Get to know the people of SPH: Genevieve Montemurro

As a research coordinator – knowledge translation and exchange, Genevieve Montemurro (MSc ‘09) works to share public health research with communities, organizations and other researchers, allowing evidence to be put into use. She was recently recognized for her contributions and impact on campus and to the community with a Celebrate! Award. 

Get to know a bit more about Genevieve Montemurro and her work below. 

Q&A 

How long have you been with the School of Public Health? 

I have been with the School of Public Health as a research staff member since 2011, but I first joined the SPH as a master’s student in 2007.

What does a typical work day look like for you? 

Every day looks a bit different depending on the projectsI am supporting. I am fortunate to be involved in various aspects of the research process, so my work can be quite dynamic. A typical day might involve qualitative data collection or analysis, developing knowledge translation strategies or products, engaging with community stakeholders or project partners, and supporting graduate students and volunteers. Also Zoom…there’s always Zoom!

What is your educational background? 

I’m a two-time University of Alberta graduate. I completed a bachelor of arts in psychology with an anthropology minor in 2006, and a master of science, health promotion in 2009. I worked at the Cross Cancer Institute throughout my undergraduate degree. That experience was really foundational in developing my interest in health promotion and a career in public health.

What is a highlight of your career so far? 

I think the highlight for me is probably cumulative. I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many incredible colleagues and community partners over the years, building relationships and deepening my own knowledge and research skills. It’s been inspiring to see the evolution of single ideas sparked from early conversations, grow into research projects that help to support wellness in communities.

What do you find meaningful about your work with SIRCLE Lab and the Centre for Healthy Communities?

Having the opportunity to advance and mobilize knowledge in the areas of school and community health.

What is the most interesting project you've been a part of? 

We’re wrapping up a multiple case study project right on well-being in K-12 education, looking at how and why six school authorities in Alberta and British Columbia have been able to prioritize well-being and shift school culture. As part of our knowledge translation strategy, we worked with a production company to develop short videos for each school authority. We wanted to give participants a way to share their own district well-being story, with the hopes to inspire other school jurisdictions across Canada. The videography production process itself was really interesting to be a part of, and new to me. Working through the vision (concept, questions, script) and small details (final edits, music) with the production team and our district partners was an incredibly rewarding experience.

How does it feel to be recognized for your contributions with this award? 

Throughout my time at the University of Alberta I have had the privilege of working with so many truly excellent research support staff. I know there are many people within the university that are making incredibly valuable contributions to research success so I am really honoured to be a recipient of this award.