Women in Ottawa: Mentors and Milestones

Helene Campbell

2012-02-17T04:57:00.000-08:00

Advocate for organ and tissue registration and blood donation

While awaiting for a double lung transplant in Toronto, Campbell, a 20-year-old Ottawa resident is raising awareness on organ and tissue registration and donation all over the world.

She successfully got Justin Bieber to tweet her plea for organ and tissue registration to his millions of followers last month. After she and her friends took to Bieber through Twitter, registration on Ontario’s Trillium Gift of Life Network website beadonor.ca umped fourfold. During the week and a half of the Justin Bieber campaign, Trillium’s registry saw 1,300 new donors sign up. Since then, they’ve been averaging 160 a day. Before Campbell took to Twitter, the provincial agency mandated with organ and tissue donation and transplant averaged 50 new registrants daily

She appeared via Skype on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on February 16, 2012 to bolster her campaign of awareness by making a direct appeal to Ellen in a video on her website alungstory.ca

alungstory.ca.

www.thestar.com

www.ottawacitizen.com

Victor Tolgesy Arts Award

2012-02-16T10:45:00.000-08:00

This award was inaugurated in 1987 by the City of Ottawa and the Council for the Arts in Ottawa to recognize the accomplishments of residents who have contributed substantially to enriching cultural life in the city. It is named in honour of Ottawa artist Victor Tolgesy who died in 1980.

Between 1987 (first year of the award) and 2010, 13 women won the Tolgesy award. They are:

1987
Trudi LeCaine, arts supporter, volunteer and advocate

1988
Pat Durr, visual artist and champion of arts policy and development

1994
Barbara Clark, choral director and arts education advocate

1998
Claire Faubert, actress, artistic director, teacher and volunteer
Diane Holmes, arts leader, volunteer and advocate

2001
Jennifer Dickson, visual artist and arts advocate

2002
Eleanor Crowder, founder of Salamander Theatre for Young Audiences

2004
Susan Annis, arts patron and leadership volunteer

2005
Jennifer Cayley, founder and former Director of MASC

2006
Penny McCann, Director of SAW Video Association

2008
Paulette Gagnon, significant contribution to the arts through French theatre and francophone artists

2009
Christine Tremblay, Executive director of Arts Ottawa East

2010
Mela Constantinidi, involved in the cultural sectors at the municipal, provincial and federal levels for 30 years

http://arts-ottawa.on.ca

Patrice James

2012-02-16T05:13:00.000-08:00

Film maker

Executive director of the Independent Film-makers Co-operative of Ottawa.

Widely known and respected in the city’s arts community.

Her film projects include the documentary "Black in Ottawa” (co-produced with Orpheus Morgan). This thought-provoking documentary is the first to explore the struggles, triumphs and interactions of Ottawa's various black communities while also examining the relationships between these groups and 'mainstream society'.

Nominated for the Tolgesy Award in 2012, Ottawa’s top annual arts prize.

www.blackhistoryottawa.org

www.ottawacitizen.ca

Félicité Murangira

2012-02-14T06:55:00.000-08:00

Advocate for immigrant community and HIV prevention

Born in Rwanda, grew up in Congo and Burundi and came to Canada in 1986 as a landed immigrant with 4 young children.

Has a Bachelor's Degree in Law from University of Burundi and is the Global Ottawa AIDS Link Project Coordinator at Women's Health Research Unit, University of Ottawa.

Her involvement with the GOAL initiative links the Black community to the academic researchers for an exchange of knowledge and development of innovative best practices in HIV prevention, care, treatment and support.

Has been an advocate for immigrant community in Ottawa for the last 18 years. She is the recipient of the 1990 Canadian African Women's Organization Award, the recipient of the 1994 Canadian African Solidarity Volunteer Award, the 2005 Rwandese Association Award for contribution to the settlement and well being of the Rwandan community of Ottawa/ Gatineau, the 2006 recipient of the Planet Africa Volunteer of the Year Award and the recipient of the 2006 YMCA -YWCA Women of Distinction Award for Healthy Living.

Co-founder and Co-Chair of the African and Caribbean Health Network of Ottawa.

http://www.blackhistoryottawa.org

Rachel Décoste

2012-02-14T06:50:00.001-08:00

Motivational speaker, community activist

Is a software engineer, was born and raised in Ottawa.

Holds a Bachelor in Computer Science from the University of Guelph and Project Management training from La Cité Collégiale.

A published poet, she has been a community activist since her youth, engaging in letter-writing campaigns to push for change in issues close to her heart: working with the Children's Aid Society to mentor foster children for over 15 years, assisting in the care of seniors at La Résidence St-Louis, and participating in the regional effort to save the Montfort Hospital, among many other activities.

Has a strong record of volunteerism: she received the Volunteer Appreciation Award for her efforts with the Black Canadian Scholarship Fund, a charitable organization which awards bursaries to bright disadvantaged students. She has served on the Event Committee of the Famous 5 Foundation from its inaugural year in Ottawa.

Is a member of the Selection Committee for the Governor General's Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case since 2008.

http://www.blackhistoryottawa.org

Damilola Otepola

2012-02-14T06:38:00.000-08:00

Youth community leader

Came from Nigeria to Canada in 2003, and started grade 10 at Brookfield High School in Ottawa.

Became passionate about the Nelson Mandela's Children's Fund (NMCF) and helped raised funds for the group through a CD of songs, with her as a lead vocal.

Co-organized black history in her school where for the entire month of February they featured black pioneers and leaders, played African music, and celebrated black history.

Wrote a song, Move Your World for the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) for their 2006 theme "Move your world".

Won the Global Citizen Award organised by the Child and Youth Friendly Ottawa (CAYFO) in 2006; was later featured in the Ottawa Citizen and the Talk Black Radio (98.1) for her achievements and aspirations.

Graduated from high school with honours and won several awards including the Principal's award and the Lieutenant Governor's Community Volunteer Award for Students. She is currently a third year Chemical Engineering student at the University of Ottawa.

http://www.blackhistoryottawa.org

Noella Charles

2012-02-14T05:31:00.001-08:00

Community activist and mentor

Born in St. Lucia; has lived in Ottawa for the past thirty years.

Active member in the community including past Vice President of United Black Women of Ottawa, past Vice President of Fete Caribe, past and Vice President of the St. Lucia Ottawa Association.

Presently the President of the St. Lucia Ottawa Association.

Worked for the E.A.G.L.E. Training Centre as Outreach Fundraising Manager, and the Mentoring Coordinator; owns an event planning business called Diamond Events.

Serves as a volunteer in the Ottawa community as a member to the Caribbean Associations Presidents committee, and the Organization of the Eastern Caribbean Advisory Committee to the OECS High Commissioner.

Volunteered for the Parent Council Awards Committee at Hillcrest High School and was a past Fundraising Coordinator at Robert Bateman Public School.

Was part of the team who planned a very successful first for Ottawa; the Caribbean Games Evening, in March 2008.

Her commitment and dedication to the community was recognized in 2007 as the recipient of the City of Ottawa, Civic Appreciation Award 2007.

http://www.blackhistoryottawa.org

Diamond Jubilee Medal

2012-02-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

The Diamond Jubilee Medal commemorates the day Queen Elizabeth became sovereign on the death of her father, King George VI, 60 years ago, 1952 – 2012. The medal is awarded to recipients across Canada for their work in community service.

About 60,000 Canadians are to receive the medal over the course of the year 2012. On Monday, February 6, 2012, five women from the national capital region received the Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Captain E. Maria Mangnall-Schonert, C.D. – Ottawa, Ontario

For promoting and delivering the Canadian Cadet Program to young people in her community.

Bryna Monson – Ottawa, Ontario

For her ongoing work with Languages of Life, and for providing Canadians with the means to communicate with each other in different languages.

Leslie Natynczyk – Ottawa, Ontario

For her dedication to and support of military families, and for her innovative Segways for Wounded Warriors initiative.

Rachel Scott-Mignon – Gatineau, Quebec

For raising awareness of mental health issues, particularly bipolar disorder.

