Keynote
Chris Fair
President and CEO, Resonance Consultancy Ltd.
Futurist & World's Best Cities Author
Chris Fair, the driving force behind Resonance, is at the helm of a global team specializing in destination placemaking, branding, and marketing, with a profound housing lens. Proficient in trend analysis and city planning, he's not just a leader; he's a visionary. In 2016, he ignited change by crafting the World's Best Cities rankings for over 400 cities, pushing urban development and housing to the forefront of global discussions. A dynamic speaker and influential figure in tourism, real estate, and urban development, Chris is not content with the status quo. He's chaired the Urban Land Institute's Travel Experience & Trends Council, steering the conversation towards more sustainable, livable cities. His passion extends to educating future leaders, teaching Placemaking at New York University. With Chris Fair, the future of housing is bold, visionary, and driven by data, trends, and a relentless commitment to making cities more vibrant and livable.
AM Panel
Mary Rowe
Moderator — President and CEO, Canadian Urban Institute
Mary W. Rowe, President and CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), has been a dedicated civic leader and urban advocate for over 30 years. She champions place-based strategies for creating livable, resilient cities in both Canada and the United States. Mary's influence extends to policy transformation, self-organizing initiatives in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the development of Re-Imagining the Civic Commons in North American cities, and participation in HUD-supported Rebuild by Design, which contributed to the creation of the Rockefeller Foundation's 100Resilient Cities program. She is also a Senior Fellow with Shore Fast and actively engages in national and international city-building programs, including UN Habitat, Ottawa City Building Summit, and the G7 Urban Development Ministers' inaugural meeting in Potsdam, Germany. Under her leadership, CUI has expanded its efforts to create an international network, uniting government, industry, communities, and city-building professionals to address pressing urban challenges.
Angie Staines
Founder, 4B Harm Reduction Society
Angie Staines is founder of the 4B Harm Reduction Society (4BHRS), a non-profit organization focused on combating the drug poisoning crisis through street outreach, education, and advocacy. 4BHRS is deeply informed by Staines’ son B’s 13-years of substance use and her own experience with houselessness. Public education and advocacy are important cornerstones of Staines’ work. She promotes an evidence-based approach to drug policy grounded in harm reduction, the need for a safe supply, and decriminalization. In addition to leading 4BHRS, she is a member of Moms Stop the Harm and Albertans for Ethical Drug Policy. Staines graduated from Norquest College in 2022 as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and she is currently a research assistant for the Inner City Health and Wellness Program, which promotes patient-centered care for those who use substances.
Bree Claude
Vice President, Customer Experience and Community Partnerships, CIVIDA
Bree Claude is the Vice President of Customer Experience and Community Partnerships for Civida, a prominent affordable housing management entity in Alberta. She also serves as the Executive Director of the Civida Housing Foundation, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to affordable housing. With nearly three decades of experience in social policy and practice, Bree has journeyed through public service and non-profit sectors at provincial and municipal levels. In roles encompassing ministries like Human Services, Seniors and Housing, and more, she's been instrumental in fostering impactful change. Armed with a degree in Political Science and a Master of Science in Human Ecology, Bree is currently a Doctoral Candidate with Royal Roads University's Doctor of Social Sciences Program. Her passion lies in spearheading systemic and policy changes to create better conditions for those facing the most significant barriers in our communities. Bree is a catalyst for innovation, tirelessly working to increase access to affordable and community housing for those who need it the most. With her leadership, affordable housing solutions become a reality.
Dr. Joshua Evans
Research Lead, University of Alberta (Affordable Housing Solutions Lab)
Dr. Joshua Evans, an Associate Professor of Human Geography at the University of Alberta, delves into the intricate spaces of care, home, and work and how they shape the lives of socially marginalized and vulnerable individuals. He explores the vital connection between spaces of policy development and implementation and the creation of healthy, enabling, and equitable urban environments. Over the last three years, Joshua has been at the forefront of the Affordable Housing Solutions Lab, a groundbreaking initiative generously funded by the City of Edmonton and anchored at the University of Alberta. With his dedication and expertise, he's been driving forward innovative solutions in affordable housing, contributing to the development of a more inclusive and compassionate urban landscape. Joshua's work is pivotal in addressing pressing housing challenges and ensuring that everyone has a place to call home.
