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CDO Ushers in New Governance Era with Board Election Results

Posted: April 29, 2024

Publié le 29 April 2024

CDO welcomes new board director Deion Weir, RD and announces the re-election of Teresa Taillefer, RD. We also thank outgoing director Julie Slack, RD for her contributions.
 

CDO is pleased to announce the results of its 2024 board election, held under the College's recently implemented governance model. This new model emphasizes core competencies for board members, a unified provincial district, and a streamlined board structure.

Deion Weir Elected, Teresa Taillefer Re-Elected
CDO extends a warm welcome to Deion Weir, who has been elected to the board. We also congratulate Teresa Taillefer on her successful re-election. Both will serve under the College's new governance framework.

Recognition for Departing Director
The College expresses its sincere gratitude to outgoing director Julie Slack for her dedicated service during her term from 2021 to 2024. Julie actively contributed to various committees and championed CDO's initiatives in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI-B), as well as governance modernization.

March Board Meeting
In its final meeting of the 2023-2024 term on March 22nd, the Board welcomed its new public member, Galina Semikhnenko, who was appointed in February.
 

DIRECTOR PROFILES

Deion Weir, RD
A passionate advocate for patient care, Deion Weir brings over 13 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian to the Board. Deion previously served on the Board for multiple terms, holding leadership positions including Council President (2017-2019).

Deion's academic background is equally impressive. Following graduation from Toronto Metropolitan University and a dietetic internship, she went on to earn a Master's degree from Central Michigan University. Her research, on the efficacy of early oral feeding post-surgery, was presented at the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition's Nutrition Week in 2007.

Deion's expertise extends beyond research. She has held various clinical and leadership roles throughout her career, including professional practice leader for dietitians at both Humber River Hospital and Oak Valley Health. Deion's commitment to future generations is evident in her development of training materials and curriculum for the Internationally Educated Dietitians Preregistration Program. Currently, Deion applies her leadership skills as Patient Care Manager for Inpatient Allied Health staff, including dietitians, at Oak Valley Health.

Deion's dedication shines through in her own words: "I am passionate about the provision of safe, competent and ethical patient care. My extensive experience allows me to contribute positively to the College's regulatory work, ensuring dietitians across Ontario can deliver the best care possible."

Teresa Taillefer, RD
CDO is fortunate to have Teresa Taillefer remain on our Board for the 2024-25 term. Teresa brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously served as the board's vice-president (2020-2021).

Teresa's passion for the College's mission is evident in her own words: "I'm honored to rejoin the Board and help shape the College's future," she states. "I'm confident I can contribute meaningfully."

This passion is backed by a diverse and impressive professional background. Teresa is a Registered Dietitian with experience spanning public health, clinical settings, administration, and quality assurance. Her leadership extends beyond CDO, with experience as president and vice-president for both a professional society and a charity organization.

Teresa's academic achievements are equally noteworthy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Human Nutrition, a Master's degree in Health Studies with a focus on Leadership, a Lean Green Belt certification in Six Sigma Process Improvement, and a Canadian Certified Patient Safety Officer Program certificate.
The Board plays a vital role in governing the College and regulating Ontario's dietetic profession in the public interest. Teresa's experience and qualifications make her a valuable asset to the Board as it sets strategic direction, monitors activities, and establishes bylaws and policies.