Annie Baert joined the LDANS team in November 1997 as the Executive Director . In this role, Annie is the most senior staff person within the Association and has the primary re-sponsibility of the implementation of policy decisions, to carry out the daily Association operations and to oversee and manage the LDANS staff team.

Annie grew up in Dartmouth and graduated from Rutgers University in New Jersey, where she studied Speech, Language and Hearing Science and Special Education. She now makes her home in Dartmouth with her husband, Rob and 3 young children. In her spare time Annie enjoys paddling on Lake Banook, long walks with friends and reading.

Jason assumed his position in February 2004. A Newfoundland native, he supervises Destination Employment, a Federally funded program designed to assist adults with learning disabilities function in the workplace and gain valuable job skills. In addition, Jason coordinates Strategies for Success, a program that teaches coping strategies in academic and employment situations. Jason is a graduate of Memorial University and taught English at Harrison Trimble High School in Moncton before assuming his position with LDANS. Jason enjoys sports and walking in his off time.

Rachel joined the LDANS team in November 2005. As the Marketing & Communications Director, she provides connections between LDANS, the public and private sectors of the community.

Rachel oversees coordination of all fundraising and public relations activities. These include special events such as Blind Date with a Star! & the Play with the Stars! Golf Tournament, conferences and seminars. She also manages circulation of the NovaNews e-newsletter and LDANS website.

Rachel grew up in Halifax and attended Sacred Heart School from Primary to Grade 12. She has completed post-secondary education at Northumberland College and NSCC and is a Registered Massage Therapist with a background in spa management.

Email: rachel@ldans.ca