2013 alumni report - saskatchewan legislative internship...

2013 Alumni

Report

Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program – 2013 Alumni Report

2

2013 SLIP: A Year in Review

By Jenna Orban, 2013 Saskatchewan Legislative Intern

In January the Legislative Building opened its doors to the

2013 interns. This year, the interns consisted of three gals, one

guy; three University of Saskatchewan students and one

University of Regina student; and three lefties and one righty.

Simon Hutton, Michelle Neufeld, Jenna Orban and Paula

Steckler quickly felt at home in the marble palace.

The two week orientation flew by quickly and before we knew it we were fighting over our

future MLA mentors. We were lucky this year to have three new members volunteer for the

program – Warren Steinley, Rob Norris and Jennifer Campeau. Paula and Jenna began with

opposition members Danielle Chartier and Warren McCall, right in the midst of a leadership race

for NDP. The interns were all thrilled to attend the NDP leadership convention in Saskatoon.

Michelle and Simon went off to the government side working with Rob Norris and Warren

Steinley.

When session began, the interns spent many afternoons watching proceedings, media scrums and

committee meetings. Like all interns before them, question period was the highlight of their day.

They appreciated the time they spent with their members inside the building during the fast

paced months of session. Budget Day was a big highlight, especially with the Speaker’s tea,

where they learned of the infamous swan creampuffs. Easter Break offered a reprieve for the

members, but the interns set off to La Ronge and Stanley Mission for their Northern

Saskatchewan comparative-study tour. They enjoyed the Northern hospitality with meetings

with Mayor Thomas Sierzycki, Chief Tammy Cook Searson, city councillors and band

councillors as well as a tour of the Town of La Ronge’s fire hall and the Saskatchewan Ministry

of the Environment’s Northern Aviation Operations. The interns were even featured in the local

paper, The La Ronge Northerner.

During the first term the interns were also able to attend the conventions of the Saskatchewan

Urban Municipalities Association and the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities.

The conventions were great opportunities for the interns to learn about the complexities of

provincial government relations with municipalities.

The second term began with the switching of sides. Simon and Michelle began with opposition

members David Forbes and Cathy Sproule. Jenna and Paula started working with government

members Jennifer Campeau and Nadine Wilson. The first week of the term was hectic with

selling tickets to the annual SLIP Steak Night fundraiser which was a great success.

At the end of May came the end of session and the beginning of the SLIP trip to Ottawa. The

interns spent five days in our country’s capital. With a lot of help from the interns involved with

the Parliamentary Internship Program, who planned the trip, we had a jam packed schedule of

meetings and tours. Highlights included question period, the debates over the actions of some

Senators, and meetings with some Saskatchewan MPs. Although it never stopped raining during

our visit, as well as the stifling humidity, the interns enjoyed their time in Ottawa.


3

During the second term, the interns made a brief trip out to North Battleford to attend the

Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce convention and to tour the Northland Power Plant. We

also took the opportunity to make a day trip to Moose Jaw to visit with Mayor Deb Higgins and

City Councillor Heather Eby. Days were also spent meeting with various provincial government

ministers to learn more about government ministry work.

The SLIP international comparative-study trip took place at the end of June and went into the

beginning of July. The 2013 interns visited Edinburgh, Dublin and London, with a brief stop in

Edmonton. The interns spent their days in the different parliaments, learning much about not

only their governments and the parliaments, but also the political climates of each of the

countries. It seemed that everywhere they went there was a referendum taking place in the near

future. In Scotland, a referendum over independence from the United Kingdom is scheduled for

September 2014. In Ireland, questions of legitimacy of their second house, the Seanad, caused a

referendum to question its abolishment. Westminster in London was considering a referendum

on the United Kingdom’s participation in the European Union. Besides learning about the major

issues underlying these referenda, the interns also met with people regarding various themes

including women in politics, climate change, international relations, and legislative processes.

The interns really enjoyed their trip and got a lot out of their meetings.

Some highlights of the year included Twitter domination. The 2013 interns were able to get up

to 173 followers by the end of their time at the Legislature. The Program also acquired is own

camera, which allowed for an abundance of photos to be taken.

