New ED Focused on Creating a Safe Environment for Women and Children

(Calgary, Alberta – January 10, 2020) – The Brenda Strafford Centre (BSC) has concluded the process of recruiting a new, strong Executive Director (ED), hiring Linda McLean to fill this very important role. Ms. McLean brings 25 years of experience that includes an impressive and highly relevant background in the not-for-profit sector, including the areas of social work, counseling, housing and emergency shelter, and domestic violence. She has a Bachelor and Master of Arts in Social Anthropology, a Doctorate in Philosophy, a Compassionate Inquiry Certification and is currently completing her Masters of Social Work.

“We are very pleased to have a leader of Linda’s stature and experience joining the team at the Brenda Strafford Centre,” said BSC Board Chair Jody Gibson. “When the search began, we said we were looking for a leader who would continue to deliver on the Centre’s strategic plan and build awareness of the impact family violence has in our city. We are confident we have found that leader in Linda.”

Ms. McLean has worked in leadership positions within a broad range of organizations including the United Way of Calgary, Calgary Homeless Foundation, Calgary Drop in & Rehab Centre Society, Inn from the Cold, The Gordie Howe Centre for Alzheimer’s Research and Education Society, and Fort Calgary. Most recently, she spent the last two years on the West Coast, leading initiatives with a specific focus on homelessness services and innovative responses to the opioid crisis in both Victoria and Vancouver, serving as Chief Operating Officer with Our Place Society and as a Director with the City of Vancouver in the Arts, Culture and Community Services portfolio.

She is a firm believer that all challenges can be met through creativity, commitment and dedication to an ethic of care.

“I am thrilled to join the outstanding team at the Brenda Strafford Centre and return home to Calgary,” said incoming BSC Executive Director Linda McLean. “One of my core strengths is building strong relationships and working with all stakeholders, including the Brenda Strafford Foundation, with the overarching goal of creating a safe environment for women and children. I am looking forward to leading the organization through its next phase of growth and evolution.”

Ms. McLean begins her new role February 7th.

The BSC Board thanks interim Executive Director Brigitte Baradoy for her leadership and guidance over the last few months and acknowledges the professionalism and dedication of all employees as they have continued to focus on what matters most: providing excellent support to clients.