Welcoming a New Era of Leadership
Noella Klawitter joins the Children's Centre as new CEO
In October 2025, Niagara Children’s Centre welcomed a new chapter in its history as Noella Klawitter stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer. Her arrival marked both a moment of transition and an exciting opportunity to build on the Centre’s strong foundation of care, connection, and community impact.
Klawitter succeeded longtime CEO Oksana Fisher, whose 15 years of leadership helped guide the organization through significant growth and transformation. As the Centre looked toward the future, the Board of Directors sought a leader who shared the organization’s deep commitment to children and families while bringing fresh ideas and perspective to the evolving landscape of children’s rehabilitation and developmental services.
With more than 20 years of experience in health and social services, Klawitter brought a wealth of knowledge and leadership to Niagara. Before joining the Centre, she served as Director of KidsInclusive, the children’s treatment centre within Kingston Health Sciences Centre. During her tenure, the organization experienced substantial growth, expanding from 64 to 150 staff while preparing for a major capital campaign. Her work also extended beyond the local level through provincial leadership roles with Empowered Kids Ontario, where she chaired the Leadership Council and served on the Board of Directors.
While her resume reflects extensive professional accomplishments, it was Klawitter’s values-driven approach to leadership that resonated strongly with the Centre’s staff, Board, and community partners. Collaboration, inclusion, and family-centred care remain at the heart of her vision.
“The best outcomes occur when we bring diverse voices to the table,” Klawitter shared during her first week at the Centre. “I want to foster a culture where our staff and the families we serve continue to feel valued and supported.”
Her leadership philosophy is also shaped by lived experience. A Canadian Paralympian, Klawitter was diagnosed in 2002 with Cone/Rod Dystrophy, a condition affecting her vision. Often accompanied by her guide dog, Doll, she draws upon her experiences navigating disability to inform her commitment to accessibility, equity, and inclusion.
"It’s really instilled the belief that resilience, preparation, and teamwork can make the impossible possible,” she reflected. “I believe every person, regardless of ability, can thrive.”
As she settled into the Niagara community alongside her family, Klawitter quickly embraced both the warmth of the region and the possibilities ahead for the organization. She sees opportunities to strengthen partnerships, expand innovative programming, enhance community engagement, and use data-driven decision-making to better support children and families.
Her arrival comes at a meaningful time for Niagara Children’s Centre as the organization continues to evolve to meet growing and complex community needs. From expanding programs and partnerships to deepening its presence throughout Niagara, the Centre remains focused on helping children and youth reach their full potential.
Board Chair Angela Davidson expressed confidence in the future under Klawitter’s leadership.
“Noella is a highly respected leader in the children’s development and rehabilitation sector,” Davidson said. “Her experience, vision, and commitment to children and families make her an ideal choice to lead the Centre into its next chapter.”
As Niagara Children’s Centre continues to grow alongside the community it serves, Klawitter’s leadership reflects a shared commitment to inclusion, collaboration, and imagining what’s possible for every child and family who walks through the Centre’s doors.