Board

Paul Morgan

Paul Morgan has been a dedicated volunteer with EmpowerNL for more than 25 years, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to Independent Living and the EmpowerNL community. In 2023, Paul became Chair of the EmpowerNL Board of Directors, bringing his extensive organizational knowledge and experience to this leadership role.

Paul is actively involved in several EmpowerNL committees, including the Occupational Health & Safety Committee, Governance & Nomination Committee, and Human Resources Committee. He is also a longstanding garden volunteer and a valued member of the EmpowerNL Garden Committee.

A familiar face at EmpowerNL, Paul regularly participates in member activities, including educational sessions, peer support opportunities, and special events. In recognition of his many years of dedication, leadership, and service, Paul is a proud recipient of the Cecilia Carroll Independent Living Award.

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Mandy Penney

Mandy Penney is a dedicated professional with a strong background in social enterprise, accessibility, and inclusion. With a diverse educational background spanning psychology, sociology, social work, and business, she brings a multidisciplinary approach to her work. As a seasoned practitioner, Mandy has held various roles with InclusionNL, where she has spearheaded initiatives to promote accessibility and employment equity for people with disabilities.

Her commitment to advocacy extends beyond her professional endeavors, as evidenced by her volunteer work with organizations, such as Disabled Women’s Network (DAWN) of Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador Patient Advisory Council (PAC), Raise Up Fundraising, NewfoundSand Co-op, and Empower, the Disability Resource Centre.

Mandy is also a skilled public speaker, regularly sharing her insights on disability rights and inclusive employment at conferences and forums nationwide. In her current role as Employment Equity Officer with Memorial University, where she provides expert guidance and support to uphold Memorial University’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity in employment practices.

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Amanda Howlett

Amanda’s inspiring journey with EmpowerNL began in 2006 when she joined as a quiet, shy youth group member. Over the years, she blossomed into a strong advocate for people with disabilities, starting to volunteer in 2008 with peer support activities and eventually becoming a Peer Leader for the Dinner Club. Her commitment culminated in her service as a Board Member, where she educates and provides valuable insight.

Furthermore, Amanda has demonstrated remarkable professional growth since graduating high school, transitioning from relying on a job coach to working independently in a job she loves, perfectly illustrating the empowering impact of her involvement and dedication to the IL Philosophy. Amanda is a valuable member of EmpowerNL who demonstrates Independent Living and encourages other members to engage in their community.

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Renee March

Renee March has been a valued member of the EmpowerNL Board of Directors for several years and serves as Chair of the Financial Management Committee. As the Board’s Financial Advisor, Renee plays an important role in supporting the organization’s financial oversight and ensuring EmpowerNL remains compliant with its financial reporting obligations to the provincial government.

Renee studied at Cape Breton University and brings her knowledge, commitment, and attention to detail to her work with the Board. She has a strong passion for supporting people within the disability community and is dedicated to advancing EmpowerNL’s mission and the principles of inclusion and Independent Living.

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Terrie Hefford

Terrie Hefford has been a dedicated member of EmpowerNL for more than 10 years, contributing her time, leadership, and enthusiasm to the organization in many ways. From 2019 to 2025, Terrie served as Chairperson of the EmpowerNL Garden Committee and has also been a longstanding volunteer with the committee.

For more than a year, Terrie has served as a Peer Leader with the EmpowerNL Dinner Club, helping to create opportunities for connection, friendship, and community participation. In 2025, she expanded her involvement with EmpowerNL by joining the Board of Directors.

Outside of EmpowerNL, Terrie is an active member of her community and an avid Boccia player. She has also been a member of a local dart league for more than five years.

Terrie’s longstanding involvement with EmpowerNL reflects her commitment to peer leadership, volunteerism, and building an inclusive and connected community.

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Katie Cashin

Katie Cashin is a longstanding member of EmpowerNL and a graduate of EmpowerNL’s Independent Living (IL) Internship Program. She has served on the EmpowerNL Board of Directors for many years, proudly representing Western Newfoundland. Katie also contributes to the organization through her involvement on the Governance & Nomination Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee.

A graduate of the Community Studies program at College of the North Atlantic, Katie is a dedicated community volunteer and advocate. Her community involvement has included volunteering with the Stephenville Pride Committee and the Bay St. George Status of Women Council.

Katie’s commitment to community, inclusion, and Independent Living continues to make her a valued member of EmpowerNL and its Board of Directors.

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Hailey Pudan

Hailey has been volunteering her time on EmpowerNL’s Board for roughly two years. She is committed to working as a team, supporting initiatives, policies, and activities that enrich our community.

Identifying as a person of colour with a disability and a parent to a child with a disability, being a Board member connects her to the accessibility movement. She is committed to integrating IDEA-AR values into our organization to increase awareness of the everyday barriers faced in the province.

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Susan Barrett

Susan Barrett is a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer with over two decades of experience in the funeral profession, serving families since 2000. She currently works with funeral homes throughout Atlantic Canada, helping them build a healthy financial future through pre-arranged funeral investments.

Based in Paradise, Newfoundland and Labrador, Susan is passionate about strengthening the profession and supporting long-term sustainability for the communities she serves. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, camping, and hiking with her family, which includes her husband, two stepsons, and their two beloved German Shepherds.

Her involvement with Empower began while seeking resources to support her adult stepson in finding meaningful employment, reflecting her commitment to family and advocacy. Susan also spent two years as a director on the Board of Independent Living Canada, and The Children’s Grief Foundation of Canada.

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