Sergeant Angela Wintonyk, C.D. – Petawawa, Ontario

For her military service and for volunteering her time and resources to the Petawawa Military Families Resource Centre.

www.nationalpost.com
www.ottawacitizen.com

Zoé Masson

2012-01-30T04:48:00.001-08:00

Pioneer school teacher

Opened a private school for French Canadians in 1838, the first of its kind in Bytown. Her maiden name was Quévillon; she had married Antoine Masson before their arrival in Bytown.

http://www.ottawagraphy.ca/bayfpeople/masson-zoé

Louise Logue

2012-01-23T14:18:00.000-08:00

Expert advisor in the field of crime prevention, youth intervention and criminal diversion

Has worked for the Ottawa Police Service since 1994, most recently as manager of a new Ottawa Police Service Youth Strategy Office where she oversaw the implementation of prevention, intervention, diversion and educational initiatives for at-risk youth.

Her efforts for dealing with youth gangs, auto theft, illicit drugs and sexual exploitation have been adopted by police services across Canada.

Was director of the National Intervention/Diversion Program with the RCMP.

Has lectured at numerous conferences and held volunteer positions with several community groups, including board member of the Community Care Access Center, president of the Wabano Center for Aboriginal Health and National Advisory Panel Member for the RCMP National Crime Prevention Services.

Was assigned Justice of the Peace to the Ontario Court of Justice in 2010.

Was named to the Order of Ontario in 2011.

http://news.ontario.ca

http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Elizabeth Ann Kinsella

2012-01-23T14:10:00.000-08:00

Founder of the Youville Centre (Ottawa)

Sister Betty Ann Kinsella was the driving force behind the creation of the Youville Centre in 1985, the first program in Canada to address the comprehensive needs for education, child care, housing and support services for young, single mothers and their children.

Sister Betty Ann, as she is known, was named to the Order of Ontario in 2011.

http://www.youvillecentre.org

http://news.ontario.ca

Gail Beck

2012-01-23T14:02:00.000-08:00

Child and adolescent psychiatrist

Is the Director of Youth Inpatient Psychiatry at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and serves as an OMA board member.

Has been working in children’s mental health throughout her 27 year career; recognized for her work on behalf of youth, including championing the HPV public immunization program and securing $300 million in funding to support it nation-wide.

Serves on the boards of the Canadian Medical Association, the Ontario Medical Association, and the Foundation of the National Museum of Science and Technology; is also a past president of the Ottawa Chapter of Bereaved Family of Ontario.

Was named to the Order of Ontario in 2011.

http://news.ontario.ca

www.oma.org

Suhayya Abu-Hakima

2012-01-23T13:56:00.000-08:00

Technology entrepreneur, high-tech visionary

One of Canada’s very few female founders and CEOs in the field of technology.

Co-Founder, President/CEO of Amika Mobile Corporation launched in 2007 in Kanata (Ottawa).

Her first company, launched as a spin-off from NRC in 1998, is AmikaNow! ; over her tenure as a CEO, has created over 180 jobs.

Holds a B.Eng. from McGill University, M.Eng. and Ph.D. degrees from Carleton University specializing in Artificial Intelligence.

Is an adjunct Professor at University of Ottawa and has mentored countless undergraduate and graduate students in AI.

Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of the Ontario Centers of Excellence.

Has contributed to the Prime Minister's Task Force on Women Entrepreneurs and has given countless invited talks on entrepreneurship, AI as it pertains to messaging and security.

Was chosen Canada's Advanced Technology Entrepreneur in 2007; has filed 30 International patents in messaging and content analysis; has published and presented over 100 papers.

Was named to the Order of Ontario in 2011 for excellence and achievement.

http://www.amikamobile.com

http://news.ontario.ca

Lynn Miles

2012-01-18T18:45:00.000-08:00

Singer, songwriter

Born outside Montreal in Sweetsburg, Quebec; has lived in Ottawa, Los Angeles, Nashville and Austin; presently lives in Ottawa.

Studied classical music history and theory at Carleton University in Ottawa.

Served as a voice teacher at the Ottawa Folklore Center. While at the center, she taught voice to many students including a then fourteen-year-old Alanis Morrisette.

In 1987, recorded 9 original compositions for a demo at Happyrock Studio in Ottawa.

Won the 2005 Canadian Folk Award for the CD Love Sweet Love.

Won the 2003 Juno Award for the CD Unravel.

Her latest album "Fall for Beauty" was nominated for a Juno Award in 2011 and won the Canadian Folk Award that same year.

www.lynnmilesmusic.com

www.myspace.com
www.ottawacitizen.com

Jean Casselman Wadds

2012-01-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

Pioneer politician

"It was thanks to three women that we were eventually able to reform our Constitution - the Queen, who was favourable; Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister, who undertook to do everything that our Parliament asked of her; and Jean Wadds, who represented the interest of Canada so well in London." – Pierre Elliott Trudeau

Born in 1920 in Newton Robinson, Ontario; died in 2011.

Third woman to be elected to the Canadian House of Commons in Ottawa, filling the seat of her husband Arza Casselman (known as Cass), who was first elected in 1921 and held the seat from 1925 until his death in 1958.

When elected, she joined her father, the Hon. Earl Rowe, as the first ever father-daughter team to serve in the House of Commons.

First woman in Canadian history to be appointed as a parliamentary secretary.

First woman to be appointed by the Canadian government as a delegate to the United Nations in 1961.

First woman to be appointed Canadian High Commissioner to Great Britain in 1979. It was during her time in London that the Canadian Constitution was repatriated.

Was awarded the Order of Canada in 1982.

www.legacy.com

www.famouscanadianwomen.com

Amy Brandon

2011-12-18T14:28:00.001-08:00

Jazz guitarist

Born in Charlottetown, grew up in Ottawa; now lives in Nova Scotia.

Graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in music from Carleton University (Ottawa) in 2006.

Is a regular on the Maritimes jazz scene and has appeared at the Ottawa International Jazz Festival.

Her haunting melodies blend jazz, classical and folk influences.

Works as a guitar teacher and performer.

Was recently awarded a Nova Scotia Culture and Heritage grant to study in New York with leading jazz guitarist Sheryl Bailey.

www.amybrandon.ca

www.ysb.on.ca

Natalie Maclean

2011-12-12T13:17:00.000-08:00

Sommelier, wine writer

Born in Halifax; lives in Ottawa.

Writes a wine column with more than five million followers.

Author of two books: Unquenchable: A Tipsy Quest for the World's Best Bargain Wines and Red, White and Drunk All Over.

Named the world’s best drinks writer at the World Food Media Awards in Australia in 2011.

Member of the National Capital Sommelier Guild and the Wine Writer’s Circle in Ottawa.

Won four James Beard Foundation Journalism Award and multiple other awards.

Her articles have been published in over 60 newspapers and magazines.

Offers a free e-mail newsletter to help people choose wines in restaurants.

www.nataliemaclean.com

STYLE magazine, December 2011

Kellylee Evans

2011-12-06T11:39:00.000-08:00

Jazz vocalist

Born in Toronto; lives in Ottawa.

Creates her own original compositions, which seamlessly fuse jazz and her unique style of "soul pop”.

Began her career in 2004 after garnering a 2nd place win at the Thelonious Monk Jazz Vocals Competition.

Has three albums Fight or Flight, The Good Girl, and her latest Nina, which was recorded in France and is a tribute to one of jazz's greatest vocalists and pianists, Nina Simone.

Nominated for a Juno and a Gemini Award in 2007 and won a Juno award in 2010 for Nina.

Has been invited to open for music legends Tony Bennett, Maceo Parker and George Benson along with Chris Botti, Derek Trucks and Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings.

Has studied and recorded with Janis Siegel of Manhattan Transfer and co-wrote and performed on saxophonist Jane Bunnett’s 2009 Juno Award winning release, Embracing Voices.

http://jazztimes.com

www.kellyleeevans.com

Gabriella Goliger

2011-12-05T13:05:00.000-08:00

Author

Born in Italy, grew up in Montreal and has lived in Ottawa for the past 30 years.

Obtained a B.A. from McGill University and an M.A. in English literature from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

Her first book, Song of Ascent, won the 2001 Upper Canada Writer's Craft Award, was co-winner of the 1997 Journey Prize for short fiction, finalist for this prize in 1995 and won the Prism International award in 1993.

Has also been published in a number of journals and anthologies including Best New American Voices 2000 and Contemporary Jewish Writing in Canada.

Her second book, Girl Unwrapped, was published in 2010; it won the City of Ottawa Book Award in the English Non Fiction category in 2011.

http://www.gabriellagoliger.com

http://www.arsenalpulp.com

http://www.ottawa.ca

Merna Forster

2011-12-04T14:54:00.000-08:00

Author, historian (with a particular interest in women's history)
Naturalist, photographer

Born in Alberta; lives in Victoria, B.C.

