The ‘Ksan Society Board of Directors in made up of five community volunteers dedicate to promoting and supporting the provision of housing and social services. Board Members are responsible for bringing diverse community interests and perspectives to the Society, playing an integral part in the development of policy framework and the future directions and priorities of ‘Ksan Society.
VAL GAUVIN - Board Chair
Val Gauvin is a local business owner with extensive training and experience in accounting and business administration. Since moving to Terrace in 1998, Val has dedicated herself to community service through volunteering and serving on a number of boards, including the Canadian Cancer Society (BCY Division) and Terrace Economic Development Association.
Val sees ‘Ksan Society as providing important services she wishes she could have accessed as a young mother. She considers herself lucky to have had a supportive family to assist her through difficult times, and realizes that not every person is as fortunate. Val believes that ‘Ksan, “serves as a stepping stone to help people get back on their feet and moving forward in their lives as a member of our society,” providing mental and physical support for those who find themselves abused, homeless, or without resources. When looking to the future, Val envisions ‘Ksan as a society with the capacity to provide complete wrap-around and support services to all.
KAREN McMURRAY - Treasurer
Karen joined the ‘Ksan Society Board in 2023. She is a first generation Canadian born to Scottish parents and grew up in the Vancouver area. She is a faculty member at Coast Mountain College in the business administration program and has worked in various capacities at the college for the last 15 years. Her education background is in commerce, leadership, project management, learning technologies and community economic development. She has volunteered with non-profit organizations for over 20 years in governance roles, including the Haida Gwaii Society for Community Peace for over ten years which has some parallel programming to ‘Ksan Society. Karen is a feminist and believes that community health and culture is everyone’s responsibility. This stems from her experience living in Massett on Haida Gwaii where she was schooled in what it means to be a part of a community and live under the principle of Respect.
Karen chose to be part of the ‘Ksan Board because of her experience with the Haida Gwaii Society for Community Peace, because she cares about the dignity and care of all community members and believes that how we treat our most vulnerable people is the prime measure of community well being. Karen sees ‘Ksan as providing a way for people to receive care by ensuring their most basic needs are met when it is hard to meet them on their own and as a result these efforts can contribute to individuals gaining freedom over their own lives. Her vision for our community is that we care for one another in meaningful ways and that we look at what barriers prevent this and dismantle them.
COREY MAKING - Member At large
Corey joined the ‘Ksan Society Board in 2024. Corey’s passion for helping others and commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces within the community drive her involvement with ‘Ksan Society. Her degree in Psychology from the University of Victoria and strong background in mental health, counselling, and community work provide her with a depth of experience that will to contribute to the Society’s work in supporting vulnerable individuals and families.
Corey believes that ‘Ksan Society plays a vital role in supporting individuals and families who are facing housing insecurity, violence, mental health struggles, and systemic barriers. The Society provides shelter, safety, connection, and support — not just to survive, but to thrive. Its programs empower people to build better futures while honouring their dignity, identity, and potential. Corey’s vision is for the Society to continue expanding its reach and its impact — particularly in preventive care, early intervention, and trauma-informed support. She hopes to see more programming in schools, more integration with mental health services, and greater visibility of the Society's work in our young communities.
VICKI macKENZIE-DENIS - Member at Large
Vicki is an Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Instructor with a deep commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive education and community engagement. Her professional background includes working closely with children, families, and future educators to foster learning environments that honor diversity, equity, and Indigenous ways of knowing. She brings to the Board a strong foundation in reflective practice, sociocultural pedagogy, and collaborative leadership.
Vicki’s decision to join the ‘Ksan Society Board stems from a desire to contribute meaningfully to an organization that aligns with values of social justice, community care, and transformative learning. She believes that ‘Ksan Society plays a vital role in supporting individuals and families through housing, advocacy, and culturally grounded services that promote dignity and resilience and offers a sense of belonging, safety, and hope. It is a cornerstone of the community, especially for those navigating systemic barriers and seeking pathways to healing and empowerment.
Vicki’s vision for the future of ‘Ksan Society is one of continued growth, deeper community partnerships, and expanded opportunities for education and advocacy. She hopes to support initiatives that amplify Indigenous voices, strengthen family supports, and create inclusive spaces where all people feel seen, heard, and valued.
SURESH cHOUDHARY - member at large
As a long time resident of Terrace, BC, Suresh brings extensive experience in financial planning, as well as tech experience through the operation of Northern-based tech company. His community involvement includes leadership as Vice President of the Northwest Indo-Canadian Sports and Arts Society, Secretary of the Northwest BC Cricket Association, Settlement Worker at Skeena Diversity Society, Member of the City of Terrace Housing Committee, and now as the new Chair and Treasurer for the Terrace Regional Hospice Network Society.
Suresh is deeply invested in supporting vulnerable populations in Terrace. His background in financial planning, leadership and engagement position him to contribute effectively to the organization’s mission of empowerment and provision of essential services such as anti-violence programming, social housing and shelters, and various other programs that support community capacity building needed in Terrace. Suresh envisions an expansion of ‘Ksan’s programming and partnerships, enhancing anti-violence efforts, housing options, and outreach to address evolving needs like overdose prevention and food security, ultimately fostering a more resilient, inclusive, and supportive Terrace community for all residents.