The Board of Directors of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Ontario Division is pleased to welcome three new members who will bring their valuable perspectives and experiences to help guide the future direction of the organization.
Joining the board are:
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- Bill Chantler: Mr. Chantler has been a senior police administrator with the London Police Service for the past 12 years, during which he has overseen the Service’s mental health and addictions crisis response portfolio. He currently sits on the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Justice Committee and is a member of that committee’s Mental Health Working Group. He brings a unique perspective on the intersections of the mental health and justice systems.
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- Louise Paquette: Ms. Paquette has more than 40 years of experience in the public and private sector including executive positions within the Ontario government and Government of canada. As CEO of the North East LHIN for the past seven years, Paquette worked with 150 health service providers including 28 mental health and addictions not for profits across North East Ontario. A strong supporter of CMHA, Paquette has advocated for increased funding and more integrated services for mental health and addictions care in the community.
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- David Woodard: Mr. Woodard is Senior Program Advisor at the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services where he implements policy, program and change management strategies for Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program. Previously he has also worked on developing policies and programs to address violence against women and Indigenous community heath. In the past he has also served as a board member at the Redwood Shelter for Women, where he chaired the anti-racism/anti-oppression committee.
“The CMHA Ontario Board of Directors is honoured to add these three talented individuals to the team,” said Catherine Simunovic, Board Chair. “Each of them bring a wealth of experience and knowledge that we know will benefit our organization and the individuals that we serve.”
The new members are replacing two outgoing board volunteers, Joan Patrick and Marion Quigley, who have dedicated many years to CMHA Ontario. Joan has served on the board since 2010 and has filled the positions of secretary and treasurer to the board. Marion Quigley, who is retiring as CEO of CMHA Sudbury Manitoulin, has served as a branch representative on the board since 2013.
“Joan and Marion both played instrumental roles in guiding our mission with their insights and unique expertise. We are grateful for their service and generosity.” said Simunovic.