Wrote the books 100 Canadian Heroines and 100 More Canadian Heroines. You can visit her website at www.heroines.ca

Earned a B.A. at the University of Alberta and an M.A. in history from Laval University in Quebec City.

Worked with national parks and national historic sites across Canada in the areas of public education programs, outreach and visitor services.

Also worked in the field of Canadian Studies; while based in Ottawa she received the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Commemorative Medal and served as vice-president of the Ottawa Independent Writers.

Was awarded The Lieutenant Governor's Celebration of the Arts Pin by Dr. Lynda Haverstock, Lieutenant Governor, Province of Saskatchewan.

Currently works at the University of Victoria as Executive Director of the Great Unsolved Mysteries in Canadian History Project, which received the 2008 Pierre Berton Award.

www.heroines.ca

http://www.dundurn.com/

Constance Backhouse

2011-11-30T07:13:00.001-08:00

Professor, researcher

Holds the positions of Distinguished University Professor and University Research Chair at the University of Ottawa.

Teaches in the areas of criminal law, human rights, legal history, and women and the law.

Author of many books including De la couleur des lois : Histoire juridique du racisme au Canada, 1900-1950 (Ottawa: University of Ottawa Press, 2010) and Her Carnal Crimes: Sexual Assault Law in Canada, 1900-1975 (Toronto: Irwin Law, 2008) and The Secret Oppression: Sexual Harassment of Working Women (Toronto: Macmillan, 1979), the first book published in Canada on the topic, and the second in North America.

Is the recipient of multiple awards honouring her work and her research including the Augusta Stowe-Gullen Affirmative Action Medal by the Southwestern Ontario Association for the Advancement of Learning Opportunities for Women, the Law Society Medal, the President’s Award by the Women and the Law Association of Ontario, the Ramon Hnatyshyn Award for Law.

Has received a series of research grants from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Law Foundation of Ontario, the Osgoode Society, and the Department of Justice.

In 2011, she has won the SSHRC Gold Medal for Achievement in Research.

Has served for many years as a mediator and adjudicator of human rights complaints.

Co-founded the Feminist History Society in 2009, an organization dedicated to compiling and publishing books about the history of Second Wave Canadian feminism. www.feministhistories.ca,

Is currently writing a biography of the Hon. Madam Justice Claire L'Heureux-Dubé, as well as a cohort biography of one hundred Canadian feminist lawyers who entered the profession in the 1970s and '80s.

http://www.commonlaw.uottawa.ca/en/constance-backhouse.html

http://www.constancebackhouse.ca/

Pat Logan

2011-11-29T07:49:00.001-08:00

Dedicated to preserving Hinterland Who’s Who

Hinterland Who’s Who is the longest-running series of 60-second educational public service announcements in Canada today. – www.hww.ca

Born in Florida in 1946; grew up in Amherstberg, ON; died in Ottawa in 2011.

Graduated from the University of Windsor with an MA in English literature.

Worked for the Canadian Wildlife Service for 20 years; played an instrumental role in preserving the original series of Hinterland Who’s Who dating pack to the 1960’s; also played a key role in launching a new generation of Hinterland Who's Who announcements in 2003.

Note on Hinterland Who’s Who

First created in the early 1960s, Hinterland Who’s Who is a series of vignettes that brought Canadian native wildlife into living rooms using excellent film footage and simple narration They became, and remain, an enduring part of Canadian culture. The television spots encouraged viewers to contact CWS to obtain fact sheets about the wildlife presented. People wrote to CWS, at a rate of hundreds a week!

www.hww.ca
www.ottawacitizen.com

Elizabeth Le Geyt

2011-11-24T13:42:00.000-08:00

Birds columnnist, Ottawa Citizen

“If everybody was a birder, I’m quite sure we wouldn’t have any wars.” - Elizabeth Le Geyt

Born in London, England in 1914; moved to Canada in 1952; has lived in Ottawa for the last 57years.

Wrote her first Birds column for the Citizen back in March 1973.

Continues to write her weekly column at the age of 94.

Is among the oldest columnists in Canada.

Over the last 34 years, her Birds column has appeared every single Saturday except one.

Has organized many auctions for the Wild Bird Care Centre in Ottawa; the Centre named an environmental award in her honour.

Was named to the Order of Ontario in 2011.

www.ottawacitizen.com

Phyllis Mayers

2011-11-21T06:03:00.001-08:00

Community volunteer

“Education is the one thing no one can take away from you” – Phyllis Mayer’s motto

Born in Barbados; came to Canada at the age of 17; is celebrating 50 years in Canada in 2011.

Graduated as an RNA from St.Vincent Hospital in 1961 where she worked for 42 years; studied Nursing at Algonquin College and Pharmacology at the University of Ottawa.

Has been recognized and honoured often for her longtime volunteer work, doing community work, and volunteering on various boards and committees.

Partial list of awards

City of Gloucester Outstanding Volunteer (1997)

Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship (1998)

City of Gloucester Heart of Gold Award (2000)

International Year of the Volunteer Award (2001)

United Way Community Builder Award (2002)

Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award (2009)

www.ottawacitizen.com

Ottawa Council of Women

2011-11-17T07:48:00.001-08:00

Advocacy group

“Do unto others as you would have that they should do unto you”. — Motto, Ottawa Council of Women

The Council is made up of various committees such as Education, Cultural and Health; they are a voice for advocacy at the local, provincial and national level.

The Council supports women through advocacy that promotes policy directions that build trust and cooperation, maximize citizen participation, build consensus and encourage collaboration, as well as build alliances with others – women’s groups, environmentalists, and others intent on ensuring that democracy survives.

The Ottawa Council of Women, along with the Canadian Federation of University Women, co-hosts the celebration of International Women’s Day every March in Ottawa.

http://jura123.com/pcwo-ottawa/showpage.asp?id=1&sort=10&nocache=20111117113756

Gay Cooke

2011-11-17T07:12:00.000-08:00

Author, food journalist, expert on Canadian culinary issues

Born in Ottawa in a family that has been in the food business since 1911.

Dreamed of becoming a chef and enrolled in the first class of the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Administration at Ryerson Polytechnic in Toronto in 1953.

Used the training she received there to cook in homes throughout Europe, South America, and the U.S.A. .

Writes a weekly food column - Talk of the Town - in the Ottawa Citizen newspaper and is a former food editor of the Ottawa Sun newspaper.

Also writes freelance for publications such as Fifty-Five Plus and Food & Leisure Magazine.

Regularly teaches demonstration cooking classes and is frequently engaged to speak about Canadian culinary issues.

Is an honorary member of the Canadian Federation of Chefs and Cooks and winner of the Sandy Sanderson Award recognizing outstanding food journalists.

Is on the Board of Governors of the National Capital Sommelier Guild and a member of Cuisine Canada.

www.gaycook.com

Sue McGarvie

2011-11-17T07:01:00.001-08:00

Sex and marital therapist

One of Canada‘s best known sex and marital therapists, trained in psychology and reproductive medicine; is an Ottawa-based therapist who offers services via telephone and Skype all over the world.

Has degrees from Carleton University in Psychology and Education, Laurentian University in Sexuality and Family Life, The Banff Center in New Media, and Ryerson University in Broadcast Technology.

Has been a registered Sex and Registered Therapist since 1992 with unique expertise on libido and bio-identical hormones for sexual desire.

Founder of The Ottawa Sex Therapy Clinic and member of The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, The Canadian Urology Association, and The Federation of Medical Women.

Author of four books on sexuality and relationships, and as a sex expert, she has been an expert witness, insurance industry consultant, pharmaceutical and government lobbyist and a professional speaker (CAPS member).

Nominated for the Roman’s Canadian Women Entrepreneur for 2002, and is a Top 40 under 40 finalist; given the Province of Ontario Award for Women in the Community leadership by Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson in 2010.

Hosted and produced a number of radio and television shows such as Sunday Night Sex With Sue, Sexual Solutions, The Love and Romance Show, and currently Love and Lipstick targeting women 30-55 on EZ Rock, evenings with Astral Media.

Has been a named a Woman of Distinction (1997), the I. H. Asper Broadcast Entrepreneur of the Year (1998), Business and Professional Women’s Association Woman of the Year (1994).

