Board of Directors

As a lifelong resident of Durham Region, Erica Dove-Heard is excited to serve as Chair of the OSCC55+ Board of Directors. A technology and aging researcher by background, Erica’s research career spans almost 12 years, where she has partnered with OSCC55+ Adult Day Program clients, staff, and families on several research studies using technology to support people living with dementia and other conditions of aging.

Marian Van Pelt moved to Oshawa in 1978. She was involved in a non-profit Community Health Centre, since 1988, and retired after 32 years with the organization. Throughout her career, she was involved in the many aspects of the agency, which included Board Secretary for 32 years, Medical Secretary, and finished her career as the Executive Assistant to the CEO of the Health Centre. After retirement, Marian wanted to give back to the community and felt that volunteering at the OSCC55+ was the place to start.  She is a member of OSCC55+, utilizing programs that are available, works with the volunteer team, is Chair of one of the Board Committees, and is now Vice Chair of the OSCC55+ Board of Directors.

Deborah Badmus was initially appointed to the OSCC55+ Board of Directors in January 2025. Deborah is a Qualified Mediator with a background in law and advocacy. Deborah is currently the Chair of the Board’s Advocacy Committee. Together with other Advocacy Committee Members, Deborah advocates for seniors in the Oshawa/Durham Region community, especially Members of the OSCC55+.

Chiara Campitelli-Thompson is a Social Worker and healthcare leader with 25 years of experience across diverse health system settings, with a dedicated career in advancing the health and wellbeing of older adults. Chiara currently holds the role of Executive Director with the Community Health Centres of Northumberland, has recently joined the OSCC55+ Board of Directors, and is excited to contribute to and support such an impactful organization.

John Gray is a longtime Oshawa community leader and Ward 5 City Councillor with more than 25 years of experience serving residents at the municipal level. A lifelong Durham Region resident, John has dedicated much of his career to public service, first serving on Oshawa City and Durham Regional Council, followed by two terms as Mayor of Oshawa from 2003 to 2010. He returned to City Council in 2018 and was re-elected in 2022, continuing his commitment to representing Ward 5 and contributing to the growth and well-being of the Oshawa community. Known for his strong connection to the community and extensive municipal experience, John continues to bring his knowledge, leadership and passion for Oshawa to his work on behalf of residents.

Joan Hannah retired as an Executive Assistant working in the charity, financial, and corporate sectors. She's an active volunteer at OSCC55+.

Prav Jegathees is a healthcare leader with a background in healthcare management and community partnerships. As the CEO of a Canadian home and community care organization, he works closely with long-term care homes, retirement communities, and community organizations to strengthen access to quality care for seniors. Prav is passionate about initiatives that help older adults remain active, connected, and supported within their communities.

After completing his B.A., M.A., and B. ED., Paul McNeil dedicated his career to education. Now a retired teacher and member of the Oshawa community, he brings those skills to serving the members of the OSCC55+ and doing what he can to enhance the lives of seniors in our city.

Candidar Oreko is a Registered Social Worker (M.S.W, R.S.W), entrepreneur, and community advocate with deep expertise in seniors’ mental health, trauma-informed care, and equity-focused service delivery. She is the founder of BeYou with Candidar, a private therapy practice in Ontario and a Care Coordinator with Ontario Health atHome, bringing a unique blend of clinical, operational, and cultural advocacy experience to the OSCC55+ Board of Directors.

Allison Weir is a Senior Project Manager, Global Real Estate & Corporate Services at financial institution, with over 14 years of experience leading strategic initiatives across real estate, technology and operations, project management, and organizational transformation. She has a strong track record of delivering complex projects, building collaborative partnerships, and driving meaningful change. In addition to her professional role, Allison has held leadership positions supporting mentorship, employee engagement, and community-building initiatives. She is passionate about fostering inclusive, connected communities and brings expertise in governance, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and program delivery.