Catherine Wenuk grew up in Alberta and studied both at University of Alberta and University of Calgary (U of C) where she received a B.A. and a L.L.B., respectively. She articled at the Court of Appeal of Alberta and at Burnet, Duckworth and Palmer (BDP) law firm where she continued to work as a lawyer until 1991. Since 1991, she has worked with the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB). As a legal advisor, she made significant contributions to the Professional Development Committees both locally and nationally in the training of staff and new members. In 1997, she was appointed to sit as a member (decision-maker) of the IRB.
Catherine is active as a volunteer in her community. In Calgary, she worked at the Drug and Crises Center, in Edmonton at the Student Help Center and, while going through law school she worked both as a board member and a summer student at the University of Calgary's Student Legal Assistance. She is involved with several projects in southern India.
What skills will you contribute to the NCF Board?
Issue identification and analysis, team management, and interpersonal skills. My experience as a lawyer and a decision-maker in one of Canada's largest administrative tribunals has taught me to identify, analyze and decide legal issues. It has trained me to conduct hearings effectively which involves focusing both the process and participants, considering viewpoints and explaining my decisions. In brief, I have learned to work with people in a co-operative spirit, believing that everyone contributes to the whole.
What do you think are the most important functions of NCF for its members?
In my view the most important functions of the NCF for its members relate to its goals to promote education and computer literacy to the community. In addition, its function as both an important information resource and a meeting ground for members of our community ensure its vitality.
Why do you want to be an NCF director?
I like what NCF does for its members and Ottawa, specifically helping tens of thousands of people become familiar with internet services. I believe that NCF members can get the most benefits from their donations by electing a strong, well-composed Board to guide the organization. I believe I can make a positive contribution through responsible stewardship, this in turn, will ensure continued viability of NCF.
Congratulations to NCF and its members for tremendous successes to date.
Cathy Wenuk