Also won an unprecedented award as Volunteer of the Year for 2002 for both Wired Women of Canada and Canadian Women in Communications for her work as National Mentorship Chair and Director.

www.sexwithsue.com

Joannie Rochette

2011-11-17T06:53:00.001-08:00

Spokesperson, Ottawa Heart Institute for the “iheartmom” campaign

Olympic medalist

Born in Montreal in 1986.

Is the 2010 Olympic bronze medalist, the 2009 World silver medalist, the 2008 and 2009 Four Continents silver medalist, the 2004 Grand Prix Final bronze medalist, and a six-time (2005-10) Canadian national champion.

In February 2010, two days before the beginning of ladies’ figure skaing competition at the winter Olympics in Vancouver, her mother died of a heart attack at age 55.

Is currently spokesperson for the “iheartmom” campaign at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute which deals with raising awareness for heart disease in women.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joannie_Rochette

www.iheartmom.com

Florence Hannay

2011-11-17T06:10:00.000-08:00

Dedicated volunteer for drop-in and street outreach service

“I could be at home in bed, like a lot of people,but I like to keep moving. I don’t think being a good Christian is about how many times you go to church.” – Florence Hannay

Born in 1921.

Retired from the federal government 28 years ago.

Seven months ago, became one of the 100 volunteers at Ottawa Innercity Ministries, a Christian organization that pools the volunteer labour and resources of some 74 churches into a drop-in and street outreach service.

At 90 years of age, she spends her days making and delivering sandwiches to street people in downtown Ottawa, also handing out socks, juice boxes, cookies and hugs.

www.ottawacitizen.com

Loris Jordan

2011-11-17T06:07:00.000-08:00

Dedicated volunteer for drop-in and street outreach service

“I think I get more out of this than I give.” – Loris Jordan

Born in Victoria in 1927.

Has a long history of social activism.

Studied nursing in Vancouver and began to travel the world, whereupon she met her future husband, Tedd, a mining engineer, in South Africa; was a psychiatric nurse for about 25 years, a peacenik and Raging Granny.

For the last 15 years, spends her days making and delivering sandwiches to street people in downtown Ottawa, also handing out socks, juice boxes, cookies and hugs.

At 84 years of age, she begins her days at 9 am at the offices of Ottawa Innercity Ministries, a Christian organization that pools the volunteer labour and resources of some 74 churches into a drop-in and street outreach service.

www.ottawacitizen.com

Michaëlle Jean

2011-11-08T05:28:00.000-08:00

Chancellor of the University of Ottawa (as of February 2012)

Born in Haiti; came to Canada in 1968.

Studied comparative literature at the Université de Montréal; taught modern languages at the Université; worked in shelters for female victims of domestic violence and helped establish a network of emergency shelters in Quebec and across Canada.

Television journalist, past anchor and host of news programs on CBC Newsworld and Radio-Canada.

Former Governor General of Canada, from 2005 to 2010; first black woman to be named governor general.

UNESCO special envoy for Haiti.

Named chancellor of the University of Ottawa, replacing Huguette Labelle who has been chancellor of the university for 17 years.

www.ottawacitizen.com

Rita Larocque Morel

2011-11-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

Translator, interpreter, pioneer franco-ontarian woman

Born in Ottawa in 1911; died in 2011.

One of the first franco-ontarian woman to study at the University of Ottawa (general arts). When she graduated, she was one of only two women in her class. At the time, she would have liked to study Greek or chemistry, but the priests did not allow her to do so because she was a woman.

Received medals in literature, French and swimming.

Developed her own system of symbols in order to get work as a stenographer in the public service (she had not studied stenography).

Worked for the Turkish embassy at the Château Laurier and the Bureau of Statistics before becoming a translator at Secretary of State, and eventually, a sought out oral simultaneous translator who could interpret from French to English, but also from English to French, thus translating both in her mother tongue and her second tongue.

Became Chief House of Commons translator. After her retirement, she freelanced as an interpreter well into her 80s.

Also did some volunteer work with former Ottawa mayor Marion Dewar, helping refugees from Vietnam.

www.ottawacitizen.com

Nancy Riche

2011-10-23T08:50:00.000-07:00

Labour organizer, social activist, women’s rights advocate

“Nancy’s contribution to the social fabric of Canada will live on in the work of the countless labour and women’s activists whose lives she touched and inspired,” Ken Georgetti, President of the CLC, 2011

Born in St.John's, Newfoundland in 1944; died in 2011.

Graduated from Memorial University of Newfoundland.

One of Canada’s leading women labour leaders and a tireless advocate for workers’ and women’s rights; pioneer in the Canadian Women’s movement.

Held various positions in her career including secretary-treasurer of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), vice-president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour and secretary-treasurer of the National Union of Public and General Employees.

Lived in Ottawa's Carleton Heights neighbourhood for 18 years while she was secretary-treasurer of the CLC from 1984 until her retirement in 2002.

Served as Vice-President of the Brussels-based International Confederation of Free Trade Unions (ICFTU) and Chair of its Women’s Committee from 1993-2002.

Received both the National Action Committee on the Status of Women (NAC) Woman of Courage Award and the Governor-General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case in 2002.

Became an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2004.

http://www.canadianlabour.ca

www.ottawacitizen.com

Women's History Month

2011-10-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

October is Women's History Month in Canada. Proclaimed in 1992 by the Government of Canada, Women's History Month provides an opportunity for Canadians to learn about the important contributions of women and girls to our society.

Beginning in 1998, a theme was assigned each year.

1998: Canadian Women – Making an Impact

1999: Yesterday and Today – Francophone Women in Canada

2000: Making History, Building Futures – Women of the 20th Century

2001: In Praise of Canadian Women Volunteers

2002: Women and Sports – Champions Forever!

2003: What do you mean, women couldn’t vote?

2004: Yes, Women Are Persons!

2005: Women and War – Contributions and Consequences

2006: Aboriginal Women – The Journey Forward

2007: Celebrating Immigrant Women in Canada

2008: Women in the Lead – Past and Present

2009: Women in the Lead – Winter Sports

2010: Recognizing Canadian Women in Business

2011: Women’s Invaluable Contributions to the Military

http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca

Carolyn Waldo

2011-10-20T10:06:00.001-07:00

Olympic athlete, sports broadcaster, motivational speaker

Born in Montreal, Quebec; works in Ottawa.

Despite a fear of water, learned to swim at the age of 10 and managed to win two gold medals in synchronized swimming by the time she was 23.

First Canadian woman to win two gold medals at the same Olympic games (1988 Seoul Games).

Also won a silver medal at the 1984 games in Los Angeles.

Was flagbearer at the 1988 Olympics.

Is a 6-time world champion, a Lou Marsh Award winner, a 4-time Canadian Female Athlete of the year, a member of the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame and an Officer of the Order of Canada.

Is a successful sports broadcaster at CTV Ottawa and a passionate speaker, inspiring a full range of audiences to discover the possibilities in their own lives.

www.carolynwaldo.com

Betty Kennedy

2011-10-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

Broadcaster, journalist, author, retired Senator

Born and raised in Ottawa; born in 1926.

As a teenager in the 1940s, honed her journalistic skills as a reporter for the Ottawa Citizen newspaper.

Appointed Public Affairs of CFRB, Canada’s largest radio station in Toronto where she stayed for 27 years. As host of the Betty Kennedy Show, she interviewed 25-thousand guests.

Brought a “feminine point of view” to CBC-TV's Front Page Challenge from 1962 to 1995; best known to most Canadians as a panelist on this show (the longest-running television program).

Appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1982.

Was the first woman chair-person of the School of Journalism at the University of Western Ontario.

First non-medical member of the Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.

Author of two books: Hurricane Hazel and Gerard.

Inducted into the Canadian Broadcast Hall of Fame in 1991.

Appointed to the Senate in 2000.

www.broadcasting-history.ca/index3.html

Nathalie Gamache

2011-10-20T05:03:00.001-07:00

Gynecologist specialized in women’s health

Studied medicine in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Completed her residency in gynecology and obstetrics, as well as a fellowship in menopause and women’s health in Ottawa.

Practices at the Shirley E. Greenberg Centre for Women’s Health at the Ottawa General Hospital and recently opened the Centre de Santé pour Femmes GAÏA in Gatineau.

Areas of interest are abnormal bleeding and fibromas, menopause and hormone therapy, sexuality, premenstrual syndrome, and early ovarian failure, especially among cancer survivors.

Is an associate professor at the University of Ottawa, where she helped develop and start the new medical program in 2009.