Jodie Wacko
Chief Operating Officer, Cantiro
Jodie Wacko, a dedicated husband and father of two, understands the ever-evolving nature of communities and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging. With a background that includes senior planning roles with Strathcona County and leadership at Stantec Edmonton, he possesses deep insights into development. As the Chief Operating Officer at Cantiro, Jodie focuses on growth and acquisitions in Canadian markets while nurturing People and Culture initiatives. With over 25 years of experience, he offers comprehensive expertise in community development across diverse jurisdictions and provinces. His active involvement includes serving as an elected member of Edmonton's Urban Development Institute and Chair of the UDI Planning Committee. Jodie's commitment extends to community causes, such as affordable housing, regionalization, and children's mental health support. His passion for community shines through his involvement in events like the Stollery Children's Hospital Tee Up for Tots Golf Tournament and guest lecturing at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Science. Jodie's unwavering dedication to community growth and well-being is evident.
Breakout Sessions #1
Option A
Embracing Multigenerational Living and Innovative Housing Solutions
Kalen Anderson
Moderator – Executive Director, Urban Development Institute –
Edmonton Metro
Kalen Anderson is a registered professional planner with a personal and professional commitment to building sustainable partnerships, communities, cities, and city-regions. She is the Executive Director for the Urban Development Institute–Edmonton Metro and previously served as Vice President of Capital Planning and Chief Planner with the National Capital Commission in Ottawa as well as a Planning Director and senior leader at the City of Edmonton. Collaborative decision-making, successful relationship-building, and strategic communications are at the heart of her practice. A passionate and dedicated city-builder, Kalen’s leadership is founded on a broad understanding of urban and regional policy, economic development, and community engagement to support growth and change.
Adil Kodian
Executive Vice President, Rohit Group of Companies
Adil Kodian, Executive Vice President of Rohit Group, is a dynamic force in housing and real estate. Leading Rohit's national residential business for the last 12 years, he's steered the company through significant expansion, with divisions in Edmonton, Calgary, Regina, Saskatoon, and Ottawa, managing over $1 billion in assets. His diverse career encompasses large-scale IT, real estate development planning, and telecommunications engineering. Adil is a graduate of the Directors Education Program at the University of Toronto and holds the ICD.D. designation, currently completing an AMDP in Real Estate at Harvard's School of Design. His true passion lies in creating attainable housing and fostering industry and government partnerships to boost housing supply. He serves on various affordable housing-related boards, including Civida Corporation and Attainable Homes Calgary Inc., collectively providing affordable housing for thousands of Albertans. Adil's mission is to bring his extensive real estate expertise, placemaking skills, IT knowledge, and unwavering commitment to improving the industry and people's lives.
Greg Christenson
President, Christenson Group of Companies
Greg Christenson, a prominent figure in real estate and community development, boasts an impressive record of affiliations and committee contributions. His tenure as the past president of the Canadian Home Builders Association left an enduring impact on the industry. Dedicated to enhancing housing and urban development, Greg chaired the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce and led the Greater Edmonton Home Builders Association. His influence on housing policies is evident through his roles in committees like the Capital Region Growth Plan and the Downtown Arena Feasibility Committee. Active within the Urban Development Institute (UDI) and the Edmonton Apartment Association, Greg continues to shape the field. His deep involvement in these organizations underscores his unwavering commitment to creating more sustainable and thriving communities.
