LUTHER COURT SOCIETY

I acknowledge with respect that I am a settler on the traditional lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples, recognizing their profound histories and deep connections to this land. I embrace this truth, and aim to foster meaningful dialogue and contribute to the path of genuine reconciliation through the essential process of truth-telling.

Peter Kruselnicki joined the Luther Court Society’s Board of Directors in June 2022.

Peter retired in May 2014 from TransCanada. As Vice President, Stakeholder Relations, Peter led the company’s government relations, communications/media and corporate social responsibility areas from 2007 till his retirement. He had been involved extensively in TransCanada’s strategy planning and advocacy for many of the company’s major projects, government relations strategy and advocacy and development/coordination of the company’s external communications and media, including paid, earned, and social media.

Prior to joining TransCanada, Peter worked for the Alberta Government for 26 years in several senior official capacities including Chief of Staff to Premier Klein, Deputy Minister of Finance and Secretary to Treasury Board and Deputy Minister of Labor. Prior to his becoming Deputy Minister of Labor, Peter spent 16 years in Alberta Public Works Supply and Services holding Assistant Deputy Minister roles, including Property Management and Capital Development as well as Acting Deputy Minister. Peter was also seconded to the New Zealand government and University of Victoria (Wellington) for a period of 9 months prior to joining the Premier’s office.’
Peter graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1976 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He is currently a member of APEGA. He also attended the Banff School of Advanced Management while he worked for the Alberta Government.

Peter has extensive experience and involvement with strategic policy, regulatory and legislation development, and implementation in the Province of Alberta. He also has extensive experience in working with all levels of government, industry and professional associations, and organized labor organizations. Peter has extensive experience on Crown Corporation and not-for-profit boards including the Alberta Capital Finance Corporation, Alberta Pension Administration Corporation, Credit Union Deposit Guarantee Corporation, Careers – The Next Generation, Chair of The Bethany Care Foundation, Director of The Nature Conservancy of Canada (Alberta) Board, Director on the Alberta Enterprise Group Board and Member of the Board of The Brenda Strafford Foundation.

I respectfully acknowledge that I am a settler on the traditional lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples whose rich histories and deep connections to the land predate my presence. I approach these territories with respect, humility, and a commitment to learning from the indigenous communities who have stewarded these lands for generations. Recognizing this I seek to engage in meaningful dialogue and in the truth telling that leads to genuine reconciliation.

Perry was born and raised in British Columbia where he completed his undergraduate degree in Forestry at the University of British Columbia. He spent 12 years in the forest industry before graduating from Harvard Business School with an MBA in Finance and Strategy in 1986.

Perry and his wife Diane have two children, Heather, and Gordon.

Perry moved progressively through the savings and trust industry and then to the computer sector where in 1988 he took the position of VP Finance and Planning at The Hamilton Group, a public company on the TSX. In 1993, The Hamilton Group was acquired by GE Capital and Perry took over as President and CEO of GE Capital IT Solutions Canada and later to be President and CEO of GE Capital IT Solutions North America.

In 1997 Perry became President and CEO of GE Access a worldwide computer distribution business. While working for GE he was an officer of GE Capital and was promoted to GE’s Senior Executive Band.

In 2000, Perry left GE to be President of the US Operations of Tech Data, the 2^nd largest Computer Distributor in the world with US revenues of approximately $9 billion.

In 2003, Perry changed careers and moved back to Canada to do general management consulting in the technology industry, to raise money for pre-venture capital firms in game changing technologies and to perform volunteer work.

For several years Perry was the president of the Victoria chapter of Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. Perry also facilitated a peer and parent support group for sufferers of Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Perry previously served on the Board of Luther Court Society, and held various executive positions (Treasurer, Vice-Chair and Chair).

I respectfully acknowledge that members of my family have been settlers on the traditional lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking people from approximately 1860 with my great grandparents marrying in Victoria in 1868. The Lək̓ʷəŋən n speaking people have rich histories and deep connections to the land, the sea and the air which predate my presence.

I was born near Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump in Fort Macleod on the Treaty Seven Territory of the Kaini and Piikani Nations. I attended the University of Lethbridge above the coulees where the Last Great Indian Battle was fought between the Cree and Blackfoot. I approach the Lək̓ʷəŋən territories as I have the Treaty Seven and Eight Territories with respect, humility and a commitment to learn from the indigenous communities who have stewarded these lands for generations. Recognizing this stewardship, through my involvement with the Luther Court Society, I seek to engage in meaningful dialogue and in the truth telling that leads to genuine reconciliation.

