Board of Directors

Looking to make a life-saving commitment?

The Georgian Triangle Humane Society is seeking motivated individuals to join our Board of Directors!

We are a non-profit charity that operates an Animal Centre serving the South Georgian Bay region.  Founded in 1999, we provide shelter to more than 1,200 homeless animals each year, adopting them to caring families.  At the same time, we help to keep more than 3,000 pets out of the shelter system through our numerous programs and services designed to keep pets with their families during emergencies and crisis.

Our life-long purpose is to learn, understand, educate, and evolve with our community. We do so to empower and inspire positive change.

We are looking for diverse community members who share this purpose, that have great compassion for animals and the people who care for them and are ready and willing to contribute their time, professional advice and resources to the GTHS.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the GTHS Board of Directors, your first step is submitting an application!

For more information, please contact Heather Terrence at info@pinpointgg.ca.

The deadline to apply is Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

Please note that candidates shortlisted to the final stages of the process will be required to complete criminal and financial background checks.

Frequently Asked Questions

The GTHS Board of Directors provides strategic leadership and governance oversight of the organization. Board members focus on setting organizational direction, approving policy, ensuring financial sustainability and supporting the long-term success of the GTHS. Directors do not engage in day-to-day operations, which are led by the Executive Director and staff team.  It is important to note that GTHS Board members are volunteers and no compensation other than expense reimbursement as per policy is provided. 

We seek individuals who bring strategic thinking, strong governance experience, and a passion for animal welfare and community service. Ideal candidates demonstrate sound judgment, collaborative leadership, and a commitment to ethical, effective governance.  We are looking for diverse community members with compassion for animals and people who care for them to contribute their time, professional advice, and resources to the GTHS.

We value a mix of professional skills and lived experience. Priority areas include:

  • Governance and nonprofit leadership
  • Financial oversight, audit and risk management
  • Fundraising and philanthropy
  • Legal expertise and/or policy development
  • Strategic planning
  • Organizational development
  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
  • IT background/strong IT experience to support new and upcoming programs

We are particularly interested in candidates who can bring fresh perspectives and relevant expertise to support the continued growth and evolution of the GTHS.

Board members are expected to commit to:

  • Attending monthly Board meetings
  • Participating in one Board committee
  • Attending signature events in person
  • Supporting fundraising initiatives and community outreach
  • Preparing for meetings and engaging thoughtfully in Board discussions

Directors may serve up to three consecutive 3-year terms in accordance with GTHS policies and by-laws.

Yes. All Board members play an active role in supporting fundraising efforts. This may include making a personal contribution at a level meaningful to them, cultivating relationships, attending events and acting as ambassadors for the GTHS in the community.

Board members are expected to uphold and champion the GTHS’s Mission, Vision and Values, including:

  • Compassion
  • Collaboration
  • Accountability

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diverse communities we serve and supports inclusive, equitable decision-making.

Our Board recruitment processes are designed to be transparent, inclusive and thoughtful, ensuring the best possible fit for the strategic needs of the GTHS. The processes includes:

  • Applications Process – Interested candidates submit a resume and a brief letter of interest outlining their experience and motivation for joining the Board.
  • Application Review & Shortlisting Process – Applications are reviewed based on governance experience, skills alignment and connection to our mission.
  • Candidate Interviews – Candidates who are shortlisted are invited to meet with members of the GTHS Governance Committee to discuss fit, expectations, and mutual goals.
  • Final Selection – Recommended candidates are presented to the Board of Directors for approval.
  • Election at a Meeting of Members – Selected candidates are formally voted in by Members.

The GTHS is committed to building a Board of Directors that reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives and lived experiences. We believe diversity strengthens governance and leads to better decision-making in order to serve animals, people and community.

For more information, please contact Heather Terrence at info@pinpointgg.ca.

The deadline to apply is Friday, January 30, 2026.

It’s a privilege to serve as a Board Director and to support the important work at the Georgian Triangle Humane Society. With such dedicated and skilled Board and staff members, I am excited to continue serving so we can make a meaningful impact for both pets and people in our community. 

– James S., GTHS Board Member

Member Derrick March shares why the Georgian Triangle Humane Society plays a critical part in the wellbeing of animals in South Georgian Bay. We are currently looking for new members. Learn more and apply before January 30th at gths.ca.

We look forward to connecting with individuals who are inspired to help guide the future of the Georgian Triangle Humane Society!

