Chair

Patricia Johnson, Ph.D., is an educator and researcher with clinical experience in rehabilitation in community settings in both the public and private sectors. She is an experienced researcher in acquired brain injury and helps the Board evaluate its programs and services.

Board of Directors

Robert H. Brent is a lawyer working in the Legal Services Branch of the Ontario Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry. Bob received his law degree from the University of Western Ontario, and also holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in journalism from Northwestern University. Before pursuing a legal career, Bob was a reporter with The Toronto Star, covering municipal politics.

Ken Eccleston received his B.A. from Glendon College and LL.B. from Osgoode Hall Law School. After working in various law firms until 1994, Ken formed Movat, Eccleston which focuses on construction-related and general commercial litigation. Ken is also involved with the Canadian Bar Association, Continuing Legal Education, Construction Law and Toronto Construction sections. Mr. Eccleston has a family member who sustained an ABI many years ago.

Jonathan Kearns is a registered architect in Ontario and a principal with Kearns Mancini Architects in Toronto. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from University College, Dublin, Ireland, and professional associations with the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, the Royal Insititute of British Architects and of the Architects of Ireland.

Susan Stiasny, B. Sc., MBA, is a research consultant in the health and social services fields. Her prior experience has included policy analysis in the fields of health promotion, workers compensation, particularly of occupational diseases, and addiction and mental health. Originally a Board member in 1978, she rejoined the Board in 2002 and will assist in the evaluation of CHIRS' programs and services.

Rika Vander Laan, RN, MScN, has been an independent health care consultant since 2002. Previously, she was the Executive Director of the Toronto Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Network for seven years. In that role, Rika was first introduced to the field of brain injury, its challenges, its rewards and the opportunities to impact the lives of those living with an ABI. Rika worked with many CHIRS staff during her tenure at the Network and brings a wealth of knowledge in the field of ABI.

Pat Weismiller, B. Ed., M.A., has been on the Board of Directors since 2000. As a school teacher, guidance counsellor and parent of a son who lives with the effects of a brain injury, Pat brings a unique perspective to the Board. Her personal and professional experience helps to bring focus to clinical and planning decisions.

Gordon H. Willis is a Chartered Accountant and one of the owners of CRO Solutions Inc., a management advisory firm that specializes in interim management and turnaround services for businesses experiencing financial difficulties. Prior to establishing this business, Gordon was a partner for almost 20 years in one of Canada’s largest public accounting firms. He has been on the board of a number of not-for-profit enterprises, including serving for four years as Chairman of the Board of one of Ontario’s public hospitals.