GUELPH – Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson is the new trustee representing Orangeville at the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB).
O’Hara-Stephenson’s term began on Dec. 5, when the board voted unanimously to approve her appointment.
She is set to serve as Orangeville trustee for the remainder of the term – until Nov. 14, 2026.
An UGDSB trustee candidate in 2018, O’Hara-Stephenson is the founder and president of Dufferin County Canadian Black Association and the founder and chair of Shelburne’s anti-racism task force.
She works full time as the director of continuity and disaster readiness at RBC and is also the host of the RogersTV show In Conversation with Alethia.
The UGDSB called for applications to fill a vacancy in October, following the resignation of Kenn Manzerolle from the position.
“I am compelled to serve as a school trustee because I believe in the transformative power of education,” states O’Hara-Stephenson in a press release.
“My primary goal over the next three years is to promote student success by advocating for equitable access to resources and opportunities.”
UGDSB chair Ralf Mesenbrink told the Advertiser he is “feeling very good about the appointment.
“Alethia comes with more than 20 years experience in financial services … and is active in the community in Orangeville and Dufferin County.”
She is the director of the Shelburne Youth Advisory Committee and is a former representative for the UGDSB’s safe equitable and inclusive schools steering committee.
UGDSB director Peter Sovran stated, “I look forward to welcoming Alethia to the board, as we continue our work in being recognized as leaders in creating unparalleled, agile, and inclusive learning experiences for all, while putting students at the centre of everything we do.”
