Board Biographies
Neil H. Johnson, P.Eng., Vice President
- Born & Raised in Calgary, Alberta
- Married Lorraine Johnson in 1977
- Moved to Lethbridge in 1999
- Attended the University of Calgary – Graduated with a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering
- Currently employed as Regional Vice President for Melcor Developments Ltd
- LSA Board Member since 2009
- Chairman of Urban Development Institute – Lethbridge Chapter
I feel it is important that Lethbridge have a strong social fabric to be a viable and growing city. The LSA is a critical part of the Lethbridge and southern Alberta arts community and a very worthwhile cultural activity enjoyed by many. I believe it is our civic obligation to participate in community organizations which bring benefit to the young and old alike. Enjoying the fantastic music performed by our quality orchestra is a side benefit of being involved with the LSA
Sandra Brunelle, Secretary
Sandra Brunelle has been an educator in Lethbridge for 30 years with a strong background in choral and band direction. Sandra brings a wealth of experience to the LSO, including:
- Served as President of the Alberta Teacher’s Association Local #41 for three years
- Served on the Alberta Choral Federation Board for ten years
- Served with Lethbridge Musical Theatre in the following capacities – Orchestra pit, back stage, on stage, Vocal Director
- Served on the Local Carl Orff Association Board
- Director of McKillop United Church Senior Choir for eight years
- Served on the Ambassador Committee for the Alberta 55 Plus Winter Games 2009
Penny Cochlan
Penny Cochlan is an advocate for public education and the teaching profession. She taught for over 37 years, mainly with Lethbridge School District 51. She has served in many capacities with the Alberta Teachers’ Association, including a term as President of the Southern Alberta Fine Arts Council and as President of Lethbridge Public School ATA Local 41.
Community involvement is important to Penny. She works with teachers and Canadian Mental Health on the Healthy Minds, Bright Futures Project, promoting brain health among students and their families.
Penny grew up on a ranch west of Stavely and completed her Education degree at the University of Lethbridge. Her daughter, Kameko Higa-Baender works for the Banff Centre. Her son, Raiden Higa, works in Lethbridge.
Music was an important part of her life growing up and has continued to enrich her life.
Robert D. (Bob) Tarleck, M.A., M.Ed., Ako’Tasi
Since moving to Lethbridge in 1966, Bob has been tirelessly involved in the community. Bob has served as an active volunteer (in many cases as chairman or board member) with innumerable organizations including: The Canadian Mental Health Association, The United Way, Lethbridge Habitat for Humanity, Lethbridge Handicapped Riding Association, The Native Liaison Committee, Lethbridge Family Services and The Urban Parks Steering Committee.
After three terms as Mayor, Bob retired from political life in October, 2010. He continues to sit on the Alberta Economic Development Authority and he has recently assumed the position of Volunteer Director for the 2012 Alberta Summer Games. He accepted a short-term appointment to the Economic Development Task Force of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass. The Task Force recommendation was approved in June 2011. Bob is presently under contract with SouthGrow Regional Alliance to develop a political advocacy position on water management in southern Alberta. He continues to sit on the Alberta Economic Development Authority and the Sustainable and Regional Development Committee.
In September, 2011 Bob will receive an award at the Mayor’s Arts Luncheon for service to the arts.
Kendall Gibson
Kendall is a retired Television executive. He had been involved in the Television industry for over 40 years. He has held almost every position within the business, except in front of the camera and actually pushing the camera. Most recently he was the Sales and Marketing Manager for Global Lethbridge, for the past 12 years.
Kendall has also been involved with the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce, the Chinook Country Tourist Association and is currently involved with the Rotary Club of Lethbridge, and has just returned from a month long Rotary Friendship Exchange to England.
Kendall has been a big supporter of the Lethbridge Symphony thru Global Television. Since his retirement he has decided to continue his support with the Symphony by letting his name stand for election onto the Board.
He’s married to Sandy, and has 3 grown children and 11 grandchildren.
Sheila Matson
Sheila Matson serves as President of the Lethbridge Symphony Women’s League, and has been involved with the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra since her 3-year stint as General Manager from 1998-2000. Her parents, Bob and Norah Hawn were (and are) long-time supporters of the LSO. Her mother, Norah Hawn is still an active member of the SWL, and was one of the original members of the league. There is a long heritage of music and music appreciation in the family, and Sheila has been passed the gene! Sheila is well known in the Lethbridge theatre community.