Vanessa Barrasa currently serves as the Director of Communications & Issues Management at Wilfrid Laurier University since August 2023. Previously, Vanessa held the position of Senior Manager, Media Relations & Communications at Scotiabank from February 2022 to August 2023. Prior experience includes managing media relations at the Insurance Bureau of Canada and serving as a spokesperson and senior advisor at Metrolinx. Vanessa's extensive background in communications spans various roles within the Canada Border Services Agency, Service Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and Public Services and Procurement Canada. Educational achievements include a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of Ottawa, a diploma in Public Relations & Media Communications from Algonquin College, and a certificate in Inclusive Leadership from the University of Colorado.