Our Team
Current Board of Directors of CCAC
Philip Girard- Board President
Philip joined our board last year and brings a wealth of experience to the CCAC. He is a professor emeritus (retired) from Osgoode Hall Law School is one of Canada’s most distinguished legal academics and legal historians.
In 2011, he was made an honorary fellow of the American Society for Legal History, the first Canadian to be so recognized, and in 2021 was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada.
Sevda Sinan – Executive Director
Sevda brings her experience as a music teacher, professional soprano, and arts program manager to her role as Executive Director. She has a strong background in musicology and is a registered early childhood educator, and is skilled in teaching diverse age groups.
With a proficiency in voice, piano, guitar, recorder, harmonica, oud, ney, saz, ukulele, and other world instruments, she is trained in both Western classical music and Eastern music traditions. including the Makam
system. Passionate about fostering creativity, developing engaging curricula, and integrating holistic sound healing practices, she brings boundless energy and enthusiasm to the CCAC,.
Paul Nash – Director
Paul has a strong background in conflict resolution, organizational development and human resources. He runs workshops and courses at the Academy of Learning. He is also a musician who hosts and performs at open stages in the city.
Brian Morgan – Director
Brian is a retired York University professor and professional musician (violin, guitar, bass, songwriter). He was part of the popular band Jughead. He has supported the Centre for years, playing at our events and donating instruments.
Gillian Beresford- Director
Gillian is a professor in the ESL department at York Univerisity and is a composer and recording artist. She has been part of the Centre’s musical events for years.
Blessie Maturan- Director
Blessie is a Cabbagetown business owner and parent of a CCAC student. She brings marketing and graphic design skills to the board.
Jason Lee
Jason has been a life long lover of music, visual, and performance arts. He believes music and arts has the power to tear down walls and bring people together. Jason has a background in architectural design and construction delivery, and spent the early part of his career contributing to the revitalization of Union Station in Toronto. Jason enjoys spending time with his family, playing bass guitar with his musician friends, and taking candid street photography.