District 14 Candidates - Regina
[Postal codes beginning with S4Y, S4X, S4R, S4T, S4W, S4P, S4S, S4N, S4V, S4Z, S4L]
Catherine Benning
Bruce Dawson
Dean Elliott
Karen Frank
Leigha Hubick
David Kelly
Steve Kemp
Keith Kilback
Lynde McKinley
Malinda Meegoda
Jim Nicol
June Schultz
Albert Yakichuk
Catherine Benning
After completing high school in Regina, Catherine went to the University of Saskatchewan in the fall of 1984 and convocated in 1988 with B.A. (Economics). She used her B.A. in her work with a small economic development consulting company and the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan before deciding to return to the U of S in 1993 to study law. Catherine obtained her law degree in 1996 and began articling with the Ministry of Justice in Regina that same year. She was called to the bar in 1997 and began her 11 year career with the Land Registry. In 2008, Catherine shifted gears and started with the Legislative Services division of the Ministry of Justice developing new legislation for the province. Catherine enjoys the challenges and learning opportunities that this position provides.
Catherine is married with two sons (11 and 14) and lives in Regina. She enjoys reading, gardening, scrapbooking and volunteering in her community. She has contributed to her community by coaching and managing her sons’ sports teams, establishing a French immersion preschool, volunteering with the school music programs and fundraising for various local charities.
Bruce Dawson
Bruce Dawson is a strategic thinker and leader dedicated to public service.
Just over twenty years ago, Bruce committed himself to helping people better understand and appreciate the rich and diverse heritage of our country. To this end, Bruce has worked in progressively responsible positions in public agencies dedicated to the protection and promotion of heritage resources, including the Western Development Museum, the Royal Saskatchewan Museum and the Saskatchewan Archives Board. For most of the last 11 years, Bruce has worked for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport, where he has served as the Director of Cultural Policy and is currently the Manager of the Historic Places Program.
Underpinning Bruce’s work in the heritage sector is his long association with post-secondary institutions as both a student and as an instructor. In addition to his Master of Arts in history from the University of Saskatchewan, he holds and Advanced Bachelor of Arts Degree in history and native studies from the University of Manitoba, a Business Administration Diploma from Mount Royal College and a Diploma in Cultural Resource Management from the University of Victoria. This training has enabled him to also strive towards his goal in the classroom, first as a teaching assistant at the University of Saskatchewan and, between 2003 and 2010, as a lecturer for Luther College and the Department of History at the University of Regina as well as for the Cultural Resource Management program at the University of Victoria.
Bruce’s commitment to academia and promoting understanding and appreciation of our heritage also extends to scholarship. In addition to serving four years as the editor for Saskatchewan History magazine, Bruce has presented his research at local, national and international conferences and has had several articles and one co-edited book published on Canadian history and heritage conservation topics.
Public service through volunteerism is also important to Bruce. While studying at the University of Saskatchewan, he served on the University of Saskatchewan Senate as the graduate student representative as well as on the Graduate Students Association. Amongst his other volunteer roles, Bruce was a long-time member of the Regina Symphony Orchestra’s book sale team and is just completing a term as the Treasurer for the Saskatchewan Council of Archives and Archivists.
A resident of Regina for the past 16 years, Bruce is married with two children and spends his spare time cycling, traveling and restoring his heritage house and garden.
Dean Elliott
Dean Elliott has been the Science Consultant for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education since 2003. In this role, he is primarily responsible for all K-12 science curriculum development, supporting implementation of science curriculum provincially, speaking to university science methods courses, and liaising with science education outreach organizations. Prior to that Dean spent 12 ½ years with the Saskatoon Public School Division as a secondary science teacher and two years as the school division technology consultant. Dean is a past-president of the Saskatchewan Science Teachers’ Society, a recipient of the Canadian Association of Physicists Teacher of the Year Award, the Association for Media and Technology in Education in Canada FuturEd Award, and the Premier’s Award for Excellence in Public Service. Dean has a B.Sc. and B.Ed. from the University of Saskatchewan, a M.Ed. from the University of Oregon, and an Ed.S. from the University of Georgie. Dean and his wife Lorey have lived in Regina since 2003. Their son Michael is currently attending the University of Alberta, Trisha is attending the University of Regina, and Michelle is finishing Grade 12 this year.
