UAT profiles: meet Julia Jones-Bourque

In this new series, get to know some of the people who have taken on new roles as part of the university's operating model.

Julia Jones-Bourque

• Current position: Manager of Internal Communications (Students), External Relations
• Time with the university: 17 years
• Former position: Marketing and Communications Manager, University of Alberta International

What do you like most about your current position?

It's really dynamic and always evolving. I love that I have the capacity to shape and contribute to the creation of impactful new strategies and processes that will influence how we work together. Things are different every day and you never know what might come up, so there's always opportunity to flex, grow, and connect with new people. It's a really exciting journey so far and I'm truly enjoying it.

How was the transition into your new position?

Having been with my previous office, University of Alberta International (UAI), since the beginning of my university career, it's been an emotional change. It was a great environment in which to grow and learn and I am sincerely thankful for the time I spent there.

It's important to me that I use all of the great things I learned at UAI and find innovative ways to apply them in my new position, so that I can find new and exciting ways to contribute to the university and the community.

Has your unit experienced any successes or progress as part of the UAT initiative?

The Internal Communications Team has successfully hired for all of our positions and I am really proud and in awe of the talented team that we have built! Everyone has such great ideas to share and everyone is focused on enhancing the student experience at the U of A. It's a thrill to be part of building this brand new team and I'm looking forward to all of the great things we will accomplish together.

What aspect of UAT has been more challenging than you expected?

It is a bit challenging to start a new role in a remote environment because everything work-wise has changed except for you and your at-home workspace! One day you log off and then the next you need to log on but wearing an entirely new hat, if you will. It makes for an interesting transition because you need a strong mental shift in order to get into the groove of things.

When you think of the U of A of Tomorrow, what are you most looking forward to?

I am looking forward to "one brand" for the university, which will help us present a more cohesive image of excellence to our key audiences and ultimately enhance the reputation of the university worldwide.

This past July, the new structure for the External Relations portfolio was announced after several months of work and consultation with key stakeholders from across the university. Predicating service delivery to faculties and units on strategic, responsive, and timely service, the restructured ER portfolio will deliver its services through Centres of Expertise (CoE). The Internal Communications CoE is responsible for overseeing institutional student (current) and faculty/staff communications to ensure timely and prioritized information sharing and strategic engagement.

If you'd like to be featured in the UAT profile series, or would like to nominate someone, please contact uat@ualberta.ca.