October 31, 2017ConnectFall 2017

PMA Member Spotlight

Michelle Stubnya
Communications Officer
Family Medicine

Submitted by Janelle Pritchard
Marketing and Communications Committee

Michelle Stubnya, Communications Officer, Department of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry

Michelle grew up in London, Ontario. She has an Hons. BA in Media, Information & Technoculture (MIT) from Western University, a Master of Journalism degree from Ryerson University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations from Western Continuing Studies.

As part of her undergraduate degree, Michelle also spent a year abroad studying Portuguese language and culture at the University of Coimbra, the oldest University in Portugal and one of the oldest in the world.

What was your first job?

Working as an office assistant/receptionist for my family’s business, followed closely by working in the chalet at Boler Mountain.

Please tell us what your PMA role is?

I currently work as the Communications Officer in the Department of Family Medicine at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.

How has being a member benefited you?

Joining the PMA, sitting on a committee, and eventually co-chairing the Marketing and Communications Committee and being a part of the PMA Executive, has been a very rewarding and educational experience. I have learned so much from my colleagues across the university, and really value the networking opportunities available through professional development workshops, luncheons and social outings.

What is a fun fact about you?

I’ve played sports for as long as I can remember, and continue to play on a women’s masters soccer team that competes in the Ontario Cup.

Why did you sign up to be part of the PMA?

At the time, as a fairly new employee of Western University, I signed up to be part of the PMA to learn more about my work environment and to be a part of something larger than myself, my department and my colleagues. Being a part of such a large group of working professionals is truly inspiring.

What makes you-you? What are your passions and what do you do outside of work?

What makes me, me? When I’m not wearing my communications hat and my heels, I’m mummy to a super energetic and rambunctious almost four-year-old little boy. We live a busy life, full of play dates and extracurricular activities. On the weekend, you’ll either find me in an arena, on the soccer pitch, in a 4Cats children’s art class, at the pool, or running around the playground at our local Springbank Park. We’re proud to be a part of our Byron community and like to support local ventures and family attractions. We’re also members of the London Children’s Museum and Storybook Gardens.

How do you maintain work-life balance?

Sport and physical activity has always been a huge part of my life. I maintain a healthy work-life balance by continuing to play soccer for the Byron Fury, enjoying a Body by Lagree fitness class after work, hiking the Komoka trails, and I’m hoping to get back out on my snowboard once the snow starts to fall.