Sam is a student at Dalhousie University and Owner of Melmerby Adventures water sport rentals. He is very interested in improving his connections with community through his involvement with various local and provincial groups. Sam looks forward to working with the board and partners towards improving transportation across the province.

Cyril currently resides in Chéticamp and works for the CSAP, Le Conseil scolaire acadien provincial, as Mathematics and Science Consultant. He is a board member of several community organizations including NIRCA, Le Conseil des arts de Chéticamp, and l’Acabie. He believes volunteers are the heart of most communities in Nova Scotia, particularly rural communities and this passion has motivated him to be an active volunteer in his community for the past 30 years and plans to continue throughout his upcoming retirement.

Nancy currently serves as the Mayor of the Town of New Glasgow. In her capacity as Mayor, she also serves as Vice Chair of the Pictou County Wellness Centre Building Authority Inc. and the Pictou County Shared Services Authority. Nancy has a deep passion in volunteering for the betterment of her community. As a retired teacher, she dedicates her volunteer time with many organizations such as CHAD Transit, Roots for Youth, St. Vincent de Paul, and VON.

Tanya is the Executive Director of East Hants Community Learning Association (EHCLA)/East Hants Community Rider (EHCR). EHCLA believes in a strong and connected community, and through individualized programming and opening doors to education and transportation, they help to contribute to a more prosperous and proud community. With the availability of rural transportation, they are empowering individuals to live with a sense of freedom and confidence. EHCR is committed to delivering safe, affordable, and accessible rides to all those facing transportation challenges in our community, irrespective of age or mobility.

Shelley Adams is the Manager, CNIB Voice (Advocacy) for Atlantic Canada.  She has worked at CNIB for over 20 years in many capacities.  She has a Bachelor of Psychology and a Bachelor of Social Work and is a registered social worker.  She is the mother of two children and loves to knit and listen to audiobooks in her spare time.  She is blind and has a guide dog named Rookie.  Her lived experience and passion for helping others with disabilities are what got her interested in being part of the NSCTN board.  Transportation is one of the most significant barriers faced by people with disabilities, so she is grateful to be able to bring that voice to the table.

Phil is the Communications and Programs Manager for East Hants Community Learning Association (EHCLA)/East Hants Community Rider (EHCR). He is always looking for ways to better connect people with their communities through programs and fun-filled events for all ages. He sees transportation as a key part of life and is focused on finding ways to make it more accessible to everyone. Phil can usually be found in the driver’s seat, transporting family, friends, his dog Odin or anyone else who needs a ride.

Gil is a former Regional Councillor with the Region of Queens Municipality, representing the Caledonia area, and is currently president of GJ Utility Safety Training and Consulting Services. He has over 35 years experience in Electrical Utility Management and continues to offer humanitarian support following major storm events. Gil is adamant that accessible transportation is basic infrastructure and should be treated and supported like any other utility service.

Mary has worked with Seniors Outreach and Resource Centre, where she diligently worked to help vulnerable older adults maintain their dignity and independence, and to stay connected to their communities. Mary is excited to continue this work as part of the NSCTN Board to help improve transportation options for everyone.

Lee currently works as a paramedic in Victoria County, and is also a volunteer driver for Strait Area Transit. Lee is a strong advocate for community transportation options and is passionate about improving options across the province.

Julie Weir is currently a provincial Program Manager with Nova Scotia Health, focused on growing our healthcare workforce, especially in rural communities. Prior to joining NSH, Julie managed Clean Foundation’s Workforce Development department, working with youth and environmental and clean tech organizations in NS and across Canada. Her past experience in economic development, research, education, as well as with all levels of government lend to collaboration and informed perspectives.

Sarah Balloch is a well-rounded program manager at Clean Foundation with experience in public outreach and engagement surrounding energy efficiency-related programming, rebate programs and community-focused programming. While currently living in Halifax she was raised in West Hants and continues to work towards making Nova Scotia a leader in the environmental space. With a BA in Environmental Studies and an MA in Environmental Education and Communication, Sarah has a wide breadth of knowledge relating to environmental issues and the complex social, economic and ecological systems they exist in. Her enthusiasm for the environment continues into wild spaces, with training from the Outdoor Council of Canada, Hike NS, Canadian Women & Sport and the Canadian Wildlife Federation.