Candidates

A graduate of Memorial University and Dalhousie University’s Schulich School of Law, Premier Hogan was called to the bar in both Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador, and later founded his own law firm in St. John’s. He has held several senior roles in Cabinet, including Minister of Justice and Public Safety, Attorney General, Minister of Health and Community Services, and Government House Leader.

Premier Hogan has represented the province on major legal, health, and public safety issues, and served on boards such as the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, Memorial University’s Board of Regents, the St. John’s Port Authority, and Clean St. John’s. He now lives in St. John’s with his wife, Gillian, and their two children.

A graduate of the Community Recreation Leadership Program at the College of Trades and Technology, he led major community improvement projects and developed a wide range of recreation and leisure programs. Derek has also held leadership roles on local, regional, and provincial boards, including serving as President of Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador.

First elected as MHA in 2015, and re-elected in 2019 and 2021, Derek has served in several key roles, including Speaker, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, Deputy Speaker, and Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Municipalities. He also served as Minister Responsible for the Multi-Material Stewardship Board and Registrar General. In 2021, he was elected Speaker of the House of Assembly, and he currently chairs the Canadian Small Branches Committee of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

Derek and his wife Tina are proud parents and grandparents. Their children, Catherine and Jonathan, along with daughter-in-law Robyn and grandchildren Andy, Sadie, and Gary, all live here in Newfoundland and Labrador.

For 15 years, Kara has worked with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador as a constituency and executive assistant to several Cabinet Ministers. In many ways, she’s been preparing for this role her entire career—learning, listening, and contributing behind the scenes. That experience has given her a clear understanding of what it means to serve.

Kara is a fresh face with the knowledge and drive to make a difference. She believes new energy and community-focused leadership are key to building a stronger future for Cape St. Francis.

A graduate of Memorial University (Bachelor of Commerce), Mr. Davis served as the Executive Director and Program Coordinator of the Church Lad’s Brigade (C.L.B.) and as an elected Councillor at St. John’s City Hall before entering provincial politics.

In 2015 Mr. Davis was elected to represent the District of Virginia Waters – Pleasantville, and has served as Parliamentary Secretary to both the Minister of Health and Community Services and Minister of Service NL.

He was appointed Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour in November of 2018, and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation in August of 2020.

On April 8, 2021, he was sworn in as Minister of Environment and Climate Change; Minister Responsible for Labour; and Minister Responsible for Workplace NL.He now serves as the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development.

Lisa was first elected to the House of Assembly in 2013 in her home district of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair. Since then she has been re-elected an incredible four times and has served in seven different portfolios, including Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and Minister of Labrador Affairs.

She has also served as Deputy Government House Leader and Deputy Speaker in the House of Assembly.

Prior to provincial politics, Lisa worked for 23 years as a career and employment counsellor, including 10 years with the NunatuKavut Community Council, of which she is a proud member. She also served as Deputy Mayor of Charlottetown as well as the Labrador Director on Municipalities NL’s Board of Directors.

She served as a trustee with the Labrador-Grenfell Regional Health Authority Board, and as a member of the Memorial University Faculty of Medicine’s Admissions Committee. From 2014-2019, she represented the province on the National Steering Committee of Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians.

Lisa and her husband Gaius live in Charlottetown with daughter Natalie.

A proud mother to her daughter Hannah who is currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Memorial University, she has also opened her home to approximately 30 international students from nine different countries. Her household is a vibrant, welcoming space shaped by the arts, sports, and cultural exchange.

Her academic journey began at Memorial University of Newfoundland, where she earned a Bachelor of Education in Elementary Methods, followed by a Bachelor of Special Education, a Master of Education in Teaching and Learning, and a Master of Education in Leadership Studies. Throughout her teaching career, she worked briefly in the United Kingdom and Saskatchewan, before returning home to Newfoundland and Labrador in various roles, most recently as the Special Services Department Head at Carbonear Collegiate. She was the recipient of the 2023 Minister of Education’s award for compassion in teaching. 

