Our Team
The Canadian Museum Of Water is guided by a community committed to water stewardship and its role in society, culture, and the environment. Our Board, members, and volunteers bring diverse skills and perspectives that shape our programs, initiatives, and long-term vision.
“Water shapes our land, our stories, and our work together.”
Canadian Museum Of Water
Meet the Team
The Canadian Museum Of Water is guided and supported by a community of individuals who bring diverse experience, perspectives, and shared respect for water. Together, they help advance the Museum's mission and long-term vision.
Erik Schomann, M.A.
Executive DirectorErik is a professor, community activist, and environmentalist committed to expanding the museum's online presence, attracting a diverse following base, and fostering meaningful engagement with the community to recognize the significance of water and generating a dedication to its preservation.
Don Mitchell
Board MemberDon is a geographer and planner by education. After 3 years as an area planner with the Province of Ontario, Don spent 10 years with Marathon Realty. Don founded the company, Development Concepts Ltd. which focused on the clean-up and successful integration of contaminated post-large-scale industrial sites in Michigan and Ontario.
Fred Addis, M.A.
CuratorAn internationally renowned and recognized Curator, Addis oversaw operations at the Leacock Museum In Orillia before coming on board as curator of the SS Keewatin in 2019. He now brings his decades of heritage expertise to the museum.
Dan Travers, Ph.D
Program DeveloperHolding a doctorate in Public History from the University of Huddersfield, UK, Travers is the author of two books and seven articles about public history and heritage. A Professor of Liberal Arts at Georgian College, he now develops programs for the museum.
Angela Knowlton, M.A.
Director of Indigenous CultureAngela is a former Restorative Justice Coordinator for the Barrie Native Friendship Centre, and one of the founding members of the Indigenous Historical Society of Simcoe-Muskoka. She joins the CMW team as Director of Indigenous Culture.
Denise Petitpas, OCT M.Ed.
Education AdvisorDenise is a Franco-Ontarian arts-based teacher educator who researches the necessity of treaty education for ethical relationality with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples. AcTing to protect and preserve our waters for future generations (the next seven and beyond) is a priority for Denise.
Mila Somers
Communications LeadA communication specialist who previously worked on social media strategies for Port McNicoll Forward and the Kesp Keewatin Home Campaign. Mila heads the communications team and social media for the Museum.
Chris Wilkie
Creative DirectorChris is a creative professional specializing in photography, design, and marketing. She develops visual content for the Canadian Museum Of Water, with the intent to educate, engage, and welcome others to Join the Journey.
Kathleen Stevenson, OCT M.Ed.
Educational LiaisonKathleen Stevenson provides a critical point of contact as Ontario's curriculum educational liaison for the 2025-26 The Water We Want program. Vice Principal at Willow Landing Elementary, she has been involved in elementary education for close to 25 years.
Aaron Pollock
Environmental EducatorAaron is an environmental and historic educator, and a graduate of the Ecosystem Management Technician program at Sir Sandford Fleming College with the Indigenous Perspectives Designation. Since 2010, he has been involved with Atlantic Challenge Canada, training crews to sail Bantry Bay Gigs. He is committed to advancing education and promoting environmental stewardship.
Roger Bell
Poet LaureateBell is the author of 6 books of poetry and a childhood memoir, Candy Cigarettes. His work has appeared in dozens of literary magazines and anthologies, most recently in The Beauty of Being Elsewhere, a book of travel poetry. He lives in Simcoe County within streaming distance of Georgian Bay, and joins the museum as poet laureate.
Adrian
Water Guide & MascotAdrian is part of the Canadian Museum Of Water team, serving as a Water Guide and visual storyteller. As an anthropomorphic drop of water, Adrian helps introduce key ideas, pose questions, and connect visitors to water's presence in daily life, culture, and the environment. You'll encounter Adrian across the Museum and online, supporting learning and exploration at every step.
Bring Your Expertise
to the Water
If you would like to share your expertise, creativity, or energy, become a member of our diverse team and help advance understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of water. Together, we can continue to develop programs, initiatives, and experiences that engage communities, foster learning, and inspire meaningful connections with water for generations to come.