All in all, the 2013 internship was a success with a few firsts, but many tried and true

experiences that the 2013 interns, like many before them, were able to appreciate and enjoy.

Follow the 2014 SLIP Interns on Twitter beginning in January 2014! @SLIPinterns

Message from the Speaker

By Hon. Dan D’Autremont, Speaker, Legislative Assembly of

Saskatchewan

As Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, it was my pleasure and privilege to

be the Patron of the Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program (SLIP). I

continue to support and encourage both university students and graduates,

along with the MLAs, to participate in the Program.

SLIP provides interns an opportunity to acquire a thorough knowledge and

understanding of the operation of the Legislature and the political operation

of caucus on both sides of the House. Interns gain an in-depth understanding of our legislative

process and Parliamentary democracy.

As an MLA, I have had the occasion to work with three interns. It is a very rewarding

partnership and I encourage MLAs to participate in the program.


4

From my experience, I know that MLAs benefit from having interns who fill the role as highly

qualified and enthusiastic assistants. Interns are given the opportunity to assist the members with

research and special projects, often bringing a fresh perspective when sharing and discussing

ideas. The more closely the intern can work with the assigned MLA on a daily basis, the more

valuable the experience for both participants.

I would like to thank Mr. Ken Pontikes for the leadership and oversight he provides to the interns

and for his role in maintaining the success of the overall program. I would also like to extend my

thanks to Ms. Monique Lovatt for administration of the program here at the Legislative

Assembly, and for the guidance she provides to the interns on a daily basis.

Trust and confidentiality continue to be the cornerstones of this program and are critical to all

participants and the program’s success. I look forward to working with SLIP to make our Intern

program a valuable experience for all participants.

Message from the Director

By Ken Pontikes, Director, Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program

The Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program is an academic program which provides a

unique educational experience for its interns. Interns who successfully complete all components

of the Program receive six undergraduate academic credits at the University of Saskatchewan or

the University of Regina.

To secure these credits, interns not only are selected to participate in the

Program but they also must formally enroll in, and personally pay the tuition

fees for, one of the academic courses associated with the Program – Political

Studies 482.6 at the University of Saskatchewan or Political Science 480 at

the University of Regina. Interns receive a final grade for the course which

appears on their academic transcripts and can be factored into the completion

of the undergraduate university degree. The grade is determined through a weighted average of

grades for six components of the Program, including a 10 percentage-point weighted grade

determined by the two MLA mentors assigned to each intern.

As part of the academic criteria for the Program, both Universities have declared the opportunity

for interns to be assigned to MLAs from the government and opposition caucuses as a

fundamental component of the Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program. On several

occasions since the Program began in 2002, both Universities have reaffirmed their involvement

in the Program and the academic credits they grant to interns require the participation MLAs

from both caucuses as mentors.

Because interns serve on both sides of the House, the Saskatchewan Legislative Internship

Program strictly adheres to the principle of non-partisanship. Interns and assigned staff of the

Program are expected to conduct themselves in a politically-neutral manner throughout each

internship.

The principle of non-partisanship places many restrictions on students who apply to the Program.

The restrictions were recently discussed by the Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program


5

Advisory Committee. The Committee reconfirmed the approach that has been taken in the past,

including – excluding students who are related to people with high-profile, partisan political

involvement in Saskatchewan and Canada. Students have not been selected for the Program if

they have played major roles in political campaigns, have been employed in politically partisan

positions (e.g. summer employment in a ministerial office), and have personally identified

themselves in social media as supporting or favouring a political party in Saskatchewan. We

have turned down many students’ applications for these reasons.

We also do not permit former or current MLAs from providing references on applications or any

other verbal endorsements for any candidate. Current MLAs do not participate in selecting the

interns, nor are they permitted to participate in the assignment of interns to individual mentors.

The interns determine the assignments to MLA mentors.

Throughout the internship, we are continually reminding the interns of the non-partisanship

requirements of the Program. Interns are not allowed to attend any partisan (e.g. political fund-

raising) events. An exception is made for the provincial parties’ annual conventions, but the

interns attend under instructions which prevent them from engaging in any activity or responding

in any way which suggests partisanship.

