Research Assistant

BA Psychology, 2025.

MA Psychology, Brain & Cognitive Sciences, expected grad 2027.

I have worked with CCSRMH for the past year, focusing on the Ag and Mental Health research project, while also managing the social media accounts and website work. Previously, I worked with Child and Family Services of Western Manitoba (CFSWM), which gave me insight into the importance of rural mental health resources and interventions.

Born and raised on a small sheep and cattle farm in the English countryside, I moved to a much larger farm in rural Manitoba in 2012. Living on the Prairies has contributed to my belief that mental health outreach to rural and remote communities is of utmost importance.

I have experience with literature search & review, proposal writing, ethics application, and quantitative data collection and analysis. I hope to gain more hands on experience as a research assistant, and am particularly interested in learning more about qualitative data collection and analysis. During my time with the Centre, I have gained a deeper understanding of wellness and resilience in farming communities, and have begun to grow and develop valuable research skills.

Research Assistant

BSc (Agriculture) in Animal Systems from University of Manitoba (2006)

My relevant research and work experience includes beef cattle research where I contributed to trial set-up and maintenance, data collection and logging.

Born and raised on family farm. Was 4th generation Aggie at the University of Manitoba. For nearly 20 years I have managed my honeybee farm while assisting on my families mixed beef and grain farm. I am passionate about mental health in agriculture and rural settings. I enjoy connecting and bonding over shared experiences.

My research skills would include community engagement and leadership/teamwork/collaboration. I am interested in rural/agricultural mental health, social determinants of health and stigma. My goals at the centre are to network, collaborate and spread my wings. I want to open as many doors as possible as I grow both personally and professionally in my pursuit of becoming a well-rounded, competent psychiatric nurse.

I want to connect, work with, and learn from the diverse populations and communities that make up rural Canada. I want to gain research experience while establishing long-lasting relationships with western-Canada’s finest academics, rural residents and industry. I welcome opportunities for growth and contributing to mutually beneficial relationships.

Research Assistant

BA Psychology, Honours, 2025.

My name is Bethany Leslie and I recently completed my Honours Degree in the Department of Psychology at BU which solidified my passion for research – especially that which aligns with my dedication for improving the accessibility of mental health care.

As the Outreach Coordinator at MDAM Prairie Mountain Region, I bring lived experience of our community’s mental health concerns as well as the connections necessary for community engagement. I have experience with project management, research ethics, quantitative research methods, and literature reviews.

My drive to learn motivates my desire to explore new research opportunities, such as publication and knowledge mobilization.

Research Assistant

Molly MacPherson-Blair is a 5th-year Honours student in the Department of Psychology at Brandon University. Her childhood holds fond memories of visiting her Uncle’s farm, playing with calves and farm kittens.  

Her work has focused on community organizations aimed at reducing isolation in older adults across Manitoba. She has a keen interest in how to develop and promote mental wellness across a lifespan, from birth to end of life, with skills centering community outreach and effective communication. She is looking forward to developing further analytic and qualitative skills!

Outside of psychology, Molly is a member of BU’s women’s soccer team!

Research Assistant

David Vo is a 2nd year student in the Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing program, with prior training in agribusiness and geographic information systems (GIS).

Having grown up in a rural area and worked directly in farming environments, David brings practical, lived insight into the intersection of agriculture and mental health. His research interests include health equity, systems navigation, and the use of visual and spatial tools to inform community-based interventions.

Through his role at the Centre, David aims to strengthen his research skills and contribute to meaningful, interdisciplinary work that supports and promotes mental wellness in rural Canada.