Karen Frank
Karen Frank brings over fifteen years of extensive international human resources experience with her portfolio. Ms. Frank earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Saskatchewan. From there she continued her education in Human Resources and Business Marketing by attending SIAST in Saskatoon, and The International Academy of Design & Technology in Toronto. Ms. Frank was an influential committee member on the Canadian Council of Human Resources Associations - Recertification Committee. The committee created the foundation of the recertification process for the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation as it stands today. Ms. Frank is a proud Saskatchewan Association of Human Resources Professionals (SAHRP) member, and holds the CHRP designation.
Ms. Frank has worked in Canada and the United States for major corporations. Currently, she is a Senior Human Capital Consultant with SaskCentral located in Regina, and partners with Credit Unions across the nation, with a special focus on Saskatchewan. Ms. Frank has managed regional human resources roles – both in the field and at the corporate level – at multi-national companies, mid-size corporations, and not-for-profit associations.
Ms. Frank currently resides in White City with her husband.
Leigha Hubick
Leigha was born and raised in Saskatchewan. Growing up in Saskatoon, the University of Saskatchewan was a natural choice and she graduated from the University of Saskatchewan in 2003 with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. In addition to being a student, Leigha worked for the University of Saskatchewan in the Alumni Relations department and as a co-coordinator of Orientation.
In 2006, Leigha obtained her Chartered Accountant designation while working for Deloitte LLP in Regina, Saskatchewan. After articling for Deloitte LLP, Leigha worked for Greystone Managed Investments and the Co-operator’s Life Insurance Company.
A supporter of the community, she has donated her time volunteering with various organizations including the Regina Women’s Network, Regina Canada Day Committee, Regina Red Sox, The Tim Horton’s Brier and Scotties Tournament of Hearts.
Currently, Leigha is the Associate Director at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Saskatchewan, with key responsibilities being practice inspection and review of CA training offices and registrations compliance. She is an active member of the University of Saskatchewan Alumni Advisory Committee.
David Kelly
Embracing and leveraging new media and online initiatives. Advocacy of privacy and security of personal and corporate information. Innovative thinking, strategic analysis and creative solutions.
David holds a Bachelor of Arts, Honors (1983) and a Masters of Arts (1986) from the University of Saskatchewan. He has worked as a Sessional Lecturer at the U of S for 4 years and in Information Technology in Saskatchewan for over 20 years. He has resided in both Regina and the nearby community of White City during that time.
Professionally, David has been employed by the Government of Saskatchewan throughout his career, having spent the last 15 years with Public Employees Benefits Agency as a Senior Analyst.
His focus is on the strategic balance of expanding demands for online enterprise with concerns for privacy of personal custodial information and the overall security of those systems. He has researched and written policy, and worked on implementation of procedures to reduce and mitigate corporate risk.
He is active in the community, volunteering for NGO’s and Associations in Regina and area. David’s a-vocational pursuits include website design & development, digital content creation (photography), information technology security and intellectual property advocacy.
As an alumni of the U of S, David has maintained an interest in the ongoing governance and direction of that institution. He is conversant with projects and initiatives at the University and is sympathetic to the core needs of students, faculty and administrators in maintaining the enduring legacy of that one hundred and six year old institution.
Steve Kemp
Steve Kemp received his Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan in 1995. During University and after graduation, he worked for a high tech manufacturing company in Saskatoon before moving to Regina to take on a new experience in the Consulting world at Ritenburg & Associates Ltd. He later became a partner and Vice-President of the firm in 1999. Over his career, Steve has worked on many industrial, utility, commercial, institutional and educational projects across Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. He has been instrumental in his firm’s project development in the areas of industrial automation, hazardous area classification, PLC and SCADA systems, and alternative energy development. He has also worked extensively in his career on building condition assessments, fire investigations, uninterruptible power systems, emergency power systems, energy saving technologies, and variable frequency motor control.
Steve has been fortunate to work on many significant projects throughout his career. He has been the project engineer for the Weyburn Ethanol Plant, the Swift Current Water Treatment Plant Expansion, the University of Regina Centre for Kinesiology Health and Sport, the Saskatchewan Disease Control Laboratory, the Regina International Airport Expansion, the Mosaic Tower Hill Centre III downtown high rise office tower and currently on the Agriculture Place Office Tower in Regina. Steve is currently working towards obtaining his LEED AP BD+C accreditation.
- Steve has been the recipient of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan “Promising Member Award” in 2003 and most recently, the Regina Engineering Society “Engineering Excellence” Award in 2012.
