2026 ACU Board of Director Candidates

Biography 

Born and raised in Rivers and residing in Brandon, I have been married to Larry for 50 years.  I am a mother, grandmother and great grandmother.   

My career has been both diverse and rewarding.  After working with MPI and spending time as a stay-at-home mom, I joined Behlen Industries where I spent 26 years in a variety of roles including production, accounting, and Information Technology. 

In the early days of Behlen's IT department, then just a team of two, I was responsible for data entry/integrity, building and repairing PC's maintaining the mid-range and daily troubleshooting.  As the department grew to a team of 20, my focus shifted to system design and data testing from both accounting and user perspectives for Behlen's custom Manufacturing system.  Before retiring, I documented and developed a comprehensive help manual for the entire manufacturing and accounting system, ensuring continuity and support for future users.  

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

I was first elected as a Director for Westoba Credit Union in 2016, serving an initial 2-year term.  I was re-elected in 2020 for a 3-year term and again in 2023 for another 3-year term.  In 2025 Westoba amalgamated with Assiniboine Credit Union and I was appointed to serve a one-year term on the new board.  While with Westoba, I served on several committees, including the Governance Committee, the IT Steering Committee, and held leadership positions as Secretary of the Board and Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.  Beyond my credit union work, I have been active in community organizations, serving 4 years on the board of Career Connections, three years as Treasurer of the board for Family Visions and as Treasurer of the Board for Onanole and District Recreation Centre for 6 years. 

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

I bring curiosity and a strong desire to understand how and why decisions are made - I am not afraid to ask questions of management to ensure clarity and accountability.  My background in accounting allows me to confidently interpret and analyze financial reports, contributing to informed and responsible decision making at the board table.  My experience serving on multiple volunteer boards has reinforced the importance of being present in the community - listening to members, understanding their needs, and representing their voices in board discussions. 

Message to the Membership 

As a rural resident, I am seeking another term with ACU.  Thank you to each of you for being part of our credit union community. 

As a director, my role is to represent your voice - especially when it comes to the unique needs and challenges faced by members outside the perimeter.  Whether it's improving access to financial services, advocating for community focused lending, or ensuring rural concerns are heard at the board level, I remain committed to keeping our credit union true to its mission: empowering people and business. 

Here are a few ways I've been working for you: 

• Listening to your feedback and bringing your concerns directly into board discussions. 

• Supporting initiatives that enhance access to banking services in rural areas. 

• Advocating for financial education, fair lending, and growth opportunities in our communities. 

• Ensuring your voice is represented in major decisions that shape our credit union's future. 

• Serving as an experienced committee member on various committees. 

If you have ideas, questions, or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.  I am proud to serve you - and I believe that by working together, we can continue building a stronger, more inclusive credit union for everyone. 

Biography 

Ian Chadsey brings over 30 years of senior executive experience in finance, accounting, information technology, and sustainability initiatives. His career includes leadership roles with Delta 9, Bell/MTS, Nutrient, and Ontario Hydro (now Hydro One). Currently serving as a Councilor for the Rural Municipality of Victoria Beach, Ian combines strategic planning and business analysis expertise with a strong commitment to community service. Outside of his professional and civic duties, he regularly volunteers at senior homes, providing entertainment and engagement for residents. Ian has been married to his lovely wife Jane for over 40 years and has 3 children and 5 grand children. Ian’s diverse background and collaborative leadership style reflect his belief in responsible growth, innovation, and community well-being. 

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

I have over 30 years of senior executive experience in finance, accounting, information technology, and strategic planning across private, public, and non-profit sectors. Professionally, I have served in leadership roles with organizations such as Nutrient, Hydro One, Bell MTS, Bell Aliant and Delta 9, where I contributed to major initiatives in sustainability, climate change management, and business transformation. I currently serve as a councilor for the Municipality of Victoria Beach, overseeing accounting, finance, and major capital projects, and have previously served on the Manitoba Hydro Board of Directors. These roles have strengthened my governance, risk management, and collaborative decision-making skills—key assets for serving effectively on the ACU Board. 

