Faculy of Health Sciences

My primary area of research revolves around healthy bodyweight promotion among various age groups. I am particularly interested in the impact of motivational interviewing, administered via life coaching skills, on obesity-related behaviours, behaviour changes and outcomes. This intervention strategy has recently expanded to include a focus on tobacco cessation-related behaviours. Additional areas of interest include physical activity prevalence among preschool-aged children and young adults; and healthy food options at recreation facilities.

What research/projects are you currently undertaking?

I’m currently working on projects related to all of the above areas of focus.

What is it that you enjoy about working at Western?

I love the energy of the students and my superb colleagues. Teaching and reaching Undergraduate students is something about which I’ve always been passionate. And working with Graduate students throughout the various stages of their educational process – from their first graduate course through all the transitions and learnings to the completion of their thesis or dissertation – is a nurturing and collaborative experience that I find mutually beneficial. I also enjoy the freedom that being a university professor affords me; working hard is important to me and my perspective on work-life balance is that I work to live, not vice versa.

How does Western make a difference?

Western provides so many venues for so many different things for so many community members…a place to think, explore, research, socialize…Western is mainstay of the city and ambience of London.

What are your interests outside of Western? (e.g., hobbies, favourite music, travel destination, etc.).

I love being active, travelling, reading….all the typical stuff, nothing unusual really….I suppose I’m not all that original (but finding an original hobby can now become a new hobby upon which to focus)! Recently, I have taken up squash, both singles and doubles games and I absolutely love the physicality of the game and getting to meet new people. Curling has become another interest and I am just beginning to appreciate the nuances and tactics of this sport. I belong to a book club that feeds my desire for social interaction and great discussions.

Irwin_squash