Dr. Haidong Liang
Executive Director, Westend Seniors Activity Centre
Dr. Haidong Liang would like to be introduced as a gerontologist who devoted all of his three degrees in Canada to aging studies; and lately he has become a geron-technologist who is focusing on utilizing technology to enhance seniors-serving organizations' capacity to better serve seniors. He is the Executive Director of Westend Seniors Activity Centre and WESeniors Strathcona County. Utilizing a unique game changer "WESeniors" platform, his organization is actively connecting seniors to services provided by the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. He is currently serving as a Board member and advisor for multiple organizations, including the Advisory Committee for the Minister of Seniors and Community Services, multiple committees for the Strathcona County, and multiple ethnic minority organizations. Because of his contribution, he was recognized as Edmonton's Top 40 under 40 in 2019 by the Avenue now Edify magazine and received the Minister's Seniors Service Award in 2021 and Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022.
Option B
Closing the Housing Gap: Strategies and Solutions for Thriving Rural Communities
Heather Thomson
Moderator – Executive Director, University of Alberta
(Centre for Cities & Communities)
Heather Thomson is a dynamic consumer behavior expert. In her role as the Executive Director of the Centre for Cities and Communities, Heather collaborates with businesses, community organizations, and municipalities to foster vibrant local economies. With a wealth of experience, including her work with the University of Alberta and 13 Ways, she has left a positive impact on countless communities and businesses across North America. A sought-after keynote speaker and accomplished fundraiser, Heather has an innate ability to identify opportunities in any situation. Notably, she's a proud mother of two boys, pursuing a master's in behavioral economics, and a passionate advocate for gender parity and workplace equity. Heather's dedication and expertise shine as she champions thriving local economies and gender equality in the workforce.
Linda Bernicki
Director, Community Development and Indigenous Engagement,
Rural Development Network
Linda has been a catalyst for positive change in rural municipalities and communities for over 23 years. Her dynamic background, rooted in education encompassing Child, Youth, and Family Counseling, Community Development, and the Economics of Social Change, reflects a profound commitment to community well-being and housing. With her diverse experience in areas ranging from front-line work with at-risk populations to training staff in case management, trauma-informed care, and harm reduction, Linda brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She's a master at identifying approaches for community engagement, facilitating challenging conversations, and developing strategic plans for enhancing quality of life and overall community wellness. Linda's approach is built on TRC recommendations, a rights-based perspective, collective impact processes, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. As a key member of the Rural Development Network's Senior Leadership Team, Linda spearheads initiatives like Sustainable Housing and Indigenous Engagement. She's a driving force in rural community development, committed to improving housing and overall community well-being.
Patrick Shaver
President, Avillia Developments LTD
Patrick, a prominent figure in the housing and land development industry, boasts over 30 years of experience. Starting in construction, he now owns a thriving land development company. His educational journey includes earning a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Alberta, followed by a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Engineering in Transportation, focusing on alternative infrastructure financing. Patrick's international studies took him to Finland's Helsinki School of Economics and the Centre for Strategic Management in California. His professional path includes roles with the City of Edmonton, Enbridge Pipelines, and pivotal contributions to the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympic Games' Aquatic Centre. Upon his return to Edmonton, he founded Avillia Developments Ltd, an organization dedicated to land projects in the Greater Edmonton Region and the British Columbia interior. Patrick's leadership shines through his roles as Director, President, and Chairman of various industry associations, such as the Urban Development Institute and BILD Alberta. He actively chairs the BILD Land Development Committee, influencing housing and land development in significant ways.
Paul McLauchlin
President, Rural Municipalities of Alberta
Paul McLauchlin, elected President of Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) in November 2020, is a dynamic leader with a profound understanding of housing and rural development. As the Reeve of Ponoka County, currently serving his fifth council term, he brings invaluable experience to the table. Paul's professional journey is multifaceted. He's a field biologist, environmental scientist, and a public consultation and communications expert. He's also a resource/conservation management specialist. Through his consulting business, he excels in project management, multi-stakeholder programs, ecological, indigenous, and socio-economic predevelopment assessments, as well as public consultations for resource and energy projects. Paul holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Leicester, where he conducted groundbreaking research on the barriers and motivations for renewable investment in rural Alberta households. With his rich background, Paul McLauchlin is at the forefront of shaping the rural housing landscape and advocating for sustainable development.