Beyond the classroom, she is a tireless volunteer and community leader. She has served two terms on the Municipal Council for the Town of Carbonear, where she chairs the Development Committee and is a member of the Finance Committee. She regularly attends the Conception Bay North Joint Council sessions to advocate for improvements to all communities in our area.

She has been a member of the board with the Trinity Conception Business Development Corporation (CBDC) for over a decade, and most recently served as vice-chair. She is the past president of the Council for Special Services (COSS) with the NLTA, Branch President for the Carbonear Branch of the NLTA, member of the Special Events Committee for the Town of Carbonear, and has been actively involved in Special Olympics, the Duke of Edinburgh Award program, church youth initiatives, and numerous school extracurriculars, from coaching sports teams to directing junior drama. 

In her spare time she enjoys walking and hiking with her family, friends and dog, reading, gardening, travelling, and visiting local cafes and restaurants. 

Whether through education, mentorship, community development, or advocacy, she brings energy, compassion, dedication, and vision to every endeavor. She believes deeply in the power of family, community, volunteering, and lifelong learning and continues to lead by example.

For the past 20 years, Bettina has worked with a provincial organization that supports the community sector, and is widely respected across Newfoundland and Labrador for her leadership in non-profit governance, policy development, and volunteer engagement. Her earlier career includes work in regional economic development, tourism training, and post-secondary student support. With education in journalism and community development, Bettina is a skilled collaborator who has helped shape numerous initiatives across the province.

Her recent volunteer focus includes co-chairing Swim for Hope and serving as Director of Volunteers for the 2024 NL Provincial Winter Games and sport announcer for the 2025 Special Olympics Provincial Summer Games. Bettina has also contributed her time over the years to several boards and committees including the North Atlantic Aviation Museum, Gander River Management Association, Festival of Flight, Gander Academy School Council, Kittiwake Economic Development Corporation, Gander Citizens Crime Prevention Committee, and Rogers Television Community Programming. Outside of work and Town Hall, you’ll find her snowmobiling, in the woods on side by side, picking blueberries, or at the swimming pool.

Over those years, Greg has served in many roles in service to the legal profession. He served as President of the Canadian Bar Association – NL Branch, and was Chair of the CBA-NL’s Legislation and Law Reform Committee.

He currently serves as an elected Bencher of the Law Society of Newfoundland, the governing body of the legal profession, and has served as Chair of several Law Society Committees. He has published many academic works and law reform articles, in particular on the subject of property law in this province. He has previously served as the Chairman of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Financial Services Appeal Board and is a roster panelist for dispute resolution under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement. 

Greg is a passionate advocate for change and improvement in the legal system. He has long been outspoken about the challenges our province is facing, but he has confidence in the potential of a team with new voices and new ideas. He is running in order to bring his skills and knowledge to the House of Assembly to help shape and create policy that makes sense for a modern Newfoundland and Labrador, and meet those challenges head on.

Outside of a busy career, he is devoted to his wife Lynn and their two children, Rosie and Danny. He can often be found kayaking and enjoying the outdoors.

She built a successful career in the insurance industry with Johnson Inc., becoming a licensed broker in multiple provinces and a top national performer in home, auto, and travel sales. She was later trained in Lean Six Sigma by the McKinsey Group and went on to lead process improvement and bilingual training initiatives at Royal Sun Alliance. Whether helping clients or leading teams, Sarah has always brought professionalism, empathy, and a drive to get results.

In the community, Sarah’s creativity and care for others shine through. She’s the founder of Women of Rock Productions, a volunteer-driven group that celebrates female musical talent, and has performed with local theatre companies and at major events like the George Street Festival. She has served on the school council at St. Peter’s Primary, is a licensed foster parent, and has put her studies in Mental Health Leadership through Harvard’s School of Public Health to work as the co-founder of the Mental Health Foundation of Canada. As a mother of three children with diverse needs, Sarah brings a personal understanding of the challenges many families face in navigating health and education systems.