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

My greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors would be my ability to integrate financial expertise, sustainability leadership, and technological innovation to strengthen ACU’s long-term strategy and member value. With over 30 years of executive experience, I have participated in initiatives in climate change management and sustainability reporting for organizations such as Nutrient, Hydro One, and Delta 9. I also have experience in information technology, having participated in major software implementations and digital transformation projects. Combined with my governance and community leadership background, I bring a forward-looking, responsible, and innovative approach that aligns with ACU’s cooperative values and sustainable growth objectives. 

Message to the Membership 

I believe Assiniboine Credit Union plays a vital role in building a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable Manitoba. My goal in joining the Board is to give back to a community that has supported me over the years and to contribute my experience in strategic planning, business analysis, communication, and finance to further ACU’s mission.  

As a team player, I value open dialogue and collaboration. I believe it’s essential to listen carefully to all perspectives before working toward a balanced, common-sense solution. I have spent much of my career ensuring that programs are not only well-designed but also executed effectively — delivering meaningful outcomes for both organizations and the people they serve.  

I take a community-focused approach to leadership and decision-making, and I look forward to helping ACU continue its tradition of member-driven innovation and local economic development. 

Biography 

Patrick holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. 

He is currently the managing director of the Internal Trade Secretariat, where he supports efforts to reduce interprovincial trade barriers. Before that, he worked as a policy analyst in the finance and human resources sectors for the Manitoba government. 

Patrick currently serves on the ACU board and its HR Policy and Compensation Committee. Prior to the merger, he served on the Caisse Financial Group board for nine years. He has many years of experience serving on the boards of various public, cooperative, and non-profit organizations. More recently, these have included the Law Society of Manitoba, the Franco-Manitoban School Division, the Les Enfants Précieux Childcare Centre, and the Manitoba Municipal Board.  

Patrick is francophone and Métis, and lives in St. Boniface with his partner and their three children. 

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

If re-elected, my governance and professional experience would position me well to contribute actively and effectively as a board member.  

I have many years of experience serving on the boards of various public, cooperative, and non-profit organizations. Currently, I serve on the boards of the new Assiniboine Credit Union and the Law Society of Manitoba. I also recently served on the board of Caisse Financial Group, as an elected school trustee for the francophone school division, and as chair of the board for my children’s childcare center.  

Professionally, I currently lead an organization that supports efforts to reduce interprovincial trade barriers by governments through the Canadian Free Trade Agreement. Previously, I worked as a policy analyst in the finance and human resources sectors at the Manitoba government and as an assistant to several elected officials.  

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

My greatest contribution would be my extensive governance experience in the financial cooperative sector. This will allow me to contribute actively and effectively in the role of board member from day one. My overarching goal would be to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of our credit union for the benefit of our membership.  

I gained my governance experience in the financial cooperative sector by serving on the board of Caisse Financial Group for almost nine years. During that time, I served on the audit and credit committees, achieved Credit Union Director Achievement (CUDA) certification, and pursued other related professional development opportunities to help better serve the board. 

These experiences all helped to continuously increase my knowledge and skills, allowing me to effectively govern a financial cooperative on behalf of its members. If re-elected, I look forward to continue doing so as a board member of the new Assiniboine Credit Union. 

Message to the Membership 

Dear members of ACU, 

Over 25 years ago, I joined a financial cooperative because of its commitments to democratic governance by the membership and investing in our local communities.  

I am putting my name forward to serve on the ACU board because I believe my extensive governance experience with financial cooperatives will help contribute, collaboratively with my colleagues, to ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of our credit union for the benefit of its members. 

I am motivated to see through implementing our recent merger commitments to continue offering French language services, to serve urban, rural, agricultural, and francophone communities, and to Ensure a values-based approach to banking.  

If re-elected, my priorities will be a continued focus on: 

• Meeting the financial needs of our members in innovative ways.

