Nanaimo Science | Board & Staff

Science Outreach Team

Keagan Sjolie

Keagan, is a biology student with a focus in ecology and marine life at Vancouver Island University. He has a strong passion for the ocean and the large diversity of life found within the ocean. He looks to help with protection of marine life, and gain further understanding of the diversity of life found in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. He has a variety of interests such as birding, hiking and exploring the forest, however, he can often be found in and around the ocean doing activities such as looking in intertidal pools, free-diving, fishing, swimming or surfing. Keagan’s dream is to do research on communication patterns and language of killer whales. Keagan is excited to join the Nanaimo Science team and share his knowledge and build a passion for science with others, and he hopes to learn new things himself too.

Senior Outreach Coordinator

Itzel Gonzalez Gomez

Originally from Mexico City, Itzel moved to Canada two years ago after Nanaimo stole her heart with its tranquility, greenery, and mesmerizing seaside charm. As someone with a strong connection to the ocean, Itzel pursued her studies in Environmental Science (Baja California, Mexico), specializing in Marine Science. Itzel has taken part in outreach work where she collaborated with fishermen and advocated for wildlife conservation, and was also involved with research on climate change. She most recently worked as a Marine Mammal Observer and Passive Acoustic Monitoring Operator on a survey vessel where she spent months at sea, safeguarding marine creatures such as dolphins, turtles, and sharks. Itzel is as active as she is adventurous - she enjoys swimming, diving, biking, hitting the gym, travel and time with her family! As a part of Nanaimo Science, Itzel is eager to ignite curiosity, share her love of science and the great outdoors, and work towards a future where science and exploration can thrive hand in hand.

Outreach Educator

Nicole Williams

Nicole is a recent Biology graduate from Vancouver Island University. She loves the natural world, and has experience in natural resource management and community outreach from her time working with shellfish, salmon, and invasive vegetation. She has many interests, including birding, fungi foraging, and fishing. Outside of work, you will often find her either in the forest, or in her canoe. Nicole completed an undergraduate research project on owl vocal activity, and loves talking about all things related to conservation. Nicole is excited to join the Nanaimo Science team and share her knowledge and love of the outdoors with children!

Casual Staff

Outreach Educator

Payton Merriam

Payton graduated from the University of Alberta with a BSc in Psychology and a minor in Biological Sciences. She is currently studying Nursing at Vancouver Island University. Payton grew up in the Comox Valley and enjoys walks in the forest, spending time at the beach, and going camping. Payton is passionate about environmental sustainability and using a holistic lens to approach health and human biology. Payton has multiple years of experience working with kids and looks forward to learning and growing with Nanaimo Science and those she meets through it.

Outreach Educator

Jasper Fry

Jasper has two years of experience in education-related positions and is in pursuit to complete the Education Program at Vancouver Island University. He hopes to become a secondary teacher that focuses on the STEM side of education. He enjoys volunteering and working with non-profit organizations in all of British Columbia in hope to make the lives of children better.

Outreach Educator

Berit Maddison

Berit is a Post-Bacc Education student at Vancouver Island University. Their undergrad degree is in physical geography and biology so they are keen to share their knowledge and passion for the outdoors. They have a background in natural resources and wildlife rehabilitation, as well as in early learning. Berit has a tabby cat named Toad that they hope to turn into an adventure cat to accompany them on all their hiking, camping, and off-roading adventures. Creativity and curiosity is important to Berit and they are looking forward to sharing their passions!

Outreach Educator

Sydney Aird

Sydney is in the final year of her Biology degree at Vancouver Island University with a focus on Microbiology and Ecology. She’s passionate about the environment and sustainability, especially relating to local food systems. Growing up on the Island has fostered her immense love and appreciation of aquatic ecosystems and marine life. Nudibranchs are her favourite animal to learn about and she has previously done research on seaweed fermentation. In her own time, Sydney enjoys activities such as diving, food preservation, baking, crochet, and playing with her two cats, Simon and Benjamin.

Outreach Educator

Clayton Harder

Originally from Port McNeill on the North Island, Clayton has extensive experience working with children at summer camps and volunteering in schools. At Vancouver Island University, Clayton is working towards getting his teacher’s degree to become an elementary school teacher! As a former science fair competitor, he earned the top project award at his regional science fairs three years in a row and went on to the Canada-Wide Science Fair where he was awarded a bronze medal one year and silver the next. Clayton enjoys using chemistry in the kitchen to make all sorts of delicious goodies for his friends and can’t help but share his passion for science with anyone willing to listen! Clayton’s curiosity has led him to learning about as many different disciplines of science as possible! Whether it be Identifying all the flora and fauna he can while on hikes, creating new recipes in the kitchen using his cooking chemistry skills, understanding intricate behaviors through psychology and philosophy, Clayton has learned it all and is excited to share his experiences and wealth of knowledge with anyone willing to listen! Being an uncle to sixteen and a great uncle to three has given him a unique perspective on childcare and has aided in his ability to connect with all the curious minds we will be welcoming this summer!

