Kamp Kiwanis Board of Directors 2023-2024
“The heart of a volunteer is never measured in size, but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of others.”
Aaron graham, director - chair (He/him)
Aaron Graham is a seasoned business owner and a passionate supporter of the Kamp Kiwanis experience. Hailing from Australia, Aaron or “Wagga” or “Waggs” as he has become affectionately know as, became part of the Kamp Kiwanis community in 2006, when he first joined as a volunteer "Gapper". The love he developed for the organization during that time led to him becoming a staff member again in 2008 and 2009. In 2018, he took the next step and joined the Board of Directors.
With a background in the service industry, Aaron brings a wealth of experience in problem solving, decisive action, and operations to the table. As a Kamp Kiwanis veteran, he knows first-hand the life-changing impact that the program can have on young people. His favourite part of the Kamp experience was pushing his own boundaries, discovering confidence in leadership, and reconnecting with nature.
As a board member, he is dedicated to ensuring that the future vision of Kamp Kiwanis becomes a reality. He believes that the values and mission of the organization are truly lived by its leadership, and is eager to contribute to its ongoing success. With Aaron’s commitment to the cause and his experience in business, he is an invaluable asset to the organization.
STACEY ROBINS, DIRECTOR- vice chair (SHE/HER)
Stacey has been involved with Kamp Kiwanis since 2003 when she started working as a counsellor. In the 20 years that she has been “Bigfoot”, she worked nearly every job at Kamp, eventually becoming Outdoor School Director in 2015, and a board member in 2021. It’s a place that has changed her life in so many ways, and one of her favourite things is seeing how a trip to Kamp can change others’ lives too.
One lesson Stacey learned at Kamp was to say “Yes!” to adventures and cool experiences, which helped her end up working in some really cool places. She has worked as a TV reporter and radio producer, developed after school programs for kids, worked on the Calgary 2026 Olympic Bid Committee and now is the Manager of Guest Relations & Community for Calgary Surge Basketball and Guest Experience Manager at Chirp Foods. In her “spare time” she also runs her own small business.
Stacey is excited to take on the role of Vice Chair and also bring her skills to the Kamp Kiwanis Membership Committee, where they are working on engaging our community in new, exciting ways and to give back to the place that helped shape the person she is today!
christa skimmings, director - treasurer (SHE/Her)
Introducing Christa Skimmings, a remarkable woman who wears many hats with grace and enthusiasm. Christa began her relationship with Kamp Kiwanis over 20 years ago as the Summer Lifeguard, Kamp Name “Mato,” and has continued to be involved ever since as a volunteer and Board Member. As our Treasurer, she is more than a whiz with numbers; she is well organized, attentive to detail and dedicated to Kamp’s mission, making her a vital part of our amazing board team.
With a zest for life and a love for water sports, Christa's adventures are as varied as the waves she navigates. Her passion for the water is not just about the thrill but also about the serenity of being surrounded by nature. Whether it's sailing on tranquil lakes or diving into thrilling water sports, she's at home in the aquatic world.
Christa's talents extend far beyond the waterfront. She's a gourmet chef in her own right, whipping up culinary delights that captivate the taste buds. Her love for cooking is a testament to her creativity and the joy she finds in bringing people together over a sumptuous meal.
In her travels, she seeks not only adventure, but also cultural enrichment, embracing diverse perspectives and experiences along the way. Christa's love for exploration knows no bounds, making her a well-rounded individual with a worldly outlook.
Dedicated to giving back, Christa is a passionate volunteer at Kamp Kiwanis. Her commitment to community service and her heart for making a positive impact in the lives of others shine brightly in her volunteer work.
Christa Skimmings is a beacon of inspiration, embodying a harmonious blend of professional responsibility, a love for adventure, culinary mastery, and a heart that beats for helping others. Her impact is felt far and wide, and she is cherished by those who have the privilege of knowing her.
chris novak, director - secretary (he/him)
Chris “Bonsai” Novak (BSc, MD, FRCPC) grew up in Calgary and first became involved with Kamp Kiwanis as a high school counsellor in 2006. He was a seasonal staff member from 2007 to 2012 in roles including Leadership Program Coordinator and Outdoor School Coordinator.
