KCCIHS - Key Persons


Abhay Ramesh

Job Titles:
  • Social Media Coordinator
Abhay is a second-year postgraduate diploma student specializing in Business Management. With a solid academic foundation and a commitment to excellence, he brings strong critical thinking abilities, effective communication skills, and adaptability to new challenges. He is an ambitious and innovative professional with a passion for leadership and problem-solving. He looks forward to meeting the Kootenay Columbia College community in his role as Social Media Coordinator.

Allie Bates

Originally from Calgary, Allie completed her BSc in Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary prior to moving to Nelson to pursue studies in Chinese Medicine. After graduating from the Kootenay Columbia College as a Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, she now practices at an integrative clinic in town called Active Balance when not assisting with the KCC TCM clinic. She enjoys the dynamic yet easygoing Kootenay lifestyle and connecting with other practitioners in a community that embraces health and wellness. Allie is excited to be joining the KCC team to help coordinate the Chinese Medicine clinic. She is eager to cultivate a vibrant space for students, staff and patients!

Asa Jernigan

Job Titles:
  • Administrative Assistant
Asa made Nelson his home in 2020 with his wife and beloved dog, JOJO. With a Diploma in Digital Arts from Selkirk College, he brings a range of skills and work experiences to his role at KCCIHS. Asa's life is a blend of outdoor adventures and the simple pleasures of home, reflecting his dedication to embracing both the extraordinary and everyday joys in life.

Ben Basil Papparil

Job Titles:
  • Finance Officer
Ben has a Bachelor of Commerce and a Post Graduate diploma in Accounting. He comes to KCC with 7 years of academic and work experience in Finance and Accounting. He has been serving as the Finance Officer for Kootenay Columbia College since December 2023. When he is not crunching numbers, Ben enjoys listening to and creating music and is currently learning to play the guitar.

Chris Holland

Job Titles:
  • Admissions Advisor
Chris Holland has enjoyed over 25 years in post-secondary and adult education. He has a passion for helping people find their career path and prepare them for future opportunities. He believes that promoting the unifying properties of health and education is key to a prosperous community. Over the years Chris has worked in many different industries and disciplines from business consulting and recruitment to marketing and teaching. In all of his opportunities he has focused on understanding the unique qualities of each situation to foster strong relationships. He looks forward to working with students, staff, and alumni to help everyone reach their true potential. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact him.

Hailey Budway

Job Titles:
  • Registrar
Since graduating with a degree in International Development from the University of Guelph, Hailey has been on a journey driven by her passion for fostering sustainable change. Specifically, Hailey focuses on sustainable agriculture as a means to build resilient and socially just food systems.

Jennifer Garrison

Job Titles:
  • Registrar

Kevin Underwood

Job Titles:
  • Academic Head

Lilith Swetland

Job Titles:
  • Administrator
Lilith comes to KCCIHS with a strong background in administration and communications. She has a lifelong interest in a holistic approach to health. Her wilderness farm upbringing gave her the opportunity to learn firsthand about the importance of knowing how to maintain the health of humans and the critters. Lilith holds a Diploma in Computer Information Systems from Selkirk College and a Bachelor of Commerce from Royal Roads University and has spent a number of years working in administrative roles in academic and medical-related organizations. These skills enable her to be of support to students, faculty, and fellow staff in her role as Administrator.

Lynndel Schuurman

Job Titles:
  • Admin Assistant
  • Administrative Assistant

Veronika Loffelmannova

Job Titles:
  • Admin
  • Director
  • Admin Director / Program Manager
Veronika has over 15 years of international experience working in managerial positions across Europe and Asia. For several years, she worked on European projects supporting hearing-impaired students. She has gained a Master's degree in Education in the Czech Republic and after completing education courses in BC, she has received the BC Teacher Certificate. During her travels, she visited different countries around the world but she chose to settle down in Nelson with her family.