Option C
The Unseen: Housing Needs and Non-Market Housings
Catherine Keill
Moderator – Chief Executive Officer, Keill & Co. Inc.
Catherine is a passionate advocate of "Being Great at Doing Good!" As the leader of a small team at Keill & Company, she empowers clients across Canada as their comprehensive communications partner, facilitating the achievement of strategic goals. Her team's mission is to enhance organizations' communication support in all areas.
With nearly three decades of strategic communications experience, Catherine has held executive positions in diverse sectors. Her unique personal and professional background within Alberta's communications, public relations, and marketing sphere, combined with her strategic expertise, ensures clients receive innovative solutions and remarkable outcomes. Her driving force is enabling clients to attain positive results.
Catherine is a member of various professional associations, including IABC, PMI, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and IAP2. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Ottawa and a master's degree in Communication and Technology from the University of Alberta. Catherine has completed the Management Essentials Program at the University of Alberta and a Certificate in Fundraising Leadership from Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Furthermore, Catherine actively serves on many boards including Habitat for Humanity.
Kayli Avveduti
Executive Director, Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations
Kayli Avveduti, a dynamic First Nations woman from Alexander First Nation in Treaty Six territory, is reshaping the housing landscape. At just 29, she's the youngest Executive Director for the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations. Kayli passionately advocates for integrating Indigenous knowledge into early childhood education to strengthen the next generation's Indigenous identity. Before leading at the Confederacy, she made significant contributions to the Martin Family Initiative, rapidly advancing from an administrative assistant to a Program Design and Operations Manager. Her dedication shines in designing and implementing Early Years Programming in 15 First Nation and Inuit communities, underlining her commitment to Indigenous communities. Simultaneously, Kayli advised the Alexander First Nation, analyzing government legislation and challenges. She tirelessly promotes capacity building, creating opportunities for Indigenous community members. With a Master's in Public Policy from McGill University and a Bachelor's in Political Science from MacEwan University, Kayli is well-equipped for leadership. As a mother, partner, and dog owner, her unwavering passion is driving progress in Indigenous communities, particularly in housing.
Margot Hagarty
Executive Director, Leduc Regional Housing Foundation
Margot Hagarty brings extensive experience in health, housing and community services. She has almost 30 years of experience in leadership positions in non-profit and for-profit organizations relating to housing, seniors’ communities, and long-term care. She is currently the Executive Director of Leduc Regional Housing Foundation, an organization that offers 5 different housing solutions to 7 municipalities in the Leduc Region. She was previously the Health Care Administrator of a 435-bed long-term care facility in Calgary, where she prioritized a safe living environment for residents, families, staff and visitors. Prior to that role, she held leadership positions with Park Place Seniors Living, Metropolitan Calgary Foundation, Greater Edmonton Foundation and Bethany Care Society. She has been recognized for being a tireless advocate for her residents and leverages her knowledge to provide the highest quality of service and care. She holds two undergraduate degrees from the University of Saskatchewan, including a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Health Care Administration. Margot is passionate about making a difference to her clients, colleagues, and community and believes that simple actions can often have the biggest impact.
Nancy Simmonds
Chief Executive Officer, Heartland Housing Foundation
Nancy Simmonds, Heartland Housing Foundation's (HHF) CEO for 5 years, is a dynamic leader committed to affordable housing. She entered the non-profit housing sector a decade ago, fueled by her desire to uplift vulnerable Albertans. With over 22 years of management and accounting experience, Nancy began her housing leadership roles in 2009 as Controller and Director of Operations with GEF Seniors Housing. Prior to this, she excelled in public accounting at MNP LLP. Her Chartered Accountant designation gives her a unique financial perspective while supporting the invaluable work of community-based organizations, especially affordable housing providers. Her expertise includes managing financial portfolios and orchestrating strategic developments for housing organizations. In her current role, Nancy leads HHF through strategic growth and advocates for housing needs at municipal, provincial, and federal levels. HHF oversees 801 units across Fort Saskatchewan and Strathcona County, including supportive living buildings and affordable apartments. She's a dedicated Board member of the Alberta Seniors & Community Housing Association and actively contributes to the Alberta Public Housing Administrators Association. Nancy Simmonds is a pioneering force in affordable housing, driving essential change.
