Instructor Biographies

Alan Cadwell

Alan Cadwell is a lifelong advocate for education with over 50 years of experience in teaching, business, and community leadership. His career in adult education began in 1993 as Director of the Centre for Business Development and Training at the University of the Fraser Valley, where he designed and taught programs to help mature students upgrade skills and re-enter the workforce. Known for his trademark question, “What did you learn today?” Alan inspires others to see learning as a daily habit and a key to staying engaged with the world.

Today, Alan serves on the executive of Chilliwack ElderCollege as Chair of the Finance and Policy Committee and guest lecturer, where he shares his expertise in technology and artificial intelligence to help seniors navigate the digital age. He also leads as Chairman of the Residents’ Council at Elim Village Garrison Crossing, representing nearly 400 seniors. Whether teaching, leading, or volunteering, Alan’s passion for lifelong learning, service, and community-building continues to shape and inspire those around him.

Amanda Ralling

Amanda is an ADHD-specialized counselor living and working in the vibrant community of Chilliwack, who is deeply committed to helping individuals and families navigate the unique challenges and strengths of this neurodivergent condition. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Fraser Valley, she draws inspiration from the restorative power of the outdoors and guides clients towards developing personalized strategies to thrive.

With empathy and expertise, she works closely with clients – whether they are managing their own ADHD, supporting a child with ADHD, or building understanding in their partnerships. Drawing from the latest research and her extensive experience, she empowers those with ADHD to harness their innate creativity, flexibility, and hyper-focus, while also providing support for the emotional and organizational hurdles they may face.
Beyond individual counseling, she also facilitates workshops and support groups within the Chilliwack community to foster a network of mutual understanding and shared solutions.

Her goal is to make a tangible difference in the lives of all those impacted by ADHD, helping them overcome barriers and unlock their fullest potential.

Carol Benson-Hitch

Carol has been working in the fitness industry for over 32-years in several capacities. As a Personal Trainer, Carol’s aim is to assist clients who have diagnoses, such as arthritis, and incorporate fitness in their daily lives; to guide clients who have completed physiotherapy after an accident, injury or surgery in order to prevent any further damage while exercising; to revamp existing exercisers programs and; to introduce newcomers to the world of daily physical activity.

With a diagnosis of RA over 28 years ago, Carol provides a “leads by example” attitude whether in the gym, instructing a fitness class or teaching Nordic Walking groups and individuals.

Carol’s Motto: Life is good but it can be great!

Carson Loeppky

Carson Loeppky is an instructor at the Chilliwack Academy of Music with 6 cumulative years of theory, performance, and ensemble experience from Trinity Western University. Carson has played in many ensembles, including R&B, Pop, Rock, Orchestra, Musical Theatre, Jazz and Folk. Carson enjoys writing, performing, and recording with other musicians creatively to bring out their unique voice. Carson’s off time is filled with swing dancing and restoring his 1980 Chevy.

Colleen Gingerich

Colleen has enjoyed teaching ElderCollege classes sporadically for the past 20 years. Lifelong learning is one of her passions.

She has been in education most of her life — first as a student, then as a high school teacher and has recently retired from her position as an Associate Professor in the Computer Information Systems Department of UFV. Colleen also enjoys kayaking, gardening, and reading.

Dale Deardon

Dale Dearden taught Criminology at Kwantlen Polytechnic University for over 25 years, specializing in Canadian Legal Systems, the criminal law, and social science research methods. Dale is now retired and living in Chilliwack.

David Hobson

David Hobson is an award winning international speaker, trainer, improv comedy actor and author. He specializes in helping people develop their business communication skills.

David is a Distinguished Toastmaster with Toastmasters International and a winner of the Presentation Mastery Award from the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers, Vancouver Chapter.

He is the founder member of SimPhoney Improv comedy group, which performs around the local area and, he also teaches people how to have fun and laugh at life without resorting to a script.

As an author, David has published “From Presentations Kill? To Presentation Skill!” and a series of children’s stories called “Harbour Tales”.

Don Turenne

It wasn’t love at first site. In fact, it was one of the most unforgiving of mediums in the hardest forms of work – where Don discovered his passion for art.

Having worked in a family run concrete business on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, and then being self employed for over 25 years in the Fraser Valley, Don has worked with concrete for over 50 years.  Don opened his own studio called the “Concretist” where he taught workshops that involved concrete mold making, and casting to create unique garden art pieces.

Don later discovered his passion for glass after attending hot glass casting courses at Red Deer College and then working as a T.A. at the prestigious Pilchuck College.  

He has recently retired from a local highway’s maintenance company after 15 years as a Bridge Superintendent.  Through his work experiences, Don incorporates both nature and structural design into his art with a growing curiosity and passion for experimenting with multi mediums. Don pushes the boundaries of traditional art with the intersection of mixed mediums and abstract design, that now expands beyond concrete and glass – to paper, wood, fabric and metal. 

