Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Debbie Bird
Director, Vice-Chair
Debbie Bird was born in Squamish, BC, of Cree ancestry. Ms. Bird was a certified dental assistant and worked at Canada Post in Nelson, retiring in 2017. Active in her community, she is a director and Elder for the Circle of Indigenous Nations Society (COINS) and an Elder for School Districts 8 and 20.
Previously, Ms. Bird was president of the Nelson local of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and was appointed to represent Aboriginal workers on the CUPW National Human Rights Committee for a four-year term. Debbie also served as vice president and president of the West Kootenay Labour Council.
Debbie has been continually proactive in the Nelson community with Girl Guides, sports and recreation organizations, and as a fundraiser for several local and national charities.
Jodi Bremner
Director
Lives in Ymir and works for Interior Health Mental Health and Addictions. Jodi’s Metis ancestry is from the Red River, and most recently the St.Louis/Prince Albert SK area. She is very proud of her Metis heritage. She wants to be part of continuing the education and legacy of future generations of Metis people.
Shirley Falstead
Director
Soon to be added.
Duncan Grady
Director
Duncan’s professional experience includes 36 years of psychotherapy in addictions, trauma, death and dying. He has a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and a Doctorate of Divinity. He currently co-leads retreats and works with communities impacted by lateral violence, drug overdose and death. Duncan provides training and consultation in health, well-being, spirituality, trauma and dying.
Sandra Jacques
Director
Sandra Jacques Mi’gmaq has lived in Castlegar for 10 years, she has been a dedicated member of COINS, contributing her support and insights across various roles within the organization. With a deep passion for teaching beading, hide tanning, and other Indigenous crafts, she shares her knowledge and fosters a greater understanding and appreciation for these traditional techniques within the community.
Faye Poirier
Director
Faye is a spirited advocate whose passion is to improve the lives of the hundreds of Indigenous children living in and aging out of foster care. She is one of COINS founding directors and she lives in Trail.
Jim Quigley
Director, Treasurer
Jim is a father, grandfather, poet and painter. He participates in many community circles and ceremonies and has experienced many teachings throughout his life. He is committed to circles that nourish the well-being of all.
Gerry Rempel
Director, Chair
Gerry Rempel, who is Metis, was born and raised in the Kootenays. He retired as Fire Chief for the City of Castlegar in 2017 after 26 years in that position and 44 years in the fire service. He continues to volunteer with the Fire Department as their Chaplain. In addition to being one of the founding members of COINS, he is very honoured to be a part of the Selkirk College Indigenous Students Elders program.