Strong Start to Reading

Machelle Denison, Executive Director

Machelle believes strongly in helping all children reach their potential.  As the Executive Director, Machelle is responsible for bringing effective leadership and governance to Strong Start. Prior to joining Strong Start in 2010, Machelle owned and operated a commercial printing company. She received the Alumnus of Distinction award from Conestoga College’s School of Business and in 2007, was nominated for an Ontario Premier’s Award for Ontario College Graduates. With a passion for community involvement, Machelle is the past president of Conestoga College Alumni Council, former Volunteer Campaign Chair for United Way, JA classroom instructor and Business & Education Partnership Speakers Bureau presenter.

Christina Proctor, Development and Communications Officer

Christina is a key member of the Strong Start team.  She uses her passion for early learning and building community to fuel her work as the Development and Communications Officer for Strong Start.  She is responsible for managing donor relationships, pursuing funding opportunities, and writing grants to support organizational goals. As the primary social communicator, Christina creates content for Strong Start^®’s website, and manages their social media platforms.  Christina holds a Psychology: Research Specialist degree and a post-graduate certificate in Community and Social Service Management.  In addition to her core responsibilities with Strong Start, Christina is also an Assessor in their Get Ready for School program, a community volunteer with Carizon and the Kitchener-Waterloo Princess Project.