Doris Heller

As a dedicated lifelong learner, Doris thrives on the pursuit of knowledge and continuous growth while still making time to have lots of fun. Passionate about fostering connections, she channels her love for games into creating shared moments of joy.

By bringing people together, Doris aims to cultivate an environment where fun and enjoyable experiences become lasting memories.

Elizabeth Grimaldi & Fresh Impressions Catering

Fresh Impressions Catering is the fruition of a Provincial Red Sealed Chef putting her head, heart and hands together to provide the Fraser Valley with food prepared with craftsmanship and charisma. The concept of Fresh Impressions Catering refers to “a play on words”. Your “Fresh Impression” is a fresh new look and the resulting impressions that happily linger.

Fresh Impressions Catering is the fresh, local and distinct choice when planning any function. Whether it be a corporate event, special occasion, wedding, family gathering, business meeting or private dinner in your home. The goal of Fresh Impressions Catering is to continue it’s solid reputation in the culinary field. Fresh Impressions Catering consistently provides the highest standard of exceptional quality food. Menus are inspired by international cuisines with items sourced locally and cooked from scratch. Creativity with ingredients and presentation is of the utmost importance. With Fresh Impressions Catering, no meal is impossible because the goal is to realize the vision that the client has in the culinary food experience that they want to provide their guests.

Elizabeth is a Red Seal Chef with more than fifteen years experience in BC’s Food and Hospitality industry. She is highly proficient in catering and banquet management operations. Elizabeth is very experienced in menu planning, design, management and cost control. She earned her red seal by attending University of the Fraser Valley and Vancouver Community College. Her cooking experience includes: farm to table, hotel, fine-dining, catering, institutional, assisting in the Chilliwack School District’s Culinary Arts programs and teaching Elders College classes. She is a member of the BC Chef’s Association and the Canadian Culinary Federation of Chefs and Cooks.

With her artistic eye for detail, Elizabeth enjoys making every plate, platter, or bowl a striking show piece. Elizabeth also loves to create new dishes, experiment with ingredient combinations and presentation styles. Elizabeth is a positive and self-motivated chef that works hard at exceeding customer expectations through producing memorable dining experiences.

Gretchen Tournier

Gretchen worked as an E.A in the Chilliwack School District for 27 years. After retirement she tutored children after school until recently. Her passion is making cards, gardening, and crafting with her granddaughter.

Gretchen won the Peoples Choice Award in 2014 on the Rotary Garden Tour!

Harry Spaner

Harry’s journey with the Tai Chi arts started in the year 2000 after watching a local demonstration and conversing with practising members. He accepted an offer to join a class to explore further. Some twenty-five years later, as an accredited instructor, he is fully involved in practicing and teaching the Taoist Tai Chi arts to both beginners and advanced students.

The focus of instruction is to promote improved health and alleviate suffering. This is accomplished through a set of gentle movements with balance the primary goal.

Iska Scholl

Iska was born in Germany and is a native speaker. During her school years in Canada, she attended a German School every Saturday as well as a regular school, which culminated in a Sprach Diplom Degree during high school.

Iska has a BA in Psychology and a degree as a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine. She homeschooled her children till high school and is in the Army Reserve. Other interests include horseback riding, photography, and most recently learning about the stock market.

Jackie Chambers

Jackie comes from Maple Ridge where she managed a Book Club for over 15 years, as well as managed an Office Book Club while working. She retired to Chilliwack 7 years ago and joined a Club that she now oversees.

Jenn Carman Sáyémtelót

Jenn started beading in Winter 2022 she was searching for a way to connect culturally and for something fun to do. Jenn took a workshop locally and learned the Peyote Stitch. Instantly she felt connected to the process. Jenn found beading challenging but kept at it until it became a relaxing way to unwind at the end of the day. Jenn loves to learn and expand her knowledge and loves being able to share her work and teachings with others.

Jenn is a mom, wife and stepmom. A passionate early childhood educator who manages the child care centre at Stó:lō Service Agency. Jenn is also a councillor for her community Sq’ewá:lxw (Skawahlook) First Nation.

Jessica Fairweather

Jessica has always been fascinated by colour and contrasting colour combinations. Jessica is proficient in many art forms but specializes in glass mosaics, oil pastels, mixed media and acrylic paint. She enjoys the entire art process, from finding perspective, planning the design, persistence to finish and the fantastic feeling of perseverance. Jessica can create snow that glistens, the most delicate flowers, or winds and waves on a stormy day at the beach. She has also done commissions for businesses, private collectors and special occasion gifts.

Jessica lives in Chilliwack, B.C. with artist Jim Godfrey and their four children: Ian, William, Blythe, and Gabriel.

“I want to see what happens when I continue learning, creating, teaching, and inspiring.”

Karen Saenger

Karen is a retired high school History teacher with a deep interest in genocide studies. She has twice visited Rwanda and is a volunteer Board member of the Rwanda School Project.

