ABOUT OUR TEAM

PACE is led by three full-time staff members and supported by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors.
Together, they represent all regions of our catchment area and bring a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to business and community development.

As board members, individuals play a key role in policy-making, loan approvals, and actively serve as ambassadors for our programs and priorities within their communities. They also participate in one of our committees, collaborating closely with staff and key stakeholders to guide decision-making.

Community members interested in volunteering on the PACE Board are encouraged to reach out to us.

Meet the Team

  • Shannon is the Executive Director at PACE, bringing over 20 years of experience in finance and banking. As a small business owner with over five years in the tourism sector, she has firsthand knowledge of the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. Raised in Dryden in a family business, Shannon's expertise spans operations, finance, business counseling, and cash flow projections. Her diverse background includes experience in commercial banking, financing, and insurance, making her a valuable resource for small business owners and entrepreneurs.

  • Hope Murdick is the Business Development Coordinator at PACE, bringing over a decade of experience in branding, marketing, and content creation. Born and raised in Dryden, Hope has lived in Toronto, London (UK) and Belfast (UK), before returning to her roots. Throughout her career, she has supported established brands, launched several businesses (including her own), and worked in various marketing agency roles. Hope holds a Master’s Degree in Promotion and Imaging and is currently pursuing a second Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology. She has contributed to high-profile marketing campaigns for brands like Tim Hortons, Canada Goose, Nike, Ugg, Labatt, Estee Lauder, Cadillac Fairview, and Samsung.

  • Kristi Darrah is the Administrative Assistant at PACE, serving as the welcoming face that greets clients as they walk through the door. With excellent customer service skills honed through her experience working for various businesses in Dryden, Kristi ensures every client feels valued. On the back end, she keeps everything running smoothly, using the organizational skills she’s developed from her experience in both retail and medical office settings. Kristi’s friendly demeanor and attention to detail make her a vital part of the PACE team.

Our Board of Directors

  • Michelle Price

    Chair
    Lives in Dryden

  • Kayla Blakney

    Vice Chair
    Lives in Pickle Lake

  • Sandra Boyko

    Director
    Lives in Dryden

  • Joe Cassidy

    Secretary
    Lives in Sioux Lookout

  • Ritch Noel

    Director
    Lives in Dryden

  • Ray Pilkey

    Director
    Lives in Machin

  • Jocelyn Bullock

    Lives in Dryden

  • You?

    Reach out to express interest.

Interested in joining our Board of Directors?

As a PACE board member, you’ll play a key role in shaping our vision, mission, and goals, ensuring we continue to inspire and serve our community.

Responsibilities include active participation in meetings, supporting board decisions (including loan approvals) and representing PACE positively in the community. Meetings typically take place monthly, unless we have urgent business to address, such as an important loan review.

If you're passionate about making an impact and working collaboratively, please reach out to see if we’re currently hiring.

Read Our Annual Report