Our staff work tirelessly to disrupt the structures of abuse across Alberta. We’d love you to learn more about them:
Andrea Silverstone, CEO
I am responsible for the performance and sustainability of the organization. As the CEO, my job is to be laser-focused on the vision and mission of Sagesse, and rally support from all of our stakeholders to share in and execute the mission through our strategic plan.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
If everyone had the tools and confidence to ask for what they need (without shame or judgment), believe that they are worthy, and engage in fierce conversations, the world be more safe and equitable.
Carrie McManus, Director of Innovation and Programs
My role at Sagesse is to ensure our programs and activities are strategically moving the needle toward our vision of ending domestic abuse. This includes thinking of new ways to do things, stretching our goals, and equipping staff with the resources and support they need to effectively provide services and disrupt the structures of abuse.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
If I could change one thing I would empower people to see the beauty in the messy, the opportunity in the failure, and the greatness in a good question. Also, I would totally get rid of hail storms, what purpose does hail even have in this world?!?
Eric Pianarosa, Director of Operations and Finance
I oversee and manage the operational and financial activities of an organization, ensuring smooth operations, optimizing efficiency, and providing strategic financial guidance for decision-making and growth.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
More bikes!!
Trevor Williams, Men’s Engagement Coordinator
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
If you regard the 'other' who is before you and make your heart a sanctuary for their being, you will in turn, make your heart a sanctuary for your being.
Sarah MacDonald, Clinical Support Coordinator
As a Clinical Support Coordinator I am responsible for recruitment, onboarding and ongoing clinical supervision of peer support volunteers. Our team also coordinates all facilitation opportunities across the province of Alberta.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
I would change the inequality that too many individuals face, whether it’s poverty, sexism, stigma, racism.. our world has so much negativity and I would love to see more kindness, compassion, laughter and unity.
Sadia Anwar, Equity Support Coordinator
I currently coordinate our Rainbow Ready program to ensure that we are creating equitable and inclusive spaces for all individuals experiencing domestic abuse.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
The narrative of a single story.
Claudia Orantes, Volunteer Services Coordinator
Lorena Koenig, Relationship Coordinator
Lian Tolentino, Innovation Implementation Coordinator
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
I would want everyone to be able to have and feel genuine as well as authentic connections. Dr. Brené Brown defines connection as “the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship”. When I think about this, I recognize all the ways this may currently feel out of reach for some people or just entirely not even possible but I’ve always wondered, what would happen if everyone did?
