About me:
My husband and I moved to East Gwillimbury from Richmond Hill eighteen years ago. We chose E.G. because of its wealth of green space, the warmth of its residents, and the sense of community. We could think of no better place to raise our three amazing kids, and want this community to be one we can always be proud to call home. I was first elected to Council in 2010, and have served three terms on Council.
Passion for Community
My passion for E.G. and my professional background make me uniquely qualified to serve our town as a councillor. I have experience in coaching, mentoring and leading people; I have identified and created new opportunities for growth; and I have led change to take organizations in exciting new directions. These skills will be key in dealing with some of the critical issues facing E.G. over the next several years.
Serving the Community
For the past twelve years, I have worked with Council as Chair of Emergency & Community Safety Services, Corporate & Financial Services, Community Infrastructure & Environmental Services, and Community Parks, Recreation & Culture. I have also been Council Liaison and East Gwillimbury's representative on the following boards & committees:
East Gwillimbury Chamber of Commerce
Sharon Temple Museum Society
East Gwillimbury Public Library Board (Trustee for 12 years) plus 5 board sub-committees
Arts & Culture Advisory Committee
Queensville Sharon Community Group
Active Transportation & Trails Advisory Committee
Community Safety
Santa Claus Parade
North Union Community Recreation Committee
River Drive Park Community Recreation Committee
Captain of Team E.G., raising over $63,000 for Southlake Hospital over 10 years
Weaving Words: A Festival of Stories at the Sharon Temple (5 years)
Economic Development Task Force (provincial scope with AMO)
Liaison to Ranji Singh Foundation, bringing multicultural events to our town
Repair Cafe - helped launch this innovative event to divert consumer goods from landfill
Before I joined Council, I volunteered with the Town on a number of advisory committees. In 2009, I was instrumental in the formation of the Sharon West Homeowners Association, in response to development issues in our area. My husband, who is a teacher with York Region District School Board, and the most dedicated educator I know, encouraged me to take my community involvement to the next level.
Professional Background
I began my career in the insurance industry, and for 12 years I worked in the editorial, sales, distribution and product management areas of publishing. My last role in publishing was International Sales Manager for a Canadian publisher. I oversaw the export and translation of Canadian books to the US and abroad. In that role, I was also responsible for creating and launching a digital strategy for electronic books.
I stepped away from my career in publishing in order to devote my attention to my role as East Gwillimbury Town Councillor. Six years ago, I obtained my real estate license, and am a part-time salesperson with Century 21 Heritage Group Ltd. I apply my skills in building trust, delivering service and accountability in both of my roles.
Education
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History and English Literature from Queen's University
Post-graduate certificate in Publishing from Ryerson University
Certificate in Horticulture from the University of Guelph
Graduate, Ontario Real Estate College
OTHER INTERESTS
I play soccer year-round , and in the winter, I curl as often as I can. I am also an avid gardener, trail-walker & cyclist.