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Our Team

At Rooted, our strength comes from the people behind the work.

We’re a team that values clarity, collaboration, and care – not just for the work we do, but for how we do it together. Whether we’re responding to a time-sensitive repair or navigating the complexities of community development, our collective expertise and shared commitment ensure we consistently deliver high-quality, impactful results.

We’re a group of people dedicated to the mission of creating sustainable, affordable housing that makes a difference in our communities.

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Nick Russell

Chief Executive Officer

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Nick Russell, Chief Executive Officer

Nick Russell has served as the CEO of Rooted since 2014, driving the organization’s growth and impact through innovative projects, advanced technologies, and cross-sector collaborations. In addition to his leadership role, Nick is the Chair of the Nova Scotia Non-Profit Housing Association and a Council member of the Nova Scotia Association of Architects. A graduate of the Schwartz School of Business at St. FX and a holder of professional designations from the Real Estate Institute of Canada, Nick is a respected voice in housing and urban development. Beyond his professional commitments, he serves as Chair of the Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation Golf Classic, an annual flagship fundraiser for the hospital.

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Carrie Chiasson

Director of Operations & Programming

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Carrie Chiasson, Director of Operations & Programming

Carrie Chiasson has been an integral part of Rooted since 2016, where she has built strong relationships with tenants and the team, setting the foundation for operational excellence. With an Executive Administrative Diploma from Eastern College and an Accredited Residential Manager (ARM) designation from the Real Estate Institute of Canada, she is now pursuing a Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation and certificates from the Urban Land Institute. As a Board Member of Stepping Stone Nova Scotia, Carrie extends her commitment to community beyond the workplace. Outside of Rooted, she enjoys staying active at the gym, walking her dogs, and spending quality time with her family.

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Dylan Ward

Director of Development

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Dylan Ward, Director of Development

Dylan Ward joined Rooted as Director of Development in 2024, where he oversees business development, project pipeline, and partnerships for new builds, acquisitions, and retrofits. With a Master of Planning from Toronto Metropolitan University, Dylan combines expertise in real estate development with a focus on ecological responsibility, social equity, and placemaking. Before Rooted, Dylan managed the development of over 300 housing units at Indwell, taking projects from due diligence to building permits. As Vice President of the Licensed Professional Planners Association of Nova Scotia, he advocates for planning tools to improve housing affordability. In his free time, Dylan enjoys hiking, camping, and gardening, reflecting his passion for sustainable living.

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Peggy MacDonald

Manager of Accounting

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Peggy MacDonald, Manager of Accounting

    Since 1988, Peggy has played a vital role in the organization’s growth and success. With extensive experience across various roles, she now leads all accounting functions, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and responsiveness in financial operations. Beyond her work with Rooted, Peggy provides financial consultancy to organizations across the Halifax area, helping strengthen financial sustainability in the non-profit sector and beyond. Outside of work, Peggy is a dedicated community volunteer, a proud mother of triplets, and enthusiast bowler and Mahjong player.

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    Gustavo Silva

    Senior Property Administrator

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    Gustavo Silva, Senior Property Administrator

    Gustavo Silva brings over 20 years of experience in customer service, office management, and leadership to his role as Housing Administrator at Rooted. Fluent in Portuguese and English, Gustavo excels in tenant relations, social media, event planning, and maintenance coordination while supporting the organization’s Board of Directors. With a Diploma in Business Administration from NSCC and marketing credentials from Brazil’s Estácio de Sá University, he also holds advanced certifications in Residential Building Service Excellence. Gustavo has extensive experience in sales and operations, including roles in Brazil’s seafood industry and multinational corporations. A skilled strategist and Microsoft Office expert, Gustavo balances professional excellence with personal passions like camping, chess, and cheering for Flamengo, his favorite soccer team.

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    Kirby Powell

    Manager of Maintenance

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    Kirby Powell, Manager of Maintenance

      With 35 years of experience as a journeyman carpenter, Kirby Powell leads operations and maintenance at Rooted with a strong focus on safety, quality, and efficiency. Known for his proactive communication with tenants and thorough unit inspections, Kirby ensures that maintenance issues are addressed promptly, enhancing the quality of service provided. A collaborative leader, he values teamwork and takes pride in mentoring his staff, helping them grow and improve their skills. Kirby’s dedication to planning and execution as part of a cohesive team ensures seamless operations and tenant satisfaction. Kirby is a proud father of three and enjoys camping and fishing outside of his work at Rooted.

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      Trish Cunningham

      Maintenance Technician

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      Trish Cunningham, Maintenance Technician

        Trish Cunningham has been a valued member of Rooted’s team for 1.5 years, contributing her expertise in cabinet making and carpentry to maintain high-quality living environments. Known for her appreciation of team communication and collaboration, Trish thrives in a supportive workplace culture. Her hands-on skills and dedication to excellence make her an essential part of Rooted’s commitment to service and tenant satisfaction.

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        Meraljean Villacorta

        Office Administrator

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        Meraljean Villacorta, Office Administrator

        With 15 years of dedicated service in the hospitality and customer service industry, She has cultivated a deep understanding of creating exceptional guest experiences, optimizing operations and fostering meaningful client relationships.
        Over the past three years, she has expanded her expertise as a Junior Property Manager. Applying her skills in tenant relations, problem-solving, and property oversight to ensure seamless management and satisfaction.
        Beyond her professional achievements, she is a devoted mother and a wife who treasures quality time with family. She finds joy in baking, creating delicious treats with care and creativity. She also cherishes her time in the park, walking with her daughter and enjoying the fresh air and peaceful moments together.

        Our Board

        Rooted’s Board of Directors plays a critical role in guiding our organization under the Societies Act.

        Beyond ensuring compliance with legal obligations, our board provides invaluable expertise in strategic direction, leveraging their diverse professional backgrounds to shape our long-term vision and priorities.

        Their leadership helps us navigate complex challenges, align our operations with our mission, and position Rooted for sustainable growth and meaningful community impact.

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        J.P. Collins, CIM, FCSI

        Chair

        Senior Wealth Advisor (Retired), ASSANTE Capital Management Ltd.

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        Jim Reardon

        Vice Chair

        Senior Architectural Advisor (Retired), EXP Architects

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        Ann Foran

        Director

        Senior Vice President, Government Business, Medavie Blue Cross

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        Catherine Redmond

        Director

        Human Resources Advisor, Health Canada

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        Tim Pellerin

        Director

        President, Maritime Beauty Supply

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        Darrell Evasuk

        Director

        Atlantic Director Strategic Alliances (Retired), Concentra Bank

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        Reid Shepherd, MCIP, LPP

        Director

        Deputy Director, Municipality of the District of Lunenburg

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        Michelle Yates

        Director

        Vice President, Financing, Peakhill Capital

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        Bruce McLaughlin

        Secretary/Treasurer

          Attorney, Weldon McInnis