Winner of two awards of excellence in teaching, she was also recently awarded a prize for the best oral presentation at the SOGC in 2010.

Is a frequent presenter at both local and international conferences.

www.divafoundation.org

Mother Tongue Books

2011-10-20T04:59:00.000-07:00

Independent feminist bookstore

Located in Old Ottawa South at 1067 Bank street in Ottawa.

Specializes in poetry, literature and non fiction from local to international, personal to political; specifically targets women readers.

Also holds discussion groups and workshops.

www.mothertonguebooks.ca

Dawn Monroe

2011-10-19T13:39:00.000-07:00

Librarian, author and creator of the Famous Canadian Women Website

Born in Toronto in 1945. Lived in Ottawa from 1971 to 2006.

Obtained a B.A. in Canadian history at the University of Guelph in Ontario and a Masters in Library Science at the University of Western Ontario.

Worked at the National Library of Canada, the Library at the National Archives, and retired from her role as Manager of Library Services Citizenship and Immigration Canada in 2004.

Has also taught and coached archery to youth at the RA Centre in Ottawa.

Was involved in the Ottawa Girl Guides, where she developed a series of activities for her Guide Unit relating to Famous Canadian Women; these activities eventually became a website featuring Famous Firsts accomplished by Canadian women, a historical timeline, quotes by Canadian women and career highlights in various fields of work where women have excelled.

www.famouscanadianwomen.com

Keys to the City of Ottawa

2011-10-18T14:18:00.001-07:00

1937: Cecilia Colledge, British figure skater.

1948: Barbara Ann Scott: Canadian figure skater born in Ottawa.

1951: H.R.H. Princess Elizabeth, upon her first visit to the Capital as future queen.

1954: Her Majesty the Queen Mother.

1955: H.R.H. Victoria Alexandra Alice Mary The Princess Royal.

1960: Anne Heggtveit, alpine skier, born in Ottawa.

1968: Nancy Greene, Olympic skier, born in Ottawa.

1984: Sue Holloway, cross-country skier, born in Halifax.

1984: Linda Thom, Olympic shooter, born in Hamilton.

1988: Elizabeth Manley, Olympic figure skater, born in Ottawa.

1989: President Corazon Aquino.

1996: Alannis Morissette, singer, born in Ottawa.

1997: Angela Hewitt, pianist, born in Ottawa.

2000: Margaret Atwood, author, born in Ottawa.

Source: City of Ottawa

Bytown Beat Chorus

2011-10-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

Creative outlet for musical growth open to women of all ages

Formed in 2005.

The chorus is a charter member of Sweet Adelines International (SAI) since October 2007; SAI is a worldwide organization of women singers committed to advancing the musical art form of barbershop harmony through education and performances. This independent, non-profit music education association is one of the world‘s largest singing organizations for women. The SAI organization has 35 regions comprised of more that 120 quartets and 600 choruses.

Members learn music, good vocal production techniques and singing as a harmony team; they also learn about choreography, stage production, costuming, makeup and much more. Training and certification programs are available in the areas of directing, arranging, judging, teaching, personal growth and leadership.

www.bytownbeat.com

France Chrétien Desmarais

2011-10-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

Business woman, lawyer, philanthropist

Graduated from the University of Ottawa Faculty of Law; received the Meritas Tabarat Award for Alumni Achievement awarded by the University of Ottawa in 2011.

Served and chaired many boards in the fields of business, health and sports; currently serves on the Canadian Olympic Foundation.

Vice-chair of the Guy Laliberté Foundation and ONE DROP.

Member of the Montreal Heart Institute Foundation and the board of McGill’s International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours; was also a member of the board of directors of VANOC for the 2010 Vancouver Games.

Daughter of Jean Chrétien, 20th prime minister of Canada and Aline Chrétien.

www.canadianleadership.uottawa.ca

http://www.onedrop.org

Greta Hale

2011-10-07T05:52:00.001-07:00

Entrepreneur, community advocate, author

Emeritus Governor on the University of Ottawa Board of Governors.

Chairman Emeritus of Morrison Lamothe Inc., a national family frozen food company now headquartered in Toronto.

Comes from a pioneer Ottawa family (1818) and has lived all her life in Ottawa’s oldest house (1828).

Has served on numerous national corporate and provincial boards and continues to be an active volunteer in dozens of Ottawa organizations, including President of Beechwood Cemetery and on the board of the Community Foundation of Ottawa.

Received the YM-YWCA Life Time Achievement Award in 1997, the Canadian Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 1998, an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Ottawa in 1999 and the Order of Canada in 2006.

Has published her memoirs entitled “Baker’s Daughter: The Story of a Long, Rich and Very Canadian Life“. Her book is filled with Ottawa stories.

http://web5.uottawa.ca/admingov/biography_36.html

Marianne Florence Scott

2011-10-03T15:37:00.001-07:00

National librarian of Canada

Born in Toronto in 1928. Worked in Ottawa.

Studied at McGill University where she earned her Bachelor in Library Sciences; received several LLD honours during her career.

Started her career as a law librarian at McGill University where she worked for 20 years, was also lecturer in the Faculty of Law from 1964 to 1974, and Director of Libraries at McGill University from 1975 to 1984.

Was the cofounder of the Index to Canadian Legal Periodical Literature which began in 1963.

Was the first woman to be appointed as National Librarian of Canada in Ottawa, a position she held from 1984-1999.

Was awarded the Queen's Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977 and the Order of Canada in 1995.

www.famouscanadianwomen.com

http://sites.google.com/site/gammaphibetamcgill/alumnae

Lynn Marshall

2011-10-03T11:07:00.000-07:00

Masters swimmer

Part-time professor at Carleton University in Ottawa, in the department of systems and computer engineering.

Head swim coach of the Carleton Masters Swim Club.

Represented Manitoba at the 1977 Canada Summer Games, was named to the Canadian team for the 1983 World University Games, and was a Top-20 swimmer at the Canadian championships.

Has been among the world's Top 10 swimmers for the past 25 years, and has beaten more than 20 Canadian records in her age group (50-54).

Has set five long course and 23 short course FINA Masters World Records.

Recently inducted into the Masters Swimmer Hall of Fame (the second Canadian to enter the hall; the first one was Bonnie Pronk in 2010).

www.ottawacitizen.com
www.mimsc.ca

Sylva M. Gelber

2011-10-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

Arts patron

Born in Toronto in 1910; lived in Ottawa; died in 2003.

Distinguished Canadian who served Canada in various capacities, most notably as Director of the Women's Bureau of the Department of Labour and Canadian representative on the UN Commission for the Status of Women from 1970-74.

Held many international appointments during her lifetime, including that of Canadian delegate to the United Nations General Assembly in 1976 and 1978.

Outspoken advocate of women's rights; helped to introduce equal-pay legislation, maternity leave and women's pension benefits into Canadian society.

Spent 15 years as a medical social worker and government administrator in British-mandate Palestine, an experience she chronicled in No Balm in Gilead, an award-winning 1989 memoir.

Known for her wit, humour and a love of music, stylish clothes and fast cars, she led a colourful life that included early stints in theatre and radio; passionate music lover; known in Ottawa as an arts patron.

Created the Sylva M. Gerber Music Foundation to help talented Canadian students with high costs of training.

A Piano Lab at the University of Ottawa was named the Sylva Gerber studio in her honour.

She is an Officer of the Order of Canada.

www.sylvagerber.com

www.ottawacitizen.com

Canada's Walk of Fame

2011-10-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

Canada's Walk of Fame engages Canadians in celebrating those who have excelled in music, sport, film, television, as well as the literary, visual, performing arts, science and innovation.

Since 1998, there have been a total of 137 Canadians inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame of which 39 are women. Of the 39 women, 5 have an Ottawa connection. They are:

Barbara Ann Scott, figure skater, inducted in 1998.
Nancy Greene, skier, inducted in 1999.
Margaret Atwood, writer, inducted in 2000.
Alanis Morissette, singer, inducted in 2005.
Sandra Oh, actress, inducted in 2011.

You may read individual entries on each of these women in this blog by consulting the alphabetical listing or you can type their name in the Search option in the upper left hand corner.

www.canadaswalkoffame.com

Ottawa Book Awards

2011-09-28T07:24:00.000-07:00

Based on information provided on the City of Ottawa website, the Ottawa Book Awards have been given to Ottawa authors since 1986 in English and since 1989 in French (Prix du livre d'Ottawa). It has been awarded 65 times including 32 women. From 1986 to 2003, the award alternated between fiction and non-fiction books on a yearly basis.

