MEET OUR VOLUNTEER BOARD
The strategic direction for the BC Rural Centre is set by our Board of Directors – amazing individuals from across the province. All of the Board and Advisory Committee members are volunteers who bring a wealth of experience and background to the Society.
CHAIR
Grace McGregor
Born and raised at Christina Lake, Grace and her husband Ronald raised their family and have owned and operated businesses there for a number of years. Grace has been the Regional District Director for Christina Lake and area for the last sixteen years. Grace has also served as Chair or Vice-Chair of the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust, the Kootenay Boundary Regional District, the Association of Kootenay Boundary Local Governments, and the Kettle River Watershed Management Plan.
VICE CHAIR
Kukpi7 Judy Wilson
Judy was the Kukpi7 (Chief) of the Neskonlith Band for 16 years from 2007. Judy has an extensive media background in audio-visual production, book publishing, broadcast journalism and web planning. She sits on Boards or Advisory Committees of a large number of organizations including the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, First Nations Leadership Council, First Nations Technology Council, Shuswap Nation Tribal Council, and the BC Small Business Roundtable.
TREASURER
Brad Sperling
First elected as Director for Electoral Area ‘C’ in the November 2014 Local Government Election and re-elected in the 2023 by-election, has lived in Charlie Lake for over ten years and in Fort St. John for over thirty-five years. Being born and raised in the area, Brad brings experience, expertise, leadership, and a commitment to inspire change to the Board. Brad’s strong sense of community is demonstrated by advocating for rural and remote communities in the region. Brad cares about the people who call this place home.
DIRECTOR
Scott Kershaw
Scott was born and raised in Barriere. He moved away for work but returned 15 years ago to start his family. Now, like some of his family before him, Kershaw is on council. "I see some really interesting challenges coming ahead.” He said Barriere is yet to form a plan for dealing with the legalization of cannabis. He said there are also real issues in solid waste management. “I think these are kind of fun challenges to figure out … I’m in a position where I want to take on some challenges.”
DIRECTOR
Leonard Hiebert
Leonard was elected as Chair of the Peace River Regional District. He has a vast range of experience, focusing on management, agriculture, and paramedic in the oil and gas industry and has managed various hog farms in Canada and now focuses his spare time on developing his own farm. Leonard has lived in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta as well as in Dawson Creek before settling in Tomslake, BC in 2008. Leonard’s natural ability to take on a leadership role is what made him want to run for Director. As the Director for Electoral Area D, Leonard puts himself out into the community with the intention of rebuilding the relationship between the rural residents and the Peace River Regional District, sharing key points of communication and where possible, advocating on behalf of the resident.
DIRECTOR
Spencer Coyne
DIRECTOR
Darryl Krakowka
Darryl Krakowka is a dedicated public servant who has proudly represented the Tumbler Ridge community for two terms on council—spanning eight years—and currently serves as the Mayor. Since 2007, Darryl has been actively engaged in both local government and grassroots community initiatives.
Now in his role as Mayor, Darryl remains focused on improving the quality of life for residents and making Tumbler Ridge an even better place to live, work, and raise a family. His years on council have given him a strong foundation in municipal leadership, and he brings that experience into every decision he makes for the
community.
For the past 18 years, Darryl has owned and operated the local grocery store in Tumbler Ridge. Through this role, he actively gives back by supporting local clubs, sports teams, and non-profits with donations and sponsorships, reinforcing his commitment to community service at every level.
Outside of public office, Darryl is a devoted father of two and a proud grandfather of two. He strongly believes that family is the heart of a healthy community and advocates for policies that support families and foster community connection. A passionate outdoorsman, Darryl enjoys exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Tumbler Ridge. He views the area’s natural beauty as one of its most valuable assets and is dedicated to preserving it for future generations.
As Mayor, Darryl is focused on strengthening infrastructure, creating local job opportunities, and driving sustainable economic growth. He is equally committed to improving essential public services—such as healthcare, education, and social programs—to ensure all residents have access to the support they need.
DIRECTOR
Lennard Joe
A Professional Forester by training, Lennard has operated his own forestry consulting company, Grizzly Man Resource Management, for over a decade. He is also the general manager of Stuwix Resources Joint Venture and administrative advisor to the Skackan Indian Band. Lennard serves on the Boards of the Indigenous Business & Investment Council of BC, Interior Loggers Association, and National Aboriginal Forestry Association, and is a committee member on UBC’s First Nations Council of Advisors.
Check Out Our Accomplishments To Date
The BC Rural Centre has been around for a while now – from our humble beginnings as the Southern Interior Beetle Action Coalition to transitioning to the nonprofit you see today – there have been many successes in our journey. And we look forward to creating more...
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