With such close involvement with politicians, the political views of interns often evolve during

the internship. Many of our interns make personal decisions about their political preferences

during the seven-months of their participation in the Program. However, they are strictly

forbidden from expressing or demonstrating these preferences during the internship. They are

also not allowed to discuss any employment opportunities of a partisan nature until after they

complete their internship.

It is often difficult to administer these non-partisanship requirements, particularly when they

result in excluding accomplished students from participating in the Saskatchewan Legislative

Internship Program. However, these requirements are essential if the Program is to continue to

operate – both as an academic program of the University of Saskatchewan and the University of

Regina and as a mentorship experience as a guest of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan.

2013 Interns’ Impressions

Simon Hutton, 2013 Saskatchewan Legislative Intern

As this year’s program comes to a close, although saddened by the fact

that I cannot remain here longer, I am satisfied with the many learning

opportunities I had the chance to absorb.

I will admit that my understanding of Saskatchewan politics was a little

short of ignorant bliss prior to the internship. The comparative-study

tours we participated in have not only redefined my perspective on

provincial policy matters, but also changed my understanding of

Saskatchewan culture. It was a humbling experience to meet with so many of Saskatchewan’s

brilliant minds that work tirelessly for the province.


6

I think the most important revelation I affirmed from the many travel opportunities this program

has to offer is fortunately an encouraging one: the Saskatchewan system works! While I will

admit that Saskatchewan does have its issues like any other community, I am now convinced that

the people working in the Saskatchewan government genuinely care about the well-being of the

province and are making a difference. As Saskatchewan continues to grow and establish its

reputation both in Canada and around the world, I am excited to see what is in store for the future

of this province.

I would also like to thank everyone who makes this program possible. From the MLAs who let

us see a glimpse of their world, to the donors who support SLIP financially, and the countless

others I wish I had the space to thank individually -- your contributions are greatly appreciated

and continue to have a lasting impact.

Michelle Neufeld, 2013 Saskatchewan Legislative Intern

I could not have imagined the way that SLIP would change my

perspective on politics and government, not only in Saskatchewan, but

in the world. Through attending events and meeting with influential

people, I have gained knowledge on the many interests within the

province. Through travel to northern Saskatchewan, Ottawa, Ireland,

and the United Kingdom., I was able to compare various perspectives

within the province, the country, and the world. Comparing these

areas has overall given me a very positive view on the Saskatchewan

system. No system is perfect, but I have learned that we have really

great people in both the political and legislative spheres that all play a

role in ensuring that the province continues to thrive.

Working with MLAs Rob Norris and Cathy Sproule has given me a glimpse into what being

elected to serve in the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly would be like. I feel very privileged

to have the insight that I now have into what politicians actually do. The truth is they are

extremely hard working individuals who are strongly committed to making Saskatchewan a

better place. I really enjoyed getting to know both Cathy and Rob and have a lot of respect for

both of these people. As I move forward with all of my future endeavors, I will defend the role

of MLAs and make attempts at mending any negative views of politicians that I am sure to

encounter.

Being given the chance to plan and develop major components of the Saskatchewan Legislative

Internship Program has helped me develop practical skills that I could not have gained from a

classroom. I now have confidence in my ability to organize trips, events, and meetings and my

communication skills have improved as a result. I have no doubt that my experience with SLIP

will assist me in my overall career development.

This program is an amazing opportunity which I am very grateful to have been selected for. I

owe many thanks to everyone who makes the program possible including Ken Pontikes,

Monique Lovatt, the MLAs who volunteer and of course, our generous sponsors. My time spent

as a Saskatchewan Legislative Intern has exceeded my expectations and is something that I will

never forget.


7

Jenna Orban, 2013 Saskatchewan Legislative Intern

I can’t even begin to describe how much I have gained from this

internship! From being almost exclusively interested in international

politics going into the internship, SLIP has reignited my interest in my

own province. Through the program, I was able to gain insight into

Saskatchewan politics from the most unique vantage point possible.

SLIP allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and take in

experiences that I never would have without the program.

