For Dr. Tim Paulson, Assistant Professor of History at UBC Okanagan, history is not just about the past—it’s about the living stories that shape our world today. Whether he is guiding students through the history of capitalism, researching the environmental legacy of ranching, or helping undergraduates design their first major research project, his work bridges people, places, and the deep connections between them.

“I’ve always loved history,” he says. “But I started to see it less as a set of stories from the past and more as a way to understand the world and people around me more deeply.”

That realization has guided Dr. Paulson from his early days as a student in British Columbia to his role today as a historian exploring the intersections of environment, economy, and society.

From Meatpacking Plants to Environmental History

Dr. Paulson’s journey into academia began in an unexpected place: a meatpacking plant. As an undergraduate student at the University of Victoria, he took a summer job to help fund his studies—an experience that would shape his career.

“I ended up writing a history of meatpacking workers and industrial technology for my honours thesis,” he recalls. “That’s when I realized history could be a tool for understanding real-world systems and the people who live within them.”

After a brief stint in plumbing and drain repair, Dr. Paulson returned to the classroom—this time as a doctoral student at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Originally intent on studying U.S. history, he was encouraged by his mentors and peers to continue writing about Canada, connecting environmental change to questions of economics and justice.

“Santa Barbara is one of the alleged birthplaces of the modern environmental movement,” he explains. “Being there helped me see how the stories we tell about the environment are deeply tied to systems of power and production.”

When UBC Okanagan began seeking an environmental historian of Canada—someone who could link local issues to global processes—Dr. Paulson’s interdisciplinary approach made him an ideal fit. “I was fortunate,” he says. “My past colleagues helped me become the right person at the right time for this job.”

Life and Learning at UBCO

Today, Dr. Paulson’s work at UBCO spans three intertwined roles: teaching, research, and mentorship.

As a teacher, he leads courses in environmental and Canadian history, as well as the history of capitalism—designing new offerings that invite students to explore the complex relationship between humans and the natural world. “I love the diversity of topics I get to teach,” he says. “My colleagues trust me to experiment, and I enjoy creating courses that challenge students to see history as a living discipline.”

As a researcher, Dr. Paulson examines the intersection of environmental and economic history. His current projects range from the environmental history of cattle ranching in Australia, Canada, and the United States, to an innovative study of canola futures trading in Winnipeg. “It’s my new obsession,” he admits. “I’m fascinated by the environmental history of financial derivatives and other abstract instruments. They may seem intangible, but they have real impacts on land, agriculture, and ecosystems.”

His third role—coordinating the undergraduate Honours program—is one he describes as both demanding and deeply rewarding. “Supporting undergraduate research on such a wide diversity of topics is one of my proudest contributions,” he says. “I get to see students become historians in their own right.”

Teaching Philosophy: Many Stories, Living Legacies, and Care in the Classroom

Dr. Paulson’s teaching philosophy is rooted in three principles he has refined through his time with UBCO’s Centre for Teaching and Learning:

Many People, Many Places, Many Narratives. “People often say there are two sides to every story,” he says. “But that’s boring. There are many sides, and they aren’t all equal or easily compared. I want students to find meaning in deep complexity.”

Living Legacies. “History doesn’t repeat itself, but we live with its remnants,” he explains. “Everything has a history—and I want students from all backgrounds to see how historical thinking can illuminate their fields.”

Wellness. “We can’t learn when we’re under stress,” he says. “I try to build flexibility and care into my course design. University can be demanding, and I want my classes to help students thrive, not just survive.”

His teaching philosophy comes alive in seminar settings—his favourite learning environment. “My first seminar on ‘Nature and Capitalism’ was transformative,” he recalls. “The students were so engaged; they ended up teaching me as much as I taught them. That’s when I knew I was in the right profession.”

Research: Where the Environment Meets the Economy

Dr. Paulson’s research sits at the intersection of environmental history and political economy. “I want to understand how economic systems shape the environment—and how environmental change, in turn, reshapes those systems,” he says.

