Derek Forgie [e-mail]

Steering Comittee Chair

In 2003 Derek had this idea that he thought could be the most effective voice for same-sex equality. Getting all the straight people who believe in equality together in one place and saying with one voice: We believe people of all sexual orientations are equal. Since then he has leaned heavily on like minded people who have the same passion and believe in this vision. They are the reason for the HSSE’s existence. For that, he is endlessly grateful.

Jayson Stewart [e-mail]

Northern Ontario Representative

Jayson is the most northern of Steering Committee members. He's a teacher in....catch the irony...the Rainbow District where he teaches English, Media Art, Communication Technology and Aboriginal Studies. He lives on a 17 acre hobby farm with his wife Cindy and their array of pets. He's an environmentalist, podcaster, amateur farmer, outdoorsman, and wannabe artist, and is excited that there's finally a group that gives voice to his concerns. Equality for all!

Jessica Wainberg [e-mail]

Volunteer Coordinator

Jessica is the newest member of the team. She has a genuine dedication to the cause as well as a priceless set of skills; she is the co-founder of Silverberry Occasions Event Planning and Design.

www.silverberryoccasions.com

Larissa Laycock

Member at Large

Larissa has been involved in the HSSE since it’s earliest stages. She was an important voice in the crucial early months of development. A passionate and thoughtful champion of gay rights, Larissa is a valuable Member at Large.

Liv-Aline Ringseisen [e-mail]

Vice Chair

Originally from Rhode Island, Livaline was recently granted permanent resident status in Canada. A student of psychology, and an advocate for civil rights, she was moved into action by the last Presidential election debates, as they fueled her interest in seeing the legalization of same-sex marriage and wiping out discrimination based on sexual orientation. She followed the arguments on both sides and educated herself on the issue, even choosing the debate for a senior paper topic. However, as a heterosexual, Livaline was unsure as to what her further role in the movement might be, and questioned whether her voice was even desired. That was until she met Derek Forgie and learned about HSSE. Livaline believes that straight people have a role in same-sex issues as much as the LGBTQ community does, and that it is her responsibility, as a straight woman, to help educate and allow other heterosexuals to develop and express acceptance, tolerance, and understanding.

Sara Meinke [e-mail]

Member at Large

Sara has a dog named Max. He likes playing with his ball. A lot.

Shona Chrisp

Vice Volunteer Coordinator

Shona was enthusiastically in attendance at the initial HSSE launch meeting in 2004. Since then she’s had a brief sabbatical due to extensive traveling but is back now in full swing helping further the HSSE.

Teddy Wilson [e-mail]

External Public Relations

Teddy is a versatile individual. Not only has he had a fruitful history in Canadian politics, he is currently enjoying a decorated career in television. He has worked behind the scene for The Comedy Network, MTV Canada as a segment producer, audience coordinator and talent booker. Currently you can see him on the other side of the camera as an on-air reporter for “The Circuit” on SPACE on Friday’s at 7:30pm EST.

Tessie Burton [e-mail]

Information Coordinator