Jeraldine Marshall and Colleen Evans appointed to the Trust’s board by the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.
K’ómoks Territory, Courtenay, B.C., February 13, 2025 – Island Coastal Economic Trust’s board of directors welcomes Jeraldine Marshall and Colleen Evans, appointed through an Order in Council by the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. Their appointments mark a significant step forward in the Trust’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive leadership, including a gender-balanced board. For the first time in its history, the Trust has a woman-majority board.
“Jeraldine and Colleen bring so much to the table—not just their expertise, but a genuine dedication to the communities they serve,” said Michelle Staples, Chair of the Island Coastal Economic Trust. “Their diverse perspectives and shared passion for community development will be a huge asset as we continue to support sustainable growth across the region. We are excited to have them on board and know they will enhance the impact of the Trust.”
The Trust’s board consists of 13 directors. Eight are appointed by the Trust’s Regional Advisory Committees, which are composed of elected officials – mayors, regional district chairs, and M.L.A.s. Five remaining directors are appointed through Order in Council by the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.
Jeraldine Marshall, a member of the Haíɫzaqv Nation, brings a career focused on advancing Indigenous economic development initiatives. She is currently Director of Finance with the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation based in the Alberni Valley, and her experience spans various roles within the non-profit sector, both professionally and on Boards, shaping her perspective. Now based on Vancouver Island, she uses her lived experience to advocate for economic resilience in Indigenous communities.
“I aim to offer a diverse perspective that emphasizes both economic growth and inclusivity,” said Marshall. “I look forward to collaborating with the board to strengthen the Trust’s impact on communities throughout the region.”
Colleen Evans, a Certified Fundraising Executive and Certified Marketing Director, is a senior business and resource development executive. Her executive career extends across international health services and arts and culture sectors, including serving as President and CEO of Campbell River and District Chamber of Commerce for 12 years. Alongside her role with the Trust, Evans also serves as a director with the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. She previously served as co-chair of the BC Social Procurement Initiative, and on the boards with Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities, Vancouver Island Economic Alliance, Museum at Campbell River, and Association of Fundraising Professionals Vancouver Chapter, among other volunteer positions. She is also the co-founder of 100 Women Who Care Campbell River.
“As a new director of the Trust, I look forward to contributing my experience towards strong, resilient coastal economies across our region,” said Evans. “Through collaboration, I believe we can continue building on the solid foundation of work and leadership already underway by the Trust and its board.”
Media Contacts:
Jeff Bartlett
Communications and Impact Manager
Island Coastal Economic Trust
250-871-7797
jeff@islandcoastaltrust.ca
