling, dancing, x-country skiing, and spending time with her two grandchildren.
