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Paul retired in May of 2017 after a long career in public sector management and finance. Most recently, he was the CFO for the Canadian National Exhibition for a five-year period. Paul is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CGA) and graduate of York University with a Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA). Paul is active with a number of community organizations in his hometown of Ajax and is married with three grown children. His youngest son Stewart was treated for hydrocephalus when he was an infant at the Hospital for Sick Children. Paul is so grateful for the medical expertise that treats this condition and wants to contribute in any way he can to help in the advancement of medical research and knowledge sharing for hydrocephalus.
Gillian completed her LL.B./M.B.A at Osgoode Hall Law School and the Schulich School of Business. Gillian was called to the bar in 2002 and is Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel at Postmedia, a Canadian news media company representing more than 140 brands across multiple print, online, and mobile platforms. At Postmedia, Gillian is responsible for Postmedia’s legal and regulatory affairs and corporate governance. Prior to joining the company, Gillian was an Associate at Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP (now Dentons Canada LLP) and worked within the Business Law Group with a focus on private mergers and acquisitions, technology and software licensing and general corporate commercial work. Gillian has had a long relationship with Hydrocephalus Canada and a close connection to the Hydrocephalus Canada mission as her husband Justin lives with hydrocephalus. Gillian lives with her family in Toronto, Ontario.
Ms. Dorward has worked in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry for more than 20 years. She recently held positions involving strategic planning, licensing, marketing and market access. Kristine has contributed to the evaluation and commercial launch of therapeutics in a variety of disciplines, including hematology, pulmonology, psychiatry and neurology. As part of her clinical and commercial drug development work in specialty health care and rare diseases, Kristine has developed advocacy and educational campaigns to support those impacted by lesser-known conditions; suring this time Kristine became interested in hydrocephalus and spina bifida. Having served on boards of private and public companies, Kristine is committed to supporting and advocating the mandate of Hydrocephalus Canada.
Stephen Rex lives in Calgary and is a senior, strategic, service oriented human resources leader and graduate from Queen’s University (Bachelor of Commerce, Honours). He has spent over 20 years working across Canada with leading organizations such as, Canadian Airlines, Air Canada and Labatt Breweries. He is passionate about the human resources function and has broad HR, performance management, pension/benefit and senior level experience. He is a Chartered Professional in Human Resources, and holds the CPHR designation, has studied and continues to pursue coursework with the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), and has prior board experience within the non-profit, healthcare sector currently operating as a Board Member, and Chair of the Human Resources Committee. Stephen, has a great interest and commitment to contribute to the future success of Hydrocephalus Canada and its Core Purpose to empower those impacted by hydrocephalus and spina bifida to experience the best life possible.
Heather is a partner with KPMG and a Chartered Professional Accountant. She leads KPMG’s Mining and Energy and Natural Resources Audit practices in Toronto and has extensive experience in assurance, governance, financial process and controls, and risk. Heather currently serves as the Board Treasurer for Women in Mining Canada and previously was Board Treasurer for Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy. Born with spina bifida, Heather feels fortunate it was repaired shortly thereafter and wants to give back to the spina bifida and hydrocephalus community throughout the Hydrocephalus Canada board.
Laura Gatensby is based in Brampton, ON an in addition to having been personally touched by hydrocephalus, brings a long career of work in an with the non-profit sector, both as a fundraiser and participant during her decade of entrepreneurship. As a professional fundraiser and non-profit manager, she worked with Women’s College Hospital Foundation and Harbourfront Centre, as well as working as a consultant to non-profit fundraising campaigns while at Arts marketing Services. Her volunteer experience spans both Board and Committee roles (Association of Fundraising Professionals GTA Chapter, AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Canada) and leadership in grassroots fundraising initiatives (Heart & Stroke Foundation, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Arthritis Society). Laura looks forward to using her experience to make a positive impact at Hydrocephalus Canada.
Dr. Barton is the Vice President for Finance & Administration at Shepherd University. He holds a BBA in Accounting from Florida Atlantic University, an MBA from Regis University, and a Doctor of Education from the University of New England. He has nearly two decades of experience as a financial administrator and is adept at establishing systems, procedures, and controls to optimize information flow and transparency in decision making. He has a track record for leading efficient, collaborative, multi-generational teams in supporting fiscally-strong higher education institutions. Dr. Barton has had a long standing relationship with Hydrocephalus Canada and is a previous recipient of the Dr. E. Bruce Hendrick Scholarship. He lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two children.