Sarah is running to bring her lived experience, deep community roots, and commitment to service to the House of Assembly—ready to work for the people of Mount Pearl-Southlands and all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

As Deputy Speaker and a former Vice Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, she has championed transparency and accountability. Sherry’s advocacy for mental health and basic income through All-Party Committees reflects her passion for meaningful change. Before politics, she was the Executive Director of Inclusion NL, working for persons with disabilities.

Sherry is a graduate of the General Hospital School of Nursing and has a leadership certificate from Memorial University. She is from Placentia, NL.

They have led Artforce, empowering thousands of youth through partnerships with organizations like Bridges to Hope and Choices for Youth, and have been a driving force behind important initiatives like the creation of Marguerite’s Place — a supportive housing facility for women and gender-diverse individuals.

Gemma’s advocacy extends beyond district lines. They’ve helped change Canadian law, represented Canada internationally, and earned recognition for holding power to account on some of the world’s largest stages — from the Vatican to the United Nations.

As a former member of the Liberal Party’s provincial board and Vice-President of the St. John’s Centre District Association, Gemma brings both experience and a strong sense of purpose to their campaign. Whether it’s housing, healthcare, or a fair shot for every family, their leadership is rooted in action, not words — working every day to deliver results for the people of St. John’s Centre.

In 2011 she graduated from The Memorial University School of Nursing with a Bachelor of Nursing Degree.  Krista has an interest in the dynamics and scope of rural nursing, so working on the Northern Peninsula was a perfect fit!  She enrolled in a Masters of Nursing Program to increase her knowledge and skill set and while other things are taking up her time these days, with only two courses left to completion, it is still on her priority list.

Krista is active in her community.  She was a Girl Guide leader, a youth advocate, a swim team coach and a Boys and Girls Club Board Member.  Aside from advocating for people in those roles Krista also found a passion in representing the people as a “voice” for her community. 

A successful by-election bid for local council in St. Anthony in 2015 introduced her to what would become one of her greatest interests; Municipal Government.

Learning from experienced members of the Council team and realizing she could facilitate meaningful changes for the people of her town and region simply meant she was hooked!  She ran again in 2017 and became the Deputy Mayor of St. Anthony.  In 2019 she made a little history when she was appointed the first ever female Mayor of historic St. Anthony.When the chance came to step into provincial politics there was no hesitation. Being a voice for even more people was a once in a lifetime opportunity.  She could not turn it down. Krista was up for the challenge and in March 2021 she was elected to the House of Assembly.  She now serves as Minister of Health and Community Services, Minister Responsible for Mental Health and Addictions, and Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services.

Fred made the move into elected politics when he became the MHA for the district of Conception Bay East-Bell Island in a by-election in January 2024. Since then he has served in three portfolios; Minister responsible for Housing, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, and currently as the Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation.

Fred and his wife Bonnie reside in Portugal Cove – St. Philip’s, where they raised Matthew, Claire, Jenna and Ben.

Since being elected Mayor of Marystown in 2021, Brian has been a passionate advocate for the town and surrounding areas. Known for his no-nonsense approach and strong leadership, he has worked tirelessly to support local services, drive sustainable growth, and promote economic stability across the region.

With firsthand experience of both the challenges and the opportunities in rural communities, Brian understands what matters to the people who live here. He believes in the power of community and the strength of a collective voice. His dedication to ensuring rural Newfoundland and Labrador is heard and respected at the provincial level is unwavering.

Now, as a candidate for MHA, Brian is ready to bring that same energy, experience, and commitment to the House of Assembly—to be a strong voice for you, your family, and your future.

Your Voice. Our Communities. A Stronger Tomorrow

With over a decade of experience in politics and government, he has served in key roles, including Constituency Assistant, Executive Director of the Liberal Party, Special Advisor to the Premier, and Executive Assistant to Minister Andrew Parsons. Michael has always been deeply committed to his community, with a strong passion for volunteering and advocacy. 

