EDMONTON, AB, Friday, May 15, 2026 – Edmonton Public Library (EPL) welcomes Alyssa Lefaivre Škopac, Erin Marshall and Funke Olokude as the newest appointees to EPL’s Board of Trustees.
Alyssa Lefaivre Škopac is the Director of AI Trust and Safety at the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute. Her work focuses on advancing the safety of frontier AI systems, while building practical AI literacy skills across sectors. Lefaivre Škopac also serves on the CAISI CIFAR Research Council, is a board member of United Way Capital Region and is an active supporter of Edmonton’s arts community.
“Libraries play an important role in helping people build the skills and confidence to navigate a rapidly changing digital world,” said Lefaivre Škopac. “I’m excited to bring my experience in AI literacy and safety to support EPL’s work in expanding access to knowledge and technology, strengthening public trust in the digital information people rely on.”
Erin Marshall is an Executive Professor of Accounting and Director of the Master of Accounting (MAcc) program at the University of Alberta. She brings experience from both academia and professional practice, having worked with KPMG LLP in Canada and the United States before completing her PhD in Accounting. Erin received the 2026 CPA Distinguished Service Award for her contributions to the accounting profession.
“I am very excited to join the EPL Board of Trustees,” said Erin. “I am grateful to use my skills and education in service to my community, and there is no better place to do that than at the Library.”
Funke Olokude is the CEO and Principal Consultant of Hexagon Wellness Solutions, where she leads with an innovative, community-centred approach to wellness, research and systems change. With more than two decades of experience, she has earned numerous accolades, including the National Black Coalition of Canada Professional Excellence Award and the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.
“I am honoured to be joining the EPL Board of Trustees” said Olokude. “My passion for inclusion and community has been a driving force throughout my career, and I know that the Library champions those values every day.”
The EPL Board consists of 10 trustees, including one member of City Council. Appointed by City Council, the Board provides governance and sets EPL’s strategic direction in collaboration with the CEO and Executive Team, while supporting advocacy and community awareness.
"The new appointees bring a wealth of expertise that will strengthen the Board of Trustees,” said Shawna Vogel, EPL Board Chair. “I look forward to working with them and drawing on their diverse perspectives as we continue supporting EPL’s mission and serving our community.”
EPL extends its sincere gratitude to outgoing trustees Rosalie Russnak, Chad Schulz and Tina Faiz for their contributions over the last six years, with special appreciation to Rosalie for her leadership as Vice Chair.
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:
Béné Garmier, Director of Marketing, Communications, and Fund Development
Edmonton Public Library