Staff | FECAE

Patricia Worthington-LeBlanc, B.A.

Executive Director

Part of the FECAE team since 2025

Patricia’s early career began with the YMCA over 20 years ago, where she developed a lifelong passion for supporting children and families. That foundation led her to take on a variety of roles in adult education, operations, human resources, and business development—each one strengthening her dedication to helping others grow. She is especially passionate about supporting teams to perform at their best and creating environments where people feel valued and empowered.Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and young daughter and getting lost in a good book.

Paula Gautreau, A.Ed, RTCT

Reflective Supervisor

Part of the FECAE team since 2013

Paula has been working in the field of family & early childhood education for the past 30 years. Highlights from her academic and professional development journey include completion of an Associate of Education Degree, certification in Reality Therapy and Triple P Parenting, and more recently, a certificate in Management Essentials. She has had the privilege of sharing in learning with children and their parents and caregivers across classroom, home and group setting environments. She has equally had the pleasure of collaborating with a wonderful array of community-based professionals and leaders over the years and is grateful for ongoing opportunities to do so. She has been a Reflective Supervisor for our agency since its inception in 2013. Outside of work she loves to spend time with her husband, daughter, extended family, and friends. She is always up for any chance to travel, enjoy a good read or try new culinary delights – whether by preparing them in her own kitchen or enjoying those created by others. Seeking out new experiences and adventures , while adding to her “unlikely to ever be fully accomplished bucket list” has become a favorite hobby of hers!

Debbie Crowley-Leblanc, B.C.S.

Reflective Supervisor/Developmental Childcare & Transition to Kindergarten Coordinator

Part of the FECAE team since 2013

Debbie holds a Bachelor of Child Study (Elementary Education) and brings over 30 years of experience working with children and their support networks.

As a Reflective Supervisor, Debbie offers guidance, feedback, to frontline family educators. She plays a role in delivering and supporting both the Developmental Child Care Program and the Transition to Kindergarten initiative—ensuring that children and families experience smooth continuity of services.

Outside of her professional life, Debbie is the proud mother of four children and a nanny to three energetic grandsons. Her love for them is endless. “Her heart has its own solar system, and they are the stars.”

Stephanie Crossman

Administrative Assistant

Part of the FECAE team since 2018

As the Administrative Assistant, Stephanie is essential in managing the daily operations of the office. She assists the team with various tasks, including intake, referrals, and screening. With over 17 years of experience in administrative roles, Stephanie’s skills help the agency operate smoothly and efficiently. Outside of work, Stephanie cherishes time with her spouse, Dave, their children, and dogs. She enjoys cooking, reading, and unwinding through travel whenever possible.

Marina Wright, B.A. Diploma in Accounting Management, PCP Certified

Accounting Officer

Part of the FECAE team since 2014

Marina brings extensive accounting experience from both Russia and Canada, having worked across a variety of sectors including construction, manufacturing, and non-profit organizations. She is responsible for managing a wide range of financial tasks and ensures accuracy and efficiency in every aspect of her work.

Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her family, two dogs, and two cats. She also loves traveling and staying active with Zumba.

Charlotte, EYE-DA / Educator –

Charlotte is one of 3 educators who oversee, organize and implement the EYE DA and Active Learning Groups that take place in 26 schools in Anglophone East.

Charlotte has a Bachelor of Child Studies from MSVU and has many years of experience in child care, Kindergarten, operating a Preschool, Supply teaching, and Casual Education Assistant.

When not at work, Charlotte enjoys spending time with her family, reading, dancing, and walks in the fresh air and sunshine

Darlene Pugsley B.A.

Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2013

Darlene is a skilled facilitator of Triple P Positive Parenting and Building Resilience in Young Children groups. She also provides home visits and delivers Modified Interaction Guidance and Attachment programs, supporting parents with concerns about their child’s development. Darlene brings valuable experience from her work with the Anglophone East School District and autism organizations. She’s also a proud mother of three sons, and shares her home with a dog, a cat, and an ever-growing garden.

Isabelle Vienneau, Educator -

Isabelle is a bilingual family educator. Her role includes providing families with support and/or guidance on child development, parenting, school entry and access to community resources. Isabelle graduated from University of Moncton in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in social work. Since then Isabelle has worked in various social work related fields prior to starting her employment with Family and Early Childhood Anglophone East in April 2013. Isabelle enjoys spending time outdoors, scrapbooking and Zumba.

Cheryl Tunney, RSW

Family Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2018

Cheryl is a registered social worker who holds a bachelor's degree in Social Work and a diploma in Human Services Counselling. She brings over 20 years of experience in the social services sector. Her previous roles include working as a counsellor in the shelter system and as a mental health case manager, supporting individuals in community, correctional, and probation settings.

Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys reading, walking in the woods, and spending time with her spouse and family. She especially loves supporting her daughters in their passion for recreational dance and all-star cheerleading.

Lise Hudson

Family Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2013

Lise brings a wide range of experience with families and children to her work at the agency as a Family Educator. She co-facilitates the Triple P Positive Parenting groups and is also certified in Modified Interactive Guidance with the Infant-Parent Attachment Program. When she’s not at work, Lise enjoys spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren, and friends. She loves being outdoors whenever she can—whether it's enjoying nature, staying active, or simply soaking in the fresh air.

