Additions to our Board of Directors
Valerie Hyska
Val is the owner of Hyska’s Your Independent Grocer in Petawawa, and an enthusiastic supporter of the chamber and our business community. Her dedication to causes such as the Rotary Club and area business associations has had impact, built lasting relationships, and earned much respect.
Emma St Pierre
Emma is the Education and Training Representative for the Pembroke Online Learning Centre of Contact North. Her new office is in our chamber’s location, forming a partnership to support the learning and training needs for local employers and employees alike. Emma has an extensive background in volunteer coordination in our area, most especially with the Salvation Army.
Travis Richards
Travis is the owner / operator of Travis Richards Office in Barry’s Bay, providing services and consulting for the business community especially in social media and marketing. Travis is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion, dedicating much time and effort to organizations that support persons with disabilities.
Mike Thompson
Mike is likely a familiar face to many in the business community, given his role with the Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation and his role as an advisor for Enterprise Renfrew County programs for new and small business in the region. Mike has expertise in business management and finance and connections with business owners throughout the region.
Andre Mikovitch
Andre joins us from Assante Financial, where he has been a Senior Financial Advisor in Ottawa. He has recently moved to the valley, somewhat downsizing his portfolio to free up more time to pursue personal interests. He brings with him years of experience in fundraising activities for the Ottawa hospital network, Elizabeth Bruyere, and more.
Ex officio directors:
This year, we are introducing ex officio directors for our board. These people, by virtue of the position they hold, are appointed to our board as advisors – providing valuable insights, connections and perspective to help us in our mission and deliberations.
Katie Tollis and David Wybou hold Economic Development positions for the Township of Laurentian Valley and for the County of Renfrew.
Chris Olmstead from Olmstead’s Home Hardware Building Centre is an elected member of town council with the Township of Whitewater Region and will be enhancing the township’s relations with both our chamber and the Renfrew Chamber of Commerce.
Todd Kelly is a student in the Algonquin College Business Program. He is an armed services veteran exploring second career options and looking to start his own business in the area. We offer this seat for a Business Program student as a learning experience, but also to help us to connect with the next generation of business leaders in our community.