1986 (non-fiction)

Jean Bruce, Back to the Attack! Canadian Women During the Second World War.
Joan Finnigan, Legacies: Legends and Lies.

1988 (non-fiction)

Patricia Morley, Kurelek: A Biography.

1991 (fiction)

Rita Donovan, Dark Jewels.

1993 (fiction)

Rita Donovan, Daisy Circus.
Nadine McInnis, The Litmus Body.
Gabrielle Poulin, Petites fugues pour une saison sèche.

1994 (non-fiction)

Penelope Williams, That Other Place: A Personal Account of Breast Cancer.
Gilberte Paquette, Dans le sillage d’Élizabeth Bruyère.

1995 (fiction)

Frances Itani, Man Without Face.
Andrée Christensen, Noces d’ailleurs.

1996 (non fiction)

Dr. Elizabeth J. Lacelle, L’incontournable échange. Conversations oecuméniques et pluridisciplinaires.

2000 (non fiction)

Patricia Smart, Les femmes du Refus Global.

2001 (fiction)

Nicole Champeau, Dans les pas de la louve.
Michèle Matteau, Quatuor pour cordes sensibles.

2002 (non-fiction)

Anna Heilman, Never Far Away.
Françoise Lepage, Histoire de la littérature pour la jeunesse.

2003 (fiction)

Nancy Vickers, La Petite Vieille aux poupées.

2004

Madelaine Drohan, Making a Killing: How and Why Corporations Use Armed Force To Do Business. (non-fiction)
Mila Younes, Ma mere, ma fille, ma soeur. (non fiction)
Elizabeth Hay, Garbo Laughs. (fiction)

2005

Frances Itani, Poached Egg on Toast. (fiction)
Valerie Knowles, From Telegrapher to Titan: The Life of William C. Van Horne. (non-fiction)

2006

Heather Menzies, NO TIME: Stress and the Crisis of Modern Life. (non-fiction)

2007

Charlotte Gray, Reluctant Genius: The Passionate Life and Inventive Mind of Alexander Graham Bell. (non-fiction)
Janet Lunn, A Rebel’s Daughter. (fiction)

2008

Elizabeth Hay, Late Nights on Air. (fiction)
Andrée Christensen, Depuis toujours, j’entendais la mer. (fiction)

2009

Margaret Michèle Cook, Chronos à sa table de travail. (fiction)

2010

Claire Rochon, Fragments de Sifnos. (fiction)

2011

Gabriella Goliger, Girl Unwrapped. (fiction)
Eric Enno Tamm, The Horse that Leaps Through Clouds: A Tale of Espionnage, the Silk Road and the Rise of Modern China (non-fiction)
Lucie Joubert, L’envers de landau : Regard extérieur sur la maternité et ses débordements (fiction)

www.ottawa.ca

Heather Crowe

2011-09-28T04:40:00.001-07:00

Promoter of smoke-free workplaces

Born in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in 1945; died in Ottawa in 2006.

Was a career waitress who became the public face of Canada’s anti-smoking campaign.

Claimed that she contracted lung cancer in 2002 from second-hand smoke encountered at her workplace of 40 years, including an Ottawa restaurant.

Appeared on numerous television public service announcements.

Submitted a successful claim relating to second-hand smoke exposure in the workplace to the Ontario Workplace Safety & Insurance Board for lost earnings and health care benefits.

Due to a large part of her lobbying, the province of Ontario passed a tough anti-smoking bill which came into effect four days after her 2006 death of lung cancer at the age of 61.

http://www.smoke-free.ca

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heather_Crowe

Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame

2011-09-20T08:04:00.000-07:00

Since 1966, the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame has inducted 243 Ottawa athletes in their Hall of Fame, of which 35 are women. I would like to thank Sue Kavanagh at the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for her help with this research!

1966
Anne Heggtveit born in Ottawa in 1939; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of skiing; at age seven won Gatineau Zone senior women's slalom; at age 15, became youngest-ever winner in the half-century history of the Holmenkollen giant slalom in Norway; first Canadian to win in Olympic ski competition at Squaw Valley in '60; was Canadian Female Athlete of year 1959-60 and won Lou Marsh Trophy top Canadian athlete 1960; is a Member of Order of Canada.

Barbara Ann Scott born in Ottawa in 1928; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of figure skating; learned her figure skating at Ottawa Minto Club; was Canadian senior women’s champion (1944-48), North American champions (1945-48) and won European title, World title, and Olympic title; was also World title holder in 1947 at age 18. Canada’s Athlete of the Year in 1945, 1947 and 1948. Turned pro with Hollywood Ice Review 1949-54. Member of World and Canadian Figure Skating Halls of Fame and Officer of the Order of Canada.

1967
Alexa Stirling Fraser born in Atlanta Georgia in 1897; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of golf; came to Ottawa after being rated one of the world’s greatest golfers; won at least a dozen golf titles, mostly in the 1920s and 1930s.

Shirley Laura Thomas born in Ottawa in 1928; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of equestrian; was a world famous rider in horse shows on this continent and in Europe; first red ribbon in Toronto Pony Show at 12; first woman rider ever chosen to represent Canada (1951); first female rider to claim international class honours at Madison Square Garden.

1983
Elizabeth Clifford born in Ottawa in 1953; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of skiing; was a Canadian junior champion at age 12, senior champion at 13, youngest ever in Olympics at 14, and youngest to win a world title at 16, winning the giant slalom at Val Gardena, Italy in 1970. Won many international events as well as the Canadian Giant Slalom eight times.

1984
Sheryl Boyle born in Renfrew in 1965; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of paddling; began competitive canoeing at 19 and a national team member in 1986; claimed the national whitewater kayak championship title in 1993 and 1994 and became the first woman to win World Cup whitewater medals, a silver in 1992 and bronze in 1993. Competed in the 1992 and 1996 Olympics and then turned to coaching in 1997.

Patricia Marilynn Messner born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1953; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of waterskiing; first Canadian woman to win World Waterskiing Slalom championship in 1979; won Waterskiing Slalom Masters in 1978, silver medal in 1977 and 1980 World Cup Championships as well as many Canadian and North American titles. Canada's first and only Olympic medalist in waterskiing. Currently runs the Mesle Canada Water Ski School in Ottawa.

1986
Sue Holloway born in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1955; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of canoeing; versatile athlete who represented Canada in Olympic cross-country skiing and canoeing; member of the Rideau Canoe Club, earned silver and bronze medals in 1984 Olympics in canoeing; first woman to compete (placed third) in Hawaii outrigger race in 1979.

Linda Mary Alice Malcolm Thom born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1943; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of shooting; represents Canada internationally since 1970, established handgun records and won a variety of national, North American, world shooting awards. Held up to 16 Ontario records, two Canadian standards and two French marks. First woman to win sport pistol gold medal in 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

1987
Hélène Madeleine Grégoire born in Hull, Québec in 1943; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of waterskiing; won her first major title at age 16; was a member of the national team from 1970-77, won 10 national titles and six gold medals in Can-Am competitions; participated in one World Cup event, one Pan-Am Games and three World Championships.

1988
Lynn Nightingale born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1956; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of figure skating; was Canadian senior champion for four years: 1974-77; won Skate Canada competition in 1973-74, Prague Skate in 1973, Moscow Skate in 1974; placed ninth in 1976 Olympics; turned pro with Ice Capades in 1977 and remained with them until 1982; was Canadian Ladies Pro Champion in 1981.

Ann A. Peel born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1961; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of race walking; dominated Canadian women’s race walking in the 1980s; held four national 5-km and one 10-km titles; won medals at Pan-Am and World University Games, World Indoor championships and America’s Cup meet; holds national indoor 3,000-metre record in sprint walking; instrumental in Canadian lobbying efforts to have women’s event included in 1990 Commonwealth and 1992 Olympic Games.

Glenda Reiser born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1955; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of running; former member of Uplands Harriers; set the Canadian open record of 4:06.71 for 1500 metres while competing in the 1972 Olympics in Munich; won three national titles at this distance and won the gold medal at the 1974 Commonwealth Games.

1990
Linda Carbonetto born in New York City in 1949; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of figure skating; won 1969 Canadian Women's Championship after placing second in 1968; was third in North American and sixth in World Championships in 1969; competed in 1968 Olympics; turned pro 1970 and became featured skater with Ice Capades through 1972.

