Our People
2020 has brought many changes to Ever Active Schools, not least of all staffing changes. We have said farewell to old friends moving onto new adventures, see you later to those welcoming new additions to their families, and hello again after parental leaves! We are forever grateful to the contributions of our team – without our people, Ever Active Schools is only an idea.
Leadership
Brian Torrance
Director of Ever Active Schools
Brian Torrance
Director
Background: Bachelor of Physical Education, Masters of Science
Hometown: North Vancouver, British Columbia
Office: Edmonton
I have a wonderful job and am thankful to work with amazing people.
As Director with Ever Active Schools I work alongside with associated government ministries, school health partners, and have a focus on fund development, and initiating new innovative projects that support health and wellness in Alberta children and youth. I really enjoy the larger system goals of improved health and wellness and the meaningful collaboration it takes to get there.
Prior to joining Ever Active Schools I went to the University of Alberta completing a Bachelors in Physical Education and a Masters of Science from Medicine.
I joined Ever Active Schools in 2010 and have been fortunate to learn from many mentors and colleagues along the way. Almost being here for ten years I enjoy the variety of new works, thought and people that continue to contribute to health promotion in school communities. I truly believe that there is never a dull day at Ever Active Schools.
When not at work, I enjoy trying to make my two young girls laugh with bad jokes and watching them grow and flourish in whatever activities they choose. Personally, I love to run in Edmonton River Valley. Its a wonder time to think, enjoy the outdoors and be at my best.
Katelynn Theal
Comprehensive School Health Coordinator
Katelynn Theal
Comprehensive School Health Coordinator
Background: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Master's of Public Health in Health Promotion
Hometown: Army brat – no hometown
Office: Edmonton
I was lucky to join the Ever Active Schools Team in 2012, starting off as a provincial projects coordinator, and now I am the comprehensive school health coordinator and operations team lead. My passion for physical activity and working with children and youth align perfectly with the organizations mission and vision.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, and a Master’s in Public Health, Health Promotion. My passion for working with youth in a physical activity setting began in high school where I worked as a gymnastics coach and summer camp program leader. My passion continued to grow in my undergrad when I began looking at increasing physical activity through play in school aged children. While completing my Master's I focused much of my studies on topics such as community design to support increased activity, how to best support teachers in implementing the Daily Physical Activity Policy and topics such as stigma in health care surrounding weight bias.
Some project highlights from my time as a project coordinator include supporting schools to think differently about activity permissive learning spaces, working with urban Indigenous youth to receive certifications and high school credits to support them in working in the recreation and active living sector, supporting policy change in high school sport to promote healthy eating, and so much more.
As comprehensive school health coordinator I support the coordination of resource development and the various aspects of the operational side of Ever Active Schools’ events. I am always making sure to approach both resources and events through a comprehensive school health (CSH) lens, ensuring CSH content and supports are embedded within each. As operations team lead I work to support personnel, along with process and procedures for the administration and communications teams.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, socializing with friends, and running & biking in Edmonton's beautiful river valley.
Favourite Quote: "The best things in life aren't things." - Unknown Author
Kerri Murray
Director of Ever Active Schools Projects
Kerri Murray
Director of Projects
Background: Bachelor of Science in Health Physiology, Health Promotion
Hometown: Brooks, Alberta
Office: Calgary - University of Calgary, Kinesiology
I joined the team in 2014 to support and oversee the projects Ever Active Schools is involved in. What I love most about this role is the opportunity it provides to work in-depth with people and organizations who are committed and passionate about specific areas of school health. On any given day you might find me meeting with fantastic partners, supporting the implementation of innovative projects, writing last-minute grant proposals, work planning with my talented colleagues, initiating exciting new projects or joyfully navigating evaluation and reporting.
I feel so fortunate to have a career where I’ve been immersed in health promotion, having spent time learning from mentors in both the private and public sectors. I’m especially interested in population health strategies for children and youth, with experience in facilitating a comprehensive school health approach. Specific areas of interest include policy development and implementation, the built environment, weight bias, wellness equity for Indigenous peoples, and all things relating to health economics. Not only do these things keep me inspired every day, but clearly also make me really fun at parties. I bring experience in working with school jurisdictions on systems change strategies, coordinating cross-school authority initiatives and aligning partnerships to contribute to healthier school communities in Alberta.
