Profile: Dean Whalen, New President

Lunenburg County Wheels has a new hand at the wheel. This past March, Dean Whalen officially stepped into the role of President. “I’ve always been interested in public transit,” says Dean Whalen. As a teenager, he commuted to high school by city bus. Since then, Dean’s awareness of the importance of affordable public transportation has continued.

After moving to Lunenburg County, Dean noticed the LC Wheels display table at the Lunenburg Farmers Market. His curiosity led him to have a conversation with Eric Hustvedt (Board Member) and Jerome Tanner, President of LC Wheels at the time. “I was surprised and I would say amazed at what LC Wheels is offering to people.” Dean and Jerome realized that they have a family connection! Soon enough, Dean was on the Board of Directors.

Dean is retired as a financial advisor and brings a generous history of volunteering for various community organizations over the years, including hospital foundations, theatre groups and athletics. His willingness to contribute to a variety of organizations shows he really enjoys community life.

As President, Dean pays careful attention to how LC Wheels is functioning. “We’re really doing well now, with six vehicles, several employees, drivers and administrative staff. Federal, provincial and municipal governments have been very generous to help support this venture.” He adds that generous private donations, as well as from hospital foundations and estates have made it possible for LC Wheels to provide expanded service. An ongoing challenge is finding new volunteers and members for the Board of Directors.

If you’re chatting with Dean and get onto the topic of travel, you’ve found the man! His family (kids, grandkids) and friends are priority, but Dean and his wife, Susan, love to travel! That will be a fun conversation for next time!

Welcome aboard, Dean.