Both of my members were able to offer me great opportunities that

really enhanced my involvement with SLIP. Warren McCall and

Jennifer Campeau were able to offer great experiences that I really

valued. With the chance to tour their constituencies and work on their

portfolios, I was able to appreciate the great work being done in the province, as well as the work

that still needs doing. It is clear to me that no matter the political stripe, the members I had the

chance to work with are passionate about improving the lives of their constituents and the people

of the province.

The program has a unique ability to give you a rounded view of diverse perspectives through

meetings, trips and events. Along with the MLA mentorship, the various trips and conferences

we were able to participate in really complemented our knowledge of Saskatchewan, Canada and

the world. The knowledge I obtained through these assorted opportunities will be nothing but

beneficial in my future endeavors.

I feel more confident now than I ever have moving forward into my career. Although I’m not

entirely sure where I want to end up, I can easily say that SLIP has broadened my horizons and

shown me opportunities that I never knew existed. No matter where my future takes me, I can be

certain that SLIP gave me tools that I can take with me where I choose to go.

I would like to send a big thank you to both Ken Pontikes and Monique Lovatt. Without their

devotion to the program, we would have never had such positive experiences. They’re the best!

Paula Steckler, 2013 Saskatchewan Legislative Intern

Over the past seven months, the Saskatchewan Legislative Internship

Program has taught me more about the system and procedures of politics

than any of my university courses. I feel that the knowledge that I have

gained through this internship will have a substantial impact on the career

I choose in the future.

For me, the most enjoyable aspect of the MLA mentorship was the

constituency tours. Both Nadine Wilson and Danielle Chartier have a

strong presence and connection to their constituency. After spending time

in their constituencies and observing the work that they do, it was clear to

me that both Ms. Wilson and Ms. Chartier are in politics because they are devoted to improving

the lives of their constituents. They are not politicians for the sake of a political career, but

rather for the improvement of their constituency and all Saskatchewan citizens.


8

Being an intern for the government and opposition has opened my eyes to the greatness that is

Saskatchewan politics. Though the daily research was not always riveting, the in-depth

knowledge I have gained about the current issues in Saskatchewan was fascinating. I enjoyed

the fast paced aspects of politics such as question period and the media scrums, while also being

able to see the behind the scenes work that prepares the MLAs. Having the opportunity to see all

the research and work that goes into a five-minute media story was amazing.

The skills that I have developed in the program will be invaluable to me in my future career. I

feel blessed to have been given this opportunity and I am thankful to Ken Pontikes and Monique

Lovatt for ensuring the success and continuity of this program. I encourage all students who are

interested in politics to apply to SLIP. You won’t regret it.

2013 Interns and Mentors: Personal Reminisces of the Experience

By Simon Hutton, Jenna Orban, Michelle Neufeld, and Paula Steckler, 2013 Saskatchewan

Legislative Interns

We are very thankful for the participation the Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program by

this year’s MLA mentors. They offer us unique opportunities that really opened our eyes to the

many aspects of their work within the province. We welcomed three new mentors to the

program this year, Jennifer Campeau (MLA, Saskatoon Fairview), Rob Norris (MLA, Saskatoon

Greystone), and Warren Steinley (MLA, Regina Walsh Acres). We appreciate their willingness

to give the program a chance and we hope we didn’t scare them off!

Simon’s Mentors:

Warren Steinley (MLA, Regina Walsh Acres)

With Warren Steinley, Simon had the opportunity to attend a number of

luncheons and community events throughout Regina. His favourite outing

with Mr. Steinley was a trip they took to Balgonie to attend the opening

ceremonies for the Scotties Tournament of Hearts Provincial Curling

Championship. After the ceremony they had the chance to enjoy rink burgers

with some of the event coordinators and spectators in attendance.

“Warren and I had to learn the ropes of the Program together since it was a first for both of us.

I think we found that the internship came naturally, as Warren had me joining him at events right

from the start. From what I saw, Warren works very hard to stay connected with his community

and as a result, he is able to reap the benefits of his labour. I’m just happy I was able to keep

close enough to enjoy some of the benefits myself.”

David Forbes (MLA, Saskatoon Centre)

While shadowing David Forbes, Simon gained a new appreciation for the

legislative process as he spent several late nights in committee debates. Simon

also had the opportunity to attend a seniors’ housing event in Weyburn with his

MLA, as well as explore Mr. Forbes’ Saskatoon constituency. They spent one

afternoon walking along 20th

Street West, to chat with the many business


9

owners and staff in the area. We also found time to stop at the Park Café for a meal.