Executive Staff

Executive Director

Amie Armet

Amie Armet, the newly appointed Executive Director at Nanaimo Science, brings a wealth of experience in science education, program planning, and community engagement. She has completed a Bachelor of Science (Biology) degree from Vancouver Island University and a Bachelor of Education from Western University. Having previously served as an Outreach Educator at Nanaimo Science (then NS3) from 2015-2016, Amie has a meaningful connection to the organization. Prior to her return to Nanaimo Science, she spent eight years as a Public Education Coordinator in the Science and Technology Department at Vancouver Island University. As the new Executive Director, Amie is dedicated to leading Nanaimo Science into its next phase of growth, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment, and inspiring interest in science and sustainability through hands-on learning initiatives.

Board of Directors

Board Member

Sarah Albery

Sarah has almost 20 years of experience in business and account management - focusing on helping organizations with strategic planning, organizational effectiveness, as well as technology strategy and implementations. Having recently relocated to Nanaimo with her family, Sarah is keen contribute to local organizations and support programs that provide accessible opportunities to kids in the community.

Board Member

Farbod Hagigi

Biography to come!

Board Member

Kristina Crowson

Kristina is the managing director and lead marketing strategist for Array Studios based in Nanaimo. As a natural born leader and communicator, she excels at boosting development and growth for businesses across all industries. With over 13 years of experience in solutions-based marketing, Kristina brings a strong creative background and perspective to the table. And as a Vancouver Island local and mom, she’s deeply involved and intimate with the surrounding community.

Treasurer/Board Member

Cory Vanderhorst

Cory is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Partner with MNP LLP. He works with non-profit and public sector organizations from Victoria to Port Hardy, and takes pride in giving back to his Island community. Cory is also the past Board Chair of the Innovation Island Technology Association and a Board member for the Islands Agriculture Show Society. Cory grew up in Courtenay and currently lives in Nanoose Bay.

Secretary/Board Member

Amy Tabata

Amy Tabata is a biologist who has worked at the Pacific Biological Station for Fisheries and Oceans Canada since 2000. She spent many years in the Molecular Genetics group, using genetics to aid in research and applied science of fish, and now works on improving the understanding the ocean ecology of juvenile salmon. Amy grew up exploring the beaches, and forests around Nanaimo, and now loves being on the water or amongst the trees with her own family. She values making science accessible to all, fostering curiosity and creativity, the importance of asking questions and the fun in figuring out how to find the answers.

Board Member

Elaine Parker

Elaine graduated from Carleton University with a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) and a Bachelor of Arts (English) in 2000. After completing graduate studies at the University of Alberta in Developmental Psychology and Curriculum Development, she found her passion working with non-profit societies, particularly with post-secondary students. Elaine has held the position of Executive Director at the Alberta College & Technical Institute Student Executive Council; at the Graduate Students Association at the University of Alberta, and at the Graduate Student Society at Simon Fraser University. Elaine served as Executive Director at Nanaimo Science from February 2020 to June 2024 and is currently a Member of the Board.

President/Chair

Susan Shultz

Susan is owner & operator of Island Architectural Millwork Ltd., a commercial woodworking company based in Nanaimo. Susan has worked in woodworking for over 30 years, and has been responsible for designing & building sustainable LEED™ certified woodworking installations throughout North America. Susan is excited to use her creative abilities to build amazing exhibits that keep your kids (and hers) entertained and learning through hands on fun. Woodworking, design & construction have been a passion since she was 10 and she wants to see kids experience different avenues to find out what ignites their fire!

Former Board Members

Former Board Member

Lily Foster

Lily considers herself to be a social advocate, having spent the last decade volunteering with a Parent Advisory Council and working at non-profits to connect people from all walks of life. She is excited to next apply her life experience to help strengthen education programs at Nanaimo Science. In another life, Lily had a career in public health doing HIV and hepatitis research; she holds a BSc in molecular biology and MSc in Public Health Epidemiology. Lily’s family includes a spouse who works at VIU and two boys in elementary and high school; they are relatively new to Nanaimo and taking every opportunity to explore all that island life has to offer.

Former Board Member

Sarah Dhillon

Nanaimo Science has been an integral part of the Dhillon family's move to Nanaimo in 2017. Having lived in a few different provinces and territories since the kids were small, the Dhillons are always thrilled to find engaging community programs and discovered Nanaimo Science through the Science in the Park program.

