Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre Appoints New Board Following AGM Vote
Fort McMurray, AB— The Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre has appointed a new board of directors following a membership vote at the 2024 Annual General Meeting held on September 23. Katalin Loutitt is the new President, with Kayla Aikins serving as Vice President, Joelle Erskine as Secretary, and Dan Edwards as Treasurer. The board also includes Directors Carol Yayechnick, Jes Croucher, Larry Dewey, and Sarah Loutitt.
The election comes as Friendship Centre enters its 60th year serving Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. The organization was created to foster relationships between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous peoples in the community. The centre also acts as a liaison between the people of Indigenous background and government, voluntary agencies, industry and other groups.
Executive Director Stacy Gillingham expressed her gratitude to the outgoing board members for their work. “I am thankful for the outgoing board and their contributions this past year,” Gillingham said. “Congratulations to all newly elected and returning board members. I look forward to working with you all in the coming year to enhance our programs and services.”
In her acceptance speech, Loutitt emphasized the importance of collaboration and community engagement. “I’m grateful for this opportunity to serve the community of the Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre and will do my best to work together with everyone when facing new challenges and strengthening the bonds within the community,” she stated. Loutitt also expressed appreciation for the staff’s dedication to the centre’s operations, acknowledging their crucial role in achieving the organization’s goals.