Dr. John Paul Foxe

Dr. John Paul Foxe is the Senior Director, Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), at Concordia University (Montreal). He has spent his entire career working at universities, with a focus on teaching and learning. John Paul’s research interests include gamification, academic integrity and generative artificial intelligence. He holds an MSc and an MA from York University and Toronto Metropolitan University respectively, and a PhD from York University.

Dr. John Paul can be reached at johnpaul.foxe@concordia.ca

Ian Gaither

Ian Gaither is the COO of EyeCarePD and Director at Instructio Educational Services. He is a leader in simulation-based and game-based training, designing programs for diverse professionals like astronauts, pilots, engineers, and firefighters. His designs use technologies such as AI, VR, AR, and traditional tools to create immersive learning experiences. Ian has developed interactive 3D task trainers, analysis tools, and training portals.

His work on emotions in learning is featured in a textbook “Utilizing Emotional Experience for Best Learning Design Practices.” Ian holds a Master of Arts in Educational Technology from Concordia University, Montreal.

Ian can be reached at ian@instructio.com.

Shaylyn Carey

Shaylyn leads the strategy and design of several professional development programs, including Women in Education Leadership, the Think Tank on Global Education, and Family Engagement in Education.

Shaylyn also oversees the Middle East Professional Learning Initiative (MEPLI), strengthening a network of educators in Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine and has implemented regionally focused programs like Building Schools for the 21st Century: A Leadership Development Program for Qatar's School Leaders and School Leaders in the Middle East: Empowering Kuwait & Beyond.

Shaylyn can be reached at shaylyn_carey@gse.harvard.edu.

Dr. Awni Al Otoom

Dr. Awni Al-Otoom has been the Dean of Engineering & Technology at UDST since 2019. Prior to this, he held key roles at Jordan University of Science and Technology and worked with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) under the United Nations, contributing to global security against chemical weapons threats. His career spans academia, industry, and international fieldwork.

He holds a B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, with postdoctoral research at the University of Kentucky. His research focuses on energy, renewable energy, Industrial IoT, and sustainability. He has authored over 46 articles, holds two patents, and has received numerous awards, including the King Abdullah II Award and a Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 as part of the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) group.

Dr. Awni can be reached at awni.alotoom@udst.edu.qa.

Chadi Asaad

Chadi Asaad serves as the Associate Director of Partnerships, Development, and Innovation at uOttawa’s Professional Development Institute. With over 25 years of experience in education and healthcare industries, he has held various leadership roles and contributes his expertise by serving on the boards of multiple organizations across Europe and the Middle East. As a highly regarded speaker and coach, Chadi has delivered impactful workshops and keynote addresses on topics such as business communication, marketing, leadership, coaching, innovation, and change management.

Chadi can be reached at casaad@uottawa.ca

Dr. Angela Flowerday

Dr. Angela Flowerday is the Acting Vice President of Student Affairs at UDST. Originally from Windsor, Ontario, Canada, she holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Windsor, an MBA from the University of Ottawa, and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Walden University.

With extensive experience in academic and career support, human resources, and student development, Angela has been instrumental in enhancing student success initiatives at UDST. Her leadership includes managing Navigate360 and establishing student support services. Outside work, Angela enjoys golfing, staying active, and exploring new travel destinations.

Dr. Angela can be reached at angela.flowerday@udst.edu.qa.

Stephanie Dalton

Stephanie Dalton is the Academic Manager of Program Development and Accreditation at UDST. She currently leads the implementation of the Curriculum Management System. With extensive leadership experience in higher education, Stephanie has a proven track record in advancing educational quality in both government and higher education institutions. She holds a Bachelor’s in Post-Secondary Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Memorial University of Newfoundland. Her research interests are at the intersection of the economics of post-secondary education, educational innovation, and quantitative research methods.

Stephanie can be reached at stephanie.dalton@udst.edu.qa.

Marwa Elnahass

Marwa Elnahass is a full Professor of Accounting at the University of Doha for Science and Technology, with a PhD from Lancaster University. She has published over 40 articles in top-tier journals on financial reporting, governance, cybersecurity, and sustainability. She serves as an editor and reviewer for prominent journals and has contributed to policy projects with the British government.

Recognized in the Top 200 Most Influential Women in Islamic Business and Finance, she collaborates with industry partners globally. Prof. Elnahass is also a keynote speaker for institutions like Qatar Central Bank and the European Accounting Association.

Prof. Marwa can be reached at marwa.elnahass@udst.edu.qa.

Dr. Vishal Rana

Dr. Vishal, Assistant Professor of HRM, is an expert in leveraging AI for business strategy, management, and innovation. Holding a Ph.D. from Griffith University, Australia, he combines rigorous research with industry insight. As founder of WatchYourTalk, an AI-powered mental health startup, he has presented at UNESCO and ILO on AI’s educational potential.