I’m happiest when outdoors, particularly on the tennis court or in the mountain trails on a bike, hike or ski. Three cheeky blondes keep me on my toes and bring immense joy to my life: Lucy (daughter), Jess (daughter) and Auggie (the doggy). I’m a news junkie and avid collector of information, a closet introvert who likes to be alone to think but values close relationships with friends and family, a self-proclaimed expert in sarcasm and a miserable failure in social media.
A snappy little quote on social change from someone I admire: “I liken it to a standing ovation. A few people jump up and say ‘This is the best thing that I have ever seen.’ And then another larger group gets up and says ‘Yes, yes, this was just excellent.' Then a large group gets up and says “Yeah, yeah, this was okay.’ And then finally the last group gets up because they can’t see the stage.” - Laura Liswood, Secretary General of the Council of Women World Leaders (UN)
Katie Mahon
Assistant Director, Equity and Inclusion
Katie Mahon
Assistant Director, Equity and Inclusion
Background: Bachelor of Arts in Recreation, Sport and Tourism, Masters of Arts in Physical Education and Recreation
Hometown: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Office: Calgary - University of Calgary, Education Tower
I joined EAS in 2017 as a Provincial Projects Coordinator! My portfolio of work considers equity and continually explores the questions: What barriers to participation in healthy school communities are faced by children and youth; and how do we address those barriers through a Comprehensive School Health approach?
I received a Bachelor's of Arts in Recreation, Sport and Tourism in 2009. From there, I went on to complete two yoga teacher training courses, which led to the start-up of Inner Peace Project, the not-for-profit that I co-founded and continue to serve as Executive Director. I have had many dynamic opportunities to work in community development; both the people I have worked with and the work itself has shaped who I am. I am very grateful for a role with Ever Active Schools that continues to allow me to serve communities in a meaningful way.
A small few of my favourite things... Yoga and meditation, the mountains, hiking, camping, paddling, books, libraries, excellent coffee, hanging out with my family at the cabin, running, markets and independent grocery stores, cross-country skiing, adventures, road trips, crunchy green apples, snail mail...
Favourite quote: "...the only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars and in the middle you see the blue centrelight pop and everybody goes, 'Aww!'" - Jack Kerouac
Health and Wellness Consultants
Andrea Dion
Health and Wellness Consultant: Resiliency - Treaty 6
Andrea Dion, Omiyowapikwaniy Iskwew (Beautiful Flowering Woman)
Health and Wellness Consultant - Resiliency - Treaty 6
Background: Native Studies and Education
Hometown: Maskwacis, Alberta
Office: Edmonton
I am a strong Cree woman empowering youth to be the best they can be. I am a single mom raising two wonderful teenagers with the help of my parents. I am a proud member of the Samson Cree Nation. My passion is raising my children to become positively contributing members to society while remaining to close to our Cree culture and practices. I am fortunate to come from a very large family: I have fourteen siblings. My Mom is my biggest support and has modeled acceptance and unconditional love.
I attended the Red Deer College and the University of Alberta studying Native Studies and Education, focusing on First Nation government structures and Sociology. I have also received a citation in First Nations Health Promotion from the Faculty of Extension from the University of Alberta focusing on First Nations culture and resiliency, and the social determinants of health.
I have spent more than twenty years coaching volleyball and basketball, mostly in Wetaskiwin and Maskwacis. I have also been active in volunteering with my children’s hockey teams as manager, parent liaison and of course, cheerleader. During the summer, my daughter and I travel with my Mom to Powwows all over western Canada. I am a ladies traditional dancer; I feel my optimal self when I am wearing my regalia and dancing for my ancestors and for those who cannot dance.
