WEYBURN — Southeast College welcomed two new board of governors at its meeting held March 13 in Weyburn.
The Minister of Advanced Education recently appointed Judy Okanee (Estevan) and Levi Paradis (Weyburn). With these two new appointments, the board is once again at full capacity including existing members: John Williams and Jeff Ward (Estevan), Heather Vermeersh (Carlyle), Trevor Tessier (Weyburn) and Barbara Compton (Assiniboia). These appointments fill both a previously vacant board position, which had been under recruitment, as well as the role of board chair, formerly held by Donna Nyeste. Currently, the position of board chair is being filled on an acting basis by longstanding board member Williams.
Williams, acting board chair, expressed his enthusiasm for the new appointments, stating, "On behalf of the board of governors, I extend a warm welcome to Judy Okanee and Levi Paradis. Their appointments come at a pivotal time for Southeast College, and their wealth of knowledge and expertise will be instrumental in guiding our institution forward. We look forward to their contributions as we work together to fulfill our commitment to serving the educational needs of our region and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential."
Okanee has had a lifelong career in education and worked as a teacher, principal, superintendent and university professor. During her time as director of education for the Meadow Lake Tribal Council, she was responsible for managing the educational programming budget for the First Nations associated with the Tribal Council. Okanee holds a master of education from the University of Saskatchewan and has published a paper at the American Association of the University of Women.
Paradis grew up on a ranch in a small town near Coronach and is now a practicing lawyer living in Weyburn. He has a multi-disciplinary background that spans both the legal and technology fields, which provides him with a unique perspective and skillset. He is excited to join the Southeast College board and collaborate with fellow board members to ensure that Southeast College continues to provide opportunities for the local community for years to come.
Vicky Roy, CEO and president of Southeast College, said she was thrilled to welcome Okanee and Paradis to the esteemed board of governors.
"Their diverse backgrounds and wealth of experience will undoubtedly enrich our discussions and decision-making processes. Judy's extensive career in education, coupled with Levi's legal and technological expertise, will be invaluable assets as we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of post-secondary education. Together with our existing members, I am confident that we have assembled a dynamic team dedicated to advancing the mission and vision of Southeast College, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of opportunity and excellence for our community," Roy said.
