He has under-graduate degrees in each of Science (Mathematics), Arts (English Literature), and Education (Mathematics and Science Education) from Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador. He also holds a Master of Educational Administration degree and a Master of Business Administration degree, both from The University of New Brunswick at Fredericton, Canada, and a PhD in Marketing and Economic Development from The School of Management, University of Bath, Bath Spa, United Kingdom. Dr. Sheppard is a Professional Member (MCInst.M.) of the Canadian Institute of Marketing (CIM), and holds the designation of Registered Professional Marketer (RPM) from the CIM. Faythe Pal, MCInst.M