Growing up in a small town, he understands firsthand the challenges facing rural communities and is determined to be a strong voice on their behalf. His extensive experience and dedication have equipped him with the skills and knowledge to effectively represent and lead the constituents of Burgeo – La Poile as their next Member of the House of Assembly.

In 1999, he moved to St. John’s to pursue post-secondary studies, and went on to build a career grounded in leadership and community involvement. Before being elected to the House of Assembly, Jamie served for seven years as the Ward 3 Councillor for the City of St. John’s. In August 2024, he was elected as the MHA for Waterford Valley and currently serves as Minister of Families and Affordability, Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, and Minister Responsible for the Community Sector.

Jamie is also known for his accomplishments in sport. As a member of the gold medal-winning men’s curling team at the 2006 Winter Olympics, he brought pride to Newfoundland and Labrador and the entire country. He is a recipient of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador and holds an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Memorial University.

Outside of politics and sport, Jamie built a successful 12-year career as an award-winning Realtor. He lives in St. John’s with his wife, Stephanie, and their two daughters.

Born in Corner Brook and raised by a nurse and a teacher, Mark is proud of his deep roots in the region. A graduate of Herdman Collegiate, he went on to complete a bachelor’s degree at Acadia University in Nova Scotia and a graduate degree from DeMontfort University in the United Kingdom. His education and work have taken him across Canada and abroad—experiences that have shaped his strong connection to the place he calls home.

Mark has worked across many sectors, including private business, municipalities, tourism, and community economic development. Most recently, he has worked with the federal government in rural economic development. Through these roles, he has helped individuals, organizations, communities, and regions move their goals forward—always focused on connection, collaboration, and showing up with integrity.

Mark believes in respectful dialogue, working together, and stepping up—even when outcomes aren’t certain. He is driven by a genuine interest in people and a desire to help, and looks forward to representing the residents of St. George’s-Humber with that same commitment.

He began his career in youth corrections in Nova Scotia before returning to Newfoundland and Labrador to work at the NL Youth Centre. Dale and his wife, Sheila, later moved to Nunavut, where he continued his work as a counsellor with the Department of Justice.

Dale eventually joined the RCMP and completed three postings in Nunavut before returning to Newfoundland and Labrador. Over the course of his career, he worked in general duty, traffic, drug enforcement, and staffing, serving communities across the province.

In 2012, Dale and Sheila moved to New-Wes-Valley, where they built their retirement home. Dale retired in 2020, and Sheila returned to work in healthcare in 2021.

Dale was twice nominated for Police Officer of the Year and received the St. John Ambulance Life-Saving Award, along with two Commanding Officer’s Commendations. A dedicated volunteer, he coached youth hockey and volleyball — including leading a girls’ team from Bonavista North to the national championships in Calgary.

Now, Dale is seeking to serve the people of Fogo Island–Cape Freels as their next MHA, bringing with him a lifelong commitment to service and community.

He also holds a Welding Trades Certificate, a Structural Steel Red Seal Certificate, and a Gold Seal Mechanical Supervisor’s Certificate from the Canadian Construction Association.

He began his career in the construction industry as a tradesperson and worked his way up to Project Manager/Owner’s Site Representative. He also served as an instructor at the Ironworkers Training College for eight years, teaching safety programs and trade-specific courses.

Don is the Mayor of the Town of Avondale and a former Councillor. He has experience working on major construction projects in Newfoundland and Labrador and in other provinces, and is known for his ability to manage people and solve problems.

He has also been dedicated to charitable work involving children, particularly his responsibilities as a Cabinet Committee Member of the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation fundraising campaign, which raised $3.6 million for cancer patients in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Loveless was elected to the House of Assembly on May 16, 2019.  In August 2020, he was appointed as Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.He currently serves as the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Minister Responsible for the Public Procurement Agency.

