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.

Bettina Ford was born and raised in Gander, where she continues to live and serve her community. Since 2004, she has worked with the Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador, where she plays a leading role in strengthening the province’s non-profit sector. Bettina specializes in non-profit governance and volunteer management, delivering training and support to help organizations build strong boards, retain volunteers, and operate effectively. Her work also includes program design, policy input, and community-based research aimed at building capacity across the sector.

With a background in business development, proposal writing, and customer service training through previous roles with the regional economic development board and the provincial tourism industry association, Bettina brings a practical and people-focused approach to every project she takes on.

Deeply committed to her community, Bettina has volunteered in a wide variety of roles—from leading fundraising efforts for cancer care through Swim for Hope, to mentoring youth in public speaking, to serving on boards dedicated to environmental stewardship, community development, and local heritage.

In addition to her professional and volunteer work, Bettina brings municipal experience to the table as the current Deputy Mayor of Gander, a role she resumed in 2021 after originally serving on council in her early twenties. Her lived experience in both the municipal and community sectors gives her a unique perspective on how we can build stronger, more connected towns and regions.

Bradley Power is a well-known community leader who has served as a champion of local government and organizations that are committed to building stronger communities and preserving the traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Before joining the team at Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador, Brad spent three years as the Board Clerk and Outreach Coordinator at the Eastern Regional Service Board, providing support and guidance for the Board and numerous joint councils, regional committees, and mayors’ associations throughout the Eastern Region of Newfoundland. He served as a communications director and manager within the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for eight years prior to that.

A consummate professional, Brad is eager to build new relationships and take on new projects. He is usually the first person to volunteer for something locally, and he maintains a deep love for this province and its people. He has brought his energy and enthusiasm to Municipalities NL as Director of Programs, responsible for operations, program development and execution, financial management, sponsorships, external partnerships, member service development, and training.

Brad is a graduate of the College of the North Atlantic, with a diploma in Business Management (Marketing), and studied at Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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.