Stephanie Solarz M.Ed
Stephanie Solarz is a Dean at Portage College with a background in education and a Master of Education in Higher, Community, and Adult Education. Her work is grounded in community-based programming and a deep commitment to strengthening rural education systems through collaboration and applied practice. Her past research has focused on the experiences of female students in rural vocational training, with particular attention to access, persistence, and meaningful pathways into education and employment. Stephanie works closely with internal teams, government, industry, and community partners across the College’s stewardship region to design and deliver programs that are responsive to local needs and reflective of rural realities. She is particularly passionate about building strong relationships and ensuring education is practical, inclusive, and connected to the communities it serves.
Call 780-623-5530
Alyson Nowicki M.Ed
Alyson Nowicki is the Coordinator of University Transfer, Computing Science, Kinesiology, Fine Arts, and Dual Credit programming at Portage College. Born and raised in Lac La Biche, she brings deep local insight and long‑standing commitment to supporting learners in the region. Alyson holds a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education from the University of Alberta and a Master of Education from the University of Calgary. With over 25 years of experience in secondary education, including administrative leadership, she has expertise in curriculum development, student transitions, and academic programming. Alyson works closely with faculty, schools, and community partners to ensure programs are accessible, high‑quality, and responsive to learner needs across multiple disciplines.
Call 780-623-5688
Abdulsalam Basabaa M.Ed.
Dr. Basabaa is a Computer Science Instructor at Portage College. He earned his BSc (2008) and MSc (2014) in computer science and computer networks, respectively. In 2022, he completed his PhD in computing science at the University of Alberta, where his dissertation examined the Path Exposure Reliability Problem in wireless sensor networks with energy replenishment. His research focuses on wireless sensor networks, the Internet of Things, localization, and intrusion detection systems. He integrates networking, reliability analysis, efficient routing, and intelligent resource management to advance modern computing and communication systems. With extensive experience teaching a wide range of in-person and online classes, Dr. Basabaa emphasizes practical, hands‑on learning that connects theoretical concepts to real-world applications. He encourages students to explore how advanced computing and AI can address real challenges and contribute to meaningful innovation.
Call 780-623-5674
Asma Islam M.Sc.
Asma Islam is an Instructor in the Department of University Transfer at Portage College, where she teaches Computer Science courses. She focuses on building strong foundational skills while encouraging hands-on learning and practical application. She holds a Master of Science in Internetworking from the University of Alberta, where she explored advanced networking technologies and interdisciplinary research in Biomedical technologies. Asma deeply believes in empowering her students not just to excel technically, but to approach their careers with empathy, purpose, and a sense of social responsibility. She believes that education is more than the transmission of knowledge, it’s a transformative force that can foster innovation, compassion, and lasting change.
Call 780-623-5692
Kevin Solez Ph.D.
Kevin Solez is the full-time Humanities Instructor in the University Transfer program at Portage College, responsible for courses in English, Anthropology, Classics, and additional subjects as required. His academic background is rooted in ancient Greek and Roman language, literature, and history. He earned his PhD from the University of British Columbia, MA from Johns Hopkins University, and BA (Honours) from the University of Alberta. Over the course of his career, Kevin broadened his teaching expertise to include English, professional writing, and Anthropology. He has taught at universities across North America, bringing a wide range of pedagogical experience to his role.
Call 780-623-5769
Mohammed Mira Ph.D. in Biological Sciences
Mohammed Mira is a Research Chair of Climate Resilience Agriculture and an instructor in University Transfer at Portage College. He holds a PhD in Genetics and Molecular Biology, and has over 17 years of experience in teaching, research, and student mentorship. His expertise includes molecular biology, crop stress physiology, genetics, and applied biotechnology, with a strong focus on improving crop resilience under environmental stress. Dr. Mira has taught undergraduate biology and Genetics courses in Canada and internationally, and his research has been widely published in leading peer-reviewed journals. He is committed to translating research into practical outcomes for agriculture and rural communities.
Call 780-623-5761
Pierre Oberg M.F.A.
Pierre Öberg has a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Calgary and is a visual arts instructor at Portage College where he teaches in a variety of studio areas including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media. Öberg has also worked as a culture community development coordinator, culture community and program facilitator, arts and culture programmer, curator, farmer, cultural and natural history interpreter, and arts and culture educator. Öberg’s art uses a variety of techniques and media and has been exhibited in galleries and museums in Canada, London, England, Edinburgh, Scotland, Japan, and Hong Kong. His work can be found in public and private collections, and he is also the recipient of a number of grants and awards including those offered by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts and the Canada Council for the Arts.
Call 780-623-5737
Sandra Hebert B.Kin.
Sandra Hebert is an instructor at Portage College with a focus on kinesiology and sports studies. Her teaching emphasizes foundational knowledge, practical application, and inclusive approaches that support diverse learners. Sandra is passionate about promoting lifelong physical activity and helping students develop the skills and confidence needed for careers in health, fitness, and recreation.
Call 780-623-5753