Board of Directors

Ainsley Hillyard is an Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton)-based artist of settler descent. She is a choreographer and performer who works in contemporary dance and theatre. Her work is immersed in the curiosities and connections between these two forms. Ainsley was a co-founder, and a co-artistic director/general manager for the Good Women Dance Collective from its inception in 2009 to 2023. She has worked as a choreographer and performer for various theatre and dance companies in Amiskwacîwâskahikan and received numerous Sterling nominations and awards for her performances and choreographies. Ainsley also runs her own dog care business Bumblebear Doggy Care and serves on the board of the Edmonton Arts Council. Ainsley is very excited to serve on the Common Ground Arts board and to continue learning about and supporting the Edmonton arts community with her full self.

Alison Besecker (she/her) works as the Network and Engagement Senior Coordinator for Volunteer Alberta. Alison grew up in the arts and culture of Edmonton and continues to volunteer at many festivals. Alison chose to be on the board of Common Ground Arts to support this organization in a more behind the scenes approach.

Christina Harbak (she/her) is an improviser with Rapid Fire Theatre and an avid supporter of the Edmonton theatre scene. She loves the work Common Ground Arts Society does and supporting artists of all kinds.

Drew Delbaere (he/him) is a volunteer engagement professional and currently works as the Parks Volunteer Services Coordinator for Alberta Parks. He is a passionate supporter of Edmonton’s arts and culture scene. When he’s not attending a performance, you can also find him leading food tours through Old Strathcona. Drew joined the Common Ground board because he believes dismantling barriers to arts work is essential to creating a thriving arts community.

By day, Jessica (she/her) is the Associate Producer at Catalyst Theatre. By later-day, she is the co-Founder and co-Artistic Producer of the independent company Cardiac Theatre, and is also developing her skills as an audio describer for live performance. After being a Found Festival artist many years ago, she is happy to be on the other side of the work serving Common Ground’s vision, and their continued legacy of empowering artists with skills to bring their ambitious visions to life.

Riti currently works in digital strategy and finds technology incredibly fascinating for solving real-world problems. A graduate of the University of British Columbia with an interdisciplinary studies degree, Riti is passionate about giving back to the community and advocating for youth. With a deep love for the arts, Riti is excited to contribute to the Common Ground Arts board and support its mission.

Ivana Okaro is a neuroscience enthusiast with a heart for spoken word poetry, choir, and Indigenous African literature. Pursuing a career planted at the intersection of medicine and creative activism, she flows in her duality by placing artistry at the forefront of her advocacy and research endeavours. Ivana admires the inclusive vision of Common Ground Arts Society and looks forward to supporting its growth as a board member.