Board Chair

Jenn is the Managing Partner at Incito, an executive leadership coaching and development firm in Calgary, Alberta. A Master Certified Coach, Speaker and Facilitator, Jenn has worked with executives and entrepreneurs across Canada and worldwide, helping them grow into inspired, authentic leaders.

Jenn is a dynamic leader in her own right, and has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women's Executive Network (WXN). She is the recipient of numerous awards including Mount Royal University’s Outstanding Alumni, Business in Calgary Leaders, and CPHR Alberta’s Community Champion. Jenn serves on many boards and committees supporting business, education, parks, arts and youth. She is a regular contributor to the Forbes Coaches Council and author of The Inspired Leader.

Why Jenn volunteers with The GRAND: “I fell in love with attending performing arts events in high school drama class. I live inner-city in a historic home built the same year as The GRAND and believe that embracing, supporting and uplifting history and the arts are important to a thriving City of Calgary.”

Director & Chair, Artistic Direction Committee

Kevin is a husband, father, and the principal at Sturgess Architecture (_SA). Born and raised in Nelson, BC, Kevin identifies as Métis. He is a member of the Métis Nations of British Columbia and Alberta.

Kevin is passionate about the creative design process and how it extends beyond the architectural realm into everyday life. He is a registered architect in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario, which allows him to understand the nuances of jurisdictional approving authorities. He is a LEED Accredited Professional and has worked on numerous award-winning projects where the integration of design into the public realm is paramount.

Kevin’s passion for community building initiatives and the arts prompted him to take on a volunteer role helping Contemporary Calgary through the Expression of Interest process to become the successful proponent for the Centennial Planetarium renovation. He also loves sports, and coaches his sons’ hockey and baseball teams.

Why Kevin volunteers with The GRAND: “_SA, completed the renovation at The GRAND. My connection with the building, the arts and volunteerism segued into a desire to be more involved. I’ve held a Board position at the theatre since 2016.”

Director

Brandy has more than 20 years of experience in the Human Resources field. She is currently a Senior Manager, HR Business Partner for the Midstream Division of AltaGas Ltd.

Her career in human resources has spanned all aspects of the employee cycle including talent acquisition, employee development, total rewards, labour relations and strategic business partner. She has worked in a variety of industries from hospitality to the energy sector. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Calgary and received her designation as a Chartered Professional in Human Resources.

On the side, she assists with managing her husband Andy’s musical endeavors. They have 3 amazing kids together, ranging in age from 12 – 20 years old. Brandy also enjoys attending concerts, live theatre and traveling, particularly to New York, Palm Springs, and Los Angeles.

Why Brandy volunteers with The GRAND: “Volunteering fulfills my passion for the arts and contributing to the community.”

Director

With a career spanning over two decades in the Events and Food & Beverage Hospitality industry, Jason has had the opportunity to work with every kind of client from celebrity athletes to corporate businesses. He has worked with global brands, clients, and companies and is committed to showcasing Canadian talent and all it offers through notable programs including the World Cup Snowboard, Freestyle, Bobsled Canada, Alpine Canada, and the Hockey Canada Gala. He is the Vice President of Modern Rentals, and is the President Elect of the Greater Calgary Chapter of the Meeting Professionals International Club.

Jason’s dedication to giving back led him to take on the role of founder and producer for the Legacy Gala (2014 – 2018), which supported Canadian Olympic Athletes. He has also been an instrumental role in fundraising for numerous not-for-profit sports organizations and charities over the years.

Why Jason volunteers with The GRAND: “Most of my life has been spent supporting not-for-profit sport, and I believe I can apply the knowledge I’ve gained to help support the arts. It’s very important to the city and the next generation to have access to amazing art and culture.”

Director & Secretary

As a lawyer and partner at CITO Energy Law, LLP, Renée advises clients on all aspects of domestic and international energy projects. Her practice includes negotiating domestic and international joint venture, joint operating and partnership arrangements, the cross-border acquisition and divestiture of energy assets, and the structuring of upstream oil and gas exploration, development, and production projects. She also assists clients with a variety of corporate and commercial matters pertaining to the development of onshore and offshore oil and gas and renewable power projects around the world.

Why Renée volunteers with The GRAND: “I enjoy contributing my time and energy to help ensure this historic organization continues to thrive as part of Calgary’s vibrant arts scene. The volunteer work allows me to exercise the creative side of my brain and give back to the community in a meaningful way.”

Director

Matthew is a lawyer and partner in the litigation group with Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP. He practices corporate litigation, with an emphasis on energy, construction, and securities disputes. Matthew has presented at conferences across Canada and published numerous articles relating to corporate litigation.

Matthew is actively involved in the Calgary community giving his time to a variety of charities and organizations. He currently sits on the Board for Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids, and chairs their governance committee.

Why Matthew volunteers with The GRAND: “I am a strong supporter of the arts. I volunteer with The GRAND to give back to the community and help the arts - particularly theatre - to flourish in Calgary.”

Director & Treasurer

Sheila is a Designated Certified Management Accountant and brings more than 15 years of finance experience. She has worked in several industries and held a variety of finance positions ranging from Project Accounting to Controller to Financial Planning and Analysis. Currently, she is with a company involved with Autonomy & Positioning at Hexagon, NovAtel. She has also worked at PCL Construction, WorleyParsons and most recently at ITT.

Why Sheila volunteers with The GRAND: “I am passionate about arts and culture in the city, and the role that The GRAND plays in this landscape.”

Director and Ex-Officio Chair

For the past 32 years, Duane has been the President and Founder of Optima Manufacturing Inc. He has led the Calgary-based organization to become an industry leader in the manufacturing of precision machine products and assemblies for a variety of industries across North America, Europe, Asia and South America.

Why Duane volunteers with The GRAND: “As a born and raised Calgarian, with an established global company headquartered in Calgary, I strongly believe a world class city must have a vibrant arts scene in order to prosper and attract the best and brightest minds for our future.”

Director

Devon is a born and raised Calgarian. After spending many years living in cities around the world, she came back to YYC with one goal: to help make Calgary more livable and lovable.

With an extensive background in arts and culture, non-profit and government, Devon currently works as Chief of Staff for the Ward 9 City Councillor. She is a lifelong lover of theatre and has held several positions with different theatre companies.

Why Devon volunteers with The GRAND: “I am particularly interested in helping to move The GRAND towards a more inclusive, intersectional and accessible space for all Calgarians.”

Director

Alberto currently holds the position of VP - Operations and Finance at Optima Manufacturing Inc. Throughout his career, Alberto has gained significant managerial and supervisory experience, a general understanding and knowledge of business policies and processes, and hone his decision-making skills and financial stewardship.

Why Alberto volunteers with The GRAND: “My role on the Board allows me to share my talents and give back to the community.”

Director