Dr. Vishal advises C-suites on exponential technologies, bridging theory and practice to drive growth, with expertise in AI ethics, work design, and Indigenous data sovereignty.

Dr. Vishal can be reached at vishal.rana@udst.edu.qa.

Dr. Doaa Farid

Dr. Doaa Farid RD MA Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in Healthcare Management with 10 years of healthcare and tech industry experience. She has managed several organizations such as Queen Hospital, Diet Pro and QatarPCR. She is a member of Young Professional Organization and is a double licensed clinical dietitian in Canada and Qatar.

She completed two bachelors from University of Montréal and McGill University, received her Master’s degree from Boston University and Ph.D. from McGill University in Family Medicine and Primary Care Research. Dr. Farid completed a Healthcare Leadership certificate from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. Dr. Farid was a Senator at McGill’s governing body and received numerous scholarships and fellowships including FQRNT, FRSQ, CIHR Strategic Training Fellow, and CIHR Systems Biology Training Program Scholarship. She also received research and leadership awards such as the Best Paper of the Year award from RQSHA, Patient Choice Award from PCORI Eugene Washington Engagement Award, Scarlet Key, Institute of Health and Social Policy research grant, and Chancellor Gretta Chambers Leadership Award. Dr. Farid is interested in AI, healthcare management, big data, inequities in health, medical technology and chronic diseases.

Dana El-Kaissi

Dana El-Kaissi is an experienced professional in program management, training, and continuing education with expertise in business development, project management and curriculum development. As Head of Program Delivery, she oversees tailored training initiatives, strategic planning, and industry collaboration.

Her career includes impactful roles at UDST, UNDP, and UNESCO. Dana holds a Bachelor degree in Software Engineering from McMaster University and a M.Sc. in Business Management from University of Essex, along with certifications in Learning and Development and Instructional Skills. She excels in fostering organizational growth through innovative solutions and strong client relationships.

Dana can be reached at dana.elkaissi@udst.edu.qa.

Khadija Mahsud

Khadija Mahsud joined UDST in 2023 as the Research Services Librarian, working with faculty on increasing their research visibility and identifying appropriate publishing avenues, among other scholarly communication projects. She is now the Head, Reference and Library Services at the Library Services Directorate.

With a terminal degree in library and information studies, Khadija has over a decade of experience at international universities in Qatar: she has served at a health sciences library, a center for teaching and learning and an academic success center. With a keen understanding of the links between teaching, research and learning in higher education, Khadija’s identifies sustainable and impactful ways to connect all three for faculty and student success.

Khadija can be reached at khadija.mahsud@udst.edu.qa.

Maha Al-Naimi

Maha Al-Naimi is a research management professional with over seven years of experience in research strategy, fund management and impact evaluation. She currently oversees the applied research operations and encourages a research & innovation culture within UDST as part of the ARIED team.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she was honored with the UDST National Star Award in 2023. Maha holds a Master’s degree in Innovation, Leadership & Management from the University of York.

Maha can be reached at maha.alnaimi@udst.edu.qa.

Alain Nicolas

Alain Nicolas is a senior teaching and learning development professional with international experience in aerospace, defence, energy, healthcare, higher education, law enforcement, major events, military, NGOs, safety, security, and sports.

Alain has a proven track record for designing, developing, and delivering teaching and learning solutions that increase knowledge, develop skills, and influence behaviour. He has extensive knowledge in the fields of instructional systems design, learning theories and educational technology. He holds a Master of Arts in Educational Technology from Concordia University.

Alain can be reached at alain.nicolas@udst.edu.qa.

Charina Li Ong

Charina Li Ong is a Senior Experiential Learning Specialist at UDST. She obtained her Master in Learning and Teaching from De La Salle University – Manila, graduating With High Distinction. She was formerly a Senior Educational Technologist at the Centre for Development of Teaching and Learning, National University of Singapore (NUS). She has a strong background in technology-enhanced learning, academic development, and blended learning, with extensive experience in designing and conducting professional development for academics. She has significant experience as a senior lecturer and in developing e-learning resources.

Additionally, Charina dedicated a decade as a Residential Fellow at NUS. She contributed significantly to creating a vibrant and supportive living environment for students. As a mentor, advisor, community builder, and care member within the hall, Charina prioritized students’ well-being, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

Charina can be reached at charina.ong@udst.edu.qa.

Randa Taftaf, UDST

Randa Taftaf is a seasoned Learning Experience Designer, Educational Leader, and EdTech Specialist with 20 years of expertise in higher education. She leverages tech-integrated solutions and data-driven decision-making to lead impactful initiatives like the Harvard-UDST Instructional Leadership Certificate.

With advanced degrees from reputable U.S. universities, Randa’s passion lies in empowering educators through customized training on emotional intelligence, STEM-TVET, and critical thinking—equipping them to excel in 21st-century learning environments and advancing educational innovation.

Randa can be reached at randa.taftaf@udst.edu.qa.