Fitness and Health Promotion

Kristin has been an instructor in the Fitness and Health Promotion program at Humber College and Kinesiology program at Guelph-Humber University since 2013. She has taught Motor Learning and Control, Applied Anatomy and Injury Management as well as Exercise Prescription labs. Kristin has been practicing as an Athletic Therapist for the past 15 years and obtained a BSc Kinesiology degree from Western University, an Honours Bachelor of Applied Health Sciences (Athletic Therapy) degree from Sheridan College, and a MSc in Athletic Training and Sports Medicine degree from the University of Florida. In addition to being a Certified Athletic Therapist, Kristin is also a Registered Massage Therapist, and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Kristin also works with Gymnastics Canada (National Trampoline and Tumbling teams) and recently travelled with the team as an Athletic Therapist to Baku, Azerbaijan for the Trampoline Gymnastics World Championships and World Age Group Competitions. When not at work, she enjoys working out, being outdoors and spending time with family and friends.

Joey is a Registered Kinesiologist and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist in the fitness and health field. He completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at York University while securing multiple national titles as part of the varsity soccer program. His diverse background in the field spans working with clinical, athletic, and occupational populations through his experiences at The Hospital for Sick Children, York United Football Club, and Ontario Fire Administration Inc. Currently, Joey teaches across various programs at Humber College, with a focus on exercise science and health promotion. He also contributes to the Kinesiology program at the University of Guelph-Humber.

Brad holds a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology and a Bachelor of Science in Sport Science from Long Island University - Brooklyn. While completing his post-graduate degree, Brad helped lead a research project comparing reaction times to visual and auditory stimuli in NCAA athletes. Brad also conducted various performance assessments and implemented training programs for various NCAA Division I teams. During his undergrad, Brad competed as a multiple All-Conference performer and Northeastern Conference Champion as a member of the Men’s Golf team. Brad is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Certified Personal Trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. After graduation, Brad worked as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, working with youth, amateur and professional athletes. As a service provider for the Canadian Sport Institute - Ontario, Brad had opportunities to work with various Olympic and National programs in Beach Volleyball, Gymnastics, Trampoline and Track & Field. Brad is a Registered Health and Exercise Practitioner and member of the Board of Directors for the Ontario Fitness Council. Brad teaches in the Exercise Prescription and Work Integrated Learning streams of the Fitness and Health Promotion Diploma, Exercise Science and Lifestyle Management Post-Graduate Program and the University of Guelph-Humber Kinesiology Degree.

Sergiu completed his Master’s and PhD degrees in Kinesiology at York University where he performed research in the areas of exercise, stress, and metabolic regulation. As a faculty member at Humber College since 2011, Sergiu has been teaching courses in a number of different programs including: Fitness and Health Promotion, Exercise Science and Lifestyle Management, Kinesiology, and Health Coaching. He is a registered Kinesiologist with the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario and has worked in a number of different fitness facilities throughout his career. His areas of specialty include: Exercise for Special Populations, Physiology, and Exercise Prescription.

Jason Fisher has been motivating and challenging people to be their absolute best even before the year 2000. Jason was as a full scholarship student-athlete in track and field at the University of Montana. After graduating with a BSc in Health & Human Performance and a minor in Sport Psychology, Jason started a health and fitness business called Kickstart Fitness, to inspire and train a diverse client base. He was a sponsored ambassador for lululemon, regularly appeared as a live tv fitness specialist on CP24, provided high performance training and testing for Canada’s National Basketball & Soccer Programs, assessed and fitness trained thousands of people, was the Director of Exercise Physiology at The Toronto Clinic, and co-created the yearly Ronald McDonald charity gala event – Agency Wars. Currently Jason conducts extensive work in the private sector of corporate team building, public speaking, leadership coaching and youth mentorship programs for the Peel Board and The University of Toronto’s Dala Lana School of Public Health in GTA high schools. Jason’s high energy, engaging and interactive style of connecting with others transitioned into being a part-time professor in the Fitness Health Promotion program at Humber College and University of Guelph-Humber Kinesiology program. Jason’s purpose is to give a self-reflective, impactful experience for people to build confidence that will lead them to success.

