The Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) Board of Directors was confirmed at its 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM).
“The GNCC’s Board reflects the breadth, experience, and leadership of Niagara’s business and community sectors,” said Jeremy Dunn, Chair of the GNCC Board. “As Niagara continues to face both economic challenges and opportunities, the Chamber’s work remains focused on representing the interests of business, supporting growth, and helping build a more competitive and prosperous region.”
The GNCC welcomed new directors Danijel Augustinovic of Hodgson Russ LLP; Tim Oldfield of the Niagara Falls Convention Centre; and Janet Madume of the Welland Heritage Council and Multicultural Centre. Patricia Menear of Toronto Metropolitan University, Chair of NEXTNiagara, joins the Board in an ex-officio capacity, while Dr. Fay Lim-Lambie was appointed from Niagara College.
Members returned Bruce Peever of KPMG, Laura Tolhoek of EssentialHR, Christian Wulff of YMCA of Niagara, and outgoing Chair Stephen Otten of Meridian Credit Union to the Board. Otten will now serve as Past Chair.
Continuing directors not up for election are Todd Dougall of Freshco, Colleen Smith of the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, Rick Nero of Baker Tilly Niagara, Jeremy Dunn of the Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority, Serge Paquin of Skycomp Solutions, Stephanie Thompson of General Motors, and Taylor Wilson of Colliers International. Dr. Barry Wright from the Goodman School of Business will continue in his appointed position.
The GNCC extends its sincere thanks to five outgoing directors for their dedicated service to the organization, recognizing their leadership, which has helped guide the Chamber through a period of growth, change, and continued advocacy for Niagara’s business community.
Lisa Benger of Walker Industries concludes ten years of exceptional service to the Board, including as Vice Chair of the Board, Chair of the Executive Committee, and Chair of the Human Resources Committee.
Vita Gauley of Niagara Regional Police Service has served as Honorary Solicitor for four years, providing invaluable legal insight and support to the Board.
Noel Buckley of the Niagara Falls Convention Centre and Cold Break Brewing concludes ten years of outstanding service, including as Chair of the Board, Chair of the Executive Committee, and Past Chair.
Dr. Marc Nantel of Niagara College has provided six years of thoughtful and engaged service to the Board, including his role on the Nomination Committee.
Kristen Nilsen of Niagara College, Chair of the NEXTNiagara Council, has demonstrated strong leadership and a clear passion for supporting emerging professionals in the region.
“The GNCC is fortunate to have benefited from the leadership, judgment, and commitment of these outgoing directors,” said Steve Otten, Past Chair of the GNCC’s Board of Directors. “Their contributions have strengthened the Chamber’s governance, supported its advocacy, and advanced its work on behalf of businesses across Niagara. We are deeply grateful for their service.”
The GNCC thanks all directors, past and present, for their service and looks forward to continuing its work with the 2026 Board of Directors.
