Since graduating from UBC Okanagan, Nina Gregoire has built a dynamic career at the intersection of psychology, law, and mediation. As founder of The Resolve Lab Inc., a boutique mediation firm, she helps individuals and organizations navigate interpersonal challenges with compassion and clarity. Drawing on her training in both psychology and law, Dr. Gregoire uses evidence-informed approaches to promote understanding, psychological safety, and effective conflict resolution.
Tell us in detail about your journey since graduating from UBC Okanagan.
Since graduating, I’ve started a boutique mediation firm called The Resolve Lab Inc. I’m passionate about helping people navigate interpersonal challenges and deeply value the opportunity to help them strengthen their relationships while finding workable solutions. This work has allowed me to integrate my academic training in psychology and law with my commitment to fostering understanding and psychological safety in communities, institutions, and organizations.
What are your future goals?
My future goals include completing my final year of law school while continuing to scale my mediation practice. I’m also pursuing a Postdoctoral Fellowship with a focus on helping organizations and institutions access evidence-informed conflict resolution materials. My long-term vision is to bridge psychological research, law, and mediation to make conflict resolution more accessible, effective, and above all, compassionate.
Why did you choose to study at UBC Okanagan?
The main reason I chose UBC Okanagan was my incredible supervisor, Dr. Paul Davies. His research, mentorship style, and genuine care for students created an environment where I knew I could grow both personally and professionally.
What program were you enrolled in, and what specifically attracted you to it?
I was enrolled in the Psychological Science MA and then PhD program. I loved the program’s structure and the opportunity to gain industry experience through internships while completing my degree. Having gained years of work experience during my studies has been invaluable to my career growth. During this time, I also pursued my law degree concurrently. It was a demanding schedule at times, but ultimately, it was one of the most exciting and productive periods of my life.
What opportunities did the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences provide you with?
I was fortunate to receive excellent funding, which allowed me to focus fully on my studies and professional development. I felt supported by my supervisor, committee, program chairs, and the department’s staff, all of whom contributed to my ability to complete my program on time and with a clear sense of direction for the future.
Did any specific classes or faculty members in particular help to shape your academic journey?
So many people shaped my academic journey. Dr. Paul Davies was endlessly supportive, kind, and brilliant. Dr. Leanne ten Brinke has been an ongoing source of inspiration. Dr. Susan Holtzman gave me early opportunities to participate in meaningful research that opened many doors. Dr. Harry Miller offered unwavering support and generosity that deeply influenced my path. Finally, Dr. Trudy Kavanagh modeled a type of servant leadership that I hope to emulate in my own work and life.
How did your experience at UBCO change you?
Before coming to UBCO, I never saw myself as particularly smart or with any real talent. My experience here transformed that self-perception. Through the mentorship of, in particular, Dr. Paul Davies and Dr. Harry Miller, I began to see my potential and develop confidence in my abilities. I feel deeply privileged to have received a world-class education surrounded by such kindness and generosity. Their influence reminds me daily of the importance of giving back, which I am excited to now do through pro bono and sliding-scale mediation services and my volunteer work as Vice-Chair of the Central Okanagan Elizabeth Fry Society.
If you had to convince another student to go to UBCO, what would you say?
My time at UBCO was a season of profound personal and intellectual growth. Experiences like this are rare and deeply valuable. As a first-generation university graduate, I’ve seen firsthand how UBCO can open doors and create opportunities that last a lifetime. If you have the chance to study here, take it.
What advice would you give your younger self about the university experience in general?
For most of my life I discounted my so-called “soft skills” and was exceedingly hard on myself when academic pursuits were a challenge. Because of this tendency, I would tell my younger self that soft skills are every bit as important as intellect. Empathy, communication, a strong work ethic, and curiosity will take you further than pure academic talent alone ever could. I’m not sure she’d believe it, though. There are some things in life you learn only through experience.
Learn more about The Resolve Lab Inc. and view Dr. Gregoire’s LinkedIn page.