William W. Creighton Youth Services

Inspiring youth to nurture healthy communities

Board of Directors
About Board of Directors

David Richards (President)

David was appointed to the Board in June 2013, served as Board Vice-President, and was elected President in 2022. David has a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration and holds Master degrees in Business Administration and Social Work.  He is currently the Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration at Lakehead University.

Bob Simon (Vice-President)

Bob is originally from the Elsipogtog First Nation, formerly called the Big Cover Band and belongs to Mi’kmaq First Nation, his family relocated to Thunder Bay in 1998.  Bob is a constable with Thunder Bay Police and serves as an Indigenous Liaison Officer for the Community Inclusion Team (CIT).  Bob is dedicated to creating positive relationships between police, Indigenous people, other racialized and underrepresented groups and support the needs our school communities.  His appointment as a Director began in March 2017.

Rachel Labate (Secretary / Treasurer)

Appointed in February 2017, Rachel works as an Accountant for the City of Thunder Bay and has her Chartered Professional Accountant designation.  She actively participates in various community races and marathons within our community.

Michelle Probizanski (Member at Large)

In 2019, Lakehead District School Board appointed Michelle Probizanski to the position of Superintendent of Education. Michelle Probizanski has served with the Board of Education for many years and focuses her positive energy on student success.  She and has been a Director for Creighton since June 2013.  

Melanie Dupont (Member at Large)

Melanie was confirmed in June 2016.  She was the Vice-President of the Community Action Group for Windsor, Blucher and Piction neighbourhood for the City of Thunder Bay and currently provides district representation.

Ben Stride-Darnley M.D., Ph. D., CCFP (Director)

Ben was appointed as a Director in June 2011.  He is a successful physician recently graduated from the Northern School of Medicine and is currently serving his final year on our Board. 

Ron Kanutski (Director)

Ron was appointed as a Director in June 2016.  Ron is a Registered Social Worker and Native Cultural Teacher in the mental health and addictions field.  He is also a comedian, musician, MC, storyteller, and a wellness facilitator.

Pat Murphy (Director)

Pat, appointed as a Director in 2017, has served many years with the City of Thunder Bay Police Services, receiving Police Exemplary Service Medal in 2011.  He also owns and manages PDR Contracting and Concrete Walls, both successful companies that provide commercial and residential contracting.

Michael A. Hargadon, M.A., J.D. (Director)

Michael was appointed as a Director in 2019.  Michael specializes in criminal law, is the firm principal and provides services to our northern communities. His background and preparation as a lawyer is valuable to Creighton Board.

Bryanne Machimity (Director)

Bryanne was recently appointed as a Director in September 2022.  She provides representation from the Kenora area and is a Branch Manager for Ontario native women’s association.  She is also involved in advocacy and social causes affecting women and Indigenous youth.

Jack Martin (Director)

Jack was also just appointed as a Director on September 8, 2022.  Jack brings district representation from Kenora/Sioux Lookout areas and his professional work experience and strong community values is welcomed to the Board.