Guelph is home.
I know first hand what a great place Guelph is to raise a family, work, go to school and build community!
For decades prior to being elected to public office, I was involved in community advocacy through my professional work, my neighbourhood association, school councils and numerous community organizations. I have been a volunteer and strong champion for the environment, education, sustainability, water protection, heritage, sound planning and zoning, arts and culture. Community service is part of who I am since my early years, whether it be through 4-H clubs, Girl Guides, sports or church activities. As a Rotarian, I live by the motto "Service Above Self" which extends into my political life.
I believe in hard work and continuous improvement. I got my first job at 14 and haven't stopped since. Being a working mother to four children were the most challenging and rewarding years of my life.
I graduated from McMaster University with an Honours BA in History and English, and an MA (Leadership) from the University of Guelph.
I have worked in the public sector, private sector and non-profit sector, and owned and operated a small business. In my current role as the Manager, Occupancy and Marketing at the U of G, my position in Ancillary Services provides $55 million in revenue generation, supports recruitment, policy, media and communications. See my Linked In profile to see more about my professional skills and background.
In 2003, I was elected to the Upper Grand District School Board as a trustee. In that role, I focused on advocacy for new neighbourhood schools in development areas (ie. Rickson Ridge and Ken Danby), school libraries, funding for music and arts education, smaller class sizes, community-use space, anti-bullying programming, and adequate funding for enrichment programs, resources and support for at-risk students.
In 2006, frustrated by city council division and inaction at the time, I added my name to the ballot and was elected to represent Ward 5. I am honoured to serve the residents of my ward, and have worked tireless to be responsive and accessible - hosting town halls, creating ward newsletters, social media engagement, attending community events, and acting in the best interests of all Guelphites in my role on Council.
I am proud mom to four children, two granchildren, and an extended bonus family. In my "spare" time my husband Arni and I are busy restoring a heritage stone home, in the garden, or cheering on the Raptors and Blue Jays.
Community Organizations and Boards - Current
- Guelph Public Library Board
- Art Gallery of Guelph Board of Trustees
- Guelph Historical Society Board
- Rotary Club of Guelph
Community Organizations and Boards - Past
- Guelph Police Services Board
- Family and Children's Services Board
- Guelph Junction Railway Board
- Heritage Guelph, Chair
- Downtown Guelph Business Association Board
- Guelph-Wellington-Dufferin Public Health Board
- Career Education Council
- Architectural Conservancy of Ontario Board
- Chair, Centennial CVI Parent Council
- Chair, John McCrae Parent Council
- Old University Neighbourhood Residents Association Vice-Chair
- Midwifery Task Force of Ontario
