Greetings. I am Barbara Sharp, Advisor, Conflict Resolution in the Human Resources Department.
Born third generation Vancouverite, I am the “middle” child of my family of three siblings. I am single with two “four paw” children (both dogs). My house currently has my two dogs, my sister’s dog, and one rescue, so lots to love. I grew up in East Vancouver and have lived in various parts of Vancouver (East Vancouver, the West End, and Kitsilano), the North Shore, and I currently live in Langley.
My work background is quite varied having worked in transit, BC Hydro (in customer service and computer technology), what is currently known as Move Up (union) as a Job Evaluation Specialist, Compensation Employees Union, as a Business Agent, the BC Labour Relations Board as a mediator, 18 years in local government as a member of North Vancouver City Council (12 as a Councillor, 6 as a Mayor), a Director of HR for the BC Salvation Army, an instructor for BCIT, Kwantlen, and for English as a second language for Red Leaf Canada. I also keep busy with my personal HR/LR consulting business having worked with Key Largo Electric Ltd., Union Gospel Mission, Lion’s Bay Municipality, Pemberton Municipality, and various other organizations over the past 12+ years.
I went back to school in mid-life to obtain my Masters degree in Conflict Analysis at Royal Roads University and then enrolled in, and completed, the VCC Instructors Diploma to round out my academic background. I really enjoy being able to help resolve relationship issues and help those struggling to get their feet back on the ground.
For fun I love animals and have been active in the crazy world of rescue for about 15 years with not-for-profit animal groups doing everything from fostering animals to training difficult dogs to fundraising to airport pickups and adoption interviews. I also love to paint and during COVID started doing artwork once again after a few decades’ absence. I am also an active local participant in the community having served on various committees and special boards including appointments by the previous Mayor of Langley to specialized groups (for example, chairing a large community engagement group). A former President of Kiwanis and serving on other boards over the years (including TransLink, Planning and Environment for Metro Vancouver and Emergency Management) has opened my eyes to what a complex world we live in.
I love to travel and have been lucky to see parts of Asia, Africa, many countries in Europe, the Caribbean, most of the USA, all of Canada and parts of the Yukon which has further broadened my worldview.
I have had a great welcome to the campus and thank the staff in the HR department for making this transition easy and friendly. I look forward to meeting many of you over the coming months!