For immediate release:
EDMONTON, AB, Tuesday, May 13, 2025 — The Edmonton Public Library (EPL) is pleased to announce the election of Shawna Vogel as its new Board Chair, Rosalie Russnak as Vice-Chair, and the recent appointments of Dr. Joseph Doucet and Xueming Zhao to the EPL Board of Trustees.
Shawna Vogel, K.C., ICD.D., is a seasoned board leader, consultant and legal professional with over 40 years of experience in private company and not-for profit corporate governance, strategic oversight, and business law. She is recognized for leadership excellence and skilled in building consensus in complex challenges.
“It’s an honour to serve as Chair of the Edmonton Public Library Board," said Vogel. "EPL is a trusted and vital institution, and I look forward to continuing to promote effective governance and support our CEO in ensuring EPL continues to empower Edmontonians to learn, connect, and grow.”
Rosalie Russnak is a finance leader with diverse and progressive experience in forecasting, regulatory capital planning, financial modeling, stress testing, and financial reporting in the financial services and specialty retail sectors. She firmly believes that libraries are fundamental to building strong communities and vibrant cities and are for Edmontonians of all backgrounds and walks of life.
Dr. Joseph Doucet is an economist and retired University of Alberta professor. He served as Dean and Vice-Provost of the University of Alberta’s College of Social Sciences and Humanities (2021–2023), and as Dean of the Alberta School of Business (2012–2021). He brings deep academic leadership and community involvement and has contributed to national and municipal initiatives through his work with the C.D. Howe Institute’s Energy and Resources Policy Council and the Edmonton Mayor’s Task Force on Poverty Elimination.
"I feel tremendously honoured to join the Edmonton Public Library Board," said Dr. Doucet. "I look forward to supporting this incredibly valuable organization as it continues to nourish and strengthen our community."
Xueming Zhao currently serves as Treasurer and CFO of Business and Wealth at ATB Financial. With a career spanning Canada, the U.S., and China, she brings extensive expertise in finance and international banking. In 2022, she co-founded Marula Square, a venture fund focused on impact investing in Sub-Saharan Africa, demonstrating her commitment to social impact, economic development, and the fostering of sustainable growth in emerging markets.
"I’m honoured and excited to serve on the EPL Board” said Zhao. “The Edmonton Public Library has significantly contributed to the growth and development of both myself and my family. I am grateful for this wonderful service within our city and look forward to playing a role in shaping its future."
The EPL Board consists of 10 trustees, including one member of City Council. Trusteed are appointed by City Council. In addition to governance, the Board is responsible for advocating to ensure stakeholders understand and support Library initiatives. Other responsibilities include CEO recruitment and performance evaluation, policy development, ensuring compliance with financial and legislative requirements, identifying and mitigating risks, and, in partnership with EPL’s Executive Team, setting the Library’s strategic direction.
EPL extends its sincere thanks to outgoing trustees Sandra Marin and James Crossman for their six years of dedicated service, with special appreciation to James for his leadership as Board Chair.
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About the Edmonton Public Library
The Edmonton Public Library (EPL) is a gathering place for people and ideas, enabling a lifetime of learning, engagement and possibility for every Edmontonian. The second most visited place in Edmonton, every year EPL hosts over 15.4 million in-branch and online visits across our 21 branches and website. We deliver our incredible content to you everywhere – in the library, at home or on your handheld device. Unmatched access and unrivalled value – that is today’s EPL.
EPL is a registered charity and relies on donations to enhance services. Spread the words. epl.ca/give
Media Contact:
Karen Chidiak, Manager, Marketing & Communications
Edmonton Public Library
EPLMedia@epl.ca