Lunch Presentation
Shaun Cathcart
Senior Economist and Director of Housing Data and Market Analysis, Canadian Real Estate Association
In his role as the Director and Senior Economist, Housing Data, and Market Analyst at the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), Shaun Cathcart takes the lead in managing CREA's national resale housing database. He oversees the production and distribution of critical housing data, making it accessible to various stakeholders, including boards, associations, members, media, government, and other real estate industry players. In addition to data management, Shaun plays a pivotal role in market analysis. He provides in-depth housing market intelligence and analytical resources that empower decision-makers in the housing sector. With a keen focus on the Canadian real estate landscape, Shaun offers valuable insights to guide both short-term and long-term strategies, contributing to a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving housing market and its dynamics. His work is instrumental in facilitating informed decisions and driving the housing industry forward.
Breakout Sessions #2
Option A
Downtown Livability and Challenges in the Centres
Catherine Keill
Moderator – Chief Executive Officer, Keill & Co. Inc.
Catherine is a passionate advocate of "Being Great at Doing Good!" As the leader of a small team at Keill & Company, she empowers clients across Canada as their comprehensive communications partner, facilitating the achievement of strategic goals. Her team's mission is to enhance organizations' communication support in all areas.
With nearly three decades of strategic communications experience, Catherine has held executive positions in diverse sectors. Her unique personal and professional background within Alberta's communications, public relations, and marketing sphere, combined with her strategic expertise, ensures clients receive innovative solutions and remarkable outcomes. Her driving force is enabling clients to attain positive results.
Catherine is a member of various professional associations, including IABC, PMI, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and IAP2. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Ottawa and a master's degree in Communication and Technology from the University of Alberta. Catherine has completed the Management Essentials Program at the University of Alberta and a Certificate in Fundraising Leadership from Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Furthermore, Catherine actively serves on many boards including Habitat for Humanity.
Dr. Annette Trimbee
President and Vice-Chancellor, MacEwan University
Dr. Annette Trimbee, the esteemed sixth president and vice-chancellor of MacEwan University, is a prominent figure in both the post-secondary and public sectors. Armed with a PhD in Ecology from McMaster University and over 25 years of experience, she's made substantial contributions to the Government of Alberta, holding pivotal senior leadership positions, including deputy minister roles. Dr. Trimbee's illustrious career includes chairing the Alberta Post-Secondary Network, leading the Canadian Research Knowledge Network, and serving on The Conversation Canada's board. Her influence extends to vital water management matters along the Canada-U.S. border through her role with the International Red River Board.Her dedication to Indigenous education shines through her involvement with the National Advisory Committee on Indigenous Teacher Education (NACITE). Her commitment to Indigenous equality was rightfully acknowledged with the prestigious Inspire Award in Education in 2022. Her impact extends to her contributions to Universities Canada, USports, and her service on the board of Manitoba Hydro. Dr. Trimbee's astute insights into water management and energy policy were invaluable during her tenure on Alberta's royalty review panel in 2015. With a rich and multifaceted career, she's a driving force in shaping the future of education and beyond.
Cory Wosnack
Principal and Managing Director, Avison Young
Cory Wosnack, Principal and Managing Director at Avison Young, brings over 25 years of commercial real estate expertise to the table. An influential figure in the province, he has spearheaded numerous pivotal industry transactions and has been recognized as a member of Avison Young's Circle of Excellence ten times, a distinction reserved for the company's global top performers. On the global stage, Cory's role on Avison Young's Global Executive Committee played a vital part in the firm's extraordinary transformation into the world's fastest-growing real estate services company. Beyond his professional achievements, Cory maintains an unwavering commitment to community and not-for-profit causes, with recent board appointments including the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation, the Mental Health Foundation, and NorQuest College. In under 150 words, this biography encapsulates Cory Wosnack's extensive experience and profound dedication to both his field and community service.
