In June, Megan Rader stepped into the role of Executive Director, bringing a strong background in nonprofit communications, community engagement, and relationship building. With more than four years of experience at the YWCA Niagara Region, Megan worked closely with women, children, and families experiencing homelessness, helping foster meaningful community connections and translating support into tangible outcomes.
Originally from Belmont, Ontario, Megan spent the past eight years in the Niagara Region while completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Communications at Brock University. Throughout her career, she has been inspired by work that brings people together around a shared purpose.
“The way Fort St. John shows up and takes care of their community is unlike any other community that I’ve witnessed. The care shown for loved ones and neighbours alike is the kind of generosity that has a truly meaningful impact on the patient care here at the hospital,” says Megan. “Being able to support initiatives that enhance care, improve experiences, and ensure our hospital continues to meet the needs of this remarkable community is both a privilege and an inspiration. I’m looking forward to what we will achieve together!”
Also recently joining the Foundation’s in-house team is Tatjana Eggie as Operations Coordinator. She brings more than 15 years of experience serving nonprofit organizations and the communities they support. She began her career working in assisted living and community care settings, helping seniors and vulnerable individuals maintain dignity, independence, and quality of life.
Tatjana holds a Bachelor of Arts in Counselling and Caregiving and a Certificate in Not-for-Profit Business Management. In her role with the Foundation, she will support donor stewardship, foundation operations, and ongoing fundraising initiatives while helping build strong relationships with donors, partners, and community members.
Patricia Budgell has also joined the Foundation team as Community Coordinator, where she will help strengthen relationships with supporters, volunteers, event partners, and community members.
Originally from Newfoundland, Patricia and her husband relocated to Fort St. John to be closer to work opportunities as their family grew with the birth of their daughter. What began as a temporary move quickly became home. Through her involvement with the Rotary Club of Fort St. John and numerous local fundraising initiatives, she has helped lead events, support non-profit organizations, and strengthen the community she proudly calls home.
Supporting the organization in advisory and communications capacities are:
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- Colleen Stewart, serving as Foundation Leadership Advisor
- Vanessa Asmus, serving as Marketing & Media Relations
While not Foundation employees, Stewart and Asmus will provide strategic leadership support, communications guidance, media relations, and marketing direction as the Foundation continues evolving its community presence and donor engagement initiatives.
“This is an exciting time for the Foundation,” said Board Chair, Desirae Jeannotte. “Over the past several months, we’ve had the opportunity to welcome some incredible people to our team. Megan, Tatjana, Patricia, Vanessa, and Colleen each bring their own experiences, skills, and passion for community, and I’m genuinely excited to see the impact they will have. Just as importantly, they care deeply about the people behind the work; our donors, our healthcare teams, and the patients and families we serve.”
The Foundation says these additions reflect a renewed focus on community connection, storytelling, donor engagement, and sustainable growth, as it continues to support equipment, programs, and initiatives that enhance patient care at the Fort St. John Hospital & Peace Villa.
“One of the things I love most about Fort St. John is how quickly people step up when their community needs them,” said Desirae. “We see it every day through our donors, volunteers, healthcare staff, and community partners. Their generosity helps make better healthcare possible close to home. We’re excited to continue building those relationships, sharing the impact of every gift, and helping people see the difference they are making in the lives of their friends, neighbours, and loved ones.”
The Foundation will continue sharing updates, campaign announcements, and community initiatives throughout the coming months as the new team steps into their roles.
For more information, please contact:
Fort St. John Hospital Foundation
fsjhf@northernhealth.ca
250 261 7563