Minister Joly Announces New Appointments to the National Film Board of Canada

GATINEAU, September 19, 2017

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, today announced the appointment of five new part-time members to the board of directors of the National Film Board of Canada (NFB).

The National Film is one of the world’s most innovative creative laboratories. The new board members have extensive experience in the communications and audiovisual sectors, and have worked for a number of major cultural organizations. Their mandate is to support the NFB in its objectives and provide strategic direction for the organization.

• Keith Clarkson (British Columbia), three-year term effective immediately

Mr. Clarkson has more than 25 years’ experience in film, television and digital media production. He has several award-winning projects to his credit, including documentaries, feature films, interactive content and mobile games.

• Éric Dubeau (Ontario), three-year term effective immediately

Mr. Dubeau, a Franco-Ontarian singer–songwriter, has been actively involved with cultural organizations in Ontario and with the Fédération culturelle canadienne-française.

• Nancy Juneau (New Brunswick), three-year term effective immediately

A long‑time advocate for the arts and culture in Canada, Ms. Juneau has vast experience in ensuring the success of various local, provincial and national projects.

• Betsy Chaly (Ontario), three-year term effective January 8, 2018

Ms. Chaly has a strong background in communications and marketing. She has held management positions in several organizations in the media industry, including Canwest, SOCAN, Indspire and the Canada Media Fund. She is currently Director of Strategic Projects, Office of the President, at The Royal Conservatory of Music.

• Charles Vallerand (Quebec), three-year term effective January 8, 2018

Mr. Vallerand has more than 25 years’ experience in broadcasting and cultural policy. He currently is a member of the pool of experts for UNESCO’s aid program to developing countries for the implementation of the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. He was a Director of Communications for the former Montréal-based agency, Rights and Democracy.

These appointments are the result of the Government of Canada's open, transparent and merit-based selection process.

The NFB is Canada’s public producer of award-winning and innovative audiovisual works, including documentaries, auteur animation, interactive stories, installations and participatory experiences. NFB producers are deeply embedded in communities across the country, working with talented artists and creators on projects that stand out for their excellence, creativity and social resonance.