Northumberland Trustee David Bernier not seeking re-election
After 16 years of service, former Board Chairperson to pursue new opportunities in retirement
June 23, 2022
After serving on the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board for 16 years, including two times as Board chairperson, Northumberland Trustee David Bernier will not be seeking re-election in the fall municipal election.
“I hope that I have made a difference. It is time for me to step aside and let new people come forward with fresh ideas,” said Bernier, adding that he will miss the friendships and connections he has made with students and staff.
“When you walk into one of our schools there is a palpable difference. You feel the love. You feel that the environment is one of caring and support for all, and that you are a part of God’s family in that place.”
Bernier served the role of Board chairperson from 2008 through 2010 and again between 2020 and 2021. He also served the role of vice-chairperson for many years and has participated on a myriad of Board committees during his tenure.
“David’s hard work and dedication to the school board is on display at every meeting and event he attends,” current Board Chairperson Braden Leal said. “His many years of work as trustee for Northumberland and as chairperson have made him a pillar of the community. His input will be missed at the board table. I wish him all the best as he enjoys full retirement.”
Bernier cited many highlights in his time on the Board, including travelling performances of the award-winning St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Singers and Treblemakers and the many school celebrations and student-led initiatives he enjoyed as a trustee throughout the years.
He particularly enjoyed working with student trustees and sitting on the Student Council Liaison Committee.
“Listening to our young leaders bring fresh ideas and working diligently to support the entire student body…they amazed me each and every meeting and I know our future is bright with such talented leaders moving forward,” Bernier said.
Director of Education Joan Carragher noted that Bernier, a father of four daughters who all attended PVNC schools, spent more than a decade as a volunteer serving on school parent councils and as an active member of the Catholic Parent Engagement Committee before his election to trustee.
“David would proudly share stories of his daughters’ school experiences and has been such a strong advocate for Catholic Education as a parent and a trustee for more than 25 years,” Carragher said. “We thank David for his many years of service and wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life.”
Bernier recently retired from his career in correction services and, as a proud new grandfather, is looking forward to spending more time with family. The Oct. 24 municipal election will determine the makeup of the next board of trustees, which will commence its work following the Board’s annual meeting on Nov. 15, 2022.