Tyndale University is pleased to announce several faculty promotions and appointments:
Dr. Siang-Yang Tan Appointed to Research Professor, Clinical Counselling and Psychotherapy
The Rev. Dr. Siang-Yang Tan is a highly respected, licensed psychologist and Fellow of the American Psychological Association. He is also a Senior Professor of Clinical Psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. A holder of a BA and PhD from McGill University, Dr. Tan has used his experience to author more than 100 articles and 17 books, including widely used textbooks. His phenomenal work in counselling has earned him multiple awards. We are excited to have him teach courses in Tyndale's Master’s and Doctoral-level counselling programs.
Dr. Ken Michell Promoted to Associate Professor, Music & Worship Arts
Dr. Ken Michell is a Tyndale graduate who spent 12 years touring as the lead singer for The Dustkickers, a Canadian Christian music group. He is the Worship Director at Bridlewood Presbyterian Church and the Vice President of the music examination system, Christian Conservatory of Music, Canada. Dr. Michell has also written responsorial psalm settings for over 50 Psalms for use in personal and corporate settings. Some of his research on music and Psalms is published in Christian Educators Journal and Northwest Institute for Ministry Education Research (NIMER).
Dr. Heather Birch Promoted to Professor with Tenure, Education, and appointed Dean of School of Education
Dr. Heather Birch’s areas of specialization are Educational Technology and Arts Education. She has experience collaborating to build digital tools for learning, as well as teaching music, drama, dance, and visual art at the elementary level. In her research, she investigates inclusive teaching, cross-curricular integration of the arts, knowledge media design, and the integration of faith and learning. In addition to this, she explores wellbeing in teacher education and games for learning. Earlier this year, Dr. Birch was appointed editor of the International Christian Community of Teacher Educators Journal (ICCTE-J) for a five-year term.
Rev. Allyson MacLeod Appointed to Adjunct Professor, Christian Ministry and Practical Theology
The Rev. Allyson MacLeod is an ordained minister of the Zion Presbyterian Church in Charlottetown, PEI, where she leads the congregation alongside her husband, the Rev. Kirk MacLeod. In addition to her teaching responsibilities at Tyndale, she coordinates Ministry Internship Placements for pastoral, youth, children, and intercultural ministries. These placements are a critical part of the curriculum because students get the opportunity to experience real-world work as part of their studies.
Yvonne Chan Appointed to Assistant Professor, Education
Yvonne Chan brings a rich background in teaching, leadership, and education policy. Her professional experience spans serving as a piano and religious studies teacher, YRDSB Vice Principal and Principal, and Student Achievement Officer with the Ministry of Education. Yvonne was drawn to Tyndale by the strong sense of community and the support for all teacher candidates. Yvonne teaches language and literacy pedagogy, as well as courses focused on human development, and equity and diversity.
Dr. Eugene Chan Appointed Professor and Van Norman Chair of Business
Dr. Eugene Chan joined Tyndale faculty as Professor and Van Norman Chair this year. Having worked at tertiary institutions in Canada, the U.S., Australia, and Europe, he comes to Tyndale with a wealth of teaching experience in marketing and consumer behaviour. Dr. Chan has also done extensive research in these areas throughout his career and has earned many accolades and media spotlights. He has been featured in news media such as NY Post, CTV, and CBC. Dr. Chan’s work also appears in journals, including Journal of Travel Research, Global Environmental Change, and Journal of Consumer Psychology.
Mark Cassar Appointed Assistant Professor, Education
For over 34 years, Mark Cassar has dedicated his time to education as a teacher, principal, consultant, editor, and post-secondary lecturer. His methods are rooted in equity, inclusion, and faith, bringing a Christ-centred approach to learning. Mark has written academic pieces on leadership and inclusivity for prominent publishers including Nelson and Pearson. He has also collaborated with international platforms such as Stanford University’s YouCubed, a centre that focuses on research in neuroscience and mathematics education to inform rich classroom resources.
Please join us in congratulating everyone on their appointments and promotions.