Our Team

 Strategic Leadership | Cultural Development | Community Building
With over 35 years of experience in the nonprofit and public sectors, Dauna Kennedy is a senior leader renowned for advancing community-focused initiatives through strategic vision, inclusive engagement, and cross-sector collaboration. Her career reflects a profound commitment to public service, cultural stewardship, and the development of vibrant, sustainable communities.
Dauna has held executive leadership roles in Alberta and British Columbia, most notably serving as Executive Director of the Vernon Public Art Gallery from 2008 to 2025.  She led a successful $28 million public referendum campaign for a new, purpose-built cultural facility, an initiative that galvanized public support and enhanced the cultural landscape of the North Okanagan for a new, purpose-built cultural facility, an initiative that galvanized public support and enhanced the cultural landscape of the North Okanagan.
Her extensive experience includes close collaboration with municipal, provincial, and federal governments, contributing to policy development, capital project planning, and regional strategic initiatives. Dauna is recognized for her ability to navigate complex governance environments and foster trusted partnerships.
A passionate advocate for reconciliation, Dauna has played an active role in advancing Indigenous engagement and cultural inclusion through her museum leadership. As a current Board Director of the BC Museums Association and member of the Canadian Art Museum Directors Organization (CAMDO), she supports Indigenous-led cultural initiatives and the integration of Truth and Reconciliation principles in public institutions.

Beyond the arts, Dauna’s portfolio includes leadership in public safety, community health, tourism, and economic development. Her governance expertise extends to serving as President of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, where she influenced regional policy and economic revitalization efforts.

 Relationship Building | Negotiations | Governance  

Corbin Kelley brings over a decade of experience in provincial politics, advocacy, and relationship building. to his role as External Relations & Advocacy Advisor for the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. His journey began early—at just 19, while completing a degree in political science and economics at Thompson Rivers University, Corbin ran for the BC Liberal Party in Kootenay West. Though the campaign didn’t end in victory, it sparked a deep passion for public service and collaborative problem-solving that has guided his career ever since.

Over the years, Corbin has developed a strong reputation for advancing advocacy priorities and strengthening government-to-government relationships, particularly with First Nations communities. After leading negotiations on behalf of the Simpcw First Nation with the Province of British Columbia, he now plays a pivotal role at the regional level, working across 44,000 square kilometres—spanning the territories of 25 First Nations—to build partnerships, negotiate memorandums of understanding, and develop frameworks that advance reconciliation in meaningful ways.

Despite his early start in partisan politics, Corbin takes pride in the non-partisan nature of his current work, fostering relationships with leaders across the political spectrum to ensure progress on key regional priorities. His efforts have already led to multiple signed agreements and have positioned the Thompson-Nicola Regional District as a provincial leader in Indigenous engagement and strategic advocacy.

Beyond politics, Corbin in involved in food security as a Board member of the Lake Country Food Assistance Society, where he works closely with other Board members on fundraising efforts, and governance.