Ménard psych group
Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows
Oliver Cheek
My name is Oliver Cheek (he/him). I am a second year Master’s student at the University of Windsor, working with Dr. Ménard. My research interests include improving the health and wellness of sexual and gender minorities, with a specific interest in transgender populations. My past research experience involved completing an honours thesis in my undergraduate degree, which focused on understanding whether individuals categorize gender in faces in a binary or non-binary fashion. Outside of research, I enjoy going on hikes, camping with friends, photography, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.
Morgan Sterling
My name is Morgan Sterling, and I am an Adult Clinical Psychology Master’s student at the University of Windsor working with the wonderful Dr. Ménard. My research interests focus on sexual and reproductive health and wellness. Previously, I have worked on research involving mindfulness and sexual/genital arousal at Queen’s University as well as mood and anxiety disorders in pregnant populations at Sunnybrook Hospital. Outside of the lab I am a cat mom to Oscar the rescue tabby, a cinephile, and a big fan of contemporary art and museums.
Dr. Nesreen Elkord
Hi, I’m a Post-doctoral fellow working with Dr. Menard to oversee and assist in the development of a training program to help prepare nursing students to successfully transition into hospital-based jobs during global and regional health crises such as pandemics. I received my PhD from the University of Windsor with a focus on the social, cultural, and political contexts of education. I am currently an adjunct Assistant Professor with the Faculty of Education. Since 2019, I have been teaching at Faculties of Education, Psychology Department, and Child and Youth Department at the University of Windsor, Western University, and the Mount Saint Vincent University. From 2017 to 2019, I worked with a team of researchers and professionals on the evaluation, data, and project management in a research study funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation that investigated the effectiveness of an international evidence-based parenting program – Triple P, for immigrant parents and their families in the local Windsor-Essex community. My hobbies include nature walks, self-development, yoga, planting, and travel.
Maddy Blazer
I am currently in my second year of a PhD in Applied Social Psychology focused on Industrial-Organizational Psychology. I also completed my MSc in Industrial-Organizational Psychology at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. I am interested in how organizations can better train or socialize their employees to ensure they are happier and healthier at work. Outside of school, you can catch me doing anything outdoors, reading a book, watching a good horror movie, or turning on any sport I can find at any given moment.
Melissa Pare
I am a PhD Candidate in the Department of Kinesiology specializing in Sport and Exercise Psychology. My work with Dr. Ménard as a research assistant focuses on the persistence of students within STEM programs. My primary research focuses on the psychology of injury and rehabilitation of sport injuries. Outside of research, I have a passion for coaching youth basketball and spending time with my dog.
Sira Jaffri
I am currently enrolled in the Master of Science in Translational Health Science program. I have worked with Dr. Ménard throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies assessing the mental health and wellness of science students at uWindsor and investigating the "leaky pipeline" in postsecondary STEM education. I am passionate about shining a light on mental health issues, addressing stigma, and promoting wellness resources within the community. My career goal is to pursue an MD after graduation. Outside of school, I enjoy snowboarding, reading, and spending time with my family and friends!
