Our Mission
Advocacy Through The Arts & Sciences
ATASA is a student-led, volunteer-based non-profit that integrates scientific research, artistic practice, and community engagement to address environmental degradation and promote ecological justice in Canada.
Originating with detailed studies and public outreach about the David Dunlap Observatory forest, the organization now collaborates with students, educators, artists, scientists, and community members across the province to advocate for sustainable development, Indigenous stewardship, and broader awareness of environmental change in the Anthropocene.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors is the governing body of the Advocacy Through Art and Sciences Association (ATASA). Elected in accordance with the organization’s Articles of Incorporation, the Board provides strategic leadership, governance oversight, and ensures compliance with the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act (S.C. 2009, c. 23).
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Directors are responsible for high-level oversight of ATASA’s initiatives and organizational direction. The Board guides the Executive Team, approves key initiatives, and ensures that all scientific, artistic, educational, and community-based activities align with ATASA’s mission of environmental stewardship, interdisciplinary research, and accessible public engagement.
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Together, the Directors bring expertise from science, policy, the arts, and community advocacy, strengthening ATASA’s impact across Ontario and Canada.
Kyle Edward Kuthe
Co-Founder, Director, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
M.Sc in Geography, Specialization in Geomatics - uOttawa Student​
Hon. B.Sc. in Physical Geography & Geomatics; Minor in Greek & Roman Studies​ - uOttawa Alumni
LEED® Green Associate - U.S. Green Building Council​
​Fine Arts Certificate - YRDSB
Maryann Anastasakos
Co-Founder, Director, Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Hon. B.A. in Criminology; Minor in Psychology - TMU Alumni
Standard First Aid - CPR/AED (Level C) - Canadian Red Cross
Pleasure Craft Operator Card - Transport Canada
Ariane Blouin​
Director, Chief Strategy & Policy Officer (CSPO)
M.Sc. in Environmental Sustainability - uOttawa Student
​Hon. B.A. in Environmental Studies - Ottawa Alumni
Fiona Dimitrijeva
Director, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
Hon. B.A. Major in Environmental Studies; Minor in Geomatics & Spatial Analysis - uOttawa Student
Microprogram in French as a second language​ - uOttawa Student
Maya Yasha Kuthe
Director, Chief Communications & Cultural Affairs Officer (CCAO)
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M.A. in Criminology - uOttawa Alumni​
Hon. B.A. in Law & Society - York University Alumni
Ryleigh Rioux
Director, Chief Scientific Officer (Co-CSO)
Hon. B.Sc. in Physical Geography & Geomatics; Minor in Environmental Studies​ - uOttawa Alumni
Ryleigh Rioux@ATASA.ca
Executive Team
The Executive Team of the Advocacy Through Art and Sciences Association (ATASA) consists of appointed officers responsible for supporting the organization’s day-to-day operations, coordination, and project implementation. Working closely with the Board of Directors, executive members assist in advancing ATASA’s initiatives, managing internal activities, and contributing to the overall development of the organization.
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Executive members are active contributors who participate directly in ATASA’s work across science, art, policy, education, and community engagement. They include students, researchers, artists, and community members who collaborate on projects aligned with their skills and interests. Members support research, outreach, and organizational initiatives while contributing to ATASA’s broader mission.
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Executive members receive access to events, workshops, training opportunities, and organizational updates, including ATASA’s Nature Newsletter. Executive membership is required for individuals contributing to official ATASA projects, research, or creative outputs.
For additional information or questions, please contact our Chief Administrative Officer (CAO): Fiona.Dimitrijeva@ATASA.ca
Supporters
Supporters engage with ATASA as part of its broader community network. They receive updates, the Nature Newsletter, invitations to public events, and opportunities to participate in select volunteer activities. While supporters do not contribute to internal projects or organizational operations, they play an important role in expanding ATASA’s outreach and public engagement.
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