THE SEESA TEAM
Meet our dedicated team of volunteers and staff
Board of Directors
JudyLynn Archer
Acting President
JudyLynn Archer offers leadership experience, vision & passion in bringing people together to achieve shared goals. She was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women and in 2020 JudyLynn was inducted as a member of the Alberta Order of Excellence
Bill Tkachuk
executive
Brenda Winchester
DIRECTOR
Brenda became a member of SEESA in the fall of 2017 after retiring from the Federal Government. Since becoming a member, she has enjoyed many of the classes and events offered at the Centre. Brenda has also participated in a few volunteer activities including helping at the Rummage Sales. She recently joined the Board of Directors in 2020.
Marilyn Mitchell
DIRECTOR
For 26 years I worked for the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC). I started as a Recreation therapist for an adolescent drug and alcohol day treatment program for adolescents. I moved from that position to Supervisor and then Manager of the Outpatient and Day program. My biggest accomplishment was to design and implement a detox and residential treatment program for adolescents who were abusing drugs and alcohol in Edmonton. My other greatest life accomplishment is raising 3 Adults and being gifted with 6 grandchildren.
Heather Halpenny
DIRECTOR
Heather has been an elementary school teacher, executive director of a non-profit society, and has held numerous positions with the Alberta government. In a volunteer capacity, Heather has served on a number of non-profit boards. Through these experiences, Heather has expertise in board governance models, policy development, evaluation and community engagement. Heather is recently retired and holds an BA and an MA in distance education. Heather’s family includes 2 daughters, 2 son-in-laws, 3 grandchildren and 3 Yorkshire terriers.
Gail Gravelines
DIRECTOR
Mary Jane McLaughlin
DIRECTOR
Genie Tchoryk
DIRECTOR
Genie fell in love with SEESA from the first time she walked in the door. She volunteers in many areas such as Information Technology, documentation, setting up online classes but her favorite is being front desk receptionist. She looks forward to seeing SEESA blossom and grow under the direction of the amazing members of the board, executive and staff.
Staff
Peggy Hansen
oPERATIONS manager
As SEESA continues to evolve, Peggy contributes to the overall operations and goals of the organization supporting the Board of Directors, Volunteers and staff. With a background in senior services, leadership, and event and facility management, Peggy is a strong leader that contributes to the wellness of her community.
Melanie Hansen
Finance Coordinator & Program Coordinator
After starting as the Volunteer Coordinator, Melanie has grown into the positions of the Program Coordinator and Finance Coordinator. This allows Melanie to capitalize on her analytical and planning skills. Melanie is a graduate of the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Science and of MacEwan University with a diploma in Accounting and Strategic Measurement.
Deborah Miville
seniors home support program
Deborah was born in Ottawa but moved to Edmonton over 40 years ago. She joined SEESA in January 2019 as the Seniors Home Supports Program coordinator. Whether it’s a one-on-one conversation in person or over the phone, or organizing a Trade Show, Deborah enjoys connecting older adults and their families with resources to help them Age in Place.
Gina-Marie Garon
Program coordinator
Being raised in a small town coupled with over 25 years experience in the service industry, most recently as the Volunteer and Special Event Coordinator at the airport, has inspired G-M to give her best to serve others. She is excited to work with SEESA community members, volunteers and staff because she loves working with people and making each person feel special and valued. In her personal time, Gina-Marie loves reading, studying languages and cultures, playing music and volunteering. She’s looking forward to meeting you all and making a positive impact on the organization and greater community.
Leslie Cleary
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Leslie Joined SEESA on September 1, 2021 as the Volunteer Coordinator. Leslie brings her volunteer management experience, stakeholder and community connections and love of older adults as engaged citizens. She is a passionate and avid volunteer, connector, and always engaging with others to enhance their experience with what their community has to offer.
She is excited about building the volunteer team here at SEESA and looks forward to connecting with all of SEESA members.
Stephen Montague
custodial
Steve started at SEESA in 2002 when it was much smaller. He worked the evening shift answering the phones and ensuring all the clubs and rentals could get inside the building, and cleaning to make sure the building was ready for the next day. Once the building expanded he moved to full time day shift to look after the inside and outside of the building. The best part for him about SEESA is the wonderful members and staff that he works with. Steve is looking forward to that light shining in the building again when everyone returns.
Chantal Chaisson
COOK
Chantal graduated from the NAIT Culinary Arts program in 2016 with a passion for food and making people happy with the food she makes. She first came to SEESA in February of 2020, and liked it so much, she decided to stay! Chantal is active in her volunteer work with Girl Guides of Canada and is always willing to jump in to help teach youth she volunteers with about food and proper knife skills – she’s also willing to teach every age those same skills! Her goal with the SEESA kitchen is to make food from scratch that makes people happy and come together. She is looking forward to seeing everyone again, and serving good food to all!