School of Public Policy opens its doors to the community at Winter Forum

The School of Public Policy celebrated a year of accomplishments and looked forward to opportunities in 2026, opening its doors to students, supporters and the community this week at the inaugural Winter Forum.

More than 300 people attended the open house as the main floor of the Downtown Campus was transformed into a networking and conversation space that highlighted University of Calgary and School of Public Policy colors and branding.

It was an opportunity for people to connect with the School’s staff and leadership including Martha Hall Findlay, Director of the School and James S. and Barbara A. Palmer Chair in Public Policy and Associate Director Dr. Siu Ming Kwok.

The event showcased the five Areas of Focus at the School and the directors.

They include Economic and Fiscal Policy with Dr. Trevor Tombe, Energy and Natural Resources Policy, with Dr. Robert “RJ” Johnston, International Policy with Carlo Dade, Health and Social Policy with Jennifer Zwicker and Canadian Governance Policy with Dr. Anthony Sayers as well as Graduate Programs with Dr. G. Kent Fellows.

In her remarks, Hall Findlay reflected on the challenges the country is facing in a turbulent world and the important role the School can play in shaping a future that serves Canadians.

“This is an immensely important time for this country in terms of public policy,” she said. “Our job is to provide the best evidence, the most objective analysis and the strongest recommendations for decision makers to make the best policy decisions for our economic and social prosperity.”

“We have a heck of a job ahead of us and I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to be in this place, right now with these people,” she added.

Dr. Robert Mansell, Professor Emeritus and Research Fellow

Dr. Anthony Sayers, Director of Canadian Governance Policy

Carlo Dade, Director of International Policy

Dr. Robert Johnston, Director of Energy and Natural Resources Policy

Photos by Adrian Shellard