“Working for David was a great experience because he knew how to make the work fun. He

gave me some really interesting assignments and took me to some unique areas in his Saskatoon

constituency. His passion to serve the people of Saskatoon Centre is evident, considering that it

was not possible to walk through the neighborhood without running into several of his friends.”

Michelle’s Mentors:

Rob Norris (MLA, Saskatoon Greystone)

Because Rob Norris’ legislative responsibilities focused on the First Nations

and Aboriginal portfolio, Michelle’s work was largely focused on this area.

Together they attended aboriginal achievement week at the University of

Saskatchewan where they heard speeches from both

the University President as well as the President of

the University of Saskatchewan Student’s Union

(USSU). They also attended a conference at the First

Nations University of Canada where they learned about a number of

challenges preventing First Nations and Aboriginal people from

pursuing post-secondary education. With the Idle No More movement

peaking during her term with Mr. Norris, it was an exciting time for

research on First Nations and Aboriginal issues.

“Rob Norris takes on his role of MLA with great energy and enthusiasm. He does not take his

position for granted and uses his time wisely by getting to know his constituents and the

problems they face. I admire his ability to find the right words for any situation!”

Cathy Sproule (MLA, Saskatoon Nutana)

At the beginning of her term with Cathy Sproule, Estimates committees were on

the agenda so Michelle immediately started researching current bills and

sourcing information that could be used to develop questions for ministers.

Michelle was invited to attend committee meetings, where she observed the

productive work that is being done between government and opposition parties.

She found it interesting to see the level of cooperation in committees that

contrasts drastically from question period. During her constituency tour in

Saskatoon Nutana, Michelle learned that Ms. Sproule has an extremely diverse and interesting

constituency. They walked down Broadway Avenue together and enjoyed a coffee at Starbucks,

which is exactly 101 steps from Sproule’s constituency office.

“Cathy Sproule is strongly dedicated to her constituents, her province and to her critic profiles.

She is skilled at speaking out about what she believes is right and uses this trait in both her role

as house leader and as an opposition MLA. Outside of politics, her commitment to the musical

arts is very impressive.”


10

Jenna’s Mentors:

Warren McCall (MLA, Regina Elphinstone-Centre)

With Warren McCall, Jenna had the opportunity to spend time in his

constituency and learn of the great work being done in North Central to

improve the community. They were able to arrange meetings with various

community based organizations to discuss their work. Jenna was able to

discover the passion of the front line workers of individuals working at South

Saskatchewan AIDS, Canadian Mental Health Association, Regina Open Door,

and many more. The inspiration she earned from talking with these individuals

is unprecedented.

“Warren is very constituency driven. He has an undeniable passion and devotion to improving

the lives of his constituents as well as the reputation of his constituency. Working with him gave

me the opportunity to see the hardships of inner city but as well as the tremendous sense of

community thriving within North Central. He’s approachable, easy going and friendly, both to

his constituents, and his eager intern! I really value the time I spent getting to know him.”

Jennifer Campeau (MLA, Saskatoon Fairview)

Working with Jennifer Campeau, Jenna had the opportunity to participate in

both the Aboriginal Youth Task Force and the anti-bullying initiatives with the

Ministry of Education. She was able to attend public consultations for both. It

was through these consultations where she observed how important it is for a

government to stay connected. One of her highlights was going up to Sandy

Bay and Pelican Narrows to talk with Aboriginal Youth about their lives,

challenges and aspirations. She was inspired by how much the youth had to

offer, and how driven they were. She also liked seeing the members in an informal environment

chatting with the youth one-on-one, especially Ms. Campeau who seemed to connect so well

with them.

“Working with Jennifer was a real privilege. With her high profile anti-bullying and Aboriginal

Youth engagement portfolios, I was able to learn a lot about public policy initiatives. Jennifer

puts a strong emphasis on the needs and difficulties for youth in the province and you can really

see that passion come through when she speaks with young people. I don’t think she realizes

how much of an impact she makes on these kids and how much of a role model she is.”

