Gay Hamilton became the Executive Director of Navalis (RCNBF) in June 2021 following the adoption of the Strategy for Renewal 2021-24 which she helped create as a volunteer.  She has committed her energies and enthusiasm to the nonprofit sector for more than 30 years, providing leadership at the regional, national, and international levels. She has extensive experience in strategic planning and organizational restructuring. 

Before joining the RCNBF, now the Navalis Foundation, Gay worked as CEO of the Commonwealth Association for Public Administration and Management, sharing leading government practices across 54 countries. Her work history includes leadership roles with three national organizations in Canada. Gay has volunteered on numerous boards and committees, including an advisory committee to the Minister of State for Literacy in Canada, and has presented briefs to such eminent institutions as the Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology in Canada, and the Foreign Affairs Ministers Roundtable at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings. She has also been awarded the Commemorative Medal for the Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Gay has completed the Canadian Association Executive certification in non-profit management, courses on Artificial Intelligence at MIT, and Brand Development at Cornell University. She studied Business Management at Ahuntsic College in Montreal and Economics at McGill University. Gay grew up in Quebec and is fluent in both of Canada’s official languages.

Laura Pothier joined the Navalis Foundation as Business Coordinator in 2026 and brings a deep appreciation for people, community, and the power of well-run organizations to the role. Laura supports the Foundation’s business operations and helps build strong, thoughtful connections with partners, donors, and the broader naval community.

Previously, Laura spent seven years at Staples Canada, most recently as Senior Community Engagement and Events Manager, where she focused on creating welcoming, accessible community experiences and supporting teams across the country in bringing those programs to life. She also managed Staples Studio Ottawa, working closely with businesses and teams to foster a collaborative, creative environment grounded in strong relationships and smooth day-to-day operations. Laura has more than 20 years of experience in customer management across the National Capital Region, building a strong foundation in communication, problem-solving, and business continuity.

Laura holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Ottawa. She lives in Ottawa with her young family. She is proud to contribute her skills—and her curiosity—to an organization dedicated to supporting those who serve Canada at sea, and the families who support them.