Jill Robertson
Partner, DIALOG
Jill Robertson, an award-winning principal landscape architect, brings a dynamic touch to the world of city-building, with a sharp focus on housing. Her expertise spans the gamut, from intricate site design to visionary urban development. She's not just a designer; she's a passionate advocate for authentic public engagement and participatory design, ensuring that the end users' stories and ideas are woven into every project. Jill's remarkable career is punctuated by numerous accolades, including recognition as one of Canada's emerging landscape architectural leaders. She's been inducted into the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects College of Fellows in 2023. Her work has earned accolades from prestigious organizations like the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects, the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, and the City of Edmonton Urban Design Awards. In every project, Jill infuses energy, passion, and a relentless commitment to effecting meaningful change, especially in the realm of housing and urban development.
Susan McGee
Chief Executive Officer, Homeward Trust
Susan McGee leads Homeward Trust, spearheading Edmonton's homelessness eradication efforts. Homeward Trust's Housing First Support Program, launched in 2009, has provided homes to over 14,000 formerly homeless individuals, achieving a remarkable 43% reduction in homelessness before the pandemic. Beyond housing, Homeward Trust played a pivotal role in Edmonton's COVID-19 response, safeguarding the city's most vulnerable. The organization is deeply committed to reconciliation, offering culturally sensitive services for Indigenous individuals. They fund Indigenous Housing First teams, provide sector training, cultural services, and develop Indigenous housing projects, including the Morning Fire Protector supportive housing. Homeward Trust has invested in over 1900 housing units and manages Permanent Supportive Housing with on-site services. Susan extends her dedication to volunteer roles on local and national boards and committees, championing inclusive communities. With a B.Sc. in Architecture from Ryerson University and an MBA from the Edinburgh Business School of Heriot-Watt University, Susan's outstanding contributions have earned her the Alberta Centennial Medal and the Diamond Jubilee Medal. Susan McGee is a powerhouse in the quest to end homelessness and foster resilient communities.
Option B
Understanding Changing Demographics
Heather Thomson
Moderator – Executive Director, University of Alberta
(Centre for Cities and Communities)
Heather Thomson is a dynamic consumer behavior expert. In her role as the Executive Director of the Centre for Cities and Communities, Heather collaborates with businesses, community organizations, and municipalities to foster vibrant local economies. With a wealth of experience, including her work with the University of Alberta and 13 Ways, she has left a positive impact on countless communities and businesses across North America. A sought-after keynote speaker and accomplished fundraiser, Heather has an innate ability to identify opportunities in any situation. Notably, she's a proud mother of two boys, pursuing a master's in behavioral economics, and a passionate advocate for gender parity and workplace equity. Heather's dedication and expertise shine as she champions thriving local economies and gender equality in the workforce.
Allison Watson
Vice President, Leger
Allison, a dynamic force at Leger since 2011, spearheads Leger's Western Canada public affairs team. Her role involves co-leading a team of public affairs researchers, making her a vital contributor to the housing industry. With over a decade of market research experience, Allison excels in diverse areas like government relations, corporate responsibility, brand positioning, public opinion analysis, and advertising evaluation. Her impressive portfolio spans work for municipal and provincial governments, media, and professional associations, making her an industry powerhouse. Allison thrives on delivering a deeper understanding of the public to her clients, leveraging both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Beyond her professional prowess, she's deeply committed to her community. She mentors future industry leaders at the University of Alberta and actively contributes to the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development and Attraction Committee. Additionally, she's a dedicated member of her local minor hockey association's board of directors.
Cheryl Whiskeyjack
Executive Director, Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society
Cheryl has been a dedicated member of Bent Arrow for over a quarter-century, practically since its inception. She oversees 21 diverse programs and services that connect indigenous clients with the city and empower them with skills and resilience for broader life applications.
