Medicine Hat Police Commission Member Biographies:
Mr. Paul Carolan, Acting Chair
Paul Carolan has been an integral part of the Medicine Hat community since 1995, bringing with him a wealth of diverse experiences and a genuine commitment to the well-being of the community he calls home. Known for his unwavering dedication and diverse skill set, Paul has recently been appointed to the Medicine Hat Police Commission, a testament to his exemplary professional background and his deep connection to the community.
Raised in Alberta, Paul spent his formative years in Central Alberta after immigrating from the United Kingdom at the age of 4. Settling in Camrose, Alberta, his family, guided by his father, an accomplished infrastructure project manager, relocated to different small towns across Alberta every couple of years due to the nature of his father’s work on major projects. This nomadic lifestyle instilled in Paul a profound desire for connection and community.
Upon arriving in Medicine Hat, Paul pursued and successfully completed his Primary Care Paramedic diploma with the Alberta Paramedic Training Academy. Deeply committed to community service, Paul has been an avid volunteer since 1995. He dedicated 5 years as a U18 club volleyball coach, positively impacting the lives of young athletes. Expanding his coaching journey, Paul became an influential figure in the Medicine Hat College Women’s Volleyball team as an assistant coach for more than a decade, not only imparting valuable skills but also serving as a mentor, shaping the character of aspiring players.
In addition to his contributions to sports, Paul has been an active volunteer in various emergency services. He has served as a search and rescue volunteer, demonstrating his commitment to public safety. As a ski patrol volunteer, Paul showcased his reliability and quick decision-making skills in challenging alpine environments.
At the helm of HALO Air Ambulance, a non-profit helicopter emergency medical service and public safety program based in Medicine Hat, Paul has played a pivotal role as the Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, HALO has become a beacon of hope, providing critical medical assistance and rescue services to those in need. His passion for emergency response and dedication to the well-being of others have been evident throughout his tenure.
Paul’s professional journey reflects a remarkable diversity of experiences across various industries. With a background in residential and commercial development, telecommunications, oil and gas, hospitality, risk management, and sales and finance management, he brings a comprehensive understanding of different sectors to his role on the Medicine Hat Police Commission.
Paul is characterized by a rare combination of qualities that set him apart. His empathy, intuition, and high emotional intelligence make him attuned to the needs of others, while his loyalty and dedication ensure that he sees projects through to successful completion. Authenticity, honor, and honesty are the cornerstones of his interactions, establishing trust and credibility in both his personal and professional relationships.
Driven by a deep passion for his community, Paul is known for his kindness and community-minded approach. He has consistently demonstrated reliability and consistency in his various roles, earning him the respect and admiration of those who have had the privilege of working alongside him.
In this most recent volunteer role with the Medicine Hat Police Commission, Paul Carolan brings a wealth of experience, a commitment to justice and accountability, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the safety and well-being of the community he calls home. His journey, marked by passion, dedication, and authenticity, stands as an inspiration to those who strive to make a difference in the lives of others.
“Throughout my life, I have held a deep respect for the critical role that our law enforcement agencies fulfill in ensuring public safety, fostering trust, and maintaining the overall well-being of our community. I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and sacrifice of our law enforcement officers, and I have consistently been inspired by their unwavering commitment to uphold the principles of justice, equity, and public service. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to work alongside the Medicine Hat Police Commission to further enhance the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of our local police department.” Paul Carolan.
Mrs. Onyinye Chukwunyerenwa
Mrs. Onyinye Nwadimma Chukwunyerenwa, was born and raised in Nigeria, where she began her education and career. She graduated with a Bachelor of Law degree (LLB) from the University of Jos, Nigeria in 1999 after which she attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Nigerian Bar, in 2001. Her legal experience includes serving as a Legal Officer in the office of the Presidency, Federal Republic of Nigeria, National Boundary Commission, appearances in several Federal High Courts as well as Nigeria Supreme Court. She later joined a private law firm in Abuja, Nigeria where she practiced in both criminal and corporate law.
In 2003, she then immigrated to Republic of Ireland, to join her husband. While there, Mrs. Chukwunyerenwa, obtained a Master of Arts degree in Human Resource Management from Liverpool John Moores University, United Kingdom (2010). Her passion for investigations and criminology led her to train in Criminology and Forensic Psychology from Communications and Management Institute, Ireland in 2012 (Diploma).
The family immigrated to Canada in 2013, having lived in Dallas, Texas for a year. Since living in Canada, she became a Licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant in good standing after successful completion of a diploma program in immigration Consultancy with Ashton College, Vancouver, British Columbia, as well as the full skill exams (FSE), Canada in 2017.