Jenna Franchuk is a highly experienced professional in the health and fitness industry, with a diverse background spanning over 12 years. She has held various roles including personal trainer, group exercise instructor, and fitness and wellness coordinator, in both corporate and municipal fitness settings. Jenna's educational background includes a Specialized Honors degree in Kinesiology and Health Science from York University, as well as a Masters of Fitness Science. As a CSEP Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Jenna has worked with a wide range of clients, catering to different age groups and conditions. Her expertise extends to working with preschool children, youth athletes, and older adults with chronic conditions. She is deeply passionate about teaching and educating others, aiming to assist them in achieving their health and fitness goals. Jenna's dedication to education is demonstrated by her role as an instructor at both Durham and Humber College. She has taught courses in the Fitness and Health Promotion Program, Exercise Science and Lifestyle Management Graduate Certificate, and University of Guelph-Humber Kinesiology Program. She shares her knowledge and expertise in various courses, including Exercise Prescription, Exercise Physiology, and Fitness Assessment. Through her teaching, she aims to empower her students to become well-rounded professionals in the field of health and fitness.

Denise earned a Master of Science degree in Neuroscience from Western University, where she investigated properties of ankle joint dynamics and hypertonicity in individuals with spinal cord injury. Prior to that, Denise obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of Waterloo, enhancing her understanding of human movement and physical activity. Denise's commitment to professional development is evident through her professional designation as an OCT (Ontario Certified Teacher), complemented by her additional qualifications in Special Education. Since 2006 Denise has dedicated herself to Humber College, where she has served in three distinguished positions including Professor, Director of Professional Development in the Centre for Teaching & Learning and Acting Associate Dean. Denise's commitment to excellence in teaching has garnered her the distinguished accolade of being named a Council of 3M National Teaching & Learning Fellow. This recognition is bestowed upon a select group of educators across Canada who exhibit exemplary dedication to advancing the art and science of teaching, professional mentorship as well as promoting innovative learning practices.

Joseph is a full-time faculty member at Humber College. He completed his Master’s in Exercise Physiology from Western University and the University of Windsor concurrently. He has 20 years of experience as a professor, exercise physiologist, author (Discovering Optimal), health and lifestyle coach, and mental health first aid instructor. Joseph’s passion is researching and educating people about the optimal ways in which they can improve their energy, immunity, and happiness. His graduate research focused on using heart rate variability as a novel measure for determining cardiopulmonary fitness in healthy individuals and those with a pre‐existing cardiopulmonary ailment. He is licensed through the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology to certify Personal Trainers (CSEP-CPT); and licensed through the Mental Health Commission of Canada to certify groups and individuals in Mental Health First Aid Training. Additionally he holds the designations of Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Functional Movement Specialist, and Clinical Exercise Physiologist.

Onika Green is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant, with her masters degree in Sport Psychology. She is on the Managing Council of the Canadian Sport Psychology Association and has been a professor at University of Guelph Humber since 2018. Onika also runs a private practice where she supports provincial, national and professional level athletes on and off the field.

Dr. Elisse Greenspoon obtained her Honours Bachelor of Science in Medical Biophysics from the University of Western Ontario. She then went on to receive her Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto. After a short career as a high school teacher, she decided that her true love was in the health field. She went back to school to become a Doctor of Chiropractic at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. She has practiced as a chiropractor in Toronto since 2002 and she owns and operates a wellness clinic along with her chiropractor/naturopathic doctor husband in midtown Toronto. Elisse has been teaching at Humber and Guelph Humber part-time since 2009 and she truly loves combining her knowledge as a chiropractor and her skills as a teacher to teach professional health-focused students.

Dr. Robert Gumieniak has been an instructor at Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber since 2017. Robert obtained a Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral degree (PhD) in Kinesiology and Health Science from York University. Robert’s dissertation research focused on the development and implementation of physical employment standards. Robert also began teaching at York University in 2015 and has a background in teaching and research. Robert has worked closely with students as a teaching assistant, practicum instructor, course director, and faculty advisor. Robert has also been a contributor to numerous research initiatives in the areas of Exercise Physiology and Occupation-specific Physical Employment Standards. Dr. Gumieniak has published several peer-reviewed publications in the area of physical employment standards. Dr. Gumieniak is a CSEP-Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP), CEP-examiner, and Registered Kinesiologist (R.Kin).

