About Me
Ralf MESENBRINK
For UGDSB Trustee
I came to Canada when I was 3, the son of economic refugees (immigrants) from Germany. I am the only child in my family to go to university.
I am a long time resident of Guelph, married, with five children, three have attended UGDSB schools. I am a parent, a dog owner, an avid canoer, camper and hiker, a ‘maker’ and tinkerer, and a gardener. I have a love of nature and science and have spent many hours volunteering at summer and March break day camps in the neighbourhood, building and launching water bottle rockets and demonstrating “dancing Oobleck” with curious youngsters.
Education, learning and skill development is important in our household. I value all experiences and pathways to employment, and I am proud to have two adult children in the skilled trades, one completing a graduate degree, one working and studying part time, and one in university.
After a long and rewarding career, I retired from education, allowing me more time to focus on helping my local community. You will find me volunteering in the half acre garden on Westwood Rd, or on the many trails and parks through Guelph’s woodlots walking our dog.
Please be sure to stop me to say hello!
Experience in Education
During a 35 year career in Education I gained a solid understanding of school board finances, the needs of many different groups of students including adults and new Canadians and the needs of employers and job-seekers. I have worked in traditional high schools, on-line programs, special education, alternative and adult education programs, and was responsible for a large Employment Ontario program.
I have been elected to and served on several boards and committees:
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Currently UGDSB Trustee representing Guelph Wards 2,3 &4, and CHair of the Board.
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Director and former vice-president of the West Village Community Development Co-operative, a registered charity
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Member strategic planning advisory committee for a community charity
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Director of a Condominium corporation board
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President of AMPC Principal’s Association
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Director of CESBA, a provincial organization representing adult education programs