Due to her love for law, as well as her resiliency, she pursued her legal studies in Canada, obtaining her Certificate of Qualification from the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) of the Federation of Law Societies of Canada (FLSC) in 2020. She then completed her Alberta Bar exams (CPLED) and was admitted to the Law Society of Alberta in June 2021.
She articled with the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF) and later practiced with a private law firm, mainly in Family and Immigration law, before opening her own firm, focusing wholly on Immigration law.
Additional qualifications include: Certificate in Contract Law, from Havard Law School (2017); Certified Advanced Business Analysis from Global Strides Consulting, Canada (2022).
Mrs. Chukwunyerenwa has volunteered in different organizations, and they include: co-founder of the Gamaliel Team (the Legal Aid Team) of the Living Faith Church, Abuja, Nigeria, where the team offered
free legal services to the less privileged church members; Parents Advisory Council Chair, Glenmore Christian Academy, (Calgary); Volunteer Facilitator, Mahogany Home Owners Association (Calgary); different roles with the Symons Valley Hockey teams, Calgary (where her children played); Case Worker, Genesis Women’s Shelter, Dallas, TX; Legal Research Assistant , Dallas Bar Association, TX; Legal & HR assistant, City Square, Dallas, TX; different administrative roles at the Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital, Dallas, TX; Legal Officer & Instructor Coordinator with American Red Cross, Regional Office, Dallas, TX; different administrative and leadership roles with the Rotary International, District 9120, Nigeria. She currently volunteers at the Connections, and she is also a board member on CARO (Canadians Reaching Out to the World’s Children Foundation), both organizations located in Medicine Hat. She also volunteers as a pro-bono lawyer with the Calgary Legal Guidance.
Medicine Hat has become home to Mrs. Chukwunyerenwa and her family, since January 2021, when her husband was offered a permanent position as an Orthopaedic Surgeon at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. The couple is blessed with two children and together the family enjoys traveling, keeping active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Mrs. Chukwunyerenwa brings to the Commission her 20 plus years’ experience in the areas of law, administration, mentoring/coaching, consulting, and public speaking. Mrs. Chukwunyerenwa is a strong advocate on social issues including but not limited to all forms of social injustice, racism/stereotyping, domestic violence, and child sexual abuse.
She is excited at this opportunity to serve on the Medicine Hat Police Commission alongside the other Commissioners, the Police Chief, and the City Councilors in ensuring that our beautiful City continues to be a safe and inclusive place to live in.
Ms. Gwendoline Dirk
Educator. Volunteer. Writer. Advocate. Gwendoline believes the world can become better with compassion, empathy, communication, collaboration, and progressive public education.
Gwendoline was born and raised in Liebenthal Saskatchewan. After graduating high school, she pursued a career in teaching English and did so happily for 33 years. Gwendoline loves teaching and learning, so much so that towards the later part of her career, she achieved her Master of Education through the University of Lethbridge, specializing in curriculum and assessment. Having taught in various high schools throughout her career, Gwendoline spent the last 13 years of her career teaching at the Medicine Hat College. When her division closed at the end of June 2020, she decided to retire to pursue other passions and interests.
Since retirement, Gwendoline is actively involved with various community organizations as a member and/or volunteer. She volunteers with Saamis Immigration, helping newcomers learn English. She is also a member of the local Rotary club and the Kiwanis Club, in addition to being an active member of local provincial politics and other volunteer organizations. Additionally, Gwendoline’s love of learning prompts her to continue to take classes online to learn about leadership, computers, writing, painting, and so on.
Gwendoline lives with her spouse, Peter Mueller. They are a blended family with a total of four adult children and five grandchildren. They enjoy spending time with family, in addition to travelling, keeping fit, biking, reading, and attending Medicine Hat’s various social and cultural events.
Gwendoline loves Medicine Hat and is committed to doing her part to continue to make it a wonderful place to work, live, thrive, and raise a family. She is excited to participate in her new role on the Medicine Hat Police Commission.
Councillor Robert Dumanowski
I was born in Oyen AB and moved to Medicine Hat with my family when I was one year old. I’m a first generation Canadian. My parents and older siblings immigrated to Canada from Poland in 1964. I have 6 sisters and an identical twin brother. My wife Pamela and I have been married for over 28 years. We have 4 beautiful children – 2 boys and 2 girls. I graduated from Monsignor McCoy High School. I went on to receive my Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Calgary and a Master of Arts Degree in Administration & Supervision from Gonzaga University.
I’m currently in my 28th year with the Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education. This is my 23rd year working as a school Principal. I was first elected in 2001 and am currently in my 7th consecutive term on City Council as Alderman/Councillor. I have been the Chair/Vice-Chair of every Standing Committee at City Hall over my 22+ years including Audit Committee, Corporate Services Committee, Energy Land & Environment Committee, Development & Infrastructure Committee, Administrative & Legislative Committee, Economic Development Committee, and the Police Commission.
