Jennifer Chouinard

 Jennifer Chouinard BA BSW MPP is a PhD Candidate at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Regina. She has worked as a social worker and addictions counsellor in Saskatoon before and during her graduate studies. Jennifer’s Master’s in Public Policy work explored the effects of various Canadian and Australian labour policies on public safety personnel’s mental health outcomes. Her PhD research focuses on the role of digital social networks in benzodiazepine policy in the U.S. 

BA: French, with distinction

BSW: Bachelor of Social Work

MPP: Master of Public Policy

     Thesis: Paramedics and The Chance of a Better Outcome: Employer Liability and Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace.

 Bill 39: An Act to Amend Saskatchewan’s Workers’ Compensation Act (2016) 

“The Psychological Injury Presumption”

In the Saskatchewan Legislature, Jennifer's policy analysis, frontline experience, and consultation alongside interest groups was named by the Minister responsible for the WCB as a catalyst for the adoption of this legislated presumption that expedites treatment for psychologically injured workers.

YWCA Women of Distinction Award Nominee (2015)

Jennifer was nominated for creating community-based peer support groups for people suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder in Saskatoon and Regina.

Saskatchewan Centre for Patient-Oriented Research (SCPOR) Trainee Award Recipient (2021)

This award and training program supports health researchers who collaborate with patients in meaningful ways.

Dr. Bev Robertson Fellowship Award Nominee (2021)

This is the top award for Johnson Shoyama Graduate students. It is designed to support researchers who seek to bridge the gap between science and public policy.

Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal Recipient (2023)

Jennifer was nominated by the City of Regina for demonstrating exceptional qualities and outstanding service to the province of Saskatchewan in the field of volunteer services.

Institutionalizing Care Workshop – Memorial University (2021)

Topic: Employers’ duty of care for psychological health and safety

South Saskatchewan First Responders’ Conference (Moose Jaw, 2019)

Topic: Social support, connection, resilience, and posttraumatic growth

Various Media Engagements Re: Humboldt Broncos Crash (Saskatoon, 2018)

Topic: Recovery from trauma through community connection, the effects on first responders

Saskatchewan Professional Fire Fighters’ Association, AGM (Yorkton, 2017)

Topic: Bill 39 - The Psychological Injury Presumption and the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board

Flin Flon, Creighton & Denare Beach Volunteer Fire Department (2016)

Topic: PTSD, signs and symptoms

Selected classes at Leboldus High School, Regina, the University of Regina School of Social Work and the Saskatchewan Polytech Nursing Program (2015 - 2016)

Topics: Foundations in mental health

Stand Tall for PTSD’s First International Forum on PTSD (Brisbane, 2015)

Topic: Peer support models in Western Canad