Rina Arseneault has been the Associate Director of the Muriel McQueen Fergusson Centre for Family Violence Research since November 1993. She has a Masters in Social Work and is a Registered Social Worker. From 2001 to 2003, she worked in the Psychiatry Emergency Services and at the HIV/AIDS Clinic at the Ottawa Hospital.
She is recognized as an activist and educator on women issues. She has organized numerous training opportunities and workshops. She contributed in the development of the 8-course credited UNB Certificate Program in Family Violence Issues and she has also taught courses in the program.
Her experience includes extensive work with community - organizations, individual researchers, government agencies, the media and victims of violence. In 1997, Rina was honoured with the NB Advisory Council on the Status of Women Recognition Award for her contribution to improving the status of women in New Brunswick. In 2002, she received the Muriel McQueen Fergusson Foundation Award, for her work in violence against women and family violence. In 2014, Rina was appointed to the Order of Canada. The Order of Canada, one of our country’s highest civilian honours, recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.
She is recognized for her contributions as a researcher, activist, author and educator working to end family violence. Rina currently resides in Fredericton, NB with her husband Dan. She loves to spend time with family especially her five beautiful grandchildren.