Education
Cusanelli has a Bachelor of Education degree from Faculté Saint-Jean at the University of Alberta, and a master"s degree in psychology from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington.
Cusanelli has a Bachelor of Education degree from Faculté Saint-Jean at the University of Alberta, and a master"s degree in psychology from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington.
Cusanelli was elected to her first term as Modern Language Association for Calgary-Currie on April 23, 2012. Cusanelli was the minister for Tourism, Parks, and Recreation from May 8, 2012, until February 4, 2013. On May 5, 2015 she was voted out of office in Alberta"s general election, losing her seat to Brian Malkinson of Alberta New Democratic Party in a landslide victory that saw the NDP end the Personal Computer Party of Alberta"s 44 year political dynasty.
Most recently Cusanelli led Saint Michael"s School (K-9) in implementing two International Baccalaureate programs.
She has been a keen supporter and advocate for students with special needs and learning challenges. She became a principal at age 32.
In this role she began an outreach program that included visiting seniors" homes, working with Inn from The Cold and opening the school up to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Calgary. In response to media questions, Cusanelli said the problem was a misunderstanding on what can be charged and how and those questions have now been cleared up.
She said she didn"t fully understand the expense process and she should have looked at the process better and for that she apologizes to Albertans.
The released documents show that Cusanelli wrote a cheque to repay the province about 10 days after she returned from the trip. Cusanelli also oversaw $113,000 in non-refundable payments for London Olympics hotel rooms that were never used. Her personal interests include running, cycling, swimming and golfing.
She is a member of Chickwagon, a Calgary women's group that raises money and awareness for women in need.