Judi has been involved in the fitness industry and loving it since 1982. While studying at the University of Waterloo, she took her first fitness instructor training course and this started a lifelong interest in all things group exercise. Judi has completed certification/training in Schwinn and Reebok Cycling, CALA Aquafitness, Reebok Step, Les Mills Body Pump and Body Step, Barreworks and SAANA Yoga. Judi has had the pleasure of training thousands of new group exercise instructors since 1990 at corporate fitness centres, municipal clubs and private fitness facilities. Teaching engaging, effective fitness classes from step to yoga to spin to sculpt remains her passion.

Charlie Lee is a professor who helps students discover the way of developing relationships, building confidence and leadership skills that the fitness and health promotion industry requires. He has been teaching for 30 years at colleges and universities and has 25 years of industry experience. Charlie holds a Ph.D. in Physical Education from the University of Han Yang, Korea and graduated from the College Teacher Training Program of George Brown College. Charlie was a senior researcher at Korea National Fitness Centre for Olympians and World Championship athletes as well as an exchange researcher at Ball State University in Indiana, USA before being a professor at Humber College. Charlie has received the Teacher of Distinction Award from the Korean Minister of Education and a distinguished service medal from the Korean Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. He also is a Registered Kinesiologist, Certified Exercise Specialist, bodybuilding trainer, sports massage instructor and sports taping instructor. In addition, he likes jogging, weight training, fishing and hunting.

Maria Pelliccia worked for 15 years as a Clinical Dietitian in various healthcare settings such as long term care, complex continuing care, gastroenterology, surgical oncology and burns, prior to coming to Humber to become a teacher. Maria has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from York University and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition From Metropolitan University. Maria completed a post-graduate internship at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Maria has educated dietetic interns, nurses and doctors regarding the use of nutrition support in various patient populations. Maria's research and publications include: Role of the nutrition professional in high-risk obstetrics inpatient teams (Can J Diet Pract Res., 2013) and Enteral Nutrition Support Reduces the Necessity of Total Parenteral Nutrition to Reach Patient-Specific Caloric Goals Postpancreaticoduodenectomy (South Med J . 2015). Maria has been a full time faculty member at Humber College since 2013.

Carmen Puyo began her fitness career in the 1990s as a group fitness instructor. She is currently the Group Exercise Director for LIV North overseeing several corporate wellness centres in Toronto and is also a freelance fitness instructor at Equinox Fitness. Carmen is a member of the academic staff at Humber College, teaching group exercise leadership and special events. Carmen delivers a safe, customized workout. Clients benefit from her contagious energy and passion for life. Whether spending time with Carmen one-on-one or in a group setting, you’ll instantly be drawn to her positive attitude and her encouragement to help clients reach their full potential. Carmen has initiated various fundraisers for many worthy causes. Her dedication to helping individuals and families achieve their fitness and health goals is equal to her charitable efforts. Carmen's passion for fitness and training is only rivaled by her commitment to giving back to her community.

Ajay has been a dedicated faculty member in the Fitness & Health Promotion Program since 2011 and served as its first-year Program Coordinator from 2020 to 2023. As a Registered Kinesiologist, Certified Exercise Physiologist, and Strength & Conditioning Specialist, his expertise spans a variety of programs within the Exercise & Nutritional Sciences division, where he’s taught foundational courses in Nutrition & Healthy Lifestyle Promotion, Exercise Science & Lifestyle Management, and Kinesiology. Presently, Ajay spearheads the Competency-based Education (CBE) initiative within the Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellness. In this collaborative role, he works alongside faculty members and students across various programs to incorporate a CBE approach. Fueled by his passion for enhancing teaching and learning methods, Ajay is committed to making a significant impact on the education of future healthcare professionals trained at Humber.

Fabian is a Registered Kinesiologist, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, and Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences & Wellness at Humber College. He is also the owner of Fab Your Life Inc., a multidisciplinary clinic in Markham, Ontario. Fabian holds a Master of Rehabilitation Science degree from the University of British Columbia, and an undergraduate Kinesiology degree from Western University. As a faculty member at Humber since 2008, he has taught across several programs including Fitness & Health Promotion, Exercise Science & Lifestyle Management, and Kinesiology at the University of Guelph-Humber. Fabian is a former professional athlete with the Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League (CFL), and Canadian Men’s 7s Rugby Team. He is the head coach of the Humber men’s rugby team, and Director of Men’s Rugby at Markham Irish Canadian Rugby Club. Fabian is a former board member with the Ontario Kinesiology Association and has dedicated his career to advancing the profession of Kinesiology. He has a keen interest in interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based practice, and student-centered learning.