Patrick Coristine joined the Luther Court Society’s Board of Directors in June 2022.

Patrick (Pat) Coristine was born in the Southern Alberta town of Fort Macleod and lived in and around Lethbridge for many years. He attended the Universities of Lethbridge and Calgary, obtaining a Bachelor of Education from the latter. After a brief high school teaching career, he returned to the University of Lethbridge taking courses necessary to article for the Chartered Accountant designation, which he achieved in 1981.
Pat worked in public practice with firms in Lethbridge and Grande Prairie. For twenty years Pat was an accounting instructor at the Grande Prairie Regional College (now Northwestern Polytechnic University) teaching a wide variety of accounting, auditing and income tax courses.
Pat was involved as a volunteer with the Grande Prairie Downtown Business Association, Grande Prairie Piranhas Swim Club, Grande Prairie Minor Hockey Association and Royal Canadian Air Cadets. A highlight of his volunteer career was serving as Finance Director with Hockey Alberta for seven years.
Pat had been an Assistant Coach with his granddaughters’ hockey teams and had been a Level III Hockey Referee.
At the GPRC Pat served as Treasurer for the Academic Staff Association (ASA) and served two years as the ASA representative on the Board of Governors.

I acknowledge with gratitude to the Coast Salish lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples of the Songhees, WSÁNEĆ and Esquimalt First Nations on whose unceded territory I am a guest.  I am committed to the ongoing work of reconciliation.

Craig Knight returned to the Luther Court Society’s Board of Directors in June 2022. Craig was a previous member of the Luther Court Society Board of Directors, Craig returns to the Board eager to work with the Board and staff in a time of significant change for Luther Court.

He recently served for 8 years on the Board of Directors of Canadian Blood Services and as chair of the Board’s Talent Management Committee.  Craig is a former Lutheran Pastor in the ELCA and ELCIC.  He retired in 2009 from a 23-year career with the BC Ministry of Health, which included 6 years as Assistant Deputy Minister for health legislation, professional regulation, intergovernmental relations and corporate policy.  He is an active member of Lutheran Church of the Cross.

I respectfully acknowledge that I am a  settler on the traditional lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples whose rich histories and deep connections to the land predate our presence. I approach these territories with respect, humility, and a commitment to learning from the indigenous communities who have stewarded these lands for generations. Recognizing this I seek to engage in meaningful dialogue and in the truth telling that leads to genuine reconciliation.

Donna Ross joined the Luther Court Society’s Board of Directors in September 2021.

Donna is a retired nurse and nurse continence advisor. She trained as a nurse at the Royal Jubilee in 1976 and has worked locally since. She has practiced as a clinical nurse specialist for over 20 years in the field of older adult health including education, projects and quality improvement with teams across Vancouver Island. Donna has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Arts (Adult education) and a Nurse Continence Advisor Certificate. She also received the CRNBC Nurse Excellence Award for Clinical Practice.

Donna enjoys spending her time caring for grandchildren, hiking, cycling, gardening and is an avid bird watcher.

Being on the Board and assisting Luther Court helps her feel she is making a contribution to the welfare of others by focusing on quality practice and continuing the mission and ethics of being a nurse.

I am grateful to live, work, and play in the traditional territories of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples of the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations.

Dennis was born in Alberta, lived and educated in three provinces and one state.  He holds a BSc., MSW and a Ph.D.  In Alberta, he was a social worker (child protection), Regional Director of Social Services (Edmonton) and Program Developer for the Deputy Minister.  He completed the design for the often-replicated Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) and the Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) programs.

In BC, he worked in numerous capacities within the provincial government: Deputy Secretary of Treasury Board, Assistant Deputy Minister (Finance and Environment) as well as other special assignments.

After completing his doctorate, he and three other individuals opened a successful consulting firm specializing in business planning and organizational change.  Upon convocation he was asked to teach in the UVic Department of Political Science and, subsequently, became Adjunct Associate Professor.

Dennis is passionate about the city of Victoria.  He is ardent community builder and, accordingly, has served on many Boards of Directors throughout the city: Greater Victoria Arts Commission, Past-Chair of Our Place Society, Past-Chair of Threshold Housing Society, Past-Vice-President of Craigdarroch Castle Society, Past-Chair, Canadian College for the Performing Arts, Past-Chair and current Board member of the LPC (Victoria EDA) as well as the Community Social Planning Council, to name only a few.