• Ensuring that ACU remains a great place for employees to work and grow. 

• Weaving environmentally sustainable business practices into everything ACU does. 

I also believe that with my francophone and Métis backgrounds, and as someone with a young family, I will bring a unique perspective to the role. 

I am also committed to deepening my understanding of climate change management and sustainability in service of ACU’s members. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Biography 

I am a retired accountant with an FCPA, FCGA, MBA and Diploma in Agriculture.  I recently retired after 25 years as Vice-President of Brandon University with significant experience managing a complex organization at a strategic and operations level.  I served on the Board of Westoba Credit Union for 12 years, ending in 2023.   

The University is a Board governed organization and I provided management support as well as serving as a voting member of the BU Foundation, BU Senate, and BU Pension Plan. I am chair of the Rural and Remote Advisory Board for elimination of homelessness.  I have been on the Catholic School Board, Rivers Town Council and Ag Society, and the Canadian Cancer Society, as other examples.  I understand board governance and the different roles of management and board members in working collaboratively to monitor and govern ACU. 

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

I am a retired Chartered Professional Accountant, with an MBA and Diploma in Agriculture.  I have extensive Board and Senior Management experience and am eager to contribute to the successes of ACU. 

I served for 12 years on the Board of Westoba Credit Union.  I retired in 2024, after more than 25 years as Vice-President Administration and Finance for Brandon University, a Board governed organization.   

As Management, I provided information and support to the Board of Governors, and was a member of the Brandon University Foundation, the Brandon University Senate, and Trustees of the BU Pension Plan.  I am Chair of the Rural and Remote Advisory Board to eliminate Homelessness.  Other examples include serving on the Catholic School Board, Westman Certified General Accountants, Rivers Town Council, and Canadian Cancer Society.  I have developed a strong understanding of how complex organizations work and how decisions will impact future successes of an organization.   

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

With years of experience in senior management and board service, including 12 years on a Credit Union Board, I believe my greatest contribution will be the ability to understand the issues and to provide a professional and principled point of view to assist the Board and Management to make sound decisions.  Sound decisions consider the impacts on members, employees, communities and the environment in accordance with ACU's core values. 

With the merger of Assiniboine, Caisse and Westoba, this is a crucial time as the operations, systems and cultures are joined.  Members, employees and communities will be watching and the integrity of the Board, particularly its accountability and communication will be paramount. I will assist the Board to maintain its highest standards to ensure the success of ACU for years to come. 

Message to the Membership 

I am excited to apply for the opportunity to serve on the Board of Assiniboine Credit Union.  I have always been a member of a credit union and previously served on a credit union board for 12 years.  I look forward to working in this new merged entity that presents opportunities for our members due to size and scope while maintaining the integrity and character of the individual credit unions.  I believe in the value and values of credit unions serving where other financial institutions no longer are willing or able.  I understand the roles of management and the Board, having served in both roles for many years.  That understanding provides a respect for each role in good governance and oversight of the Credit Union. 

I want to help ACU be an employer and a financial institution of choice in our communities.  I am a rural candidate.  I have management experience with information technology and environmental sustainability as well as agriculture, finance, human resources, and risk management in a complex organization. I will consider it a privilege to serve on this Board and will work diligently to the success of the credit union and the communities it serves. 

Biography 

My name is Jeff Leclerc and I am seeking re-election to the ACU Board. I am a proud franco-Manitoban and live in St. Adolphe with my wife Katie and our two young daughters. I have served on the ACU Board since 2023 and have been a longtime ACU and Caisse member. I currently serve as University Secretary at the University of Manitoba, where I lead the governance function. I bring over 20 years of governance experience across public, academic, and community sectors. I hold a master’s degree in educational administration, the Chartered Director designation, and have completed the Credit Union Director Achievement Program. I’ve served on numerous boards and committees, including the United Way of Winnipeg, university pension plans, and school board. I’m passionate about values-based leadership and cooperative principles, and I strive to contribute thoughtful, ethical, and strategic insight to every organization I serve.   