Paula’s Mentors:

Danielle Chartier (MLA, Saskatoon Riversdale)

In her time working with Danielle Chartier, Paula had the

opportunity to meet with many interesting people, both in

Ms. Chartier’s critic areas and in her constituency. Paula

was able to observe the hard work that Ms. Chartier does

in order to stay informed about her many portfolios and

stay connected to her constituents. One of Paula’s

favorite experiences with Ms. Chartier was visiting the

Saskatoon Fire Hall No. 1. Here, Paula had the opportunity to ride in the

fire truck and respond to calls with the firefighters.


11

“Danielle Chartier is one of the most passionate and committed people that I have ever met. She

works extremely hard to ensure that she knows what is happening with every single one of her

many portfolios. I admire the amount of enthusiasm and devotion that Danielle puts into her

work and was amazed by her ability to balance her many critic areas.”

Nadine Wilson (MLA, Saskatchewan Rivers)

Paula enjoyed her term with Nadine Wilson, especially the tour of

Saskatchewan Rivers. As Paula had never been to Ms. Wilson’s constituency

before, it was a great opportunity for her to learn about the culture of some of

Saskatchewan’s northern towns. She had the opportunity to observe the strong

connection that Ms. Wilson has with her constituents and the immense effort

that she puts in to resolving any issues that they may have. Paula also enjoyed

attending the Traffic Safety Committee meetings with Ms. Wilson. Here she

had the opportunity to hear first-hand some of the concerns that citizens have in regards to traffic

safety.

“After touring Nadine Wilson’s constituency of Saskatchewan Rivers, it was clear that Nadine

has the ability to truly connect with her constituents. This is not an easy task, especially with a

constituency that is as spread out as Nadine’s. She will sit down with her constituents and

actively listens to the issues that they are facing. Their concerns become her concerns and she

does all that she can to help.”

Former Interns: Profiles

Patrick Button was a Saskatchewan Legislative Intern in 2008. Since leaving the program,

Patrick went to the University of Toronto to pursue a Master of Arts in Economics. He then

worked as an economist with Industry Canada for half a year before entering a PhD program in

Economics at the University of California, Irvine.

Patrick is just starting his fourth year, out of five. His dissertation topic was influenced by the

recent debate in Saskatchewan over the province's film tax credit. Patrick is compiling a

database of incentives to the film industry over time across Canadian provinces and American

states, with an end goal of quantifying the impacts, both short and long term, of these incentives

on the film industry. Patrick works under the supervision of David Neumark, one of the

foremost researchers on the topics of minimum wage policy and age discrimination.

Patrick recently finished his first publication-quality paper with Neumark on whether U.S. state-

level age discrimination laws protected older workers during the recent recession. Patrick hopes

to get a professorship job after he completes his PhD in June 2015.

Bennet Misskey was a Saskatchewan Legislative Intern in 2011. Upon completion of his

internship, he has been pursuing a dual Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) and Bachelor of Civil Law

(B.C.L.) degree at the Faculty of Law at McGill University. In addition to his studies, he had the

opportunity to be a regular volunteer at the Legal Information Clinic at McGill, which provides

free legal information to citizens about federal and Québec law. He has also served as a Student

Advocate for the Student Advocacy Program, where advocates represent and advise McGill

students with academic grievances and disciplinary hearings. Last summer, he travelled to


12

Australia and gained new work experiences there. This summer, he worked as a summer student

at the law firm MacPherson Leslie & Tyerman LLP in Regina.

“SLIP provides a rare opportunity for interns to learn about politics, law-making, and public

policy through an intimate and non-partisan perspective. This is achieved through the good

faith of our MLA mentors on both sides of the House and the multiple viewpoints offered by

meeting with numerous stakeholders across the province and travelling to other jurisdictions.

The value of this approach lies in reaching out to interns on a first-hand basis and serves to

stimulate innovative thinking about how to become an effective citizen and leader within the

community. I believe that this has played a part in the success of so many of our alumni.”

Bennet returned to McGill this fall for his third-year of law school. His long-term plans are to

pursue a career of law in Saskatchewan in the near future.

