Since joining the Board of the Edmonton Social Planning Council in 2018, Vanessa has been deeply engaged in learning about and contributing to meaningful conversations around Edmonton’s past, present, and future. She brings a strong interest in how research can be effectively shared with the public and translated into action within communities.

She stepped into the Interim ED role in spring 2024 as the Board undergoes a transition in leadership. She came into the position with an MA in Material Culture (Human Ecology) and wrote her thesis on planning, governance, and vibrancy of winter spaces in Edmonton. She also sits on the Edmonton Historical Board and has spent many years volunteering at community festivals, including Kaleido & Deep Freeze on 118Ave, SilverSkate in Hawrelak Park, Found Festival all over Old Strathcona, and Edmonton’s Cat Festival in the downtown core.