Over the past few months, our HR team had a few new members join us. These colleagues were hired after various existing vacancies were filled on the Comp&Ben, and Advisory Service teams, and some corresponding vacancies arose from internal movement into those roles. We’re very pleased to have found such talented folk, and grateful for all the UFV community support on the various SAC’s.
Carmela Ariola, Advisor, Compensation and Benefits
Carmela joined the Human Resources Department as an Advisor for Compensation and Benefits in April 2024. A seasoned HR professional, she has spent the majority of her career in corporate HR, focusing on operational management and consulting in areas such as organizational and job design as well as training for large global organizations. Before joining UFV, Carmela worked in human resources at another post-secondary institution, Trinity Western University, where she completed her Master’s degree in Leadership.
In her free time, she enjoys cooking, taking long drives with her family, and exploring new restaurants.
Divleen, Coordinator, Compensation
Divleen joined the University of the Fraser Valley as a Compensation Coordinator in September, 2024. With previous experience in Human Resources, she specializes in job evaluation, classification, and compensation. Before UFV, Divleen developed her skills across various HR functions, including recruitment, performance management, health & safety, and compliance, working with diverse teams to foster inclusive, equitable workplaces. She is passionate about organizational development and is eager to contribute to UFV’s HR initiatives and community.
Outside of work, Divleen enjoys swimming, and a fun fact: she is a trained classical Indian vocalist, bringing a unique blend of rhythm and discipline into her personal and professional life.
Erika Fernandez, Administrative Assistant, Human Resources and Labour Relations
Erika joined the University of the Fraser Valley in October 2024 and brings experience in Human Resources and Administration, specializing in labour relations. Passionate about building positive workplace relationships, she enjoys connecting with colleagues and contributing to a supportive community. Erika is excited to be a part of the UFV family and looks forward to collaborating, learning, and connecting with everyone.
Matthew Furgal, Director, Advisory Services & Labour Relations
Matthew Furgal is formerly from Mississauga, Ontario and is a current resident of Port Moody. Matthew attended McMaster University where he completed his Bachelor of Arts with a major in Labour Studies. Afterwards, he completed
his post-graduate certificate in Human Resources from Sheridan College and a Masters of Industrial Relations from Queens University.
Matthew began his HR Career working in the public sector at the Halton District School Board in various roles supporting Attendance & Disability Management, Labour Relations and HR Administration. Matthew then moved to beautiful British Columbia in 2018 where he joined the Faculty of Applied Science as an HR Coordinator and more recently into the VP, Finance and Operations portfolio holding several positions: HR Coordinator, HR Advisor, HR Manager and Senior HR Manager. Matthew believes in being a true HR business partner and supporting an organization to achieve its goals and make an impact in our communities.
In his spare time, Matthew enjoys exploring local parks, reading suspense novels and is an amateur paddle-boarder and skier. Whether rain or shine, you’ll see Matthew attempting to play disc golf with his spouse and is always happy to discuss at any time foodie recommendations or local gems to visit and support.
Maria Morena De Guzman, Assistant, Professional Development
Hi, I’m Maria. I am happy to be part of the HR team at UFV as the Assistant, Professional Development. I have 16 years of colorful work experience in various collaborative and administrative roles in the HR department. Before joining UFV, I worked with companies from different industries such as Mandarin Hotel, Watsons Retail, IBM Technology, and Teck Resources Ltd. During my time in HR, I have experienced being part of a Digital HR Transformation project where I enjoyed working with people and became comfortable utilizing systems to improve continuously. I am passionate about self-improvement and helping people and organizations reach their goals.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and doing outdoor activities like biking and camping. I also enjoy playing table tennis but am not a “pro”, and I never say no to a good coffee.
I look forward to learning more and growing here in UFV and to meeting everyone that makes this organization a great place to work.