Dr. Mark G. Hamilton, MDCM, FRCSC, FAANS, is from the University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery. Dr. Hamilton did his Bachelor of Science degree (with distinction) at the University of Toronto and the graduated from McGill University Medical School in 1983. He did his Neurosurgery Residency at the University of Calgary and received his FRCSC in 1991. He did Fellowship training in the cerebrovascular, skull base, and pediatric Neurosurgery at the Barrow Neurosurgery at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix Arizona, and joined the University of Calgary Department of Clinical Neurosciences in 1994, where he is currently a Professor of Neurosurgery with additional appointments in the Department of Surgery and the Department of Pediatrics. He was the Chief of the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery from 2002-2011. He is head of the University of Calgary Adult Hydrocephalus Program, which he established with the University of Calgary Adult Hydrocephalus Clinic in 2008. Dr. Hamilton is the chair of the Adult Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network (AHCRN), which has eight clinical sites in three countries, Past-President of the Hydrocephalus Society (International Society for Hydrocephalus and Cerebrospinal Fluid Disorders (ISHCSF)), a member of the Board of Directors of the Hydrocephalus Association (HA), Vice-Chair of the Medical Advisory Board (MAB) of HA, a member of the Board of Directors of Hydrocephalus Canada, and a member of the Medical Advisory Board of Hydrocephalus Canada. He has been a past co-chair of the Journal of Neurosurgery Editorial Board and is a member of the Editorial Boards of Neurosurgery and the Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences. His current main clinical and research interests are diagnosing and managing hydrocephalus in adults.
Dr. Abhaya Kulkarni is a pediatric neurosurgeon and Professor of Surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, a Senior Scientist at the SickKids Research Institute, and program Director for the Neurosurgery Residency Program at the University of Toronto. he completed neurosurgery training at the University of Toronto and his PhD in Clinical Epidemiology at McMaster University. After a pediatric neurosurgery fellowship at Hospital Necker Enfants Malades in Paris, he began his faculty appointment at the Hospital for Sick Children in 2003. Dr. Kulkarni’s research focuses on health outcome assessments in pediatric neurosurgery, with special emphasis on hydrocephalus. He is a site investigator for the North American Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network and has received research funding from several national and international funding agencies. He services on the Editorial Boards of Neurosurgery and Journal of Neurosurgery.
Amy St. Aubin is a graduate of Brock University and a resident of the Niagara Region in Ontario. She has worked for over 20 years in the Criminal Law Division of the Ministry of the Attorney General, where she applies critical thinking and strong communication skills as a Case Management Coordinator. Amy was the Leader and a major contributor to the research, planning, implementation and ongoing management of an alternative court designed to address criminal behavior due to addiction. Amy and her husband have two children. Their oldest, Emma, was born with hydrocephalus due to a brain tumour. They are very thankful for the ongoing support og Hydrocephalus Canada, especially during difficult times involving numerous shunt revisions. Amy is driven to spread awareness and contribute in making a positive impact within the organization and all those whom they serve.
Nikki Stone is a mom, wife, and executive, with a passion for the outdoors. Growing up in the Niagara region until the age of 17, she then moved to Toronto and shortly after, Australia for University. Currently, she resides in the beaches area of Toronto, which supports her love of long walks in the woods. Her record of accomplishments mostly derived from spearheading and managing the launch of innovative new companies and divisions, adding incremental revenue streams, with customer and company success in mind. Recognized for employee satisfaction and engagement, mentoring, and leading by example is always at the forefront of Nikki’s leadership style, personally and professionally. Her values are around living a grateful life and remembering to enjoy the journey. Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn.
Ms. Clydesdale is a dynamic advertising executive based in Toronto, skillfully balancing her busy career in outdoor advertising with a vibrant personal life. As a proud mom of twin boys, she’s all about creating memorable experiences for her family.Her passion for the hydrocephalus board is deeply personal. Her younger brother Adam has had hydrocephalus since birth, and Natalie spent much of her teenage years by his side at SickKids Hospital. This experience drives her commitment to advocating for those affected by the condition.Natalie and her family also love their lakeside cottage, where they enjoy nature and outdoor adventures. In her career, she’s played a key role in growing an outdoor advertising agency from the ground up, working with her mom and career mentor.Known for her leadership and mentorship, Natalie is dedicated to guiding the next generation of advertising pros. Her interests—family, horses, golf, and the great outdoors—reflect her well-rounded approach to life and her heartfelt dedication to the hydrocephalus community.
