Our Team
TJ Sheehan | Founder & Executive Director
As the Founder of Pivot Empowerment, Education & Recovery Society, TJ Sheehan is dedicated to helping at-risk youth break free from gangs, violence, addiction, and cycles of incarceration. An ex-gang member who turned his own life around, TJ now uses his hard-earned experience to educate communities on gang involvement, recruitment tactics, and early warning signs. He is a sought-after keynote speaker and trusted collaborator, working alongside non-profits, corrections, law enforcement, and academic institutions to design effective prevention and intervention programs. TJ is a certified recovery coach, interventionist, and facilitator who has helped hundreds of youth and adults rewrite their stories and build safer, healthier futures. His mission is simple but powerful: to show people that no matter where you come from, change is possible and worth fighting for.
Dr. Marta-Marika Urbanik | Board Vice-Chair
Dr. Marta-Marika Urbanik (Ph.D.) is an Associate Professor of Criminology and Sociology at the University of Alberta. She has spent the last 13 years conducting street-based research and ‘deep hanging out’ with criminally involved groups, specializing in studying gang members, drug dealers, people who use drugs, and unhoused persons. She is recognized for having conducted one of the only ethnographic studies of gangs in Canadian history. Dr. Urbanik’s award-winning research helps to ensure Pivot’s programming is evidence-based and meaningfully reaches and engages some of our most marginalized youth. A Court-recognized expert, she routinely shares her expertise nationally and internationally with community organizations, non-profits, universities, government officials, law enforcement, and the media. Beyond her many accolades, Dr. Urbanik routinely volunteers as a boxing coach for Pivot, bringing 14 years of advanced Muay Thai training and coaching to the organization.
Ryan Millar | Board Member
Ryan Millar is a Calgary-based criminal defence lawyer who has dedicated his career to representing individuals who could not otherwise afford legal counsel. Guided by a deep commitment to fairness and access to justice, he has consistently advocated for those most marginalized in the justice system. Ryan holds a Juris Doctor (JD) from the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Law, as well as a Master’s degree from the University of Alberta, equipping him with both practical expertise and a strong academic foundation. In addition to his legal practice, Ryan also serves as a Reserve Officer with the Royal Canadian Navy, where he continues to embody discipline, service, and leadership.
Dana Caple | Board Member
Dana has always carried a deep passion for building community and making a positive impact in the lives of others. With a strong background in both business and social enterprise, she has consistently used her entrepreneurial spirit and leadership skills to launch and support meaningful projects that bring people together and address real needs. Dana thrives on creating opportunities for connection, empowerment, and growth, and she is committed to using her work as a tool for social good. Whether she’s collaborating with local partners or mentoring emerging leaders, Dana’s dedication to community and her genuine care for people continue to inspire those around her and drive lasting change.
Jessica Hutton | Board Chair
Jessica Hutton is the President and CEO of Natawihowin Consulting. She is a seasoned leader with over 15 years in senior management and C- level management in the social service sector. She has worked within the social services, housing, criminal justice, and health sectors to increase accessibility and create efficiencies. Jessica has led the provision of services to youth, families, and adults in Alberta, Nunavut and British Columbia. She has provided her expertise to multiple boards and is a former Victim’s Services Advocate. Jessica has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology. Jessica is also a certified Human Rights Consultant.
Anastasia Friesen | Board Secretary
Anastasia brings a dynamic blend of marketing expertise and a strong background in the fitness and wellness industry to her role as Board Secretary at Pivot Society. With an accomplished track record in brand development, strategic communications, and community engagement, she is dedicated to using her skills to support organizations that create lasting, positive impact. Anastasia’s journey began in the fitness world, where she built a reputation for motivating others to embrace personal growth, discipline, and wellness. Her commitment to mental health, trauma-informed care, and recovery advocacy led her to Pivot Society, where she now plays a pivotal role in governance, communications, and long-term strategic planning. Anastasia is passionate about creating spaces where vulnerable populations—especially justice-involved youth and those impacted by addiction—feel seen, heard, and supported. She brings sharp organizational insight, a creative mindset, and a deep sense of compassion to everything she does.
Dr. Carolyn Green | Board Member
Dr. Carolyn Greene holds a PhD in Criminology from the University of Toronto and has taught in the post-secondary sector for over 15 years. Currently, she holds an appointment at Wilfrid Laurier University, where she teaches public safety at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. She has an active research program exploring issues in youth justice, policing, experiences and perceptions of the criminal justice system, drugs, and homelessness. As a scholar with lived experience, she is dedicated to conducting research with meaningful impact.
Barbara Smith | Board Member
Barbara is a dedicated professional with over 30 years of experience in the addiction and mental health field. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master’s degree in Adult Education, combining her strong academic background with extensive practical expertise and valuable lived experience. Barbara has worked in various roles, including crisis response, residential treatment, program development, and adult education. She is known for creating safe, inclusive spaces and empowering individuals and families on their recovery journeys. Her commitment to reducing stigma, mentoring others in the field, and advocating for evidence-based treatment has made a lasting impact in the community.