He currently leads and has been a part of health, wellness, and recreation programs, infrastructure planning and development, government relations, and community events like the Trapline Marathon and the Labrador Winter Games. His work experiences include the Labrador Friendship Centre, Policy and Director roles in Municipal and Provincial Governments, Indigenous governments and organizations and most recently leading the team at the Central Labrador YMCA as Labrador Regional VP and GM. 

He has been the Chair of United Way Newfoundland and Labrador, Past-President of the Rotary Club of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, President of Melville Native Housing Association, President of Libra House Women’s Shelter, Race Director for the Trapline Marathon and has sat on various committees and working groups throughout Labrador, our province and across the country. 

His volunteer and professional experiences, rooted in community development and public service, have led him to take on this challenge to become the MHA for Lake Melville.
Shaun, his wife, and their 4-legged best friend Abby enjoy spending their time with family and friends, outdoors, camping, and being active in the beautiful Big Land.

Through this work, Barry has advanced environmental education, wellness, and the development of green spaces—initiatives that have reached schoolchildren and families across the district. He was also part of the group that brought the Grand Falls-Windsor Cataracts back to the ice, contributing in various roles during the team’s early resurgence and helping launch the Audiocast/Webcast that connected fans from across the region and beyond.

Barry has been a persistent and vocal advocate for improved healthcare services in Central Newfoundland. He helped form the Grand Falls-Windsor Healthcare Coalition and has worked directly with Ministers and senior officials to ensure the needs of the region are heard. He’s organized public engagement and brought forward solutions to support better outcomes for families and communities.

With deep local roots and decades of experience, Barry brings a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities in all communities in the Grand Falls-Windsor – Buchans district. He’s committed to working within government to help secure real progress on healthcare, infrastructure, regional development, and long-term investment for the people and communities of Central Newfoundland.

His commitment to giving back is long-standing. He is a former member and past president of the CBS Lions Club, and has been involved in numerous volunteer initiatives over the years. He also served on CBS Town Council and held the role of Mayor from 2013 to 2015.

Ken was first elected as the federal Member of Parliament for Avalon in 2015, and re-elected in 2019 and 2021. Now, he’s eager to continue serving the people of CBS — this time as their representative in the House of Assembly.

Having served on many boards and committees over the years, Cheryl has always been there for the community and the people. No stranger to hard work and a love for this beautiful place, Cheryl understands that accountability is key and the opportunity to serve the people and work to improve this District is a privilege. 

Cheryl worked in procurement with the Government of Canada for 26 years until she left to run in the provincial election of 2021.  Since then she has remained active with the Liberal party of NL. Together with her husband they operate two successful small businesses in the District.

Representing the people in government will take dedication, commitment and hard work and Cheryl is ready.

Emerging into the workforce during the height of the “dot-com” boom, Jim built a successful career in information technology, working with businesses and governments across the globe. His experience in the tech sector gave him a unique perspective on innovation, problem-solving, and global collaboration.

In 2017, Jim made the decision to dedicate himself fully to public service, stepping into the role of Mayor of Corner Brook. Since then, he has led with vision and determination, achieving significant milestones such as eliminating the poll tax, positioning Corner Brook as a premier tourism destination, integrating ATV access throughout the city, and expanding recreational infrastructure—including the completion of the Marina Redmond Centre.

Beyond his mayoral duties, Jim is a passionate community volunteer and former chair of the Corner Brook Downtown Business Association. He’s also well known for his contributions to the local arts scene through music and theatre. An avid hunter and gardener, Jim takes every opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Newfoundland’s west coast. He is a proud member of the Qalipu First Nation.

Jim shares his love for Corner Brook with his wife, Carolyn, and their two young children, Rosemary and Declan.

Upon completion of her studies in the Valley, Pam put her education and skills to work when she was hired at CBC’s Here and Now in St. John’s.

