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Marie Logan, ChairMarie has received numerous awards for her dedication to enhancing the lives of rural Albertans. She is committed to ensuring youth development and education initiatives are given the attention they require. Marie's list of accomplishments and associations include Founding Director of the Chinook Arch Regional Library System, Trustee of the Horizon School Division, and President of the Canadian 4H Council Board. In addition, she and her husband Glenn run a pedigreed seed and cattle operation. Marie lives in Lomond. |
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Keith Ryder, Vice-chairKeith is a Stettler resident who has extensive business and municipal government experience. A former school trustee, town councillor, and mayor in Stettler, he is well-known for his communication skills, consensus building, and understanding of rural challenges. In addition to owning a retail business, Keith is currently the executive director of two organizations: the Stettler Regional Board of Trade & Community Development and the Red Deer River Municipal Users Group. He is also a member of the Citizen's Appeal Panel for Provincial Appeals. |
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David BodnarchukAs a Chartered Accountant, David has many years of technology and financial experience with industry leaders such as Apple, Oracle and KPMG. David’s self-motivation, drive and entrepreneurial flair are shown through the creation and management of three start-up businesses. David has built an impressive personal/professional network through his involvement on not-for-profit boards, government task force groups and participation in venture capital groups and advisory boards. He knows how valuable building partnerships, creating effective management teams, producing community leaders and assisting small and growing businesses are for the success and sustainability of our province’s rural communities. |
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David CouttsBorn and raised in Fort Macleod, Alberta, David started his career through involvement in regional economic development, local Chamber of Commerce and service organizations, which lead him to provincial politics. During his 14 years as MLA for Livingstone-Macleod, David's accomplishments include initiating provincial Wind Power policy and implementing the provincial Special Places Protected Areas Program. During his time in government, he served as Minister of Government Services and Minister of Sustainable Resource Development. David's commitment to regional collaboration and cross-border initiatives began in 1993 when he was appointed to the Pacific Northwest Economic Region to represent Alberta's interests. He now resides in Edmonton and manages his own consulting firm. |
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Doug GardnerA former junior/senior high school teacher, Doug spent his 33-year teaching career in rural communities throughout both Saskatchewan and Alberta. Doug knows what it takes to help shape and guide the future success and sustainability of Alberta’s unique and diverse rural communities. Doug has been a Public School Board Trustee for the Foothills School Division No. 38 since 2000 and has served on the board of directors on the Provincial Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA). A community leader and engaged citizen, Doug has owned, managed and operated businesses out of his commercial strip mall property for over 30 years while working as a rural real estate agent for the past 11 years. |
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Ken NicolA retired associate professor at the University of Lethbridge and local farmer, Ken has first-hand understanding of the needs of rural Albertans. He recognizes that rural Albertans need access to rural-based educational institutions. He also knows how challenging it can be to retain people in a rural setting once they have refined their skills. Ken's had a hand in politics as an MLA for Lethbridge East with responsibilities in Agriculture, Finance, Treasury, Economic Development, and Aboriginal Affairs. He was also Leader of the Official Opposition for three years. A consummate author, Ken has written numerous books, articles, and research papers on various agricultural issues that are inherent in rural settings around the world. Ken lives in Coalhurst. |
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Eva UrlacherEva is an award recipient for her long-term understanding of, and commitment and dedication to, her community. She is experienced in the management and operation of a number of interests, including the business operation of two companies and a hobby farm. Eva's contribution to volunteer initiatives around the region, including being appointed to the provincial board that recognizes and supports volunteer efforts in the province, has led to her involvement on the board. Eva lives in Cold Lake. |