Chris completed his medical training at the University of Alberta. He is currently a hospital pediatrician at the Alberta Children’s Hospital where he cares for children of all ages with a wide range of medical and mental health problems. He is also a clinical lecturer at the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine and is actively involved in training medical students and resident doctors. He is currently completing the Master of Education in Health Sciences Education program through the University of Alberta.
After moving back to Calgary, Chris joined the general membership of Kamp Kiwanis in 2021 and was elected to the Board of Directors in 2022. He is passionate about the mission of Kamp Kiwanis and creating an inclusive environment where children and youth can realize their potential.
cory johnson, director (He/him)
Cory Johnson, known by his Kamp name “Hawk,”was born in Thunder Bay, Ontario and moved to Calgary when he was 4. He started working at Kamp Kiwanis in 1992 as a volunteer. Over the years Hawk worked in many different roles, including Kamp Director in 2012.
In 2003, Cory became a member of The Kiwanis Club of Calgary (Downtown Club). He joined their Board in 2006 and has served on and off the Kamp and Kiwanis Boards for the past 18+ years, including President for 2 years with The Kiwanis Club of Calgary.
Cory has a background in recreational management and public speaking, advocating for people to turn their disabilities into possibilities. He brings over 20 years of professional experience to Kamp. He is passionate about providing children in Calgary and Area the opportunity of a lifetime!
nikki lepine, director (SHE/HER)
Nikki Lepine, also known as “Sky” from her Kamp era, is a passionate and experienced professional in the field of child and youth care. She brings her diverse background and dedication to helping others to her role as a board member of Kamp Kiwanis. Originally from Calgary, Nikki currently resides in Ardrossan, Alberta, just outside of Edmonton.
Nikki first discovered her love for Kamp life when she attended CONNECTIONS Camp as a grade 11 student and participated in Kamps L.I.T.E.s Program. She held various counsellor and resource staff positions at Kamp Kiwanis between 2001-2008, including Assistant Director. Since then, she has dedicated her career to working with vulnerable populations. With a degree in Child and Youth Care Counselling and over a decade of experience working in this field, Nikki brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as a board member.
Additionally, Nikki co-owns a pet care company, bringing her entrepreneurial experience to her work with children and youth. This diverse background, combined with her passion for helping others, makes her a valuable addition to the board of Kamp Kiwanis. Nikki is committed to using her skills and experience to make a positive impact on the lives of the children and youth who attend Kamp Kiwanis.
DOREEN SODERBERG, DIRECTOR (SHE/HER)
Doreen, or “Sage” as she is known by her Kamp name, is no stranger to Kamp Kiwanis…it’s one of her favourite places! Doreen was the former Guest Services Director at Kamp Kiwanis for 12 amazing years! In March 2022, Doreen resigned to pursue new roles that would allow her to be closer to and have more time to spend with family. She is now the Property and Operations Assistant Administrator for Parkbridge Community.
Doreen has previous governance experience being on the Kiwanis Western Canadian Board for 5 years, during which she held the roles of Distinguished Lieutenant Governor and Governor in 2019. Doreen was also involved with Cadets for 11 years and 4-H Horse Club for 7 years.
Doreen is forever a student, always taking courses and wanting to build her skills. She has a great love for the outdoors, is an avid reader and quilter and loves walking and playing with her grandkids and Diesel, her border collie.
We are excited to have Doreen bring her experience and big heart for Kamp to our board!
Emily wood, director (sHE/Her)
Emily is new to the Kamp Kiwanis family, and brings with her a significant amount of board and non-profit experience. Born in Calgary, Emily and her family spent many years as expatriates, living in Libya, Trinidad & Tobago, Angola, and England. These formative years abroad gave her a unique appreciation of differences in people, cultures, and lived experiences, while also solidifying a love of travel and celebrating diverse cultures.
Emily’s background is in large-scale event operations and logistics, though she recently moved to a major engineering firm in their supply chain division. With her wealth of experience in organizational effectiveness, operational excellence, project management, and her passion for community building, she is excited to use her expertise to support Kamp Kiwanis in this exciting time of transition and growth!