Executive

Lawrence Hrycan, President

Lawrence began as ARTA (Alberta Retired Teachers’ Association) director in 2018 and served on the PAC (Political Advocacy Committee) from 2018–2024. With the change in governance structure, he joined the Executive from 2024-26 as one of two Western Representatives, and became Chair of PAC. From ARTA, he brings his experience on the Executive as Treasurer, and as both a member and the chair of ARTA’s SPAC (Strategic Planning and Advocacy Committee). Lawrence believes in working for the betterment of seniors across Canada and is excited to be on the executive of an organization that works diligently and passionately towards this.

Sharon Penney, Vice President

Sharon became acquainted with ACER-CART as an AGM observer in 2018. In 2022 she joined the ACER-CART Executive as the Regional Representative – East and has served diligently as chair of the Health Services committee during that time. Her service to RTNAL (Retired Teachers Association of Newfoundland and Labrador) and RTANL (Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association), allows her to bring multiple leadership experiences. She feels ACER-CART has an important role to play as a strong coordinated national voice for seniors. “It is when we speak as one, we realize benefits for us all.”

Bob Fitzpatrick, Regional Officer – East

Bob has been with ACER-CART for six years, four of those years with the Board and the PAC. He brings multiple leadership experiences from his past – NBSRT (New Brunswick Society of Retired Teachers) and NBTA (New Brunswick Teachers’ Association) serving as president and NBTA Executive Director; CTF-FCE (Canadian Teachers’ Federation) on the Structures and Services Committee; NB Teachers’ Pensions Plan as trustee and Governance Committee; and NB Credit Union Board. He is excited “for the opportunity to devote my skills and abilities to make ACER-CART an even stronger voice and advocate for retired teachers and all seniors”.  

Katherine Snow, Regional Officer – East

Katherine attended ACER-CART as an AGM observer from 2021-2023 and as QPARSE (Quebec Provincial Association of Retired School Educators) director from 2023-26.  In 2024 she joined the ACER-CART Executive as the Regional Representative – East.

Not only does she bring her experience as QPARSE president for four years but also as a representative to ECRTO (East Coast Retired Teachers’ Organization).  Katherine’s life-long interest in Education and her dedicated effort to the task at hand serve ACER-CART well as she works toward “making a difference” in the lives of others. 

Jayesh Maniar, Regional Officer – West

Jayesh first attended AGM in 2024 and is the newest addition to the Executive.  A member of RTAM (Retired Association of Manitoba), he has served as secretary and vice-president before becoming president in 2024.  He is honoured to take the role of Regional Officer – West and brings his extensive experience and a strong commitment to serving community. “I believe deeply in advocating for retirees and older adults, ensuring their collective voices are heard and their interests are well represented.”

Helen Sukovieff, Regional Officer – West

Helen began her journey as an observer at the 2020 AGM.  Her services include being Director of STS (Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan) from 2021 – 2026 and a member of the Health Services Committee until 2024 when she was elected to the position of Regional Officer – West. In that position, she was instrumental in organizing the ACER-CART West Conference in 2025. Helen brings her experience on Saskatchewan’s provincial executive since 2013 as a councillor and member-at-large. She believes that if members from across the country work together, we will have a strong voice for all seniors in Canada.