Steve felt that it was important to become as involved where possible in professional and community organizations. Steve is currently a part of many other organizations as noted herein but he has previously served on many political, professional and community committees in a variety of roles.
- Member, Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS)
- Member, Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC)
- Member, International Society of Automation
- Member, Construction Specifications Canada
- Panel Member, Saskatchewan Rate Review Panel
- Past President, Regina Engineering Society
- Past President and Current Director, Health Facility Resource Council of Saskatchewan
- Past Director and Current Member, Consulting Engineers of Saskatchewan
- Past Member of the APEGS – Professional Awards Committee
- Past Committee Member, Regina Kona Fest Winter Festival
- Past Committee Member, Regina Festival of Lights
Steve is married with four young children. He enjoys skydiving, mountain hiking, and white water rafting. He spends his spare time with his family and renovating their home.
Keith Kilback
Keith practices law primarily in the areas of commercial litigation, transportation, regulatory and administrative law. A significant part of his practice includes representing clients in class actions, corporate and business disputes, product liability, oil and gas, and construction cases and in the defence of regulatory prosecutions and commercial offenses.
Keith has appeared as counsel on hearings, trials, and appeals before all levels of court in Saskatchewan, the British Columbia Supreme Court, the Federal Court, and the Tax Court of Canada as well as before various administrative tribunals and regulatory bodies. He has also been appointed as an inquest coroner, and presides over inquest hearings in Saskatchewan that are conducted before a civil jury.
As part of his transportation law practice, Keith advises motor carriers, bus companies, courier companies, and railways in general business, regulatory, and litigation matters affecting transportation operations. Keith is a former director of the Canadian Transport Lawyers Association and is also a member of the Transportation Lawyers Association (US).
Keith has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in Canada in the area of Transportation Law (2008-2013), and in the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory as a leading practitioner in the area of Transportation Law (Road & Rail) (2011 - 2013).
Keith is a member of the Saskatchewan bar and an inactive member of the British Columbia bar, and has published articles on various legal subjects appearing in the Canadian Journal of Administrative Law and Practice, Alberta Law Review, Transportation Lawyer, Journal of Motor Vehicle Law, Criminal Law Quarterly, Health Law Journal, and For The Defense.
Education
B.A., University of Saskatchewan, 1990
J.D., University of Saskatchewan, 1994
Admitted to the Saskatchewan Bar, 1995
Admitted to the British Columbia Bar, 1997
Lynde McKinley
My name is Lynde McKinley and I am interesting in serving on the Senate of the University of Saskatchewan. I am a graduate of the Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan (2002). Since completion of the program, I’ve continued my education, obtaining certification in perioperative nursing, Management competencies and Lean Six Sigma. I am currently enrolled in graduate studies in a Masters of Nursing program at Athabasca University. I’ve had the pleasure of working in Neurosciences, NICU, OR and currently as a faculty member in the final offering of the Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan and inaugural offering of the Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I also sit on the board of directors of the Saskatchewan Brain Injury Association and the Brain Injury Association of Canada conference committee. I have had wonderful international experiences in Nepal, during my time as a NEPS student, and South Africa, as a perioperative nurse working with the introduction of surgical safety checklist. I hold a Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma and have had the pleasure of working on an international surgical safety project using that education. I believe my combined education and experience will be of great asset to the Senate and to the University as a whole. I look forward to becoming more involved in university governance and to give back to my Alma Mater.
Malinda Meegoda
Malinda Meegoda is a proud alumnus of the University of Saskatchewan, who graduated with a B.A in the International Studies Program with a concentration in the International conflict and resolution stream.
He currently works as the project coordinator for ‘the Saskatchewan organization for Heritage Languages’ (SOHL). Through his work, Malinda has been in constant contact wit numerous multicultural organizations, communities and initiatives and is passionate about advancing the goals of multiculturalism. Malinda also currently works as a volunteer-programmer with Regina’s community radio station, 91.3 CJTR fm hosting a multicultural based spoken word program called ‘SOHL Connection.’
In addition, Malinda currently serves on the board of directors of ‘The Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation (SCIC).’ Prior to moving to Regina, Malinda was involved with numerous community projects and organizations including ‘Transition Saskatoon’ and ‘Oxfam Canada,’ helping organize many events and projects.
Jim Nicol
Jim Nicol was born and raised in Whitewood, Saskatchewan. After completing high school, Jim attended the University of Saskatchewan, enrolling in the College of Arts and Science in 1980.