Petula Murray- Pollio, Educator –

Petula is one of our Educators. She has been working in this field for over 20 years and joined FECAE in 2015. When not working, she can be found cheering on her children at whichever sports venue they are playing at. (Look for the big clackers, cow bell and whistle as she usually has all 3). Petula loves animals, with several cats and dogs of her own, sports and playing cards but she loves to spend time with her family and friends the most.

Amie Sweetland, B.A.

Family Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2014

Amie works from our Salisbury office supporting rural families in the Salisbury, Petitcodiac and Havelock area. Amie graduated from St. Thomas University in 2004 with a Bachelor’s degree with a double major in Criminology and Psychology. She has been supporting families and children in a variety of settings since 2008, bringing over 12 years of experience to her work. In her current role, she also facilitates Circle of Security Parenting groups, working closely with caregivers to strengthen their relationships with their children through a deeper understanding of attachment and emotional development.

Shelley Garnhum,

Family Educator

Part of FECAE team since: 2013

Shelley is an enthusiastic family educator and oversees resources for the agency. She is certified in Modified Interactive Guidance with the Infant-Parent Attachment Program. Her extensive background in Early Childhood Education has given her a deep understanding and appreciation of children and sparked a strong interest in working with parents as well. A grown family and two grandsons provide lots of great family fun and distractions. She loves a challenge, enjoys distracted hiking, reading and loves to de-stress in the garden (both vegetable and flowers).

Tabatha Clem, B.A.

Family Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2017

Tabatha is a facilitator for the Circle of Security Parenting Program. She also mentors and trains all newly hired family educators and works closely with rural families in the Salisbury and Petitcodiac areas.

After earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Tabatha worked in an Outdoor Therapeutic Program for at-risk youth in Alabama. She also brings valuable experience from roles in group homes, a youth correctional facility, and the Boys and Girls Club.

Outside of work, Tabatha can often be found on the sidelines of football or soccer fields, coaching and cheering on her sons.

Tracy Ward, Educator –

Tracy is one of 3 educators who oversee, organize and implement the EYE DA and Active Learning Groups that take place in 26 schools in Anglophone East.

Tracy has a Bachelor of Child Study from MSVU. She joined the team in the fall of 2015.

She has many years’ experience in childcare as an Educator and Program Director and working in schools and kindergartens as an Educational Assistant.

When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and son as well as spending time outside biking, hiking and traveling to new and exciting places

Sheryl Wilson, B.C.S.

Family Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2014

Sheryl is one of our dedicated family educators and a skilled facilitator of the Triple P Positive Parenting Program. After earning her Bachelor of Child Studies, she immediately began working in the field, bringing her passion for supporting families into practice.

Much of Sheryl’s professional experience comes from her work with Military Family Resource Centers—spending 11 years in Shearwater, Nova Scotia, and another 7 years in Moncton—where she gained a deep understanding of the unique needs and strengths of military families.

Emily Wheaton, B.A, E.C.E

Family Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2022

Emily brings over a decade of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings—including schools, community programs, daycare, and as a dance and gymnastics coach. She holds a diploma in Early Childhood Education (2016) and recently completed her Bachelor of Arts degree at Crandall University (2024). Emily is passionate about lifelong learning and supporting the growth and well-being of others. At home, she’s a busy mom to three energetic boys and two cats, Shadow and Salem. In her spare time, you’ll often find her outdoors exploring nature, making memories with her family, or behind the camera pursuing her love of photography.

Karen Stevens, B.C.S, B.Ed., M.Sc.

Family Educator

Part of the FECAE team since: 2022

Karen has a Bachelor of Child Study, Bachelor of Education, and Master of Science. She brings nearly 25 years of experience teaching in various school settings in the U.S. and in international schools. Prior to teaching, Karen started her career in a day care program and an early intervention program in Saint John, NB. With a strong educational background and a career dedicated to supporting young learners, she has created inclusive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environments for children across a variety of cultural contexts. Her work is grounded in a deep understanding of child development and a belief in the importance of strong partnerships with families. Outside of work, Karen enjoys connecting with friends and family, and spending time outdoors.

Erin Lutes, B.A.

Family Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2022

After graduating with her bachelors degree in Sociology and certificate in EDI, Erin became a Family Educator. Erin co-facilitates the Circle of Security Parenting Program and enjoys supporting families in-home. Erin enjoys golfing with her husband, camping and spending time with her family.

Peggy Legacy-Cormier

Family Educator/EYE-DA Support

Part of the FECAE team since 2013

Peggy is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She has have been working in early intervention for 33 years in the Moncton area. Her interests include gardening, cooking, and furniture refinishing. She is a lover of dogs and feet in the sand. Peggy wishes to thank the families she serves for the privilege of getting to know you and “walking with” in your journey.

Ronda Mackenzie-Cooper, M.A.

Educator

Part of the FECAE team since 2023

Ronda holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Child and Youth Care from the University of Victoria. As a retired counselling therapist, she brings over 40 years of experience working with children, youth, adults, and families across a range of settings, including residential services, mental health, forensic services for both adults and youth, grief and trauma counselling, and wellness programs. At the core of her work is a deeply held belief in placing children at the center of everything we do. She is grateful for the opportunity to support and walk alongside the individuals and families we serve.

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