Three women—his partner Gwen, daughter Jennifer and granddaughter Anna Kate—are the north stars of his life.

My name is Rebecca Wong and I have joined the Board of Directors of Luther Court for a three year term (2023-2026). I currently work as a Social Policy Researcher with the federal government of Canada, in the department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs. I work to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples within the department. I have been with the federal government for over 6 years, working in various capacities, including as an Assistant Negotiator, a Parliamentary Affairs Officer and a Policy Analyst.

I moved to the territory of the lək̓ʷəŋən peoples, and the lands of the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEĆ Nations (Victoria, BC) from unceded and traditional Anishinabe territory (Ottawa) in 2022 to begin the University of Victoria’s joint Canadian Common Law and Indigenous Legal Orders program. I am passionate about Indigenous rights and self-determination because my mother is Bidayuh, who are an Indigenous people from the island of Borneo, Malaysia. I am grateful to be living here and that my family has been given an opportunity to build a new home on land far away from our ancestors. It has been my privilege and honour to be learning from and about the Indigenous peoples of the lands to which my parents chose to move.

I completed my Masters of Science in Migration Studies from the University of Oxford in 2019 and my Master’s thesis focused on what the Canadian citizenship study guide taught newcomers about Indigenous histories. Prior to this, I completed my Honours Bachelor of Social Sciences in Conflict Studies and Human Rights with a minor in Indigenous Studies from the University of Ottawa in 2018. I am also certified as a Third-Party Neutral with the Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolution. Training for this certification included 160 hours developing facilitation, mediation and group conflict skills.

I joined the Board of Directors of Luther Court because I also have a background working with adults and children with developmental disabilities. I was involved with Best Buddies Canada for 4 years and also volunteered at a respite care agency in Ottawa for children and adults with complex special and medical needs. I am excited to join Luther Court to understand more how service agencies operate and provide care. Outside of school and work, I am the Secretary and a Board of Directors member of Indigenous Youth Roots which is a national Indigenous youth-led organization. I am a member of Lutheran Church of the Cross and regularly volunteer with live-streaming. I spend most of my free time walking and hiking Victoria’s beautiful beaches and trails with my husband and our 11 lb Yorkshire Terrier, Hank.

I respectfully acknowledge that I am a settler on the traditional lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples whose rich histories and deep connections to the land predate my presence. I approach these territories with respect, humility, and a commitment to learning from the indigenous communities who have stewarded these lands for generations. Recognizing this I seek to engage in meaningful dialogue and in the truth telling that leads to genuine reconciliation.

Alison is a retired Social Worker.  Her career began 30 years ago as an Early Childhood Educator and concluded at Island Health as the Supervisor of the Community Care Facilities Licensing Program. Her responsibilities there included administration and enforcement of the Community Care and Assisted Living Act and the associated Residential Care Regulation and Child Care Licensing Regulations.  She was a subject matter expert for the BC Justice Institute in developing Investigation Training for Licensing Officers. Alison has completed training in Administrative Law, Leadership and Executive Coaching through Island Health.

Over the 30 years of her career, Alison has worn many hats in service to vulnerable people.  She has been a student mentor and practicum supervisor for Camosun College, College of New Caledonia and    U-Vic.  She has worked for two non-profit societies: the Supported Child Care Program in Campbell River and the Elizabeth Fry Society in Prince George, and has sat on multiple advisory and inter-agency boards.

Both of Alison’s parents live at Luther Court.

As an immigrant to Canada, I have come to understand that we live on the traditional lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən peoples, who have a rich culture, history and connections to this land. I acknowledge that much needs to be done to foster understanding and dialogue amongst the new and old immigrants to this land and the traditional peoples on whose land we live: and I am committed to doing my share.

Jay has had a long and varied career. Born and raised in India, educated in India, USA and Canada, he has worked for organizations as diverse as Telus (AGT back in the day), Government of Alberta Department of Finance, Royal Bank of Canada and Alberta Investment Management Corporation, and has lived and worked in New York, Edmonton, Toronto, London England and Jersey, Channel Islands.

His career spans roles and senior executive positions in global financial and wealth management services, technology and operations. Post retirement, he has been an advisor and consultant to technology companies and senior personnel.

Jay is married to Jyoti, and they have two sons and two grandsons. They have lived in Victoria since 2015. Jay is an avid golfer, reader, movie and music buff, a modest wine collector and a wannabe chef.

