GCAT’s Board of Directors
Introducing the driving force behind GCAT! (A friendly bunch 🙂 )
Virginia Andersen, Chair (she/her)
As a Guelphite since 2018, I currently live in St. Patrick’s ward near the Eramosa River Trail, but I have also lived in Onward Willow and just north of downtown. I have a master’s in public policy, have worked in non-profits and at the University of Guelph, and have experience in evaluating government policies and programs.
Growing up on a farm, I was late to biking — I learned when I was 12 on gravel roads in the country, coasting down a very small slope. I have cycled periodically to commute and for fun; during both undergrad and grad school and in several of the different places I have lived. I am (slowly) working on hiking sections of the Bruce Trail. I believe that having robust options for active transportation will make our community in Guelph more vibrant and inclusive, and that increasing the amount of active transportation will help Guelph and other communities prepare locally to address climate change. I want everyone to be able to live in a place where everything generally is 15 minutes or less away by either walking, biking, or bus.
Jason Szewc, Vice Chair and Advocacy Committee Co-Chair (he/him)
Growing up in Guelph, I’ve developed a deep connection to this vibrant city, and now I’m proud to call Riverside Park my home. My passion for design and systems has been a driving force in my life for as long as I can remember.
During the day, I immerse myself in the world of industrial automation, where I’m constantly seeking ways to enhance flow and efficiency through innovative designs and processes. It’s a challenging yet fulfilling pursuit that allows me to unleash my creativity and problem-solving skills.
Now, I’m eager to channel that same energy and enthusiasm into benefiting our community. With my natural talent for visuals and a constant stream of ideas, I’m determined to elevate active transportation efforts and foster greater connectivity within our neighborhoods. I believe that by improving infrastructure and promoting alternative modes of transportation, we can create a more sustainable and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy.
Donald McGillivray, Secretary (he/him)
Decades spent cycling, long‑distance running, walking, and relying on public transit have shown me how safe, easily navigable streets transform daily life. Since embracing life in Guelph and raising my family in Ward 2, each time my young son sighs in frustration because he must wait for me to shepherd him across a street just to reach the playground underscores how urgently we need a network where everyone navigates safely and confidently on their own. Now is the time to redesign our transportation networks so they truly include everyone, not just those in cars.
Professionally, I am a fraud‑prevention and data scientist. My work has protected financial institutions from millions in losses and taught me how rigorous analysis, smart metrics, working with stakeholders, and persuasive storytelling drive change. On GCAT’s Board I will apply these skills to pinpoint the city’s highest‑impact infrastructure gaps, measure the real‑world benefits of new routes, and build evidence‑based cases for funding. By blending data‑driven rigour with community‑centred advocacy, I aim to accelerate the Active Transportation Network, champion protected cycling corridors, and strengthen active, and safety focused programs. Together, we can transform Guelph’s streets into vibrant, people‑first corridors that move everyone safely and sustainably.
Adam Bonnycastle, Treasurer and Governance and Administration Committee Co-Chair (he/him)
I became interested in advocating for active transportation for several reasons. There’s the obvious – less costly than driving, the health benefits, better for the environment, and many others. Those are all reasons why I like to get around Guelph under my own power. But truth be told, I am a driver also. I navigate this city equally by bike, foot, and in my own car. It is clear to me that as the population of Guelph increases, active transportation must play an important role in helping mitigate current and future traffic congestion. Good active transportation infrastructure and programs are win-wins for everyone and for improving the overall livability of our community.
I first came to Guelph in 1996 as a student and have lived here (almost) ever since! I currently work at the University of Guelph as a spatial analyst. I enjoy riding my bike(s) for pleasure – fitness, sport, touring – and as transportation to get around our city. I also walk a lot and run our sidewalks and trails.
Ben Phillips, Director of Membership (he/him)
I moved to Guelph in 2018, and active transportation has been my primary way of getting around the city ever since. I commute by bike daily, rain, shine, or snow, and also cycle for fun and exercise when the weather allows. I regularly use the trails in and around Guelph, whether I’m walking my dog or simply enjoying nature at a slower pace. Before moving to Canada, I lived in the UK and travelled extensively in Europe. I’ve seen firsthand what excellent active transportation infrastructure looks like and how, when thoughtfully integrated into city planning, it benefits everyone. I strongly believe that communities thrive when people have access to multiple safe, affordable, and equitable ways to get around.
