Building a Community in Massage Therapy Education - KelownaNow

[NowMedia Staff]

When Lindsey Sloan and her team of fellow educators decided to launch Sena College of Massage Therapy, their mission was clear—to create a school that not only focused on excellence in education, but also nurtures and supports students and engages with the community. Located at the Landmark District in Kelowna, the school is a fresh addition to the field of massage therapy education, with a foundation that is built on years of experience, collaboration, and a shared vision of what education should look like.

Sena College is the result of a long journey for Lindsey, who has spent much of her career in education. Alongside her are Fiona Duncan, Kylagh Cornford, and Bobi McGrath—three talented women who not only share Lindsey’s passion for teaching but have worked closely with her in the past, creating a tight-knit, like-minded team.

The decision to create Sena College came out of a shared desire to do things differently—to build a school with values rooted in fairness, respect, and quality education. "We wanted to create a school that isn’t just about teaching technical skills but also fostering a sense of community, supporting students through every step of their journey," says Lindsey.

The school’s location is one of the key factors that sets it apart. Positioned centrally with easy access to transit, parking, and cafes and eateries, students will have everything they need nearby. "We wanted students to feel like they were walking into a place that wasn’t just a school, but a community," explains Lindsey. "It’s about providing a well-rounded experience that supports both their academic and personal growth."

The school’s modern, purpose-built facilities are another standout feature. "We’ve created a space that’s not just beautiful but functional, a place where students can thrive," Lindsey says.

Another distinguishing factor is their commitment to high-quality education. Each of the founding team members has formal adult education training, something that sets the school apart in the field of massage therapy education. "Our instructors are not just practitioners; they are trained educators," says Lindsey. "That means we can offer a richer, more effective learning experience for our students."

Sena College’s curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed, while also emphasizing compassionate care and a holistic approach to therapy. The program will cover diverse areas of massage therapy, preparing students to work with various populations, including pregnant women, athletes, the elderly and those with neurological conditions.

The school is also committed to being a community-focused institution. Sena College plans to open a student clinic in January 2026, providing the public with affordable massage therapy services performed by students under the supervision of instructors. This initiative is designed to make massage therapy more accessible to the wider community. "We want to give people in our community an opportunity to receive care at a lower cost, whether they have insurance or not," says Lindsey. "It’s another way we can give back and support the people who support us."

Starting a new venture is never without its challenges, but for Lindsey and her team, the rewards have far outweighed the obstacles. "There were definitely moments when I thought, ‘Can I really do this?’" she admits. "But the key is to believe in yourself and keep pushing forward, even when things get tough."

"We’re really excited to get started and do what we love—to teach, to support, and to help create the next generation of massage therapists," she adds. "We’re ready to make a difference."