Kim Wimmer

Kim Wimmer received his Private Pilots License in 1975 through Diploma Program Mount Royal College. He retired as 767 Captain with Air Canada in 2013 with around 30,000 hours. Flew wheels, skis and floats and is still kicking!

Lara Von Waldenburg

Since 1988 Lara’s practice has offered her a sanctuary of clarity, peace, and calm. Lara first discovered the benefits of yoga while attending Art School in New York City.

Yoga has been a partner to Lara’s career as a fine artist and to her creative path as a mother; offering tools that cultivate a clear vision and strength while maintaining the channel of creativity receptive and unrestrained.

During the years of living as a professional artist and raising two children into adulthood, Lara has been able to maintain balance in her life accepting life’s offerings and misgivings. She gives gratitude to yoga, and to her lifelong practice for creating a path of acceptance, courage and flexibility.

She attributes the practice of balanced inversions and grounded postures to helping her prepare for life’s turbulent times. Lara is grateful for yoga always leading back to learning and enjoys being a lifelong student.

Lara’s 200hr yoga teacher training certification at Open Door Yoga Vancouver B.C 2011, her prenatal yoga certification as well as teaching over 5000 classes and being trained as a Trauma Informed yoga teacher has been pivotal in building and nurturing Inner Vision Yoga.

Louise Pollock

Over the years, Louise’s artistic journey has been one of discovery and creative exploration. Through participation in various workshops—including photography, pencil and ink drawing, Zentangle, and Cyanotype—she has found inspiration and connection with like-minded individuals. Her art provides an outlet to dream, explore, and relax, keeping the spirit of playfulness alive.

While her path has taken many turns, each detour brings renewed vision. For her, the creative process is less about the destination and more about the joy of daydreaming along the way.

Lyle Simpson

My name is Lyle Simpson and I am the President of the Chilliwack Pickleball Club. I have been playing pickleball for about 12 years. I am a certified NCCP level 1 instructor and have also attained a level 1 certification from the IPTPA (International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association).

Before becoming president of the CPC, I was the Player Development Coordinator.

I have taught hundreds of people to play and enjoy the game of pickleball and have previously instructed classes at the Elder College.

Dr. Mike Corman

Dr. Michael Corman is an Associate Professor in the School of Culture, Media, & Society

at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV). Prior to coming to UFV, Dr. Corman held teaching/research positions in other parts of Canada, Qatar, and the United Kingdom.

Dr. Corman’s research has appeared in Perspectives on Medical Education, Social Theory & Health, Symbolic Interaction, The Journal of Contemporary Ethnography, Qualitative Health Research, the International Journal of Educational Research, Families in Society: The Journal of Contemporary Social Services, and the International Journal of Social Sciences. Furthermore, he has recently published a book through the University of Toronto Press entitled, Paramedics on and off the streets: Emergency medical services in the age of technological governance.

Pat Gerlach

Pat Gerlach loves the surprises of painting with watercolour, but she also enjoys other mediums such as acrylic, pastel, pencil, pen and ink, and large-scale mural painting.

Besides painting, she has worked with cedar bark baskets and stained glass. Her work is varied and has been shown at galleries and museums in British Columbia and Alberta. Currently Pat is loving teaching art classes to children and adults in the Fraser Valley.

Rowland Amos

Rowland served as Church organist and music director for over 50 years before retiring in 2020. He also taught Music, French and grades 4-6 in several local public schools until 2006. Rowland holds Music degrees from McGill, Western Washington, and Indiana, as well as post-graduate studies at Gonzaga, Boston, and Simon Fraser. Rowland is married with three adult children and nine grandchildren.

Ruby Rodier

Ruby Rodier is a French-speaking Canadian who learned English in her late 30s, bringing a unique and empathetic perspective to language instruction.

When approached to develop a short program in French conversation, she was inspired by the question, “What else can I teach in French?” That curiosity—paired with a mix of excitement, vulnerability, and challenge—continues to fuel her creativity in the classroom.

In addition to language instruction, Ruby has been teaching yoga since 1986, offering a well-rounded approach to lifelong learning that blends communication, mindfulness, and personal growth.

Sheila Ardies

Sheila is one of the most talented Choir Instructors in the Fraser Valley and her students have won numerous trophies and scholarships at local and provincial levels. Sheila has a diploma of vocal performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music and has studied voice with Susan Weiser, Geraldine Patterson, Henriette Schellenberg, and choral conducting with William Berg. In choirs all her life, she is passionate about their importance in our lives and is a sought after vocal & choral adjudicator and clinician.

Trish Van Vliet

Trish began sewing at an early age and her sewing business has given her many areas of expertise throughout the 25 plus years. These include children’s wear, home decor, fashion and formal wear including bridal, dance, and skating apparel as well as offering alterations for just about everything.

Trish’s dedication and hard work ethic to making sewing popular and fun again is her focus in class as well as learning as much as you can to feel more accomplished in your sewing!