McDermott + Bull has successfully placed Patrena Mackie as Dean of Health and Social Development at Okanagan College. Patrena will guide the Health and Social Development portfolio, focusing on strategic innovation and academic excellence. She will work closely with the Vice President, Academic and leadership team to develop institution-wide policies and contribute to long-term planning efforts that align with the college’s mission, vision, values, and strategic direction.
Patrena brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles at Bow Valley College, where she served as Associate Dean and Academic Chair. Her responsibilities included the management and leadership of the Practical Nurse program, ensuring operational and academic excellence and compliance with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta. Additionally, she managed the Allied Health portfolio, focusing on accreditation and curriculum management, significantly contributing to her expertise in educational leadership.
Situated in the southern interior of British Columbia, Okanagan College offers a diverse range of programs to approximately 16,000 students. As the second-largest trades training institution in B.C., the college provides education in fields such as arts, science, business administration, health and social development, and more, including unique areas like viticulture and sustainable building technology.
This executive search was completed by McDermott + Bull Principal Alex Verdeccia and Senior Consultant + Head of Recruitment Brittany Stansfield.