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.” -Buddha
Melissa Tierney
Health and Wellness Consultant: Resiliency - Treaty 7
Melissa Tierney
Health and Wellness Consultant - Resiliency - Treaty 7
Background: BA University of Calgary, double major in Communications Studies and Community Development
Hometown: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island / Cochrane, Alberta
Office: Calgary - Winsport
I'm a community builder, networker, and person most likely to be really excited about the cool things you are doing at your school! My ancestry is Irish and I grew up on Prince Edward Island. Over the past 10 years I've been blessed to work in First Nations and Métis communities across Alberta, first as a youth mentor and leadership developer with Alberta's Future Leaders and later with street-involved/homeless and gang-involved youth in Edmonton's inner city.
When I joined Ever Active Schools in 2015, I took these front-lines experiences and translated them into support for First Nations school authorities and schools and districts with many Indigenous students. My work connects schools to new resources, learning opportunities, and positive programming for their staff and students. It can also include creating new policies, student mentorship programs, culture and land-based learning, or hosting role models in the school to increase student engagement, attendance and well-being.
Provincially, my team hosts a network of First Nations School Authorities to share ideas and brainstorm solutions to common challenges, and another that connects organizations promoting healthy initiatives for youth in Indigenous communities. We also host events for teachers and students that support youth leadership, physical activity and overall well-being.
I think I have the coolest job on the planet and am so grateful to all the people who have taught, mentored and inspired me over the years to allow me to do this work! When I'm not working, I love rock climbing, hiking, dancing, and playing in the mountains.
“People from a planet without flowers would think we must be mad with joy the whole time to have such things about us.” ― Iris Murdoch
Cassie Flett
Health and Wellness Consultant: Resiliency - Treaty 8
Cassie Flett
Health and Wellness Consultant - Resiliency - Treaty 8
Background: Third year of the combined degree in Native Studies/ Secondary Education at the University of Alberta
Hometown: Gift Lake Métis Settlement
Office: Edmonton
I am Cree/Métis born and raised in Gift Lake Métis Settlement. One of the things that is most important to me is family. Continuing to stay connected to family and traditions grounds me to continue the work that I do and give back to the community.
I have been doing community and youth work for more than 9 years. I have built many connections, not only in my home community, but in different First Nations and Métis communities across Northern Alberta. I have worked in the school and around the community in Gift Lake as a Youth Success Coach with the When We are Healthy Program for 2 years; I have been a mentor with the Alberta Future Leaders program for 3 years working with youth in community and inner city; and I was a program coordinator for 3 years. Building young leaders in our communities is so valuable and I have dedicated my time to invest in that process in everything I do.
I attended Mount Royal University in Calgary for a year and a half then decided to transition back to Edmonton to attend the University of Alberta. I am currently in my third year of a double degree in Native Studies and Secondary Education, and I decided to take a break to do community work.
When I am not working, I like to stay active playing sports and with the occasional visit to the mountains. During the summer I play softball around the province and in the winter I enjoy playing volleyball and ball hockey. Art and creativity are other important parts of my life, and I invest time into creative digital media — mostly filmmaking and photography.
I am a Resiliency Coordinator for Treaty 8. I will be working with First Nation and Metis communities in the Lesser Slave Lake Region and I am very excited to work with communities close to home.
Favourite quote: "Be the person you needed as a child..." - Unknown
Hayley Degaust
Health and Wellness Consultant
Hayley Degaust
Health and Wellness Consultant
Background: Bachelor of Physical Education, Bachelor of Education
Hometown: Edmonton, Alberta
Office: Edmonton
I joined Ever Active Schools in 2013 with degrees in both education and physical education. As a track and field coach and participant for years, the AMA Youth Run Club was a natural fit. Along with coordinating the AMA Youth Run Club, I help to support Ever Active Schools' events and chair our Shaping the Future conference.
I enjoy being active outside with family, friends and my dog Sima. Along with just about any activity outdoors, I like to enter running and biking races!
Favourite Quote: “If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” - Martin Luther King Jr.
