Candidate Bio - Kelly Whalen
What key qualities do you believe you bring to the position of a Catholic School Board Trustee?
I have had the privilege of serving as a Catholic School Trustee since 2004, firstly with Star Catholic and, since 2010, with Holy Family Catholic Regional Division (HFCRD). For the past 11 years, I’ve served as Board Chair, guiding our division with a focus on faith, academic excellence, and inclusive education.
I am honored to serve as President of the Alberta Catholic School Trustees Association (ACSTA) and as Alberta’s Director on the Canadian Catholic School Trustees Association (CCSTA), where I advocate for the protection and promotion of Catholic education both provincially and nationally.
I am deeply committed to the students and families we serve, particularly those in northern and rural communities, to ensure fair and equitable access to quality Catholic education. As a husband of 35 years to an incredibly supportive wife, a father of six, and grandfather of seven, I understand the importance of a strong foundation in both faith and academics.
What is your vision for Holy Family Catholic Regional Division and Catholic Education in general?
My vision for Holy Family Catholic Regional Division is to continue building on our strong academic and spiritual traditions, fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment where every student is encouraged to grow into tomorrow’s leaders, stewards, and saints.
Is there anything else you'd like the community to know about you?
With extensive leadership experience at the local, provincial, and national levels, I remain dedicated to ensuring Catholic education remains accessible, inclusive, and firmly rooted in our shared values. I respectfully ask for your support as we work together to shape a bright and faith-filled future for our students.