Jessica Paul (nee Waiser) was one of the four interns in SLIP's inaugural program in 2002. For

the last two and a half years, she has worked as an Account Executive for Look Matters, a

Regina-based marketing and advertising agency. Working at the legislature and in politics for

six years provided her with a number of skills used in her current career, especially in her work

with clients with multi-stakeholders.

In her time at Look Matters, she has been an account lead for the following clients: RCMP

Heritage Centre, Saskatchewan Waste Electronic Equipment Program, Association of

Saskatchewan Regional Colleges, Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association, Hillberg &

Berk, Construction Association Network of Saskatchewan, and Regina Downtown. Her work

has included rebranding, communications and marketing plans, social media training and

execution, province-wide advertising and awareness campaigns, website and interactive

development, communications audits and redevelopment of collateral, media relations, magazine

and publication development, government relations, strategic communications plans and issues

management work.

Jessica also serves as President and Publicity Director of the Regina Garden

Associates, a non-profit volunteer organization that operates and maintains

the Regina Floral Conservatory, Regina's only indoor tropical garden.

Jessica and her husband Jay welcomed Dylan Edmund, a bouncing baby boy,

into the world in March 2013 – a big brother to Owen who is five and starts

kindergarten in the fall.

Wendy Therens (nee Moellenbeck) was a Saskatchewan Legislative Intern in 2002. She has

been working with the Early Years Branch of the Ministry of Education since 2005 as a

Consultant. Her work supports the development of programs and policies for children primarily

in the zero to five age range.

“In 2012, I celebrated two important milestones. I convocated from the Johnson-Shoyama

Graduate School of Public Policy in October 2012 and married my husband, Kevin Therens, in

November 2012.”


13

Former Interns: Milestones

Corinne Barnett (2003) has been appointed as Director of Budget Development and Sector

Accountability for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Advanced Education.

Michel Carpentier (2006) is currently Director of Licensing and Charitable Gaming with the

Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority.

Fabian Contreras (2004) is currently Executive Director, Strategic Policy with the Ministry of

Education

Hailey Gagnon-Hannah (2006) continues to work at the Canadian Northern Economic

Development Agency in Ottawa. Her primary responsibilities involve regulatory issues and

coordination for mining and for oil and gas projects in the Canada’s northern territories. She’s

mom to two children, Charlotte (5 years old) and Lily (2 years old).

Cody Gieni (2012) is an Executive Intern with the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public

Policy and is working with the Deputy Minister of Education.

Nicole Hamm (2011) received a Juris Doctor degree, with great distinction, during the 2013

spring convocation of the University of Saskatchewan. She is currently an articling student at

Olive Waller Zinkhan & Waller LLP in Regina.

Simon Hutton (2013) has convocated from the University of Saskatchewan with Bachelor of

Arts degree (high honours in political studies).

Shaheen Lotun (2011) is currently a project supervisor for a Canada-Kenya exchange program

being offered by Canada World Youth. The project, which has an environmental theme, will

involve spending six months in Ottawa and three months in Kenya.

Kim McKechney (2004) is currently Chief of Staff in the office of the Minister of Health.

Michele Neufeld (2013) has convocated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor

of Arts honours degree, with a major in sociology and a minor in political studies.

Lucilia Periera (2007) is manager of Business Planning and Results Based Budgeting in the

Department of Energy for the Government of Alberta.

Reagan Reese Seidler (2012) is currently a Ministerial Assistant in the office of the Minister of

Justice.

Paula Steckler (2013) is serving as Junior Administrative Assistant in the Office of the Minister

of Health.

Rhiannon Stromberg (2005) is currently Director of Strategic, Intergovernmental and

Legislative Priorities for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Advanced Education.

Kyle Toffan (2005) has been seconded from the Ministry of Government Relations to serve as a

director with the recently-established SaskBuilds Corporation.


14

Another Successful Steak-Night and Fundraiser

The annual SLIP steak night at Bushwakker Brewpub

was a success again this year with $944.50 raised to

enhance the travel experience during the interns’

comparative-study tours. Members and staff of the

Legislative Assembly, as well as SLIP alumni and

friends, attend this event.