While reporting for TV News she also filed for CBC Radio. She was also employed as an on-air Journalist and Producer at Rogers TV, Out of the Fog. In 2009 Pam moved to Owen Sound, Ontario where she was a Reporter and the Producer for First Local News, Rogers TV.

It was not long before she then accepted a position at NTV News, where she worked as a Video Journalist before making the transition to Political Life. In 2013 Pam was hired to work on the Liberal Leadership and multiple by-elections. She was elected to the House of Assembly in 2015 to represent the district of Harbour Grace – Port de Grave to present.

Pam has served as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Department of Transportation and Works. She was the Deputy Chair or Committees. She is currently only the third woman in the history of Responsible Government in NL to serve as Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly. Pam was recently elected by all female MHAs to serve as the Representative for NL as the Women’s Commonwealth Parliamentarian – CWP.

Previously Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, her portfolios now include Rural Economic Development, Labour, and Workplace NL.

Paul currently serves as the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Community Engagement

and Registrar General. He has been involved in promoting the development and economic sustainability of the Burin Peninsula for a number of years. He has been on Municipal Council in St. Lawrence for twenty-eight years and served as Mayor until his election as MHA for Burin – Grand Bank.  He was also the Vice-President of Municipalities NL and Public Relations Chairperson of the Municipal Assessment Agency.

Minister Pike’s commitment to the region also includes a number of other volunteer services.  He was the Director with the Community Credit Union , Director with Burin Peninsula Community Development Board and Burin Peninsula Eastern Health Advisory Board. He also was a trustee with the Eastern Healthcare Board . Until recently, he was a member of the Human Rights Commission and the Labour Relations Board.

Paul and his wife, Laura, have three children and seven grandchildren.

In 1997, Fabian married his wife, Susan. They had already taken a bold step a year before, and opened Botwood Home Hardware in the town where they would settle for the first ten years of marriage.

Over the next 25 years, the business became more than just a livelihood – it became a community. Through hard work, dedicated staff, and amazing community support, Fabian and Susan built lasting friendships and formed bonds with customers and neighbours who would become extended family.

In 2007, Fabian and Susan, along with their two children, Rachel and Sam, returned to Bishop’s Falls. There, they still enjoy the peaceful view of the Exploits River from their backyard, never taking for granted the beauty of home.

A natural entrepreneur with a curious and forward – thinking mindset, Fabian has always looked toward what’s next. From his first job packing groceries at the local Economy Stores, to delivery driver for his dad’s company, to owning and operating his businesses, he has carried with him a respect for hard work and the people who supported him along the way.

Now Fabian feels it’s time to give back. With a deep sense of gratitude and commitment, he wishes to serve the communities of Exploits. If elected, he pledges to be purpose driven. A strong, decisive voice, honest, and always focused on the best interest of the people.

Married for 40 years, she is a loving mother to her daughter, Wendy, and a grandmother to two beautiful grandchildren who inspire her daily. Helen has lived in Reidville for four decades, growing alongside her community and contributing through her professional career and everyday acts of kindness. 

Her story is one of loyalty, perseverance, and deep personal connections with the people she serves. Now, Helen is stepping up to bring her dedication to public office, with a commitment to advocate for accessible healthcare and to create communities that prioritize people first.

Community service has been a lifelong commitment for Todd. Whether it’s through his ongoing involvement with Rotary or his past involvement with the Canadian Cancer Society and other local initiatives, giving back has never been a question-it’s been a way of life.

Now, as the Liberal candidate for Labrador West, Todd sees an opportunity to give back in the most meaningful way yet: by representing the people and communities that have shaped him. With deep roots, a proven track record, and a passion for public service, Todd is ready to be a strong voice for Labrador West in the House of Assembly.

She was an elected alumni representative on the Memorial University Board of Regents and served on the C.A. Pippy Park Commission Board and the Tech NL (NATI) Board.

She is currently Minister of Government Modernization and Service Delivery, Minister Responsible for the Office of the Chief Information Officer, and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs.