Our Board of Directors

Monika Merz, Chair

Monika has spent her career in leadership positions in a variety of retail formats in Canada and Asia. In 2016 she returned to Canada retiring from her role as President and CEO of Toys R Us Japan, China and Asia Pacific. Monika has served on a number of boards and committees in both the profit and nonprofit sectors. A supporter of the GTHS since its inception, she initially volunteered as Chair of the Walkathon which resulted in her deeper involvement to support the cause of animal and community welfare. Monika has received many awards and recognition including the International Dale Carnegie Leadership award as well as induction into the Canadian Toy Hall of Fame. She was a frequent speaker in Japan covering management and advancement of women. She and her husband have 2 rescue cats.

Sarah Potter, Vice Chair

Sarah Potter is renowned for her expertise in retail trading, building community and education journeys in business and sustainable leadership. Sarah has built and sold two fintech businesses, lead from the C Suite at a global financial brokerage, authored the book How You Can Trade Like A Pro and frequently contributes to media outlets. She currently serves as Managing Director at TD Direct Investing. Beyond her professional achievements, Sarah is a sought-after speaker and mentor. When she isn’t working she can be found trail running in the woods, skiing , biking, walking her two dogs or at the barn watching her daughters ride their ponies. Sarah is thrilled to be able to give back to the community she lives in and loves.

Jamie Simmonds, Treasurer

Jamie is a retired Chartered Accountant with over 40 Years of experience in the Investment Industry with a particular focus in Regulatory Compliance, Finance, Operations and Risk Management. Prior to joining the GTHS Board, Jamie held Board positions with 2 local organizations. When not on the Golf Course, Jamie and his wife can be found on the extensive trail system the region has to offer, or at home laughing at the antics of their two GTHS alumni cats. Jamie & his wife are true animal lovers, having had several furry friends over their married life and in particular fostering Golden Retrievers for Golden Rescue for over 10 years. Jamie currently chairs the GTHS Finance & Risk Committee and is a member of the Construction Committee for the Regional Centre for Pets & People.

Kevin Drynan, Member

Kevin retired in 2013 as CEO and Chairman of State Street Trust Company Canada. With extensive board experience in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, he brings a strong commitment to governance, collaboration, and strategic leadership. He continues to serve on the State Street board, several committees, and five Independent Review Committees supporting Canada’s mutual fund industry. Kevin and his wife, Cheryl, split their time between Canmore and The Town of the Blue Mountains. Passionate about animal welfare, they are proud pet parents to three rescue animals, including two from the GTHS, and dedicated supporters of its mission.

Charlene Schafer, Member

Charlene is a partner with Torys LLP specializing in corporate law (commercial real estate and private equity funds). Prior to joining Torys, she was a partner with another national law firm. She is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School. Charlene has been involved with a variety of organizations dedicated to animal welfare in a voluntary and pro bono capacity. She was also an auxiliary police officer with Toronto Police for many years. She is a resident of The Town of Blue Mountains and is passionate about animals, the environment and the human/animal bond. She has completed her level 1 Reiki certification and is working towards additional certification in this area, with a view to helping animals and their owners. She has two cats, Rex and Oliver.

Derrick March, Member

Derrick is currently a senior Vice President of Business Development at Canada Life, having spent his entire career in the financial services industry. Derrick and his family are avid animal lovers, benefiting daily from the unconditional love of their four dogs and two cats. He and his family have volunteered with the GTHS for many years, providing love and care for animals until they are ready for adoption. As an active member of his community, Derrick is incredibly proud to serve on the Board of the GTHS and to support projects that enhance community wellness.

Jeff Cornett, Member

Jeff is pleased to be part of the GTHS and support the mission and values of this important organization that serves our communities. Jeff has had a long career first in the for profit world and then applying that expertise into the charitable and not-for-profit world. He has served in senior positions with Plan Canada, Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Kennel Club bringing a thoughtful and strategic focus to help improve organizational processes, finances and drive more impact for their members. Jeff and his wife live in Thornbury and feel strongly about the impact our pets and beloved animals can make in our lives and in our society.

Shannon Wood, Member

Shannon Wood is an accomplished executive leader driving organizational excellence in financial services. Known for her strategic vision and hands-on approach, she leads cross-functional teams to deliver AI, machine learning, and automation initiatives that increase revenue, elevate client experience, and strengthen operational efficiency. As Vice President of the Front to Back Design Centre at Scotiabank, she is a trusted advisor focused on innovation, employee engagement, and measurable impact. A strong advocate for gender equity, she supports women’s advancement through GO WOMXN and the RBC Women’s Forum, and mentors emerging leaders. A Thornbury resident, she enjoys outdoor activities, time with her family and dogs, and supporting local animal and child welfare organizations.