Councillor Darren Hirsch
A proud “Hatter”, Darren was born and raised in Medicine Hat. After graduating from Medicine Hat High School, he went on to Medicine Hat College and then the University of Lethbridge to finish his university degree. It is at university where Darren met his wife Denise. Darren ended up returning to the Hat taking on a role in the social services field, managing and supporting foster homes, for a non-profit agency for 5 years progressing Regional Programs Manager. Darren successfully moved on to progressive roles in banking sector, culminating in his current role of Director of Commercial and Agriculture banking for southern Alberta. Additionally, Darren co-owned a national franchise with two locations in Medicine Hat with his wife Denise for over 10 years. Darren is well versed in all aspects of business.
In addition to his three terms on Medicine Hat City Council, Darren has been actively involved with other community organizations for close to 30 years, having served as a director on various boards including Board Chair of Medicine Hat College, First Chair of the Medicine Hat and District Chamber of Commerce, Director of Community Foundation of Southeast Alberta to name a few. In addition to being an avid Tiger season ticket holder for years, Darren supported his children as Vice-president and coach for Medicine Hat Ringette Association and coach in MH Minor Hockey for many years.
Darren and his wife Denise have two adult children. In his leisure time, Darren enjoys playing hockey and golf. He also owns a cabin in Elkwater which is his refuge that he enjoys with Denise.
As far as love for community goes, Darren often takes a reference from former Mayor Garth Vallely – “we are fortunate to live in the best city, in the best province, in the best country in the world”.
Mr. Miles Johnson
I was born in Claresholm in 1955 and raised on the family farm outside of Granum Alberta. I graduated from Concordia College Edmonton and began a 40-year career in Law Enforcement on 24 May 1975 with the Canadian National Railways Police. I graduated from the Saskatchewan Police College in 1976 and served with the Regina City Police Force and the Redcliff Town Police Dept. On the 14 of February 1992 the City of Medicine Hat began responsibility for policing Redcliff by way of contract. In doing this the members of the Redcliff Police became members of the Medicine Hat Police Service.
In 1993 I became a Commissioned Officer in the Canadian Force first in the Cadet Instructor Cadre and later in the South Alberta Light Horse. I released in 2007 with 14 years service, during this time I had the honour and good fortune to be the Commanding Officer of the local Army Cadets which at the time was one of the largest Army Cadet Corps in Canada.
Mrs. Elenor Robles
Elenor was born and raised in Philippines. Before moving to Canada twenty-one years ago, she worked for ten years in an International non-profit organization in the Philippines. She was involved in various community initiatives and services. Elenor brings solid business community engagement strengths. In a previous role, as an executive assistant, she worked with multiple stakeholders in Medicine Hat, including schools, local businesses, community organizations and various non-profits.
Elenor is knowledgeable about community needs and has engaged with many organizations to support grassroots initiatives in her past role as liaison for community donations and engagement for EIWM Holdings, owner of Tim Hortons locally. Her years of management in the private and non-profit sectors show leadership and strong ability in planning and execution. Aside from solid business skills and work ethic, she brings cultural intelligence from volunteering with local and international organizations. She is knowledgeable about community needs regarding diversity (Including serving First Nations) and can provide insight to inform strategy for inclusion. Elenor is humbled and honoured to be a part of the Medicine Hat Police Commission.
Mr. Ken Serr
Ken was born and raised in Medicine Hat and graduated from Medicine Hat High School. He has been married to his wife, Donna, for fifty years. Their daughter, Tamara, is an educator in Medicine Hat. Three grandchildren attend secondary school and two grandchildren attend post-secondary schools.
Donna and Ken have volunteered with the Children’s Wish Foundation/Make A Wish Foundation since 2006. It is a local charity that is dear to their hearts.
Ken’s educational qualifications include a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Calgary, a Certificate in Health Care Administration from the University of Saskatchewan, and a CFP designation for completing the Certified Financial Planner requirements from the Financial Planners Standards Council of Canada.
Public sector work experience includes Director of Accounting Services at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital from 1980 to 1995. In the private sector, Ken worked at Cedar Square Insurance / Brokerlink Financial Services from 1995 to 2015. His job description was Office Controller / Certified Financial Planner. Ken is now fully retired.
Ken’s previous Board experience includes being elected Trustee and Board Chair of Medicine Hat School District #76 from 1989 to 1998. He was appointed as Trustee and Co-Chair of the South East Alberta Child and Family Services Authority from 2003 to 2011. Ken was a member of the Grants Committee of the Community Foundation of Medicine Hat from 2010 to 2012.
On September 1, 2005 the Alberta Centennial Medal was conferred upon Ken “In recognition of outstanding service to the people and Province of Alberta.”