December 14, 2023
WoEgypt

Dr. Dalia Hanna, PhD, P.Eng., PMP®, has a PhD in Computer Science from Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), an M.Sc. in Instructional Design and Technology specializing in Online Learning from Walden University and a B.Sc. in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Cairo University. 

She is a Project Management Professional (PMP®), a Professional Engineer in Ontario (P.Eng.), a certified Prosci® (Adkar) Change Management Practitioner and certified as an internal auditor for the ISO9000 quality standards. Dalia also obtained a certification in Women in Education Leadership from Harvard University.

Dr. Hanna boasts 30 years of business and academic experience, including 18 years in higher education. Currently an Associate Dean at Sheridan College, she also teaches at Westcliff University in Information Technology, serves as a Dissertation Chair for business students, and instructs professional communications at TMU as part-time faculty. Additionally, she supervises Ph.D. and Master’s students at TMU’s Yeates School of Graduate Studies.

A relationship-builder, she leads Toronto’s Senior Services and Long-Term Advisory Committee. She cultivates partnerships for student education, focusing on drones for public safety and rescue operations. Her extensive research, presented at IEEE conferences, spans educational technology, project management, and online learning. Dalia’s acclaimed work garners grants, awards, and recognition in scientific and public spheres.

Dr. Hanna enjoys travelling with her family and exploring exciting parts of the world. Recently, she participated in a humanitarian trip to Namibia to support underprivileged communities.

WoE: How do you balance personal and family life with your busy schedule and other professional responsibilities?

Dalia Hanna: I set clear priorities! Family always comes first. I make sure that I take time off and vacation time to spend with my family. We love to travel together and discover new places together. 

WoE: As an Egyptian woman living abroad, what are/were the major cultural and professional gaps/challenges that you faced, be it professional or personally? 

DH: The main challenge as an immigrant is the feeling that you belong. Sometimes, as immigrants and women, we experience imposter syndrome! That makes you feel that you would like to belong and fit within any community. Sometimes that reflects on how we feel and believe in ourselves. It makes the person doubt their sleeves a bit. The positive outcome is that it makes us work harder to continue to prove ourselves. 

WoE: How did you overcome these challenges /adapt?

DH: By understanding our strength, our abilities and accomplishments we are able to overcome these challenges. 

WoE: Is preserving the Egyptian identity and heritage significant to you in your new homeland?

DH: Yes, very much! I like the saying that Egypt will always be my home land and Canada now became my second home. I’m a very proud Egyptian and Canadian woman. I love the warmth, the kindness and the vibrance of Egypt. It is where I grew up and have my beloved family and dear friends. 

WoE: If yes, what do you do to accomplish that? For example, do you celebrate Egyptian holidays? How? Other 

DH: I do celebrate Egyptian Holidays! I personally love Sham El-Nessim as I feel it is the most Egyptian Holiday that all Egyptians celebrate regardless of background, religion or location. I celebrate the holidays with my family and community. 

WoE: Why did you, as an engineer, pursue the “Women in Education Leadership from Harvard University” certification, and how has it impacted your leadership style in education and your dedication to gender equity?

DH: I worked and still work in higher education, in leadership positions. I felt the need to enhance my understanding in our role as women in the Education field. Also being an Engineer and a Woman in STEM come with other challenges. 

WoE: What risks have you taken in your career that had paid off?

DH: Being exposed to various disciplines and working within each! I now bring a transferable interdisciplinary set of skills, education and expertise that supports my career and the work I do. 

WoE: What do you wish you knew early in your career that would have been helpful? 

DH: Take more risks early on and start building your education early on once yo graduate. I consider myself a lifelong learner and recommend that others build their career and knowledge supported by educational achievements early on in their careers. 

WoE: Are there any specific habits or routines you’ve developed that help you stay focused and effective during busy days?

DH: Taking a break and going for a walk. I love walks and listening to music. Also, if I’m in the middle of a stressful situation, don’t react immediately, take time, re-think and then respond.  

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