Join us on June 27th, 2024, from 9am – 11:30am PST for our virtual Summer Small Caucus, as we explore maintaining impartiality during tumultuous times much like a harbor pilot navigates challenging situations at sea. There will be lots of opportunity for interaction and fellowship during the morning's breakout sessions. We are excited to start the day off with our guest speaker, Shirley Nakata.

Shirley Nakata is the Ombudsperson for Students at the University of British Columbia, establishing the office in 2009. Shirley was called to the B.C. Bar in 1989 and practiced at a Vancouver law firm before moving to the Canadian Human Rights Commission where she worked as a Human Rights Officer. From 1996 she was the Director of Professional Conduct at the British Columbia College of Teachers where she led and managed the conduct of investigations and hearings. Shirley has been a frequent presenter on administrative law, conflict engagement, and equity and inclusion in a variety of venues. She has been a board member of the B.C. Council of Administrative Tribunals and member of the Canadian Institute for the Administration of Justice. She has also served on the board of West Coast LEAF. Currently, she is a member of the Association of Canadian College and University Ombudspersons and the Forum of Canadian Ombudsman.

Following the time with our speaker we will have open breakout rooms to reflect on Shirley's words as well as rooms to discuss other topics facing ombuds.