For many students, university is a time of exploration, learning, and growth. For one UBC Okanagan alumna, it was all of that—plus the launchpad for a career dedicated to research, advocacy, and meaningful change.
Drawn to the university by its reputation for rigorous research and a supportive academic environment, Dr. Cassidy Biener pursued both her Master of Arts and PhD in Psychological Science, inspired particularly by UBCO’s work in forensic and applied psychology. Her academic passions were matched by real-world goals: addressing the needs of children, youth, and families impacted by trauma.
“The research being conducted at UBCO aligned perfectly with my interests,” Dr. Biener says. “I was especially inspired by the work of Dr. Michael Woodworth. His research resonated deeply with my passion for forensic psychology, especially its applied nature.”
As a single parent, balancing a young family with the demands of graduate studies was no small feat—but the faculty’s support was unwavering.
“I never felt like just another student,” Dr. Biener shares. “I was seen, supported, and encouraged to grow in ways that were unique to me.”
Academic Roots and Lasting Mentorship
Mentorship played a key role in her academic success. Under the supervision of Dr. Woodworth, Dr. Biener pursued complex research projects that connected psychology to community need.
“His mentorship and openness to collaboration gave me the confidence to bridge academic research with real-world advocacy,” she says.
Dr. Biener also credits Dr. Jan Cioe and Dr. Marvin Krank, who supported the growth of her research expertise and skills in youth forensic psychology, and Dr. Brian O’Connor, whose statistical expertise sharpened her data interpretation skills. Each faculty member contributed uniquely to her growth, reinforcing her belief that academic support extends far beyond the classroom.
“Together, their support not only enhanced my academic work, but truly prepared me for future challenges,” Dr. Biener reflects.
These experiences were further enriched through partnerships with community organizations like the Kelowna RCMP and the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre of Kelowna (CYAC). With faculty encouragement, she led applied research projects that directly influenced practice in fields related to trauma, youth justice, and child protection.
From Student to Research Leader
Today, Dr. Biener holds the title of Director of Research and Evaluation at the CYAC, a role that fuses research with advocacy to create measurable change.
“I lead projects that significantly improve the lives of children and families affected by child abuse and neglect,” she explains. “My focus is on mobilizing evidence into practice to inform policy, enhance services, and foster true systemic change.”
The foundation laid at UBCO—deep academic inquiry, collaborative research, and strong mentorship—has now evolved into a career focused on community impact.
Future Goals: Building Bridges for the Next Generation
Looking ahead, Dr. Biener’s vision includes growing research infrastructure at the community level. She hopes to establish a formal research lab at the CYAC in partnership with UBCO, creating opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in applied research.
“I want to build a space where students can learn, engage in meaningful work, and develop applied research skills,” she says.
Beyond that, she’s determined to influence policy at provincial and national levels, particularly in areas like cultural safety, trauma-informed care, and the prevention of recurrent child abuse.
Her work is a clear example of how academic research—when supported by the right mentors and community partnerships—can become a catalyst for social progress.
Beyond the Lab: Life, Family, and Puzzle Competitions
While her professional accomplishments are remarkable, Dr. Biener remains deeply grounded in her personal life. A proud mom, she balances her work with family adventures around Kelowna.
“We love exploring everything Kelowna has to offer—hiking, parks, the beach. Those moments ground me.”
She’s also an avid reader and competitive puzzler, even placing in local puzzle competitions—an activity that mirrors the analytical thinking she brings to her research.
Words to Her Younger Self—and the Next Generation
When asked what advice she’d offer to students just beginning their university journey, Biener’s message is simple but powerful.
“Trust yourself and take the leap. Say yes to opportunities, even the intimidating ones,” she says. “Be open to building relationships with faculty and your peers; they’ll end up being some of your greatest sources of support and mentorship.”
Biener also acknowledges those who shaped her path beyond the university. In addition to Dr. Woodworth, she credits Ginny Becker, Executive Director of the CYAC of Kelowna, as a key mentor in her post-graduate life.
“Ginny has been instrumental in shaping the work I do. I’ve learned so much from her leadership, compassion, and ability to turn vision into action.”
From the first moments on campus to a career at the intersection of research and advocacy, Dr. Biener’s UBCO story is one of resilience, mentorship, and transformation—proof that when students are truly supported, they don’t just graduate—they lead.