Louise McClelland
Health and Wellness Consultant
Louise McClelland
Health and Wellness Consultant
Background: Master's of Public Health, Bachelor's of Kinesiology
Hometown: Finnegan, Alberta
Office: Calgary - University of Calgary, Education Tower
My name is Louise McClelland and I’ve been a Provincial Projects Coordinator with Ever Active Schools since July 2017. I grew up on a farm near Finnegan, Alberta and love spending my free time at home on the farm, enjoying everything that rural Alberta has to offer! Some of my favourite things to do on the weekend are spending time with my family and getting outdoors! In the summer we spend many weekends camping and during the winter you’ll most likely find me in a hockey arena somewhere in Southern Alberta watching my little brother play.
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology from the University of Calgary and a Master’s Degree in Public Health from Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, BC. Throughout both of my degrees I’ve always had a focus and passion for physical activity and supporting health and wellness for children and youth. During my Master’s degree I had the opportunity to focus on Comprehensive School Health and supporting vulnerable children and youth in the after-school time period.
My role at Ever Active Schools is largely centred around supporting physical activity in the after-school time period, through the implementation of the 2018 Provincial Activity Guidelines for After-School Programs in Alberta, and supporting Bachelor’s of Education faculties across the country in implementing a Comprehensive School Health approach within their faculties, with hopes to improve the overall health and wellness of faculty members, B.Ed students and their future K-12 students.
One of my favourite quotes is: “All of our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” - Walt Disney.
Louise is currently away on maternity leave. Please direct inquiries to info@everactive.org.
Tracey Coutts
Health and Wellness Consultant
Tracey Coutts
Health and Wellness Consultant
Background: Bachelor of Arts, double major Geography/English
Hometown: Oshawa, Ontario
Office: Edmonton
I joined EAS in 2017 at the Walk 21 Conference in Calgary. As the Active School Travel (AST) Coordinator, I work to support AST projects in schools across Alberta and facilitate the collaborative efforts of vested community, municipal, and provincial partners and champions to increase the number of students choosing safe and active travel modes for their school journeys.
During my education, I took courses related to Urban and Rural Planning and Environmental studies. In 2010-2012, I coordinated the National School Travel Planning pilot for Active and Safe Routes to School in Saskatchewan.
Some activities that I enjoy are hiking, camping and writing. I'm also a Girl Guide leader and Mom to three busy kids!
Favourite quote: "Whatever the problem, community is the answer." - Margaret Wheatly
Krista Trim
Health and Wellness Consultant
Krista Trim
Health and Wellness Consultant
Background: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, University of Alberta
Hometown: Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia
Office: Edmonton
When I'm not at the Beautiful Percy Page Centre, you can find me out walking with my sweet dog, in the mountains backpacking and day hiking, or in the yoga studio on my mat.
In 2017, I graduated from the University of Alberta with a B.Sc in Kinesiology. During that time I explored a wide range of courses and topics related to the fields of physical education and recreation. The breadth of knowledge I gained through my formal education, as well as my practicum with Ever Active Schools, gave me the experience and skills needed to positively impact school communities.
I am a Provincial Projects Coordinator here, and to me that is just a fancy title for doing fun things across the province! My portfolio of work revolves around 3 main projects: co-coordinating Active School Travel across Alberta, co-coordinating the AMA Youth Run Club and taking the lead on anew Recreation Centre Pass in School Libraries initiative.
Favourite quote: "Wherever you go, go with all your heart." - Confucius
Jamie Anderson
Health and Wellness Consultant
Jamie Anderson
Health and Wellness Consultant
Background: Bachelor of Education, Graduate Certificate in Educational Research, currently pursuing Master of Arts in Educational Research
Hometown: Brooks, AB
Office: Calgary - Central Library/University of Calgary, Education Tower
I was thrilled to join the EAS team under the Equity Portfolio as the YYC In Good Health program facilitator. I work collaboratively with the City of Calgary and Calgary Board of Education to facilitate recreational leadership programming for high school students at the Central Library. The program aims to support students in gaining work experience and employability skills, while also earning CTS credits and making community connections for future employment.
