Bex Williams is an accomplished Audit and Risk Management professional with a background spanning both the public and private sectors. He has worked with organizations such as Citi Bank, RBC, Laurentian Bank, KPMG, and various government agencies, leading high-impact audit initiatives focused on risk mitigation, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Bex holds a B.Sc. in Accounting and Economics, an MBA, and a Master of Economics. Outside of work, Bex enjoys staying active at the gym, engaging in community service, and exploring new cities.

Richard is a passionate lifelong learner and educator and proven leader with a background spanning multiple unique and innovative roles in federal / provincial governments, colleges / universities / trades, and the for-profit and non-governmental organization (NGO) sectors. Richard earned a Bachelor of Arts (History/Journalism) from Carleton University, Master of Arts (History) from the University of Ottawa, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD.) (History/International Law) from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Richard also held Doctoral Fellowships with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and a postdoctoral fellowship with the Atlantic Centre for Human Rights. Richard’s professional expertise includes leading individuals and teams through transformational change, generating and directing evidence-based policy initiatives especially during his role as Executive Director, Research and Programs with the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario (HEQCO), and developing strong value-added partnerships. Most recently he held leadership roles at Mohawk College in Hamilton and St. Lawrence College in Eastern Ontario, and currently he teaches graduate courses and serves on doctoral committees with the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE).

Joshua Rodrigues is an innovative digital transformation leader with a strong track record of driving business evolution through strategic product development, cross-functional collaboration and customer-centric solutions. As the Director & Digital Product Lead at RBC Wealth Management, Joshua spearheads digital initiatives that enhance advisor experience and operational efficiencies. Joshua brings a strategic and forward-thinking approach to the board, which will help Banyan Community Services navigate digital opportunities and strengthen its outreach efforts. He aims to help bridge the gap between technology and social impact at Banyan, fostering sustainable growth and long-term success for the organization.

Olusola Olumogba is an entrepreneur, non-profit founder, community leader, professional football scout and speaker. He runs two organizations. The first is InstantScouting, a platform that connects athletes, agents, coaches, and trainers, for which he was honoured with the Top 30 Under Thirty Award by Sports Launch Magazine in 2014. He has helped over 500 athletes secure professional football opportunities. Olusola’s second venture is his non-profit Direct Your Life which has supported close to 600 formerly incarcerated individuals with resources and job opportunities to get back on their feet. Olusola is a Critical Period Interventionist for individuals with high-risk behavior and those impacted by street-level violence. He regularly speaks at schools, halfway houses, and prisons. Olusola has a bachelor’s degree in criminology and media studies from the University of Western Ontario; as well, received a YouthREX Critical Youth Work: Bridging Theory and Practice Certificate at York University. He is a former collegiate athlete, Sports Professional, and has also held several leadership positions at non-profit organizations throughout his career.

Dan graduated from Brock University with an Honours Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in Geography. Since graduation, Dan worked with senior citizens in a retirement home and subsequently began a career with the Hamilton Police Service in 2016. Dan currently holds a position as a detective in the Criminal Investigations Division. During his career, Dan has received the Kenneth D. Robertson Award and has been recognized for his contributions to the Investigative Services Division. Dan has volunteered his time with animal rescues, the Stoney Creek Minor Hockey Association and in local elementary schools. Dan’s work and volunteer experience have led to a passion for youth justice concerns and social challenges involving vulnerable members of our population.

Dr. Julie L. is an Anesthesiologist at St Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton and Associate Clinical Professor at McMaster University.  Her teaching interests include crisis management at the Simulation Centre at the DeGroote School of Medicine and one on one teaching in the operating room.  Dr. Julie L.’s administration interests include continuous process improvement within the healthcare system and is currently a surveyor for Accreditation Canada.  She is a Mom of four children and has experience with kids with special needs and boys with disruptive behaviour.  Dr. Julie L. has a strong belief that helping children develop life skills at an early age not only helps the child, but society as a whole.

Katharine is excited to be a part of Banyan’s board, supporting the fiduciary duties in the delivery of Banyan’s valuable community programs. Katharine is a retired financial executive officer of ArcelorMittal Dofasco (AMD) and holds a degree in Engineering Science (Mechanical) and in Administrative and Commercial Studies (Finance). Katharine’s 34-year career at AMD included holding the position of Treasurer (eight years) as well as numerous other senior leadership positions across the organization, board positions on various AMD subsidiaries and chair of both the ArcelorMittal Dofasco Corporate Community Investment Committee and the Dofasco Employee Donations Fund.  In the Hamilton community, Katharine was a member of the board of directors of Hamilton Health Sciences (two terms) and a member of the board of the Catholic Family Services of Hamilton and is also as a keen supporter of a local youth cycling organization.