South-East Ottawa Community Health Centre announces the appointment of its new Executive Director, Wendy Stewart
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the South East Ottawa Community Health Centre, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Wendy Stewart as our new Executive Director.
Wendy joins South East Ottawa CHC following over 15 years of leadership in the health, mental health and addictions, justice and hospital sectors, including most recently with a close partner of SEOCHC’s: Sandy Hill Community Health Centre.
During her time with Sandy Hill Community Health Centre, Wendy led the integrated health services program, providing executive-level leadership for a comprehensive, multi-service portfolio including team-based primary care, complex urban health, Rapid Access to Addictions Medicine, youth health services, and a newcomer service for both attached and unattached populations.
Prior to joining Sandy Hill Community Health Centre, Wendy held executive leadership positions with the Métis Nation of Ontario, Elizabeth Fry Society and The Royal Ottawa Hospital. Wendy has also taught at Carleton University’s School of Social Work.
Wendy exemplifies the values of community-based care, with a demonstrated commitment to advancing equitable access to care, understanding and responding to the needs of diverse populations and developing innovative approaches that creatively leverage skills and resources.
With a track record of navigating complex issues and systems, Wendy is recognized as a leader among partners across the city. Wendy brings a passion for data-driven decision-making and deep collaboration to her leadership style.
As pressures on primary health care continue to grow and community needs become more complex, the role of Community Health Centres in delivering health care and social services has never been more important.
In this moment of significant change and transition, the Board welcomes Wendy into this role and looks forward to embarking on this new chapter of leadership together.
The Board also recognizes the incredible leadership of outgoing Executive Director, Kelli Tonner. Throughout her 28 years of service, Kelli dedicated her career to elevating the strengths and needs of her community. Having garnered immense respect from community leaders, clients, partners, decision-makers and Board members – both past and present – Kelli has positioned SEOCHC in a place of great strength and opportunity. We thank Kelli for her service.
The Board looks forward to working with Wendy as she formally steps into the role on June 22nd, 2026.
Sarah Kennell, Board Chair