Jim obtained his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Studies in 1985. After taking a year off to work and travel, Jim returned to campus in 1986 and completed his Bachelor of Commerce (with Distinction) in 1988.
Immediately upon completion of his degrees, Jim began his career with the Government of Saskatchewan. He joined the Department of Finance as a Budget Analyst in the Treasury Board Division. After two years, Jim was seconded to the Cabinet Secretariat Office to serve in the role of Cabinet Liaison Officer. Over the course of the next thirteen years, he served in a number of increasingly responsible positions in the Department of Executive Council, including Senior Policy Advisor, Executive Assistant to the Deputy Minister to the Premier and Director of Senior Management Services.
In March 2003, Jim was appointed as Assistant Deputy Minister of Labour. His initial portfolio responsibilities included labour standards, workers’ advocacy services and finance and administration. Mid-way through his four year tenure, he assumed additional responsibilities for occupational health and safety.
Jim joined the City of Regina in the spring of 2007, assuming the newly-created position of Chief of Staff to the City Manager where he was responsible for government relations, strategic planning, communications and customer service. In the fall of 2011, following a major re-organization of divisional responsibilities, Jim assumed his current position as Executive Director of Governance and Strategy. As a member of the executive leadership team, he is responsible for a number of central support and advisory services to City Council and the corporation delivered by Communications, Strategy Management Branch, Government Relations Office and the Office of the City Clerk.
Jim sits on the Wascana Centre Authority Board of Directors and is a member of the Innovation Place Management Advisory Committee. He is the City of Regina’s liaison with the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy (Universities of Saskatchewan and Regina) and oversees the City’s participation in the annual internship program for graduate students.
Jim and his wife Arlene (Bachelor of Commerce, 1987) have resided in Regina since 1988. They have two children, a daughter (21 years of age) and a son (18 years of age).
June Schultz
June Schultz is a Certified Management Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan with majors in Accounting and General Business. She is a strong team builder and facilitator, fostering an atmosphere that encourages talented professionals with high skills to attain maximum production.
For the past twelve years, June has worked for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health. During this time, she has been responsible for the management of financial operations including multi-billion dollar budget and forecast preparation, policy development, program analysis and contract negotiations.
June is dedicated and loyal with strong personal values including honesty, integrity and dedication. These traits have served her well in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
June is passionate about continued professional development which has guided her to participate in various conferences and workshops offered through the Institute of Public Administration of Canada, the Financial Management Institute, and the Society of Management Accountants of Saskatchewan. June has a Professional Leadership Certificate from the University of Regina and is working toward her Policy Workshop Certificate of Completion offered by the Public Service Commission of Saskatchewan and the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School.
Giving back to organizations that have had a strong positive impact on her life and community is something June believes is extremely important. Her volunteer activities include becoming a mentor in the Government of Saskatchewan’s Corporate Mentorship Program, holding various leadership positions within her church, and previously she served as vice chair of the Casey Foundation, a foundation to support families who have children with autism.
June resides in Regina, SK with her husband and two boys.
Albert Yakichuk
Education:
University of Regina, Masters of Education, 1977
Post Graduate Diploma School Guidance Counseling – 1973
University of Saskatchewan, Bachelor of Education, 1969
Bachelor of Science, 1968
Bert is currently a consultant in the area of family literacy. In the past he has been a trustee with Regina Catholic Schools; done contract work in Literacy and Transition to work. In his 25 years of educational administration, he was directly responsible for the supervision, expansion, and evaluation of many types of educational, community and athletic programs. He retired from Regina Catholic schools in June 2005, where he had worked as a Principal, Teacher and Guidance Counselor for many years.
His achievements include being a recipient of the Saskatchewan Centennial 2005 Medal, being a founding member of the Canadian S.A.D.D. program and a principal of Canada’s first S.A.D.D. school, being a founding member of the Saskatchewan S.A.V.E. program (Students Against Violence Everywhere), and chairing the Catholic Connections Provincial Committee. He has also been a keynote speaker or session presenter at many conferences in North America and Europe, including BRAIN EXPO, C.A.P (Canadian Association of Principals), N.A.S.S.P. (National Association of Secondary School Principals), A.S.C.D. (Association for Supervision and Curriculum), and D.G.S.L. (German conference on Suggestapedia).
Bert and his wife Claudia live in Regina and have two grown children.