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

I bring over two decades of governance experience, including my current role as University Secretary at the University of Manitoba, where I provide leadership on strategy, policy, and governance operations. I hold the Chartered Director designation and have completed the Credit Union Director Achievement Program. My board experience includes serving on the Assiniboine Credit Union Board of Directors, where I have served on the Governance and Ethics and Nominations Committees. I’ve also chaired and served on governance, investment, and resource development committees for organizations such as the United Way of Winnipeg and university pension plans. My leadership in the Canadian University Governance Association and past chair role with the Canadian University Boards Association reflect my deep commitment to effective governance. These experiences have equipped me with the strategic insight, fiduciary responsibility, and collaborative approach needed to continue to contribute meaningfully to the ACU Board. 

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

If re-elected to the Board, my greatest contribution to the ACU Board would be my deep governance expertise and strategic insight developed over more than two decades in executive leadership and board roles. As University Secretary at the University of Manitoba, I’ve led complex governance systems and advised on policy, jurisdiction, and institutional strategy. I bring a strong understanding of fiduciary responsibility, risk oversight, and stakeholder engagement. My experience chairing governance and resource development committees—particularly with the United Way and university pension plans—has honed my ability to foster collaboration, ask thoughtful questions, and support values-based decision-making. I am committed to ACU’s cooperative principles, to values-based banking and would contribute a balanced, ethical, and forward-looking perspective to Board discussions. 

Message to the Membership 

It has been an honour to serve on the ACU Board during a significant point in our history.  This year’s merger has created a province-wide, bilingual, values-based credit union.  I seek re-election to continue contributing to the growth and development of ACU for the benefit of our members, employees, and communities. 

I am confident that ACU will continue to grow and flourish, delivering strong results for our members and delivering on our commitment to the triple bottom line – people, planet and profit.  As we continue to deliver on the promise of the merger, I bring three years on the ACU Board and over two decades of executive-level and Board experience to the table, along with lived experience in rural Manitoba.  If re-elected, I will continue to work collaboratively with Board members and management in support of our organization and its values.  

It has been an honour to serve my fellow ACU members on the Board and being part of an organization that contributes so much to our province.  I am inspired by the contributions of the staff of ACU to the social, cultural, environmental, and economic fabric of the province. I ask for your vote to continue to serve ACU. 

Biography 

As a lifelong Winnipegger, wife, mom, and business professional I would like to serve on the Board to give back to my community, to share my experience and education, and help share the future of a company that I am a member of. I have experience working at a Big 4 accounting firm and have held various positions in the finance and accounting space that makes me qualified and prepares me for this role and responsibility. I have relevant Board and Committee experience and am looking forward to helping shape the future of ACU. 

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

I have served during 2024 as a Board member and member of the Audit and Risk Committee at ACU, so I understand the responsibility, commitment and requirement for active participation in the role. I deal with the Board and Finance Committee in my full-time job as Director of Finance, and I have also served on multiple volunteer boards, including as Chair of the Finance Committee. I understand what proper governance looks like, and as a prior employee of ACU, I understand the Credit Union environment 

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

As a working mom, and professional Chartered Accountant, I think I could bring a unique lens earned from my personal experience of raising a young family in todays world, with its current challenges, while bringing professional experience and understanding of risks and financial information. I have worked in a Big 4 accounting firm, and held various finance, audit and risk roles in organizations headquartered in Winnipeg, giving me a breadth of relevant experience. I also have thorough understanding of the banking industry as a prior employee of ACU, and as an active member today, I understand member needs and concerns.  

Message to the Membership 

As a life-long Winnipegger, wife, mom, and business professional, I would like to serve on the Board to give back to my community, to share my experience and education, and help shape the future of a company that I respect, am a member of, and that focuses on the community, socially responsible investing and the environment. 

I am looking forward to serving the membership in this role and seeing this great organization continue to grow and succeed. 