Kia obtained a Master of Science in Kinesiology, then went on to complete related industry certifications such as Certified Exercise Therapist, Certified Exercise Physiologist, Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Exercise Coach and Wellness Coach. He has worked as a Personal Training and Small Group Training Manager, College Professor at Humber College and University of Guelph-Humber, Director of Athletics, Performance and Wellness, Physiotherapy Clinic Manager and Director of Health and Wellness at a private Health Clinic. Kia's work experience also includes professional and collegiate athletes in hockey and soccer primarily. His areas of research are sports biomechanical analysis, EMG, exercise assessment and prescription, as well as biomechanical analysis of athletic and injury rehabilitation.

Lori has been working as a Registered Dietitian since 2005 focussing mostly in the areas of Eating Disorders, Type 1 diabetes, improving your relationship with food and body and more recently neurodivergent and LGBTQIA care. Lori completed her undergrad at the school formerly known as Ryerson University, did her dietetic internship at the Southeastern Ontario Comprehensive Internship and completed her Masters of Professional Education in Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice at Western University. Lori is a member of the Ontario College of Dietitians, Dietitians of Canada, Association for Size Diversity and Health and Weight Inclusive Dietitians in Canada.

Darian holds Masters Degrees in Kinesiology from York University and in Science Education from the City College of New York. In addition, he is a CSEP-Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist with High Performance Specialization designation. Darian has been an active coach to endurance athletes such as triathletes, runners, cyclists and more since 2010 where he has used his scientific knowledge to help them maximize their performance. He has also been an instructor at Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber since 2014, focussed on teaching Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription courses, though lately he has also started sharing his knowledge of coaching through a course on Athletic Coaching Techniques. Darian is also a regular contributor to the print and online versions of Triathlon Magazine Canada. In addition, Darian practices what he preaches having completed his first triathlon in 1997 and won his age-group in the 1500m freestyle swim event at the 2019 Masters Swimming Ontario Provincial Championships. His next athletic endeavour will be to learn how to ride a bike on a velodrome – something he has heard is not as easy as it seems like it should be.

Deb Singer has been in the fitness industry since 2003 and has been teaching at Humber since 2015. With a degree in Physical and Health Education, Drama and an Education degree, fitness is the perfect blend. Deb is a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer through both Can Fit Pro and the Ontario Fitness Council. Deb is also a Regional Manager at LIV North, a fitness programming company, specializing in corporate fitness management. Deb’s greatest joy comes from watching her son play hockey and cuddling with her golden doodle Teejay. She feels privileged to help people with their fitness journeys, and feels gratitude daily, because her work is her passion and never feels like work.

Alanna Turco holds a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education from the University of Toronto. She started her fitness career working in commercial and corporate fitness clubs and elite athlete facilities. During her long tenure at The Sports Clubs of Canada, she worked her way up to senior management, overseeing multiple locations. With a passion for developing her team, she created a comprehensive training program and concurrently assumed the role of Director of Training and Development for 21 locations. After leaving SCC, Alanna co-founded eMbody Fitness, an exclusive boutique fitness club that operated successfully for 12 years. Simultaneously she created 360impact Group, where she provides leadership training and coaching services to companies across North America. Since 2010, Alanna has been an instructor at Humber College and recently at the University of Guelph-Humber, teaching courses in management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Alanna combines her passion and personal experience with world-class examples to develop her students and inspire their success.

Brent completed an M.Sc. in Fitness Science from the School of Kinesiology at York University. A faculty member since 2004, Brent teaches courses across a variety of programs including the Fitness and Health Promotion diploma program, the Exercise Science and Lifestyle Management post graduate certificate program, and the Kinesiology program at the University of Guelph–Humber. Additionally, he is a Registered Kinesiologist through the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA. Further to his education and certifications, Brent has completed the EXOS/Athlete’s Performance Mentorship program which has provided him with a unique perspective that blends the science of human performance with best practices in the world of Strength and Conditioning. His primary area of teaching is exercise prescription and applied nutrition.