1992
Elizabeth Ann Manley born in Belleville, Ontario in 1965; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of figure skating; member of 1984 and 1988 Canadian Olympic and world championship figure skating teams; won silver medal 1988 Calgary Olympics; Canadian champion in 1985, 1987 and 1988; first woman in Canada to land a triple combination in competition; named Woman of the Year by Chatelaine magazine (1988); turned pro with Ice Capades in 1988.

1993
Anna Rose Fraser-Sproule born in Vancouver, British Columbia in 1963; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of skiing; six years member national free-style ski team; twice national aerials and combined champion; winner of five World Cup aerials gold medals; won World Cup Grand Prix aerials championship 1986; placed fourth in aerials in 1988 Calgary Olympics.

Dr. Penny Christine Werthner-Bales born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1951; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for athletics; represented Canada in two Commonwealth, two Pan-Am, one Olympic, and one FISU Games; set world 1,000-metre record and earned bronze medals in 800 metres at 1971 Pan-Am Games and in 1,500 metres at the 1978 Commonwealth and 1979 Pan-Am Games; named outstanding Canadian track athlete 1978.

1994
Barbara Caswell McLeod born in North Bay, Ontario in 1937; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of fame for the sport of running; set a myriad of national and world age group records and winning road races throughout Canada and the world since 1981; claimed the world masters championship; considered a trailblazer for Canada's women runners.

Janet Katherine Morrissey born in Ottawa in 1959; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of figure skating; won the Eastern Ontario Juvenile ladies skating title at age 11; capped her figure skating career with the national senior championship in 1979; won medals in St. Gervais and Nebelhorn events.

1995
Gail Amundrud born in Toronto, Ontario in 1957; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of swimming; began competitive swimming career with Ottawa Kingfish in 1967; moved to Vancouver Dolphins in 1974; first Canadian female to swim 100-metre freestyle in under one minute and 200–metre freestyle in under two minutes; represented Canada in Commonwealth, Pan-Am, World and Olympic Games, winning medals in each; set 10 national records and was a four-time all-American at Arizona State, winning gold in US Nationals in 200-metre freestyle (1977).

Deborah Ellen Huband born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1956; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of basketball; adept in swimming, softball, track and field, volleyball, touch football, and basketball; member of Canada's national women's basketball team for more than a decade; competed in the Olympics, guard with the 1980 Jones Cup gold medal squad; recipient of seven school athlete of the year awards, CIAU MVP, all-star honours, and Bishop's University academic awards.

1998
Judy Elizabeth Dietiker Davison born in Manchester, England in 1956; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for her contribution to sport; held various age-level speed skating titles, 1970-1994, as well as Ont. outdoor closed (mass start) 1500m record; Canadian national team member at competitions in Holland and China; Canadian road champion in cycling, 1973, and track champion, 1974; set world record of 1000m cycling at Montreal Velodrome, 1980.

2000
Marjorie Blackwood born in Karachi, Paskistan in 1957; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of tennis; won three Canadian tennis championships and captured 14 titles in Pro Tour Singles and Doubles play; World Tennis Association Top 50 player; third round Wimbledon 1982; Canada’s No. 1 player 1979-81.

2001
Dawn Ventura born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1940; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for her contribution to sport; was a catcher for senior softball teams from 1953 to 1963, a member of four Eastern Ontario senior title teams, two Ottawa interdepartmental league titles and third in six OCA divisional mixed title rinks; won the 1972 Lady Gilmour Lem Cushing trophy winners, runner up in 1973, and skipped the Ottawa Crystal Pebble grand aggregate title rink; holds eight Eastern Ontario ladies’ championships and two Ontario titles; member of the Ottawa RA Curling Club and the Rideau Curling Club; is a three-time RA curler of the year, twice the RA female athlete of the year, and twice the Ottawa ACT curling award winner.

2002
Alison Korn born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1970; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of rowing; was a member of the national women’s rowing team from 1996 to 2000; was part of the 1995 Head of the Charles coxed fours gold crew and claimed 1996 Olympic silver medal as part of the women’s eights; teamed with Emma Robinson to win the world pairs gold in 1997 and 1998 and a silver with the 1997 women’s world eights; was a member of the all-women’s ski trek to the North Pole in 2001, a feat she chronicled for the Ottawa Citizen.

2003
Isabelle Duchesnay born in Hull, Québec in 1963; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame (with her brother Paul) for the sport of figure skating; unable to meet their Olympic aspirations in Canada, took advantage of dual Canadian-French citizenship and competed for France internationally; Olympic participation in 1988 and 1992 where they earned dance silver; capped their careers with World championship gold in 1991.

Mary Haydon Provost born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1920; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of high jumping; excelled in long, broad and high jumping at a time when most young ladies were discouraged from participating in such strenuous pursuit; set a national junior high jump record in 1937 and was recognized the Amateur Athletic Union of Canada as a top prospect for the 1940 Olympics; was among the first to master the roll-over high jump technique and earned a variety of provincial and national laurels. Among the Ottawa Track Club founders, she later excelled in golf, basketball, bowling and curling and as a track official.

Heather Wallace born in Kitwe, Zambia in 1962; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of squash; began playing squash at 16 and claimed Rhodesian and South African titles; moving to Ottawa, quickly proved her dominance in the sport by running off a record 12 consecutive national singles titles; was undefeated by any Canadian woman from 1987 to 1998 while amassing more than 40 major championships in international competition; earned three gold medals in 1995 Pan-Am Games competition; frequently competed against and defeated her male counterparts in tournament play.

2005
Carol-Ann Alie born in Gracefield, Québec in 1960; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of boardsailing; honed her skills on the Ottawa River while a student at the University of Ottawa; wide variety of provincial, national and international honours, including three world Mistral windsurfer titles; earned Pan-American Games gold and two silver medals and represented Canada in three Olympic Games; Ottawa ACT Athlete of the Year in 1985; also received Canadian Yachting Association Athlete of the Year Awards and is a member of both the Canadian Amateur and Canadian Olympic Sports Halls of Fame.

Mariann Domonkos born in Budapest, Hungary in 1958; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of table tennis; developed her skills after moving to Ottawa as a youngster; wide array of provincial and national championships, including an unprecedented 10 successive national women's singles crowns; joined the national team in 1972 and earned Pan-Am Games gold in 1979; became the first Canadian to win the National Open women's singles title in 1982; represented Canada in the 1988 Olympics; became a national team coach for the next decade and was inducted into the Quebec Sports Hall of Fame.

2006
Linda Jackson born in Montreal, Québec in 1958; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for the sport of cycling; received her MBA at Stanford; decided to pursue her dream as a top-flight competitive cyclist at the age of 32 where she experienced instant success; career highlights include a 5th place finish at the 1994 Women’s Tour de France and a 3rd place finish at the 1997 Tour de France.

Hazel Minor born in Outlook, Saskatchewan in 1935; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of fame for sports administration; after moving to Ottawa, formed the Nepean Amateur Basketball Association where she was president from 1970 –1983; founded the Ottawa Rookies League, was president of the National Capital Basketball Association and operated annual summer basketball training camps from 1976 –1988.

2009

Joan Hendry born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1945; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for her contribution to the sport of long jump; was a member of the Canadian 1968 Olympic and 1970 Commonwealth Games team; won two Commonwealth Games bronze medals in long jump and the 4x100 relay; was the only member of a Canadian team to win two medals; was the Canadian long jump champion in 1968, and the silver medalist in 1964, 1967 and 1969, and the bronze medalist in 1966; was the first Canadian woman to jump over 6 metres in the long jump.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joan_Hendry

2010
Anne Merklinger born in London, Ontario in 1958; inducted in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for her contribution to multiple sports and sports leadership; had an impressive career in high-performance sport for over four decades as both an athlete and leader; was a member of Canada’s national swim team from 1977-81 then focused her athletic career on the curling rink, consistently ranking as one of Canada’s most distinguished women’s curlers, then turning to administration, began twenty years of management with national sport organizations including CanoeKayak Canada, the Commission for Inclusion of Athletes with a Disability and the Canadian Federation of Sport Organizations for the Disabled.