That inquiry has led him to examine topics ranging from cattle ranching to speculative finance, all through a historical lens. His upcoming book, Grass Fed Capitalism, explores how ranchers across Australia, Canada, and the United States attempted to reform market forces to better align with environmental realities.

“People often think free-market sustainability is a new idea,” he says. “But cattle ranchers have been wrestling with that tension for over 150 years.”

While his research is expansive, Dr. Paulson’s passion for mentorship keeps his focus grounded. “The most meaningful projects are the ones I get to help students develop,” he says. “My work is great—but my favourite ideas often come from them.”

Looking Ahead

With his first book nearing completion, Dr. Paulson is looking to the future with enthusiasm. “My career is just beginning,” he says. “I see myself right here at UBCO, teaching new courses, developing new research, and continuing to learn from my colleagues and students. This community has been incredibly supportive, and I hope my work continues to give back to it.”

Beyond the Classroom

When he’s not in the archives or the classroom, Dr. Paulson enjoys working with his hands—whether it’s small home repairs, woodworking projects, or anything that requires a bit of problem-solving.

That mix of practicality, and curiosity reflects his approach to history itself—hands-on, thoughtful, and always open to discovery.

“History,” he says simply, “is for everyone.”

When she first set foot on UBC Okanagan’s campus, surrounded by mountains and nature, far from the hustle of her hometown Mexico City, Ana Salgado knew she’d found something special.

“I’ve always wanted to live close to nature, and in a more peaceful and slower environment,” Salgado shares. “The fact that this campus was way smaller than UBC Vancouver ticked off a box for me.”

Now a graduate student in the Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies (IGS) – Power, Conflict, and Ideas program, Salgado reflects on her five-year journey at UBCO with a deep sense of gratitude—for the connections she’s built, the professors who’ve mentored her, and the personal growth she’s experienced.

A Campus that Feels Like Home

After spending time living in Ireland, Salgado knew she was drawn to “small town vibes.” UBCO offered the academic rigor of a globally recognized university with the intimacy and accessibility of a close-knit campus.

“I feel that it’s easier to get to know your profs and form connections. While adjusting to a new culture and climate was a challenge, I’ve found my people and my home here.”

That sense of connection became especially important as she transitioned from an undergraduate degree in History to graduate research that blends her passions for history, journalism, and political thought.

Finding Her Path Through Interdisciplinary Study

“I was debating history, journalism, political science… even creative writing!” Salgado laughs. “But IGS allowed me to combine all of these interests. I could bring in professors from different faculties to get different perspectives.”

Originally focused on the censorship and repression of journalism in Mexico during the Porfiriato (the authoritarian rule of Mexican President Porfirio Diaz from 1876-1911), her research has since expanded to explore the informal censorship of rock music in Mexico during the 1970s and 80s. Salgado investigates how youth pushed back against official silence through alternative reporting platforms like zines and independent publications.

“My passion for journalism has always been a driving force,” Salgado says. That passion took shape not only through her research, but also through hands-on experience: she spent three years at The Phoenix News, UBCO’s official student newspaper, eventually serving as Editor in Chief—a role she describes as “important” in shaping her academic and professional identity. She also completed an internship as a writer for The Latin American News Digest.

With support from the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Salgado has undertaken research trips to Mexico and secured funding through graduate research grants and faculty awards. She’s also worked as a Teaching Assistant, further grounding her academic journey in mentorship and leadership.

“The biggest thing the faculty has given me is connections and networking,” Salgado says. “I’ve been able to expand my career in ways I never imagined.”

Mentorship That Made a Difference

Throughout her journey, mentorship has played a defining role. Salgado credits Dr. Jessica Stites-Mor—her undergraduate and now graduate supervisor—as someone who has shaped her both academically and personally.

“She inspired me to major in History, helped me gain confidence in my work, and supported me during some of the most stressful times,” Salgado says. “She continues to guide me at every step.”

She also praises professors like Dr. Catherine Higgs, Dr. Todd Campbell, and Dr. Thomas Heilke, who helped her navigate the often-daunting transition into graduate studies.

A Humbling (and Empowering) Experience

Graduate school hasn’t always been easy.