Outside of my role with EAS, I am a full-time graduate student at the University of Calgary working towards a Master of Arts in Educational Research. I previously earned a graduate certificate in advancing healthy and socially just schools and communities and this sparked my interest in heading back to school full-time. Some of my research interests include improving health outcomes for LGBTQ2S+ youth through increased participation in physical education and school athletics. I am also engaged in advocacy in the province through several advisory committees in education and health care that work to minimize barriers in services. Prior to entering graduate studies, I spent the last 7 years teaching a range of subjects from grades 5-12, as well as coaching junior high basketball and high school volleyball in rural school divisions in central and southern Alberta.
In my spare time, I enjoy being in nature, biking, spending time in the foothills, and engaging in community-based work. I'm also an avid reader and equally enjoy curling up with my cats and a good book.
Adrian Xavier
Health and Wellness Consultant
Adrian Xavier
Health and Wellness Consultant
Now, this is a story all about
how my life got flipped and turned inside out
and I’d like to take a moment, come along with me
as I tell you ‘bout this guy who now lives in YEG.
In Toronto, Ontario born and raised,
I went to York University and got my BA,
two years later I grabbed my B-E-d
and I was off to be a teacher with the TDSB.
Yo I love to groove and dance, and music sets me free,
doing crosswords and sudokus can put my mind at ease
I like to question and reflect and be out amongst the trees
hiking, running, reading, yoga also mean so much to me
Fast forward to the present, I’m now with EAS
And I’m mentoring schools, helping students to be their best
Comprehensive School Health is the message being spoken
With eyes ‘n ears wide open, having moments of wokeness
So this is the end, that’s it, it’s a wrap
And if you want to join the team, the Green Army’s where it’s at
Searchlight’s on the lookout for your expertise
Bringin’ professional learning to A-B communities
Chesa Peter
Health and Wellness Consultant
Chesa Peter
Health and Wellness Consultant
Background: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
Hometown: Edmonton, Alberta
Office: Calgary - Winsport
I originally joined the team as a practicum student in the Fall of 2014. At that time I was completing my Bsc. Kinesiology at the University of Alberta. Following the completion of my degree, I was thrilled to accept a position with Ever Active Schools. Since then, I have had the opportunity to grow within the organization and into my current position of School Health Facilitator. I love that this role allows me to work with educators and partners from across the province and challenges me daily.
My role as School Health Facilitator is all about supporting and empowering school communities throughout their Comprehensive School Health journey. I provide one-on-one physical literacy mentorship, facilitate professional learning opportunities and design resources. My strong understanding of human development, human movement and overall health and wellness help to guide my work.
Outside of EAS, you can find me exploring the mountains around my home in Canmore or practicing and teaching yoga.
Favourite Quote: “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” - Jane Goodall
Chesa is currently away on maternity leave. In the meantime, please contact us with any questions.
Scott Bailey
Health and Wellness Consultant
Scott Bailey
Health and Wellness Consultant
Background: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education
Hometown: Calgary, Alberta
Office: Calgary - Winsport
I joined Ever Active Schools in January, 2017 after teaching at Banded Peak School in Bragg Creek, Alberta. This little school in the forest is a truly special place, and the students I had the honour of working with truly taught me that the best questions, answers and ideas out there come from our youth. As adults, we most often need to learn how to get out of their way! I taught all subject areas in grades 5 and 6, and also helped to lead the schools' Physical Education and Outdoor Education programs for K-8.
In the wintertime, you will likely find me on skis, both downhill and cross country. Starting out with my first part-time job as a young ski instructor at Canada Olympic Park, I went on to work full-time in the industry for six years in both Alberta and Australia. Skiing was the sport in which I discovered that there is a physical activity for everyone if you can discover a passion, and I trained through the Canadian Ski Instructors' Alliance system, achieving the level IV certification in 2011. These days, I keep involved teaching training and certification courses for up and coming instructors each year. I also love running and biking with my family on the trails in and around Calgary and Fernie.
