We would like to extend a big welcome to two new SHCS directors. In November, Karen Vaughan joined SHCS as the new Director, Child Care Services and this February, Steve Alb joined SHCS as the new Director, UBC Bookstore and Campus Mail.
Karen recently graduated from UBC with her Masters in Education, but professionally comes to UBC from Vancouver Coastal Health, where she was working as a Child Care Licensing Officer.
Steve is a lifetime resident of Ontario, and he comes to UBC from Western University in London, Ontario, where he was the Director of Retail Services.
Karen Vaughan, Director, Child Care Services
Karen Vaughan joined UBC as the Director, Child Care Services, in November, allowing her to work alongside Darcelle Cottons, before Darcelle’s retirement from the Director role in December.
For the past 25 years, Karen has worked in the field of early childhood care and education, and with her leadership and depth of experience in the field, we are thrilled to have her be the new lead of our child care operation.
“What excites me about this role is working with a team of dedicated, professional educators who provide quality child care to the children and families here at UBC. I’m proud to be a part of such an exemplary child care program, which far exceeds provincial care standards. One of my current priorities is to build strong relationships with all members of the UBC Child Care community.”
Most recently, Karen held a role with Vancouver Coastal Health, where she worked as a Child Care Licensing Officer. She also recently completed her Masters of Education here at UBC! Throughout her career, Karen has held positions at SFU, VCC, Burnaby School District 41, and North Vancouver School District 44.
She is passionate about quality childcare, and she holds children, families, and early childhood educators at the heart of her practice.
Welcome Karen!
Steve Alb, Director, UBC Bookstore and Campus Mail
Stephen (Steve) Alb began his role as Director, UBC Bookstore and Campus Mail in early-February 2020. He brings experience, passion and leadership in the retail and bookstore field, and we are very lucky to have him join UBC in this capacity.
Steve has worked in the university retail industry for the last 27 years, most recently as Director of Retail Services at Western University, a role he held since 2001. Prior to that, Steve was a Regional Manager for Chapters, beginning in 1997.
“My first few weeks at UBC have been very positive, with everyone being helpful and welcoming – which has made my transition into the role smooth and well-supported. Since arriving, I have enjoyed seeing the incredible energy on campus. It certainly lives up to its reputation as being the best campus in Canada. I am very happy to be here.”
Thriving in his role at Western University, Steve won a number of bookstore awards during his 18 years as Director. He also served on the National Association of College Stores (NACS) Board of Trustees (2008-2011), after volunteering on several NACS committees. In 2018-19, he served as NACS President.
In 2013, while continuing to fulfill his duties in his role at Western, he completed his MBA from Royal Roads University.
A lifetime resident of Ontario, Steve and his wife Vicky now enjoy life as empty-nesters – with their two twenty-something sons, Jake and Alex living in Toronto.
The Alb family is an active, sports-loving family and are always on the go. Steve and Vicky are very excited to continue this lifestyle in Vancouver.
Welcome Steve!