Biography 

Priti Mehta-Shah is an accomplished governance and finance professional with over 25 years of board and executive leadership experience. She currently serves as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee at Assiniboine Credit Union and Chair of the Investment Committee at Red River Mutual and is also a Director of the Winnipeg Airport Authority. Priti has previously chaired the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and the Women’s Enterprise Centre, among other community organizations.

A Fellow Chartered Professional Accountant (FCPA, FCA) and Institute of Corporate Directors designate (ICD.D), she brings extensive expertise in financial governance, risk management, and strategic oversight. Priti is deeply committed to giving back to her community and actively supports initiatives that advance women’s prosperity, property ownership, and leadership. She is also learning French and brings a strong understanding of rural and remote communities across Manitoba. 

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

I bring over 30 years of board and professional experience in governance, finance, and strategic leadership. Over the past five years, I have served as a Director at Assiniboine Credit Union, including as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee and member of the Merger and Nominating Committees. These roles have deepened my understanding of cooperative governance and financial oversight. 

I currently serve as Chair of the Investment Committee at Red River Mutual and as a Director with the Winnipeg Airport Authority and have served on numerous other corporate and community boards throughout my career. 

Professionally, I am President of Mehta Capital Partners and previously Head of Corporate Finance for Western Canada at BDO. I hold the FCPA, FCA, CBV and ICD.D designations. This combination of experience and education enables me to balance strategy, risk, and values-based leadership at ACU. 

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

My greatest contribution to the ACU Board is my ability to integrate strong governance, financial discipline, and cooperative values to support sustainable growth.  

As Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, I have provided steady leadership through a period of transformation and merger integration, ensuring that ACU’s governance remains transparent, accountable, and member-focused. 

I bring a balanced and forward-looking perspective — one that connects strategy with purpose. I ask thoughtful questions, listen with respect, and encourage decisions grounded in data, values, and long-term sustainability. I believe effective governance means safeguarding ACU’s financial strength while empowering growth, innovation and inclusion. Above all, I strive to build trust and connection with members and communities, ensuring that their voices remain central to ACU’s vision of People, Planet, and Prosperity. 

Message to the Membership 

For the past five years, serving as a Director at Assiniboine Credit Union has been an incredibly rewarding and humbling experience. During this time, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to the Audit and Risk, Merger, and Nominating Committees, which has deepened my understanding of our credit union and reaffirmed my unwavering commitment to effective governance and accountability. 

With your continued support, I remain dedicated to advancing ACU’s vision of values-based banking, embracing the triple bottom line of People, Planet, and Prosperity. My experience working with rural and agricultural clients across Manitoba ensures that the voices and perspectives of these members are represented in our decision-making and long-term planning. 

Your vote empowers me to continue championing financial inclusion, sustainability, and community well-being. Together, we can shape a stronger, more inclusive, and resilient financial future for all.  Thanks so much for your support.   

Biography 

I am a proud First Nations business owner and community leader with extensive experience in governance, entrepreneurship, and agriculture. Over the years, I have successfully owned and operated multiple businesses, as well as owned and managed a cattle ranch, which has strengthened my skills in strategic planning, financial oversight, and leadership.  My board experience includes taking minutes, organizing meetings and sessions, and contributing to sound decision-making processes that support accountability.  I bring a practical, solutions-focused approach to leadership and deep commitment to advancing opportunities for Indigenous communities through collaboration, innovation, and economic growth.  As a candidate for Director, I am dedicated to bringing strong business skills and a passion for community development to the board, ensuring that every decision reflects the best interests of our members and the generations to come. 

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

I was employed at Dauphin Plains Credit Union at that time, and I was tasked to take minutes on their board meetings.  I sat in this position for approximately 2 plus years until I left to start my own business.  My time there allowed me to help in the annual Management Planning Sessions.  I also had to coordinate the annual AGM and take minutes at the meeting.   

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

I believe my greatest contribution would be that I have a great working knowledge of the credit union system and that I currently own and operate multiple businesses that gives me a well-rounded point of view on multiple aspects of business.   

