Robyn Barabash, Hon. B.Sc., J.D., (Secretary) is a student-at-law with a national law firm in Toronto. She anticipates practicing in the areas of environmental and corporate law. Prior to attending law school, Robyn obtained a business degree from the University of Ottawa, and worked in regulatory and proposals for an oil and gas engineering firm in Calgary, Alberta. Robyn previously volunteered with RVWS as an animal care assistant. Her favorite patients to care for were groundhogs.
Matthew Ford, B.Sc, M.Sc (Director), is a biologist for a First Nations community. He is responsible for running projects involving the environment, wildlife, and climate change. He leads a team of technicians who monitor six endangered species populations within the community. Matthew also works with the community, handling all wildlife questions and rescuing wildlife in need of treatment. Previous volunteer experience includes judging the KZA science fair, helping the winning teams design their poster for their national competitions, teaching students about wildlife, being a member for the Canadian Water Network Student and Young Professionals committee, and helping to organize the World Fish Migration Day 2016 event at the Museum of Nature in Ottawa.
Susan Henry (Chair), is the office administrator for the Canadian Society of Forensic Science, a non-for-profit membership for forensic professionals. The CSFS has over 500 members and 12 board members. Susan also coordinates CSFS events, which consists of registration for workshops and seminars, and arranging venues, speakers and catering. Susan currently oversaw the launch of the new website and was instrumental in its design and content. Before working for the Canadian Society of Forensic Science, she worked for World Heart as the executive assistant to the CFO. Susan has volunteered for RVWS in various roles over the last eight years.
Armando Heriazon, D.V.M., F.E.P.I., M.SC., PH.D., M.B.A. (Director)
Rob Lorbetski, CPA, CA (Treasurer)
William Skorupinski, CFM, (Vice-chair) has lived in the Ottawa area throughout his life. He is married and a proud father of three children. Currently he holds the role of Vice President, Automotive and Mobility Services at CAA North and East Ontario. He is known as an individual that takes a vision and makes it a reality. Over the last 12 years, William has held numerous positions within CAA, including heading up the Telephony, Facilities, Purchasing Membership Processing departments. During these multiple assignments, he has led several large projects to successful implementation. This experience has provided the tools that he now uses to deliver cost effective services. In his current role, William is focused on ensuring the safety of members at the roadside. Other duties include being a judge on an international panel that selects the Service Provider of Excellence awards, and sitting on several working group within CAA with the mandates to delivery efficiencies while delivering world class roadside rescues and collaborating with government in developing regulations. Prior to arriving at CAA, William was Vice President, Finance and Administration, at Mattress Mart. Between 2009 and 2016, William sat on the Board of the Ottawa Chapter of IFMA and held the position of Treasurer. William holds a B.A. in economics from Carleton University. During his off time, William’s passion is running.
Madelaine Thurston, Hon. B.Sc., J.D., (Director) is a lawyer at Kelly Santini LLP, a local law firm in Ottawa. She was called to the Bar in 2015 and is practicing in the areas of business law, real estate and estate planning. Prior to attending law school, she obtained an undergraduate degree in Chemistry. Madelaine’s interest in wildlife started during her childhood as she grew up in the outskirts of Ottawa, where she was surrounded by all sorts of wildlife in her backyard.