As a Certified Financial Planner professional and a graduate of the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Commerce, Sarah has many years of experience in working with clients to achieve their financial goals. She has also actively volunteered to promote financial literacy in her community by running seminars for young families in Yellowknife and presenting programs for Junior Achievement BC within local Nanaimo high schools.

Former Board Member

Allison Chang

Allison completed her Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Optometry degrees at the University of Waterloo. She is currently practicing with FYidoctors in Nanaimo.

Former Board Member

Joe Cristiano

Joe has 25 years’ experience in the cooperative system, with his career being primarily with Coastal Community Credit Union, and primarily in marketing. As Chief Community and Marketing Officer he leads a team that delivers advertising and promotions, communications, product development, marketing research and analysis, and community engagement programs. He achieved his Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master of Business Administration in Montreal. He is very active in the credit union system, including both provincial and national committees, and has been involved in a variety of local community groups over the years. Joe is excited to bring his experience in marketing, business, leadership, and governance to help Nanaimo Science be as successful as possible.

Former Board Member

Bill Pennell

Bill Pennell has a PhD in biological oceanography from McGill University and has had a 30 year teaching career in the areas of fisheries, aquaculture, and marine sciences. He has also been active in developing fisheries and aquaculture programs and research facilities in BC and in several tropical countries, and he has worked extensively with First Nations communities in BC. He now divides his time among work at VIU (Research Associate with the Centre for Shellfish Research), private consulting, and photography.

Former Board Member

Aaryn Kay

Aaryn has been engaged in environmental education and sustainability demonstration for more than a decade. As the Director of Community Outreach at Duke’s Centre for Environmental Education, she applied her strong foundation in ecology and education to environmental education programmatic development, green event implementation, and educational curricula design for teachers, K-12 students, graduate students, and volunteers. She has also taught sustainable best practices to hundreds of land managers and volunteers, a graduate-level course in environmental education, high school environmental science and biology courses, and community-wide sustainability programs. Aaryn is currently a grants specialist in Boulder, CO.

Former Board Member

Mel Sheng

Mel graduated from UBC in 1978 with a BSc., and has over 30 years of experience working for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans as a Resource Restoration Biologist. During his career, Mel has worked with the Salmon Enhancement Branch providing biological support to hatcheries, public involvement groups and Community Economic Develop Program hatcheries. Mel has been responsible for identify, designing and constructing habitat restoration projects like fishways, spawning channels, side-channels and water storage facilities etc. in B.C. for the last 31 years. His area of responsibility is currently Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast and the Central Coast of B.C. In the past, he has have also provide habitat restoration support to the Upper Fraser, Thompson-Okanagan and Yukon.

Former Board Member/President

Tod Gilbert

Tod is a mechanical engineer and President at an innovative local air compressor manufacturing company (VMAC). He loves to share his passion for science and technology with anyone who will listen. Tod is a certified Professional Engineer and completed his Master’s degree in Mechanical and Materials Engineering at Queen’s University in 2005, where he also managed the Formula SAE race car team. In 2014, he completed his Master of Business Administration from Royal Roads University.

Co-Founder and Former Executive Director

Liz DeMattia

Liz is an ecologist with more than 15 years experience conducting ecological research and developing environmental outreach for community-based conservation programs. Liz first began developing outreach programs for the Centre for Environmental Education at Duke University, where she developed projects for inner city youth, undergraduates and adult education. As Program Dean at the School for Field Studies, Liz managed the educational and research programs as well as developed environmental community outreach programs for five international research centres. While in BC, Liz worked as a university instructor at UVIC and VI and served as the Executive Director of Nanaimo Science and Sustainability Society, which she co-founded. She recently moved back to the east coast but is continuing to lend her support and considerable knowledge to Nanaimo Science as a board member.

Co-Founder, Former President

Sue Durnin

During a rainy winter day on Vancouver Island, Sue dreamed of an educational, hands-on place where she could take her kids to help them better understand the world around them. From this dream, the roots of the Nanaimo Science and Sustainability Society took hold. Sue has worked as an environmental consultant in British Columbia for over 15 years, with multiple industries important to this province including forestry and mining, and has first-hand knowledge on the many environmental issues in BC.

Vice Chair/Board Member

Wendy Simms

Wendy Simms is a Professor in the Faculty of Education at Vancouver Island University. She has a BSc in Ecology, an MSc in Wildlife Toxicology, and EdD in the Learning Sciences. Her teaching and research lie at the intersection of science, sustainability, and education. She is particularly interested in the learning potential of citizen science, and the influence it can have on environmental identity and pro-environmental behaviours.

Do you have a passion for science and providing quality educational opportunities for children in our community? Nanaimo Science has a Board of Directors vacancy.