Dr. Haley Gienow-McConnell

Haley is pleased to represent ODEN as a Diversity and Inclusion Specialist. Originally hailing from an academic background, Haley received her doctorate in History and Disability Studies from York University. Eager to apply her skills and her commitment to social justice for disability communities beyond the academy, Haley began consulting work with a variety of not-for-profit organizations while she was still pursuing her doctorate. It was during this time that Haley began developing her relationship with ODEN.

Haley brings to the team expertise in research, publishing, teaching, and grant writing. She is also among a rare set of people who actually loves public speaking, and presenting at conferences! Haley’s background in the academic world, coupled with her history of working with not-for-profits organizations, and government agencies enables her to “speak the language” of a variety of sectors. In fact, one of her foremost professional goals is to better align these sectors, and foster greater collaboration among them.

Haley lives in Niagara Falls, with her husband and young daughter. They are a bilingual and bicultural family, enjoying relationships with local deaf communities. They are all fluent in American Sign Language.