Professionally, I’m a Principal at an environmental consultancy, where I help ensure developments meet their targets for acoustics, noise, and vibration. My work often intersects with thoughtful urban design, and I’m passionate about how the built environment can support healthier, more sustainable communities. I bring this perspective to my advocacy for active transportation, aiming to help shape Guelph that’s safer and more accessible for everyone, regardless of how they choose to move through the city.
Rich Maertens, Director of Strategic Communication (he/him)
I’ve been a resident of Guelph for 17 years. I’m a passionate believer in the power of active transportation to build a healthier, more connected, and more sustainable community. For me, that passion really comes alive on two wheels. I hope to apply what I’ve learned so far about cycling in Guelph, and what I’ve learned through my involvement with GCAT, to meet my responsibilities as the Director of Strategic Communications.
On a more personal note, my life here in Guelph is further enriched by my family. I’m the parent of three grown children and, even more joyfully, the grandparent of five fantastic grandchildren. They certainly keep me active, and I often think about the kind of city we’re building for their future – a future where active transportation plays a central role.
I believe that we need to advocate for cyclists effectively, and that involves communicating clearly and succinctly what we need to everyone involved. I’m looking forward to communicating with all of GCAT’s partners in the community.
Patrick Andres, Programming and Events Committee Co-Chair (he/him)
Patrick is a passionate advocate for active transportation and community-connected planning. He brings a deep appreciation for the outdoors to his work, believing that the way we move through our cities should strengthen our relationship with the natural world. For Patrick, traveling by bike isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s a profoundly freeing experience that connects him to places and people.
A long-time Guelph resident, Patrick enjoys the strong sense of community and walkability the city offers. He gets around town and commutes to work primarily on foot, giving him a ground-level view of how streets and public spaces shape daily life. With a background in environmental engineering and his past experience as a board member with a national non-profit organization, he is committed to helping create safer, more vibrant streets for everyone.
Andrea Bidgood, (First!) Bicycle Mayor of Guelph | GCAT Socials | Creator of Cat Sticker Propaganda (she/her)
Starting as an occasional GCAT volunteer to becoming Guelph’s first Bicycle Mayor, Andrea has grown into a passionate advocate for safer, more inclusive streets. A GCAT board member since late 2022, she collaborates on advocacy, programming and events, while also running GCAT’s social media with a mix of community engagement, education, and well-timed cat puns.
Whether amplifying community voices, organizing rides, or distributing “G-CAT Helmet Club” stickers; Andrea brings joy, a little mischief, and a deep commitment to human-centered mobility. She may still get shaky talking in front of City Council but that doesn’t stop her from showing up. Andrea believes that change is powered by people, not perfection, and she’s committed to creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and safe on our streets.
Mauricio Canedo Fernandez, member at large (he/him)
My story with Guelph began in 2021 when I moved here to complete my Bachelor’s degree in Economics & Finance. Coming from a car-dependent suburb in the GTA, I quickly came to appreciate the livability of Guelph’s more compact design. Being able to walk to campus, run errands, and choose between walking or taking the 99 bus was a refreshing change from always being tied to a car.
This experience sparked my interest in urban planning and helped me recognize the profound impact that land-use patterns and transportation infrastructure have on quality of life, community, sustainability, and municipal finances.
I believe that improving the quality and extent of Guelph’s active transportation infrastructure can reduce the cost of living, improve health outcomes, save lives, lower our environmental impact, and ensure more sustainable municipal budgets. I joined GCAT to help advocate for the infrastructure and cultural shifts our community needs to thrive and improve quality of life going forward!
Adrian Salvatore, member at large (he/him)
I’ve been a resident of Guelph since 2015 and live in the west-end (Parkwood Gardens). I’m an all season cyclist and walker, and enjoy getting around town using active transport whenever I can. From a young age I considered cycling a main means of transportation, and have very fond memories of taking day trips with my family by bike. I am passionate about making active transportation safe and accessible so that everyone can enjoy the freedom, economic, health, and environmental benefits it offers!
Katy Wang, member at large (she/her)
Reducing car-dependence benefits everyone and makes the Guelph community stronger. This can look like safer bike lanes, faster snow removal on sidewalks, removing parking minimums for businesses, more frequent and reliable public transit, and so much more. Guelph is a wonderful place to live, and improved infrastructure will only make our day-to-day experiences better.
Outside of GCAT, you can catch me petting dogs and drinking coffee.
Tell your dog I said hi.