About Diana

Rooted in Vernon. Committed to Our Future.

I am proud to be a fourth-generation Vernonite.  My family’s roots in Vernon go back nearly 100 years.  My great-grandparents were among the early Ukrainian families to settle in Coldstream in the 1920s.

Family history tells us that my great-grandparents, Konstantine and Anna Scherba, donated the land for St. Nicholas Church in 1934, with the church completed in 1936.  Their commitment to building a strong community is a legacy that continues to inspire me today.

I was raised in Vernon alongside my two sisters and have been fortunate to raise my two children here.  Like so many families, our lives have been shaped by everything this incredible community has to offer—from swimming in Okanagan and Kalamalka Lakes during the summer to skiing at SilverStar in the winter.

Over the past fifteen years, mountain biking has become one of my greatest passions.  The incredible trail network, lakes and vistas surrounding Vernon, remind me every time I ride why so many people choose to call this place home.

Vernon isn’t just where I live—it’s where my family’s story began, where I built my career, raised my family, and serve my community.

Professional Leadership

For more than 30 years, I have led large-scale projects and organizational change across government, healthcare, retail, logistics, and post-secondary education. Throughout my career, I’ve built a reputation for bringing people together, solving complex problems, and turning strategy into practical results.

After spending 15 years with Kal Tire in senior leadership roles, I established DWilson Consulting Services in 2021, where I’ve helped organizations across Canada successfully deliver major business transformation initiatives.

Today, I serve as Change Management Lead at Okanagan College, supporting the institution-wide transition to a new Learning Management System. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that lasting success comes from thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and turning vision into action. I look forward to bringing that same experience to Council as we continue building on our community’s vision for Vernon’s future.

Community Leadership

Giving back has always been important to me.

Over the years I’ve had the privilege of serving our community through volunteer leadership roles, including:

  • President, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
  • President, Vernon Paddling Centre
  • President, North Okanagan Cycling Society

These experiences allowed me to work alongside local businesses, volunteers, community organizations, and residents to strengthen the community we all care about.  They also reinforced my belief that lasting progress happens when people work together toward a common goal.

"I love Vernon. It's where my family has lived for generations, where I've raised my children, built my career, and dedicated much of my volunteer time. I'm excited about the opportunity to help shape its future, and I hope to earn your trust and support."

A Commitment to Serve

If I’m fortunate enough to earn the trust of Vernon residents and be elected to Council, I intend to make the role my highest professional priority.

I recognize there will be a significant learning curve during the first year on Council, and I want to fully immerse myself in the role – learning from fellow councillors, City staff, community organizations, and, most importantly, the people of Vernon.

My current term with Okanagan College concludes in September.  Going forward, I have made the decision to set aside as much of my professional commitments as possible, particularly during my first year on Council so that I may better serve Vernon.

Serving on Council is not something I view as a part-time interest. It is a responsibility I intend to approach with the dedication, preparation, and commitment it deserves.

Copyright @2026 Diana Wilson - All Rights Reserved.