Our Executive

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Iris Trask

  As President, it is my responsibility to chair the board and work with this year’s directors to ensure the smooth operation of the Nanaimo Newcomers’ Club (NNC). 

I moved to Nanaimo in May 2025, joined the club in October, and was elected to this role in June 2026, demonstrating how quickly one can become an integral part of this very welcoming club! 

In these short few months, I have already met many wonderful ladies and enjoyed numerous activities together.

I have had several leadership positions in the past, both in my educational career and in my community life, and I am excited to be a part of this Board of Directors, working to make the NNC the best it can be for all of our members. 

I look forward to getting to know current and new members in the coming year, and working hard in my new role to ensure this club runs smoothly and fosters a strong sense of community. 

Brenda Muress

 The role of Vice President comes with a long list of duties and responsibilities, but they all boil down to me supporting the President and the rest of the board in providing our members with a fantastic year.

I lived in North Vancouver and worked in the insurance industry for 30+ years. When I moved to Nanaimo in 2021, I was knew it would be challenging for me to meet new people. 

I joined the Nanaimo Newcomers' Club that September as a way to connect with other ladies new to Nanaimo. It has been a very rewarding 5 years. I've met lots of new friends and explored new areas of town. I've had some fantastic meals and read a book or two that I've enjoyed. 

When I was asked to consider joining the board for the 2025/26 season, I thought what a great way for me to give back to the club, and I'm happy to continue doing so for the 2026/27 season.

Lisa Nelson

Hi everyone, I’m originally from Winnipeg and have been in BC since 1987. I have lived in Vancouver, Vernon, and West Kelowna before moving to the island in 2022. I lived in Chemainus prior to moving to Nanaimo in 2025. 

I have over 20 years of experience working with Canada Revenue Agency as a Collection Officer. Prior to that, I was a Customs Officer. 

Although I’ve been retired for nine years, I believe my work experience will help me in my duties as the treasurer for the Newcomers' Club. I’m looking forward to taking on this challenge and working with the new executive. 

Sue Archer

Events and activities are the heart of our club. They help us connect, make friends, learn new things, and enjoy our community together.

As activities director, I’d like to encourage you all to share your ideas for new activities, whether they are ongoing groups or one-time events. I’m excited to work with you to get things off the ground and keep the Nanaimo Newcomers' Club an active, fun, dynamic group.

Karen Matthews

Hello all! I am excited to take on the role of Membership and Privacy Director for the 2026/27 season. My job is to welcome and register new and returning members and to ensure NNC adherence to our Privacy Policy. 

I bring skills from many years in non-profit management, teaching adults, and facilitating groups. In recent years I started two small businesses, one in Digital Storytelling and the other making jewelry. 

NNC has enriched my life in Nanaimo since my move here in 2024, and now I am happy to contribute some energy to this wonderful organization!

Christine Williams

I’m Christine Williams, and I’m delighted to join the Board as your Welcome Director. In this role, I will welcome new members and help them become familiar with the club. 

My goal is to ensure that new members feel comfortable, connected, and equipped with the information they need.

I’m fortunate to be supported by Sue Hendricks and Heather Baylis as part of the Welcome Team. Sue is often the first friendly face you’ll see at our monthly socials, and Heather coordinates the e-cards that the Board sends on special occasions throughout the year.

Kate Lancaster

 My role entails administration of the STACK APP (the app the club uses to research and sign up for activities, as well as for membership communications), the website, the monthly newsletter and anything else I can support the wonderful board with. 

If you have any issues or comments regarding STACK or our website, feel free to reach out to me. And please either send me your activity photos or post them to our Facebook group or in the Gallery on Stack! 

Jan North

 Hi, I am excited to continue on with the Newcomer's Board as the Social Director for the 2026/27 season.

My goal in this role is to ensure the club's social calendar is vibrant and engaging. I am focused on planning, coordinating, and managing social activities that foster a welcoming atmosphere, enhance membership enjoyment, and facilitate community integration.

Kathy Mowvley

Hi, I’m Kathy and I’m looking forward to sitting on the Newcomers’ board as Secretary for the 2026/27 season. 

I just moved to Nanaimo in November 2025 and was planning on retiring, but I found a great job as a Community Health Nurse with Stz’uminus First Nation in order to pay for a deck and fence on my house. I live with my son, 3 dogs and 2 cats and Do Not Plan on moving again!