“People sometimes think UBCO is ‘easier’ because it’s smaller, but graduate school humbled me,” Salgado acknowledges. “These professors are incredibly smart and prepared. I’ve learned things I never thought I would.”

But from that challenge came growth—and clarity. Whether she pursues a career in education or continues to explore paths in journalism, editorial work, or publishing, she knows the skills and experience she’s gained will carry her forward.

Looking Ahead—with Joy

When asked about the future, she smiles: “I just want to be happy and at peace. I want to travel, I want to write… maybe even publish a historical fiction novel one day!”

Outside the classroom, she paints, lifts weights, and loses herself in books—yes, even The Hunger Games when she’s supposed to be reading Foucault. “While my degree is basically reading, it’s still my favorite thing to do,” she jokes.

Advice to Her Younger Self?

“Give yourself a break. Not everything has to be perfect the first time,” she says. “Perfection can be destructive, especially in grad school. It’s okay to step outside for a second—read a book, take a bath, hang out with friends.”

Through every chapter of her university life, Salgado has learned to lead with curiosity, resilience, and heart. And in doing so, she’s not just earned a degree—she’s built a life.

From left: Kimberley Kaseweter, Logan Volkmann and Geoff Coombs

Prestigious award provides funding to pursue ongoing research

A trio of UBC Okanagan researchers have each been awarded the UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship, marking the first time in three years any nominee from UBC’s Okanagan campus has captured the most prestigious award available to graduate students.

Presented each year to the top candidates in the Affiliated Fellowships competition, the award will allow doctoral candidates Kimberley Kaseweter, Logan Volkmann and Geoff Coombs to continue their respective research.

“We are delighted that these three researchers have been formally acknowledged by the Killam Foundation,” says Phil Barker, vice-principal research at UBC’s Okanagan campus. “The Killam Foundation is synonymous with advanced research and scholarship that has global impact. These awards show that UBC’s Okanagan campus is emerging as an important Canadian centre for research and innovation that is attracting top talent to the region.”

The Killam Doctoral Scholarships are awarded annually from the Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Fund for Advanced Studies and provide up to $30,000 a year plus a small travel allowance over a two-year term.

Kimberley Kaseweter

Kaseweter holds a deep interest in the field of forensic psychology. Through her research, the second-year doctoral student is attempting to gain insight into the emotional shortfalls contributing to the high rates of criminality in psychopathy.

Through her research, Kaseweter is hoping to gain a better understanding of the emotional deficits contributing to the high rates of criminality in psychopathy. It is her hope that improved insight into these shortfalls can provide direction for more effective treatments that could possibly reduce the economic, social, and emotional costs of their crimes.

“I am deeply humbled to be in the company of the talented winners of such a prestigious award. What attracted me to research was the potential it has to influence social change based on empirical results, and to be recognized for pursuit of this passion is an incredible honour.”

Logan Volkmann

Logan Volkmann, a biology and wildlife researcher, studies the American marten and how the marten responds to the impact of wild fire and logging on its habitat. The biology researcher and doctoral candidate has dedicated his career to studying carnivores, most recently the American marten and how the marten responds to the impact of wildfire and salvage logging on its habitat.

Volkmann says there is great opportunity to inform the management of fire-prone forests and to promote the recovery of these ecologically sensitive carnivores on burned landscapes.

“There are so many unanswered questions around how these animals react to fires and through my research, I hope to fill in some of these knowledge gaps.”

Geoff Coombs

A burgeoning physiologist, Coombs’ area of research revolves around how the human body responds to external and internal stimuli. His study on the implications of heat stress on vascular function is intended to advance the understanding of the extent and duration of heating necessary to achieve positive therapeutic responses.

Coombs, who grew up in Ottawa and moved to Kelowna last September to begin his PhD, hopes his research will positively impact the lives of those around him.

“Not only is it important that our research is novel scientifically, but a crucial aspect of research is the translation to a practical outcome that will benefit the public. It is currently unknown how much heating is potentially beneficial and for whom it might be effective. I hope to be able to provide a clear answer to these questions and develop guidelines that can be followed by anyone in order to achieve a true impact on health outcomes.”

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