“Working with Deena has been an absolute delight! She has provided a wealth of knowledge that has significantly enhanced my skills as a learning strategist. I have become better equipped to support students with their academic challenges by discussing specific case consultations and working through possible solutions. I truly value her approach, which emphasizes honouring students and their unique skillsets. Deena’s coaching philosophy is very collaborative, which gives an opportunity to process and integrate her valuable information and recommendations.”
— Venus Bali, MSc Learning Strategist, Student Experience Coordinator, Student Success, Mount Saint Vincent University
“Deena brings an incomparable mixture of knowledge, passion and kindness to her work which results in an incredibly authentic experience. Deena weaves together her knowledge and enthusiasm in a way that leaves you feeling educated and inspired. Time with Deena is time well spent! Deena has a wonderful energy and natural kindness that makes her presentations both compelling and comfortable. Deena is a talented facilitator, trainer, and educator and her style is welcoming and engaging. You will not be disappointed! I can say with the utmost confidence that you will thoroughly enjoy your time with Deena.”
— Jim Harris, Director of Operations, Canadian Mental Health Association
“Deena, you’re amazing! Thank you for helping me figure out what was not working in my study habits and recommending simple, bite-size, doable recommendations on time management and setting priorities. You’ve made studying much more efficient and a lot more enjoyable!”
— Sahar Sherry, RMT & student at the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy
“I have had the pleasure of working with Deena for almost two years, as she has been continuously supporting my work to support students who are struggling to experience the kind of success they want in their post-secondary experience.
Deena’s generous, thoughtful, kind and respectful way of moving about the classroom creates a space where anxieties fade and confidence can be built. I have had the pleasure of attending two conferences co-led by Deena, and been in many meetings, where her warmth and knowledge are abundantly obvious to anyone interacting with her. I know my institution would not be experiencing the kind of success we are without Deena’s support.
Simply put, Deena inherently sees the strength in everyone, and has a lovely way of going about getting you to see it (and put it to work!), too. I genuinely look forward to continuing out working relationship, and am incredibly grateful for the support I have received so far.”
— Caiti Casey, Bounce Back Program Coordinator, University of Windsor
“Deena is a talented and engaging facilitator, whose passion for student wellness and learning is contagious. Deena’s facilitation approach creates a safe space for learning and growth, and a deep sense of calm. Her expertise and experience in promoting learning strategies and creating conditions for students to thrive shine through in all of her work. Deena is committed to equipping students, educators, and organizations with the tools, knowledge, and skills they need to foster success. I’d recommend her work to any individual or organization seeking to enhance their capacity for learning, and experience an immense sense of joy while doing so.”
— Rick Ezekiel, MSc, Director, Equitable Learning, Health & Wellness, Centennial College
“Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer is a trailblazer in the Learning Specialist field. She has bolstered our profession with her expertise in fostering mindful learning strategies and has given us the tools to build resilience programming at our own institutions. Most importantly, Deena is a down to earth, genuine individual, who truly knows how to connect with others and makes them feel at ease, the minute they meet her. ”
— Mona Frial-Brown, MEd, Manager of Student Success, York University, and Former Eastern Regional Chair, Learning Specialist Association of Canada
