With a background in regional development, project management, human relations and community consultations, Sheila has 30-years’ experience in community economic development, with regional, national and international project experience. A strong advocate for the development of rural and northern communities, her experience in managing projects has provided strong connections with communities, groups and businesses.

Responsible for the strategic leadership of UArctic’s economic development, the new Vice-President supports the Board’s Finance Policy Committee, is a member of UArctic’s Senior Leadership Team, and reports directly to the President.

With the primary focus of maintaining a sustainable business model, the Vice-President oversees UArctic’s overall fundraising strategies, and identifies initiatives that strengthen the economic basis of UArctic’s networking activities. This includes initiatives that encourage and support Arctic and northern public engagement activities amongst UArctic members, and the brokering of partnerships and collaborations that connect public engagement to excellence in Northern research, scholarship and creativity.