Dale holds a BSc in Anthropology/Archaeology from Trent University, and an MA in Folklore from Memorial University. For many years he oversaw Heritage NL’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Office which helps communities to safeguard their traditional culture. Dale has contributed as a board member and volunteer to many local arts and heritage organizations. Former newspaper columnist, and author of several books, he is a tireless promoter of local traditions.
Jen Crowe (she/her) is the Executive Director of Choices for Youth (CFY), a leading non-profit organization dedicated to ending youth homelessness and improving outcomes for vulnerable young people across Newfoundland and Labrador. At CFY, Jen leads a team of more than 120 staff serving over 1,100 youth annually through a comprehensive network of supports, including supportive and affordable housing, social enterprise training and employment, mental health and health services, and family-based programming. Under her leadership, CFY is spearheading the development of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Integrated Youth Services (IYS) network, a province-wide initiative in partnership with 65+ community partners, to transform the way that youth access mental health and social services.
Jen also serves on the Board of Directors the Canadian Housing Renewal Association and sits on the Board of Directors for the YWCA St. John’s. Jen holds a Masters in Public Administration from Western University, and an Honours in Political Science and Certificate in Public Policy from Memorial University. Jen brings a systems-focused, equity-driven approach to her work, all with the goal of addressing the root causes of homelessness and poverty and breaking down barriers so that youth can achieve their goals.
Nora is the Director of Programs and Innovation at the Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism (GMIST). After graduating from university, she worked for several years in Toronto, but, like many who move away, she felt compelled to return to the Newfoundland & Labrador. Since then, Nora has worked in various tourism and business development roles throughout Western Newfoundland with organizations such as Corner Brook Port Corporation, Western DMO and Creative Gros Morne. She has been a part of the GMIST team since 2021 and has been fortunate to be part of collaborating and developing new programming such as LIFT, an Experience Development Program and ACTivate, a Community Development Program.
Rudy Norman is a passionate advocate for rural sustainability, and brings a wealth of experience in business, economic development, and marketing to the role. As the Mayor of Burlington, NL, he has been instrumental in revitalizing his hometown, leading initiatives to boost tourism and foster community growth.
Rudy’s work includes playing a key role in the development of Shaun Majumder’s eco-tourism venture, ‘OME, where his expertise helped establish a sustainable business model that remains a cornerstone of Burlington’s tourism industry. In fact, Rudy is no stranger to MNL, having recently taken the stage at the 2024 MNL Conference alongside Shaun during the keynote address.
Born and raised in Burlington, Rudy has dedicated his career to showcasing the unique charm and potential of rural Newfoundland and Labrador. His insights and leadership continue to inspire positive change across the province, making him an ideal choice to spearhead the Tomorrow’s Towns program.
A seasoned professional specializing in facilitation and training services, Carole R. Spicer brings extensive experience across private, public, and community sectors.
Carole has honed her expertise in creating dynamic and engaging learning environments.
As a certified master trainer, she excels in tailoring solutions to meet the unique needs of her clients at Spicer Facilitation, empowering individuals, governments, and organizations to achieve their goals collaboratively.
A natural storyteller, Carole draws upon her experiences to connect and build relationships, passionately supporting her family, heritage, and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Residing in Pasadena, Newfoundland and Labrador with her husband Tim, and their cats Patches and Pepper, she serves as Chairperson of the Pasadena Heritage Society - NL Inc. and Secretary of the Pasadena Public Library Board.
In her free time, Carole enjoys snowshoeing, reading, swimming, and researching her family tree.
With a commitment to continuous growth and a genuine desire to make a positive impact, Carole R. Spicer leads Spicer Facilitation in facilitating success and fostering meaningful connections in all aspects of life.