Lucy was elected to the House of Assembly in 2021 and has made a massive positive impact on the people of Mount Pearl North. She attends countless community events daily, supports local organizations, and always makes time for her constituents.

She was inducted into the Duke of Edinburgh Volunteer Hall of Fame in 2018 for her work with Mount Pearl Seniors Independence Board, Kinette Club of Mount Pearl, among others. Lucy is a proud wife, mother and grandmother.

John is former Chief Adjudicator of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Public Complaints Commission, Vice-Chair of the Newfoundland & Labrador Standing Fish Price-Setting Panel, a Bencher of the Law Society of Newfoundland & Labrador, a former Member of the Provincial Court Judges’ Salary & Benefits Tribunal, a former Member of the Newfoundland & Labrador Labour Relations Board, and a former Director of the Newfoundland & Labrador Employers’ Council.   

John and his wife Allison are the proud parents of Jack (12) and Evelyn (9).  When he’s not bringing forgotten lunches to their school, John can often be found running or cycling around the District.

When he’s not tackling policy or helping constituents, Keith is busy building up his community. He’s Chairperson of the Boys & Girls Club of St. John’s (Buckmaster Circle and Mundy Pond), serving the needs of its young members and their families; Vice President & Captain of the Course of the Royal St. John’s Regatta, the oldest continuous sporting event in North America; and Past Chair of the Mount Pearl Frosty Festival, Atlantic Canada’s largest winter celebration, to name a few. 

Keith’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. He’s a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal and the Rotary St. John’s Northwest Aidan Maloney Young Professionals Award, both recognizing his commitment to volunteerism and professional excellence.

Outside of the office, Keith is an avid traveler and runner. He completed the 2024 Berlin Marathon and is currently training for the 2025 Chicago Marathon. His goal is to conquer all seven World Major Marathons across Boston, London, New York City, Sydney, and Tokyo. 

A proud graduate of Memorial University, Keith holds a Bachelor of Arts, Certificate in Public Administration and Master of Business Administration. He was raised in Mount Pearl and now calls St. John’s home, where he lives with his Golden Retriever, Milo.

Though his early exposure to Mi’kmaw heritage was limited, Jeff’s connection to his cultural roots deepened during his high school years and expanded meaningfully in the years that followed. Since 2018, he has actively participated in sacred ceremonies, traditional teachings, and volunteer initiatives within Mi’kmaw communities, gaining valuable insight into traditional medicines and practices.

Jeff’s leadership within the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation (MCF) began with his appointment as a Director, followed by his service as Secretary. In 2021, he made history as the organization’s first Executive Director and now serves as President & CEO. His tenure has been marked by the strengthening of relationships within Indigenous communities across Newfoundland and Labrador and the expansion of MCF’s cultural and educational initiatives.

Professionally, Jeff brings extensive experience across multiple sectors. He is the owner of Bayside Consulting Inc., offering strategic consulting services and short- and long-term housing solutions. His previous work with the Federal Government enhanced his expertise in federal governance, compliance, and financial operations.

Guided by the principle of Etuaptmumk—the Mi’kmaw concept of “two-eyed seeing”—Jeff integrates Indigenous knowledge systems with Western frameworks to foster culturally grounded yet operationally effective solutions. This balanced approach enables him to support non-profits, businesses, and community organizations in aligning cultural values with strategic planning and organizational sustainability.

With a robust academic foundation in business studies, Jeff excels in strategic development, organizational management, and sustainable community planning. His interdisciplinary expertise and deep cultural commitment reflect a vision for transformative, long-term change that empowers Indigenous communities and advances reconciliation through action.

With a deep-rooted commitment to cultural integrity, community empowerment, and responsible leadership, Jeff brings both lived experience and professional expertise to the table. His understanding of local needs—shaped by years of service, listening, and collaborative action—positions him to be a strong and effective voice for the region. He is ready to advocate with integrity, lead with compassion, and work tirelessly to ensure communities are heard, respected, and supported at every level.