Board of Directors

Shalem Board Members

• Steve Rolfe (Board Chair)

  Steve is the Director of Mental Health Services at Indwell. Steven brings 30 years of experience in mental health and addictions with a focus on policy, program design, evaluation and development and strategic planning. Steven is an Assistant Clinical Professor at McMaster University, School of Nursing and continues to engage with students in developing their clinical practices. When not at work Steve cherishes time with his family and wasting his time trying to bring old motorcycles back to life. Steve has walked alongside Shalem in its journey for 15 years as a friend and supporter and is excited to contribute to its ongoing growth as part of the Board.

• Matt Steinman (Treasurer)

  is fascinated by the idea of using business for  good. During his time studying at the University of Waterloo, he had his first exposure to board leadership as the student board representative at MCCO. After working at various tech companies, a physics lab, and one of Canada’s top corporate law firms, Matt landed on a small family-owned regenerative farm (Heartwood Farm & Cidery) as his preferred place of employment. He is now a partner in the business and is excited about ambitious plans for the future of Heartwood. When not working, Matt can be found biking along the Grand River, scuba diving along the Bruce Peninsula, or on a patio in Kitchener with his partner and friends. He looks forward to learning more about the good work that Shalem does. 

• Karen Cornies

  Karen is the Executive Director at Silver Lake Mennonite Camp. Karen brings 30 years experience working with youth and young adults, responding to many mental health concerns over that time. She also brings management, leadership and board experience. When not at work, Karen loves spending time with family, book clubs, nature and boards and has a special place in her heart for The Camino de Santiago. Karen has worked on service agreements with Shalem over the last 10 years, grateful for all the ways that Shalem has provided life-giving support in so many critical situations. She is looking forward to contributing to Shalem on the board.

• Amila Dreise

  Amila previously held the position of Interim Ontario Director at A Rocha Canada, a Christian environmental stewardship organization. She brings seven years of experience in non-profit management, communications, and fundraising. She is dedicated to communicating with constituents well, developing meaningful programs, and helping organizations flourish. Amila is inspired by Shalem’s integrated and holistic approach in mental health and sees its work as an integral piece to the well-being of individuals and communities. Currently, Amila is raising her first child alongside her husband in Hamilton, Ontario where they enjoy sailing, canoeing, being in Creation, and sharing a meal with friends and neighbours. 

• Louisa Drost

  Louisa is the Dean of Students at Mohawk College and is active in the Hamilton community both professionally and personally. Her working career has included various roles in the USA and Canada focused on children, youth and adult mental health and wellbeing. When not working, Louisa enjoys a variety of outdoor activities with her family and friends.

• Shane Pennells

  Shane Pennells is an filmmaker and writer and has worked with at-risk and marginalized populations for more than 20 years, using the arts to bring attention to their voices and stories. He has also done extensive work in the area of media advisory and media theory education, for which he has received both provincial and federal commendations. When not being a media mogul he enjoys baseball, all things computer-related, and figuring out where to put his latest book store finds on increasingly overcrowded shelves. He lives in Hamilton with his wife and their two cats, who love her but merely tolerate him.

• Shawn Stovell

  Shawn is the Registrar & Director of Enrolment Management at Knox College at the University of Toronto. Shawn has been a frontline student services professional and academic administrator for over thirty years, having served in undergraduate and graduate institutions in Canada and France. In addition to service on the Shalem Board of Directors, Shawn serves as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Ecumenical Chaplaincy at the University of Toronto. Shawn insists that his students cannot bribe him with coffee and chocolate, but that they are welcome to try.

• Chris Wignall

  Chris is returning to the Shalem Board after a year’s absence. He works with charity leaders locally, nationally, and internationally through his consulting business Lead With Catalyst. A long time friend of Shalem, Chris brings experience in board governance, strategy, and leadership development, along with a keen interest in how organizations, churches, and families can better support mental health needs. He lives with his family in Greensville, ON and enjoys all kinds of outdoor activities.