Cheryl's extensive involvement in various organizations showcases her commitment to community service. She is a board member for the Canadian Accreditation Council of Human Services, the Align Association of Community Services, and has recently joined the Board of PolicyWise for Children & Families. Cheryl has played a pivotal role in EndPovertyEdmonton since its inception and currently co-chairs the Stewardship Round Table. She also holds a position on the National Advisory Council on Poverty. Her dedication extends to mentoring through the Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations Executive Director Mentorship program and representing Bent Arrow in C5, a collaborative partnership of five non-profits focused on innovative community engagement in vulnerable areas. Cheryl is known for her exceptional ability to maintain strong partnerships across different sectors.
Laura Jo Gunter
President & Chief Executive Officer, NAIT
Laura Jo Gunter assumed the role of President and CEO in August 2020 at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) — marking her as the institution’s seventh leader. Renowned for her innovative leadership, she brings a wealth of knowledge in post-secondary education and an insightful entrepreneurial spirit to her role. Before joining NAIT, Laura Jo was the President and CEO of Bow Valley College in Calgary, where she led the creation of the “Open Doors – Open Mind” strategic plan and expanded the college’s brand through global partnerships. She also pioneered Pivot-Ed, an artificial intelligence driven adult education platform. In Ontario, she served as the Senior Vice-President Academic for Simon Fraser University and later served Vice-President of Programming, Special Projects, and Industry Partnerships for the Vancouver Film School. Beyond Laura Jo’s career, she has contributed to various educational and community-based organizations, including the Skills for Jobs Task Force and the Council of Post-Secondary Presidents in Alberta. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Journalism from Carleton University and an MBA from Queen’s University.
Rispah Tremblay
Senior Manager, Settlement Services, Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers
Rispah Tremblay has dedicated over 20 years to community and municipal services, with a particular focus on fostering vibrant, inclusive communities. Her journey began in the municipal government at the City of Red Deer, where she later managed a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering women. After relocating to Edmonton, she embarked on a 7-year mission, spearheading community development projects that supported immigrant communities in entrepreneurship, capacity building, and social enterprise.
Rispah's extensive portfolio includes the development and implementation of various youth and women's programs, amplifying her commitment to community growth. Currently, she serves as the Senior Manager of Settlement Services at the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers (EMCN), where her passion for community development shines— striving to make a positive impact on the lives of new immigrants and refugees.
Option C
Navigating Affordability Challenges
Kalen Anderson
Moderator – Executive Director, Urban Development Institute,
Edmonton Metro
Kalen Anderson is a registered professional planner with a personal and professional commitment to building sustainable partnerships, communities, cities, and city-regions. She is the Executive Director for the Urban Development Institute–Edmonton Metro and previously served as Vice President of Capital Planning and Chief Planner with the National Capital Commission in Ottawa as well as a Planning Director and senior leader at the City of Edmonton. Collaborative decision-making, successful relationship-building, and strategic communications are at the heart of her practice. A passionate and dedicated city-builder, Kalen’s leadership is founded on a broad understanding of urban and regional policy, economic development, and community engagement to support growth and change.
Shaun Cathcart
Director & Senior Economist, Housing Data and Market Analyst, Canadian Real Estate Association
In his role as the Director and Senior Economist, Housing Data, and Market Analyst at the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), Shaun Cathcart takes the lead in managing CREA's national resale housing database. He oversees the production and distribution of critical housing data, making it accessible to various stakeholders, including boards, associations, members, media, government, and other real estate industry players. In addition to data management, Shaun plays a pivotal role in market analysis. He provides in-depth housing market intelligence and analytical resources that empower decision-makers in the housing sector. With a keen focus on the Canadian real estate landscape, Shaun offers valuable insights to guide both short-term and long-term strategies, contributing to a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving housing market and its dynamics. His work is instrumental in facilitating informed decisions and driving the housing industry forward.
