Athena Leadership is operated by an annually elected Board of Directors. The board consists of current members with diverse industry background, experience and education, and community interests.
Athena Leadership
Board of Directors
2025-2026
mERISSA kING | uNLOCK cOMMUNICATIONS
President
Originally from Newfoundland, Merissa King has proudly called Winnipeg her home since 2018. After working nearly 20 years in the marketing and communications field with a variety of organizations in Newfoundland, Ontario and Manitoba, she’s now the owner and principal consultant of her own communications consulting practice, Unlock Communications.
Merissa is an active member of the Winnipeg community, having volunteered with the Manitoba Interfaith Immigration Council (The Welcome Place’s refugee family matching program), Friends of the Harte Trail and the Manitoba chapter of the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS). She enjoys being connected to the business community as a member of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and she’s thrilled to be on the Athena Leadership board to help empower its members to make a positive impact in the community.
In addition to consulting, Merissa enjoys creative writing, reading historical fiction, gardening, cross-country skiing and spending time with her husband, Stephen, and two dogs, Loki and Marty.
samarah mcrorie | the winnipeg foundation
Vice President
Having been born and raised in Manitoba, and as a University of Winnipeg alumna, Samarah remains a proud Winnipegger, continually inspired by Manitoba’s spirit of generosity. As a member of the Community Generosity team at The Winnipeg Foundation, she works with various stakeholders to help support “a Winnipeg where community life flourishes for all”.
Alongside her professional work, Samarah is passionate about volunteering, including serving on the planning committee for the Winnipeg Women’s Conference.
In her spare time, Samarah enjoys a good art project, indulging in a binge-worthy series, and being in nature, especially with her family, including her two dogs, Annie and Bennet.
tara campbell | Consultant
Secretary
Bio coming soon
ERIN SPARROW | THE DUFRESNE GROUP
Treasurer
Erin Sparrow, CPA, CBV is Director, Corporate Development at the Dufresne Group. She is passionate about digging into problems and finding unique solutions using her 10+ years of experience in strategy, business planning, accounting and finance. She is an active member of the community, jumping on volunteer opportunities that help support the next generation of leaders in Winnipeg.
Erin is excited to put this experience to work to support Athena Leadership in achieving its goals.
Outside of work, Erin keeps busy chasing around her two daughters, squeezing in a good book or reality tv show when she gets the chance. She loves to cook and is passionate about the food scene in Winnipeg, and is always looking for a great restaurant recommendation.
Kelly Krakalovich | rrc polytech
Director, Communications
Kelly (Kristin) Krakalovich, an Ininew entrepreneur from Shamattawa First Nation, is known for her authentic and community-centered approach to business and marketing. As the Program Coordinator for Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah at RRC Polytechnic, she channels her passion for entrepreneurship into creating accessible opportunities for Indigenous relatives, working to reduce systemic barriers and foster inclusive growth. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to uplifting her community, emphasizing simplicity, connection, and the power of collective strength to drive meaningful change.
Carly nicholson | MFL Occupational Health Centre
Director, Scholarship
Carly Nicholson is the Executive Director of the MFL Occupational Health Centre, a non-profit Community Health Centre committed to promoting and protecting worker health through prevention, education, and care. At the helm of strategy and operations, Carly oversees the organization’s finance, HR, programming, policy, and fundraising efforts—wearing many hats to drive its mission forward.
With roots in politics and communications, Carly began her advocacy journey as a Peer Counsellor at the Women’s Health Clinic, later serving as Board Co-Chair. She now brings her passion for equity and justice to her role as Treasurer of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Manitoba, an abolitionist organization that supports and advocates for women navigating the criminal justice system.
Carly joined Athena in 2024, drawn to its values-driven mission and dynamic network. As Director of Scholarship, she’s excited to contribute to its bold philanthropic goals and help grow its impact.
Outside of work, Carly enjoys coaxing her garden to life, experimenting in the kitchen, and hosting excellent parties.
katie moist | bockstael construction
PAST PRESIDENT
Katie Moist, P.Eng., is a Preconstruction Lead at Bockstael Construction, working on development of non-profit, multi-family residential and commercial buildings in Winnipeg. Previously, Katie worked as a Municipal Engineer with KGS Group after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Manitoba in 2019.
Katie is a proud Winnipegger and has been an active member of her community throughout her career, also volunteering on the United Way Winnipeg Golf Tournament Committee and Friends of Engineering Board of Directors. She was recognized with the Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba Intern Award in 2022 and Winnipeg 150 Award in 2024.
Outside of work Katie enjoys staying active, travelling and spending time at her family cabin.