I acknowledge I am a settler, on the traditional unceded territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən peoples, including the Songhees, Esquimalt, and WSÁNEĆ nations. I embrace this truth, and aim to foster meaningful dialogue and contribute to the path of genuine reconciliation.

With an unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care for seniors, Kevin brings a wealth of experience as an elder care leader. Throughout his remarkable career, Kevin has dedicated over two decades to ensuring that seniors receive the highest quality of care, enriching their lives with compassion, innovation, and dignity.

Kevin’s journey in elder care began when he discovered his true calling in Long Term Care, recognizing the importance of fostering a supportive community. His passion for creating a nurturing environment has been the driving force behind his transformative leadership.

Prior to joining Luther Court, Kevin served as the CEO at Victoria Hospice, where he made a significant impact during his five-year tenure. He also held the esteemed position of president and CEO at York Care Centre in Fredericton, New Brunswick. (The largest long-term care facility in New Brunswick) His extensive experience in these roles highlights his ability to bring positive change and elevate the standards of care for seniors.

As CEO, Kevin leads a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, working tirelessly to deliver outstanding services to the Luther Court community. Collaborating closely with the leadership team, he ensures the seamless execution of operations, maintains crucial relationships with key stakeholders, secures vital resources, and actively promotes and safeguards the integrity of Luther Court.

Beyond his professional achievements, Kevin finds solace and joy in his loving family. Married to his wonderful wife, Olga, they share the blessings of two incredible children, Anton and Lora. Completing their family are two adorable fur-babies, Nova and Niko, who bring additional warmth and love to their lives.

I respectfully acknowledge that I am a guest on the traditional lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples. Recognizing this I seek to engage in meaningful dialogue and in the truth telling that leads to genuine reconciliation.

Darrell Eng joined Luther Court Society in 2019 as the Chief Financial Officer. Darrell is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Chartered Accountant with experience in Public Practice, and the Telecommunication, Transportation, Technology, Government, Aviation and Not-For-Profit sectors.

Darrell is inspired by the sacrifice of his grandmother and parents, and their unconditional love. Darrell spends his time away from LCS with his wife and sons.

Recognizing my presence as a settler on the ancestral lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples, and the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEĆ peoples: I hold deep respect for their ancient ties to this land, and will strive for genuine reconciliation through dialogue and understanding.

Carolyn Hoekstra joined the Luther Court team in 2018 and is the Director of Residential & Support Services.

Carolyn has a Bachelor of Music Therapy and her Masters in Health Studies.

Carolyn is inspired by all the people that make up the Luther Court community; the selflessness that is demonstrated every day by those that work at LCS, and also those who call Luther Court their home.

When not at LCS, Carolyn enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons, her dog and cat.

“For it is in giving that we receive.” – St. Francis of Assisi.

Chelsea Wozniak (she/her) is of European ancestry and is a settler on the traditional territory of the lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ people. She recognizes the harms caused by colonization and is committed to continued learning about her role in truth before reconciliation.

Chelsea started as the Director of Primary Health Care and Community at Luther Court in 2022. Before completing her Master of Arts in Health Leadership from the Royal Roads University, she worked as a Registered Nurse in a variety of primary care, acute care and community settings.

When away from work, you will find Chelsea enjoying time outdoors with her partner, two children and rescue dog.

I respectfully acknowledges being an uninvited settler on the ancestral lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples, and the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEĆ peoples. For the sake of our children I continue to seek guidance from indigenous communities, and move toward genuine reconciliation, while living with my uncomfortable truths.

In 2018 I joined the team as Chaplain and Coordinator of Volunteers at Luther Court. I am an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, who has served congregations in Edson and Sherwood Park, Alberta  followed by chaplaincy in Long Term Care, and BC Corrections.

The outdoors is a place of enjoyment for me to hike, cycle, garden, and play around the water with his family.

Each day, I look to connect with people and listen to their life stories where shared smiles, tears and laughter are all sources of inspiration.

Peter acknowledges being an uninvited guest on the ancestral lands of the lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples and the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEĆ nations. He continues to learn these painful truths, while respectfully striving to develop a deeper understanding of our past, which in turn, may lead us to a more positive and substantive reconciliation.

Peter began as the Building Services Manager at Luther Court in 2023. He was a licensed Strata and Rental Manager, and brings nearly two decades of experience of facilities and property management. Peter began his career as a Marine Engineer in the Canadian Navy and then worked several years working as a Shipwright, building and repairing yachts.

When not working, Peter and his wife Karen enjoy travelling by motorcycle throughout British Columbia with their friends.