The interns used the proceeds from this event to fund

activities such as the Haunted Walk in Ottawa, tours of

the Edinburgh Castle and the Guinness Storehouse in

Dublin and in London, visits to the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio for Jenna and Paula, and

tickets for the play, “The Woman in Black”, for Simon and Michelle.

The interns would like to thank everyone who came out to support them with a pint.

2013 Partners, Sponsors, and Donors

We are pleased to welcome two new corporate sponsors in 2013. The sponsors are

Saskatchewan Transportation Company and Certified Management Accountants (Saskatchewan).

The following is a full list of the financial partners, corporate sponsors, intern sponsors, and

donors to the 2013 Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program:

Financial Partners

Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan

The Cooperators Group

University of Regina, Arts Faculty

University of Saskatchewan, President’s

Office

Corporate Sponsors

First Canadian Title

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI)

Travel CUTS (University of Saskatchewan)

Donors

Kyle Toffan, 2005 Saskatchewan Legislative

Intern

Program Sponsors

Canadian Study of Parliament Group

Saskatchewan Association of Health

Organizations

Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce

Saskatchewan Transportation Company

Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities

Association

Intern Sponsors

CMA Canada (Saskatchewan)

Graduate Committee, Department of History,

College of Arts and Science, University of

Saskatchewan

Office of the Dean, Faculty of Arts, University

of Regina (Goldman Travel Fund)


15

Blair Pisio Accepts New Position

Blair Pisio who, through the Political Studies Department at the University of Saskatchewan, has

been serving as Program Administrative Assistant for the Saskatchewan Legislative Internship

Program. In this role, he has supported the Program’s financial and administrative activities

which are managed through the University of Saskatchewan. His duties include processing the

interns’ travel reimbursement claims, processing funding from donors and sponsors through our

University account, and securing reimbursement for the University associated with the director’s

appointment and expenses.

In October 2013, Blair accepted a new position within the University of Saskatchewan and will

no longer be providing administrative support to the Program. In his new position at the

University, he will be the Student Academic Services Specialist in the Undergraduate Students

Office for the College of Arts and Science.

We wish Blair well in his future position and thank him for his administrative support of the

Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program.

Introducing the 2014 Saskatchewan Legislative Interns

The Saskatchewan Legislative Interns for 2014 have been selected. They will begin their seven-

month internship in January.

Kaytlyn Criddle is from White City, Saskatchewan. Last spring, she

completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology (with a minor in

Sociology) and a certificate in International Studies at the University of

Regina. She is currently working at the Centre for Indigenous Knowledge

and Organizational Development in northern Ghana.

Dustan Hlady is from Moose Jaw. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree,

majoring in history, from Briercrest College in Caronport, Saskatchewan. He

is currently taking courses towards a Bachelor of Education degree at the

University of Regina.

Taylor-Anne Yee is from Saskatoon and has completed a Bachelor of Arts

degree (honours political studies) at St. Thomas More College (University of

Saskatchewan). She recently participated in the political leadership program

of the Washington Centre for Internships and Academic Seminars in

Washington, D.C.

Dipo Ziwa is from Regina. He is working towards a Bachelor of Arts degree

in Human Justice at the University of Regina. Last May, he was elected to

serve on the board of the University of Regina Students Union.


16

Brief Description of SLIP

The Saskatchewan Legislative Internship Program (SLIP)

provides four university students with a unique educational

experience each year.

The seven-month program will give participants the opportunity

to use their theoretical knowledge of government and parliament

in a practical setting. They will get first-hand experience with the day-to-day work of elected

representatives from both the government and opposition sides of the Legislative Assembly of

Saskatchewan.

The Internship focuses on the role of the private member. It provides interns with a perspective

of our legislators as representatives of their constituents and as law-makers within our

parliamentary system of government. It also creates a new and desirable service for legislators

by providing them with highly qualified and enthusiastic assistants.

Furthermore, as citizens who better understand the principles of our parliamentary system,

participants in the program will provide a long-term benefit to the province and country.

Visit our Website at http://www.legassembly.sk.ca/internship/.

http://www.legassembly.sk.ca/internship/

2013 alumni report - saskatchewan legislative internship...

Documents