A volunteer Board of Directors, composed of 13 members, is responsible for governing CCSA. The directors meet face-to-face three to four times per year.
The Governor in Council appoints the Chair and up to four additional board members may be appointed. These appointments come on the recommendation of the Minister of Health after the Minister has consulted with the Board.
The Board may appoint up to eight additional directors. These appointments come after consultations with the provincial and territorial governments and with any individuals and organization representatives. They represent the business and labour community, and professional and voluntary organizations. These organizations also have a particular interest in alcohol and drug use that the Board considers appropriate.
Board members serve a three-year term. Extensions of up to two additional terms are possible.
Get to know our board members.

Vaughan Dowie - Chair (Ontario)
Governor-in-Council Appointee

Curtis Clarke, PhD (British Columbia)
Governor-in-Council Appointee

Scott Elliott (British Columbia)
Governor-in-Council Appointee

Anne Elizabeth Lapointe, BA (Quebec)
Governor-in-Council Appointee


Linda Dabros, BA (Psychology) (Ontario)
Member-at-Large


Ex-Officio Board Members
Alexander Caudarella, MDCM CCFP AM ABAM(d), Chief Executive Officer
Greg Orencsak, Deputy Minister of Health
Tricia Geddes, Deputy Minister of Public Safety Canada
Board Alumni
The CCSA Board Alumni serves in a consulting capacity to the current CCSA Board of Directors. When called upon, members of the alumni can provide expertise, support and advice. The role of the Board Alumni also includes serving as ambassadors and advocates for CCSA.
CCSA Board Alumni membership is open to all former CCSA Board members (governor-in-council appointees, independent appointees, ex-officio and chief executive officers) who are in good standing with the Board. The selection of the Chair of Board Alumni is by appointment and the Chair serves at the pleasure of the Board.