I love my current work as a School Health Facilitator, working alongside dedicated educators around the province to create active and healthy classrooms, schools and communities. Creating meaningful learning experiences in the outdoors, introducing new physical activities to students, and fostering student leadership through physical activity are areas of passion for me, and the Comprehensive School Health framework that we support at Ever Active Schools is so effective in creating sustainable programs in these areas. I look forward to continuing to learn from passionate educators, excited students and creative communities across the province and country as our work grows and evolves.
Favourite Quote: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.” - Dr. Seuss, "The Lorax"
Communications and Operations
Kayli McClelland
Creative Media Specialist
Kayli McClelland
Creative Media Specialist
Background: Diploma of Journalism
Hometown: Calgary, Alberta
Office: Calgary - University of Calgary, Education Tower
I joined Ever Active Schools in 2018 as the Creative Media Specialist. My role encompasses all things creative: photography, videography, writing, design, and more! I work closely with the team to tell the stories of the cool work that they bring to life.
When I'm not working I'm off on an adventure with my rescue dog/partner-in-crime, Baxter. We love to hike, explore and paddle board, but also to snuggle up on the couch with a movie.
Favourite quote: "You can't depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus." - Mark Twain
Rebecca Marjoram
Comms. Technologist
Rebecca Marjoram
Communications Technologist
Background: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
Hometown: Calgary, Alberta
Office: Calgary - University of Calgary, Kinesiology
I joined Ever Active Schools in 2017 as an administrative assistant in Calgary, and moved into the communications technologist position after dazzling everyone with my ability to use HTML tags. As the communications technologist, my role encompasses website, social media and database management - and basically anything else that connects to the internet!
I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of Calgary, and spent a few years working on a Master's degree in sport medicine before deciding I wanted to do other things with my life. I also have 6 years experience working in sport injury prevention research at the University of Calgary and 8 years working at Lifemark Physiotherapy as an administrator and kinesiologist.
On evenings and weekends I can normally be found paddleboarding, Bollywood dancing, knitting, baking or hanging out with my cats. I am a voracious consumer of books, sports, and all things nerdy!
Favourite quote: "No one can tell you you're doing it wrong if they don't know what you're doing."
Jill Carlson
Business Development
Jill Carlson
Business Development Officer
Background: Bachelor of Arts - Recreation and Sport Tourism, Business Management Certificate
Hometown: Edmonton, Alberta
Office: Edmonton
I joined Ever Active Schools in 2019 as the Business Development Officer to help facilitate partnership opportunities so Ever Active Schools can continue to engage schools and communities across the province in a meaningful way. When I work with partners, I ensure it is a win/win for everyone involved. If you or your organization would like to get involved in some way, please use the link below to get in touch!
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation and Sport Tourism from the University of Alberta in 2007, then a Business Management Certificate from SAIT in 2010. I love to camp, hike, bike, curl, run, and try anything and everything new! And of course, I love my two kiddos and family!
Favourite quote: "Don't dream about it, GO!" - I saw this on a plane years and years ago and live by it. If you want to do something, do it. If you want to go somewhere, go! There is always a way.
Terri Constantinescu
Administrative Assistant
Terri Constantinescu
Financial Administrator
Office: Edmonton
I joined EAS in 2018 and I'm excited to be working with such a dedicated team!
As Financial Administrator, I oversee the online store, financial matters, and daily administrative duties with my main focus being great customer service for my team members, our partners, and all those who come into contact with Ever Active Schools.
Titun Aderibigbe
Administrative Assistant
Titun Aderibigbe
Administrative Assistant
Background: Bachelor of Science in Economics, Master of Science in Economic Development and Policy Analysis
Office: Calgary - Winsport
I joined Ever Active Schools in 2019 as an Administrative Assistant supporting the team in Calgary.
I hold a Bachelor's of Science in Economics and Master's of Science in Economic Development and Policy Analysis from University of Nottingham, U.K.
My love for planning and organization lead me to Administration and Event Management. I am fun loving, a volunteer-holic and always have a smile on my face!
Favourite quote: "Organization isn’t about perfection; it is about efficiency, reducing stress and clutter, saving time and money and improving your overall quality of life." - Christina Scalise
Titun is currently away on maternity leave. In the meantime, please contact us with any questions.