My husband and I come from a rural setting with plenty of agricultural experience which I believe would be beneficial to our credit union. 

Message to the Membership 

As a proud First Nations entrepreneur and community member, I bring years of experience in leadership, business management and governance.  I have owned ad operated multiple successful businesses and managed a cattle ranch, which has given me a strong understanding of financial management, strategic planning, and the realities of running sustainable operations.  My board experience includes taking minutes, organizing sessions, and contributing to effective governance.  Through these roles, I've learned the importance of collaboration, accountability, and ensuring that all voices are heard in the decision-making process. 

I am seeking to serve on the board to help strengthen our collective vision, support economic growth, and ensure that our organization continues to move forward with integrity and unity.  I recognize there are always gaps on any board-whether in communication, engagement or connecting strategic goals to real-world outcomes - and I believe my hands-on business experience and organizational skills can help bridge those gaps.  My focus is on teamwork, good governance, and empowering our members for long-term success.  It would be an honour to contribute my perspective, energy and commitment to serve our members and support a strong future for our community. 

Biography 

Evan Proven is a Red Seal Carpenter and holds a Master of Management in Co-operatives and Credit Unions. Evan's extensive experience in energy efficient building construction and carbon emissions reduction will be an invaluable asset to the board. Evan has a combined 19 years’ experience serving on co-operative boards in a variety of roles. Evan also serves on or chairs multiple board committees. Evan is a longtime volunteer with the Winnipeg Folk Fest, earning his 10-year volunteer pin last year.  

Evan has been a crew coordinator for the folk fest for two years. Evan can often be found at live music events chatting with anyone interested in energy efficiency or co-ops. Evan has participated in multiple research projects exploring energy efficient building construction and retrofits for supportive and affordable housing in Manitoba. Evan is an expert in systems and has a unique ability to understand complex networks. This skill set is integral for multi-stakeholder relations and systems management. 

What experience do you have professionally, or on boards or committees, that has prepared you to contribute effectively as a member of the ACU Board of Directors? 

I have over 19 years of combined experience serving on co-operative boards and committees. I currently serve on two co-op boards and regularly chair both committee and board meetings. My professional experience as a business manager and sales person have given me valuable expertise in both leadership and communication. These experiences enhance my capacity to engage collaboratively on multiple aspects of governance. If elected, my skills in leadership and meeting management will contribute to the effective governance of ACU. 

What would be your greatest contribution to the ACU Board of Directors? 

As an energy efficient building professional, I hope to lend my knowledge and understanding of building science and carbon emissions reduction measures to help guide ACU's actions around climate change mitigation. My expertise will be invaluable in the development of novel financial products to aid in the implementation of energy efficient construction projects for both individual and commercial clients. As a Master of Management in Co-operatives and Credit Unions I have extensive knowledge and understanding of the credit union business model and its effective governance. My extensive network of connections in the coop and credit union world provides me with a wealth of expertise and experience to draw on, enriching my potential contribution to the ACU board. 

Message to the Membership 

Growing up in rural Manitoba has given me a deep appreciation for Co-operatives and Credit Unions. These organizations are the backbone of small communities, operating with a focus on community service and collaboration. I've been a Credit Union member since I was old enough to have an account and continue to believe that Credit Unions and Co-ops are superior business models in providing ethical and principled services to members. I have devoted much of my education to studying co-operative business models, learning how to operationalize the Co-op values and principles to create successful businesses. My extensive knowledge of the Credit Union model will aid the board in maintaining its focus on our co-operative identity. 

I am a founding and current member of Manitoba's first Multi-stakeholder co-op which specializes in energy efficient construction. We focus on achieving the highest possible reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from our projects through the implementation of advanced building methods that achieve drastic reductions in energy use intensity, and through the specification of low embodied carbon building materials. My extensive experience in project estimating, energy efficient building solutions, and GHG reduction methods will be an invaluable asset to the board as we navigate climate change.