Tim Richter
President & Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness
Maurizio Capano
Principal at Probus Project Management Inc.
Maurizio is a highly experienced structural engineer with over two decades of management and design expertise, making him an asset to the housing sector. His knowledge is firmly grounded in the fields of Construction and Real Estate. His extensive background includes overseeing budgeting, planning, and construction projects in the public sector. Maurizio is also the founder and owner of a consulting services firm specializing in providing customized project management solutions to address the unique needs of Real Estate Developers and Owners. He has successfully managed the development of more than 3.5 million square feet of multifamily, mixed-use, and office spaces across Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta. Furthermore, he is an active investor who has participated in the development of 1,200 multifamily units, further solidifying his deep involvement in the housing sector.
PM Panel
Mary Rowe
Moderator — President and CEO, Canadian Urban Institute
Mary W. Rowe, President and CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), has been a dedicated civic leader and urban advocate for over 30 years. She champions place-based strategies for creating livable, resilient cities in both Canada and the United States. Mary's influence extends to policy transformation, self-organizing initiatives in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the development of Re-Imagining the Civic Commons in North American cities, and participation in HUD-supported Rebuild by Design, which contributed to the creation of the Rockefeller Foundation's 100Resilient Cities program. She is also a Senior Fellow with Shore Fast and actively engages in national and international city-building programs, including UN Habitat, Ottawa City Building Summit, and the G7 Urban Development Ministers' inaugural meeting in Potsdam, Germany. Under her leadership, CUI has expanded its efforts to create an international network, uniting government, industry, communities, and city-building professionals to address pressing urban challenges.
Catherine Keill
Chief Executive Officer, Keill & Co. Inc.
Catherine is a passionate advocate of "Being Great at Doing Good!" As the leader of a small team at Keill & Company, she empowers clients across Canada as their comprehensive communications partner, facilitating the achievement of strategic goals. Her team's mission is to enhance organizations' communication support in all areas.
With nearly three decades of strategic communications experience, Catherine has held executive positions in diverse sectors. Her unique personal and professional background within Alberta's communications, public relations, and marketing sphere, combined with her strategic expertise, ensures clients receive innovative solutions and remarkable outcomes. Her driving force is enabling clients to attain positive results.
Catherine is a member of various professional associations, including IABC, PMI, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and IAP2. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Ottawa and a master's degree in Communication and Technology from the University of Alberta. Catherine has completed the Management Essentials Program at the University of Alberta and a Certificate in Fundraising Leadership from Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Furthermore, Catherine actively serves on many boards including Habitat for Humanity.
Heather Thomson
Executive Director, University of Alberta (Centre for Cities and Communities)
Heather Thomson is a dynamic consumer behavior expert. In her role as the Executive Director of the Centre for Cities and Communities, Heather collaborates with businesses, community organizations, and municipalities to foster vibrant local economies. With a wealth of experience, including her work with the University of Alberta and 13 Ways, she has left a positive impact on countless communities and businesses across North America. A sought-after keynote speaker and accomplished fundraiser, Heather has an innate ability to identify opportunities in any situation. Notably, she's a proud mother of two boys, pursuing a master's in behavioral economics, and a passionate advocate for gender parity and workplace equity. Heather's dedication and expertise shine as she champions thriving local economies and gender equality in the workforce.
Kalen Anderson
Executive Director, Urban Development Institute – Edmonton Metro
Kalen Anderson is a registered professional planner with a personal and professional commitment to building sustainable partnerships, communities, cities, and city-regions. She is the Executive Director for the Urban Development Institute–Edmonton Metro and previously served as Vice President of Capital Planning and Chief Planner with the National Capital Commission in Ottawa as well as a Planning Director and senior leader at the City of Edmonton. Collaborative decision-making, successful relationship-building, and strategic communications are at the heart of her practice. A passionate and dedicated city-builder, Kalen’s leadership is founded on a broad understanding of urban and regional policy, economic development, and community engagement to support growth and change.