Former Science North CEO Jim Marchbank will join Waterloo entrepreneur Toby Jenkins on TVO's board of directors.

The appointment is a three-year term. Marchbank served as CEO of Science North for 25 years, leading the organization through many expansions that established it as the second-largest science centre in Canada and one of the world’s best, according to a news release from TVO. 

During his tenure, Science North added the F. Jean MacLeod Butterfly Gallery and an IMAX theatre. Marchbank led Science North to begin the production and distribution of IMAX films.

Jenkins has taken her philosophy of active living and combined it with an entrepreneurial spirit to build a thriving business that has had a positive impact in Waterloo. She is the founder and president of TechTown, a community services building located in the University of Waterloo’s Research and Technology Park, which also includes Jenkins’ own Columbia Lake Health Club, as well as a daycare centre, office spaces and a community meeting space.

“Mr. Marchbank and Ms. Jenkins are proven leaders and innovators in their fields,” Peter O’Brian, Chair of the TVO Board of Directors, said. “Their experience will be a great benefit to TVO as we continue to push the boundaries of educational media while increasing our efficiency, productivity and impact in the province.”

Marchbank’s strong work ethic has earned him a Sudbury Chamber of Commerce Bell Business Excellence Award for Professional Achievement among other honours. As an active volunteer, he serves as a board member of the Sudbury Food Bank, as well as the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership, according to the news release.

Science North has recognized Marchbank with a lifetime membership and the development of the Marchbank Innovation Fund that encourages the continuous learning and development of staff.

Jenkins has worked as an urban planner and a community volunteer and activist who chaired the board of Grand River Hospital for 10 years. She was also board chair of Waterloo Ventures, which helped knowledge-based businesses get their start. Jenkins was recognized in Women of Waterloo in 2009.

“Mr. Marchbank’s leadership of one of Ontario’s most respected publicly funded agencies, along with Ms. Jenkin’s track record of entrepreneurship and innovation are a perfect fit for TVO as we forge ahead with our vision to use digital media to make Ontarians the smartest and best informed people in the world,” Lisa de Wilde, Chief Executive Officer of TVO, said.

Posted by Arron Pickard