Lori Barker, a native of P.E.I., will be heading Ronald McDonald House Charities Atlantic.
She took over on July 1 as chief executive officer from Shauna MacLennan, who is retiring after 25 years with the organization.
“As we look towards the future, we feel extremely fortunate to have an experienced leader of Lori’s calibre at the helm,"said board chairman Andrew McCullogh.
“A familiar face to many, Lori previously held the position of director of development, leading RMHC Atlantic’s philanthropic efforts throughout the Maritimes. Her passion for helping families, combined with her strategic outlook and ability to mobilize community support, is exactly what RMHC Atlantic needs as the organization enters its next chapter.”
Barker, a native of Summerside, served as the executive director of the P.E.I. division of the Canadian Cancer Society from 2012 to 2016 before accepting a lead role with Ronald McDonald House in Halifax, which helps families stay together and near the medical care they need.
“I am honoured to have been chosen to lead the organization through its next phase of growth. I also look forward to working with others in the charitable sector as we strive to recover from the challenges presented by the pandemic."
- Lori Barker
“Ronald McDonald House is an incredibly special place that focuses on supporting families during difficult times," said Barker.
“I am honoured to have been chosen to lead the organization through its next phase of growth. I also look forward to working with others in the charitable sector as we strive to recover from the challenges presented by the pandemic."
Barker holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Acadia University in Wolfville, N.S., and has been working in the charitable sector for almost 20 years. Prior to her role with RMHC Atlantic, she served as the executive director of the Canadian Cancer Society, P.E.I. bivision.
She lives in Halifax with her husband and three children.