Mr. McGrade has a long history with Hydrocephalus Canada and his current volunteer activities are deeply rooted in accessibility and mental health advocacy. He has also been a Big Brother with the Reach Out Centre for Kids, mentoring teens facing mental health challenges. Professionally, for the past 5 years he has lead Scotiabank’s Accessibility Employee Resource Group as the chairperson leading national meeting discussion on inclusion and accessibility initiatives across the bank system. Notable achievements include leading a partnership with Microsoft to highlight accessibility features during the Microsoft Office 365 rollout at the bank. Mr. McGrade and his family have supported Hydrocephalus Canada since 2010 at our annual golf event, to raise funding for research and support of those living with the conditions. This event holds a special place in his heart as it involves his love of golf and supporting a cause that he cares deeply about. He is enthusiastic to contribute to further the organization’s mission and support individuals living with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
Mr. Sinjari is a committed public member residing in Windsor, Ontario, with over 18 years of experience in the automotive finance industry. Currently serving as Director of Finance, Sam has established himself as a dynamic leader with a strong commitment to both professional excellence and community service.Sam is deeply passionate about making a positive impact in his community. His involvement with various local organizations, such as the Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare Foundation and the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO), underscores his dedication to addressing critical social issues. Additionally, Sam is the host of “Empowering Kindness,” a local radio show where he highlights the work of non-profits and community champions, aiming to inspire and motivate others to contribute to social good.Beyond his professional and media endeavors, Sam’s philanthropic efforts are both significant and impactful. He has played a pivotal role in planting 50 large trees at Gignac Park, enhancing the local environment, and has been instrumental in providing food for low-income families through the Unemployed Help Centre and Downtown Mission. His commitment extends to supporting organizations such as The Salvation Army and Hand and Hand Support, where he consistently works to better the lives of those in need.As a well-known motivational speaker, Sam regularly shares his passion for community building and personal development, encouraging others to pursue positive change. His unwavering commitment to creating lasting improvements and ensuring better opportunities for all members of the Windsor-Essex community has earned him recognition as a Community Champion by the Odette School of Business at the University of Windsor. Sam’s experience, leadership, and passion for service make him a valuable candidate for the Hydrocephalus Canada Board of Directors. He is eager to contribute his expertise and dedication to further the organization’s mission and support individuals living with hydrocephalus and spina bifida.
After graduating from medical school in June 1998, Dr. Riva-Cambrin completed his neurosurgery residency at the University of Toronto, Canada. He obtained a Masters of Science in Clinical Epidemiology from the University of Toronto under the direction of Dr. James Drake. Dr. Riva-Cambrin completed a postgraduate fellowship in pediatric neurological surgery at The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto.
Dr. Riva-Cambrin’s clinical interest is pediatric neurosurgery specifically including the treatment of hydrocephalus, craniofacial surgery, endoscopy, and clinical epidemiology. He is the Scientific Director of the Canadian Pediatric Neurosurgery Study Group (CPNSG). He is also a Principal Investigator within the Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network (HCRN). Recent research interests include comparing the outcomes between ETV+CPC and shunts in the infant hydrocephalus population, predicting success in ETV+CPC treated infants, and exploring the relationship between ventricle size and neuropsychological outcomes in older children treated for hydrocephalus. He has been a Principal Investigator or co-investigator on seventeen grants and has over 150 peer-reviewed publications mostly focused on pediatric hydrocephalus.
Dr. Riva-Cambrin has joined the faculty at the University of Calgary in 2015 from his previous role at the University of Utah. He is a Professor of Neurosurgery, the Residency Program Director for the neurosurgery training program, the Co-Educational Director of ACHRI and the largest grant in the history of Alberta “One Child Every Child”. Lastly, he has just been awarded the Kinsmen Chair of Pediatric Neurosciences at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Dr. Riva-Cambrin has also recently taken on the role of Chair, of Hydrocephalus Canada’s Medical Advisory Board.
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