Cynthia Glaicar

Mentor and Facilitator

Cynthia is a dedicated educator with a rich background in public education, spanning various roles from teacher to senior leadership. With a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Education, and a Masters in Educational Leadership, Cynthia has spent the majority of her career working with junior and senior high school students. Her transition to senior leadership saw her take on the role of staff development for her school division, where she excelled in creating opportunities for professional growth and development.

Cynthia's notable achievements within and outside of Orenda include her expertise in creating opportunities and safe spaces for self-discovery, authentic communication, and connection. She has a deep connection to the healing power and energy of the natural world, which she integrates into her work at Orenda. Her key skills align perfectly with Orenda’s mission, as she strives to foster meaningful connections and provide environments that promote personal growth and healing.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Cynthia is passionate about leadership coaching, trail riding, gardening, reading, and spending time outdoors. Community members at Orenda describe her as passionate, earthy, and reflective, qualities that she brings to every aspect of her work.

Guided by her personal mission to live a life of authenticity and inspiration, Cynthia aims to leave a positive impact through meaningful connections. Her current vision is to embrace ease, grace, and joy while fully embodying self-worth. This approach resonates with her "word of the year" – Choose – symbolizing her commitment to making intentional and impactful choices.

Looking to the future, Cynthia aspires to inspire others to live their true worth and contribute to communities that support healthy, thriving individuals. She sees the future of personal and collective transformation, youth and family development, and community-building as bright and full of potential, and she hopes to play a pivotal role in this ongoing journey.

With a career dedicated to education and a life devoted to fostering meaningful connections, Cynthia continues to inspire those around her to embrace their true selves and make a positive impact in their communities.

Four Things You Might Not Know About Me

What skill or hobby are you currently trying to improve or learn?

Gardening – just got a green house!
Describe a small, everyday moment that brings you joy.

Watching the sunrise
What's your favourite season and why?

Fall – fall inspires me to lean in to gathering and harvesting the lessons of the year and as a teacher, it was always a time of huge inspiration and new beginnings.
Share a memorable travel experience that has stayed with you.

Hiking the Inca Trail – felt such connection to the earth and the history of the trail
Living in Kuwait and traveling some of the close countries – provided me so much space to reflect on my life and the wisdom I have gained through the experiences I have lived.