Shriely Moulds born in Ottawa in 1904; inducted posthumously in the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame for her contribution to sport; what set her apart from most women who grew up in the 1920’s was not the wide array of sports that she played - tennis, bowling, basketball, softball and hockey – but the proficiency that she displayed, particularly in hockey; played for the Ottawa Alerts from 1919-25, a team that won the Canadian Championship six times in those years; was captain of the Ottawa Rowing Club (later the Soloway Mills) Ladies Hockey team – Canadian Champions in 1927; a leading scorer for the Ottawa and District Champion Alerts Basketball team, played shortstop on the Rowing Club’s city and district champion softball team and was a top scorer on their championship basketball team. She was also a 3-time city champion in tennis in ’23-‘25 and a bowling champion in her 50’s.

For more information on these women and all inductees in the Ottawa Sports Hall of fame, please visit their website at www.ottawasportshalloffame.com

Ellen Fairclough

2011-09-13T16:59:00.000-07:00

Pioneering politician

Born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1905; died in 2004.

Was a Chartered Accountant and owner of a Hamilton accounting firm.

Elected to the Canadian House of Commons in a 1950 by-election after being defeated in the 1949 federal election.

As a Member of Parliament, she advocated women's rights including equal pay for equal work.

Appointed to the position of Secretary of State for Canada by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker in 1957.

First woman to be a cabinet minister in Ottawa’s House of Commons; became Minister of Citizenship and Immigration in 1958, and from 1962 until her defeat in 1963, was Postmaster General.

First female Acting Prime Minister of Canada from February 19 to February 20, 1958.

Nominated Kim Campbell for the Progressive Conservative Party leadership in 1993, after which Campbell became Canada's first woman prime minister.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ellen Fairclough

www.canadaonline.about.com
http://www.heroines.ca/people/fairclough.html

Agnes Macphail

2011-09-13T16:36:00.000-07:00

Pioneering politician

"I owed it to my father that I was elected to Parliament in the first place, but I owed it to my mother that I stuck it out once I got there." - Agnes Macphail

Born in Grey County, Ontario in 1890; died in 1954.

Canadian women gained the right to run for Parliament in 1919; Agnes Macphail was elected in 1921, the first federal election in which women had the vote.

First female Member of Parliament in Canadian history after she was elected to the House of Commons in Ottawa in 1921.

Began her career as a country schoolteacher.

Bcame a member and active spokesperson for the United Farmers of Ontario. Her move into politics stemmed from her desire to represent the farmers of her region.

Courageous and dedicated champion of human rights who successfully fought for old-age pensions, prison reform, and farmers' co-operatives.

Saw herself as representing women's issues and founded the Elizabeth Fry Society of Canada.

First Canadian woman to be sent as a delegate to the League of Nations in Geneva in 1929.

One of her final political achievements occurred in the Ontario legislature in 1951, when she championed legislation that mandated equal pay for equal work for Ontario women.

www.histori.ca

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnes_Macphail

Frances Susan Itani

2011-09-10T14:36:00.001-07:00

Writer

Born in 1942 in Belleville, Ontario; lives in Ottawa.

Studied nursing in Montreal and North Carolina, a profession which she taught and practiced for eight years.

After enrolling in a writing class taught by W.O. Mitchell, she decided to change careers.

Has published ten books, ranging from fiction and poetry to a children's book. Her 2003 debut novel Deafening won the Commonwealth Writers Prize, Caribbean and Canada region, and has been published in 16 countries.

Her lastest book is entitled Requiem (2011).

She has received the Order of Canada in 2006.

http://www.goodreads.com

Sylvia Tennisco

2011-09-09T17:04:00.001-07:00

Artist

“I use many Algonquin Anishnabe Cultural components and elements to my designs, but yet keeping a generic feel. I would like to thank the Creator of the Universe for allowing me the opportunity to see-”in the moment “and for indulging in the pleasure of adding to the betterment of the World.”

Born in Pembroke, Ontario, grew up partly in Ottawa, Ontario and Point Gatineau, Quebec.

Completed a three year Graphic Design Program at St. Lawrence College, Kingston, Ontario. Her studies also include” The Visual Arts”, a program offered at the High School of Commerce in Ottawa, Ontario.

Paints historic Algonquin Scenes; considers herself an illustrator and has had her work published with The Cree School Board of Education and “The Nation” magazine, a joint investment partnership to help stimulate the Cree Language.

Illustrated and designed the graphics for the recently Birth Website — www.thealgonquinway.ca.

Developed a two year Art program for youth and adults of the Pikwakanagan Community, giving the students a chance to explore the mixed mediums in the creative field and with the added bonus of Anishnabe Cultural substance to the program.

Her creative center is now located in Golden Lake, Ontario.

http://www.sylviasartwork.zoomshare.com
www.famouscanadianwomen.com

Marie-Louise Marmette

2011-09-07T13:25:00.000-07:00

Author, lecturer

Born in 1870 in Quebec City; died in Montreal.

Baptized Marie-Louise-Joséphine-Esther-Eliza, known as Louyse de Bienville (also used the pseudonym Domino Noir).

Grand-daughter of historian Francois-Xavier Garneau.

Daughter of Joseph-Étienne Marmette who helped found the Cercle des Dix, an Ottawa literary society in 1884. He was an archivist for the federal government.

Was schooled by the Ursulines in Quebec from 1880 to 1882, and later taught by the nuns of the Congregation of Notre-Dame in Ottawa.

Married lawyer Donat Brodeur in Ottawa in 1892; subsequently settled in Montreal.

Pursued a literary career including writing articles for the Journal de Françoise, a Montreal newspaper founded by Robertine Barry; also published articles in Le Temps of Ottawa, the Montreal paper Le Pays, Le Courrier de Montmagny, and Quebec's Le Soleil.

Occasionally wrote about the state of Canadian literature, as well as about the advent of feminism.

http://www.biographi.ca

www.famouscanadianwomen.ca

Lisa LaFlamme

2011-09-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

News anchor, journalist

Born in Kitchener-Waterloo.

Communication graduate of the University of Ottawa.

Named Lloyd Robertson’s successor as anchor of CTV National News; beginning September 5, 2011.

Canada’s first full-time female anchor in one of the three major English-language national newscasts.

Well known as the CTV National Affairs Correspondent; has enjoyed a successful career anchoring the CTV News and interviewing numerous guests as co-host of Canada AM, Canada's most-watched national morning show.

Was a political correspondent for CTV News in Ottawa and the prime-time NewsNet anchor.

Has received five Gemini nominations in the Best News Anchor category and has won several RTNDA awards; also received an honourary Doctor of Laws degree from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ont. and was awarded the Meritas-Tabaret Award for Alumni Achievement from the University of Ottawa.

Actively involved with the community, promoting events for organizations such as the Canadian Blood Services and the Canadian Women's Foundation.

www.communication.uottawa.ca

http://edmonton.ctv.ca

Mamta Gautam

2011-08-28T07:20:00.000-07:00

Physician, executive coach, author, speaker and physician health pioneer

Was a psychiatrist in private practice in Ottawa for 20 years, and is a clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Ottawa.

Specialist in physician health and well-being, hailed as “The Doctor’s Doctor"; trained in CoActive Coaching from Coaches Training International and certified physician development coach.

Founding director of the University of Ottawa Faculty Of Medicine Wellness Program.

Co-Chair of the Canadian Psychiatric Association Section on Physician Health.

President of the Ottawa chapter of the Federation of Medical Women of Canada and has recently launched the International Alliance for Physician Health.

Has published Irondoc: Practical Stress Management Tools for Physicians in October 2004.

Has received several major awards to recognize and honor her pioneering work in the field of physician wellness, including the 2004 CPSO Council Award and the 2005 University of Ottawa Alumni Award for Community Contributions.

Has recently been awarded the Canadian Medical Association’s first ever Physician Misericordia award which recognizes contributions to the field of physician wellness in August 2011.

www.ottawacitizen.com

www.peakmd.ca

www.drgautam.ca

Gladys Cameron McGregor Watt

2011-08-27T11:59:00.000-07:00

Theatre promoter

Born in Galveston, Texas.; died in Ottawa in 1979.

Graduated from Brooklyn’s Adelphi College with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Married Canadian forestry engineer Roy McGregor Watt in 1917.

Lived in Dauphin, Manitoba where she was paramount in establishing a local library and a little theatre.

Moved to Ottawa in 1937 where she became involved in local theatre; she advanced the One Act contest Play at the Ottawa Little Theatre to a national level. Upon retirement from the Ottawa Little Theatre, a seat in the Theatre was named for her.

Was Governor of the Canadian Drama Festival and was presented with the Canadian Drama Award for her efforts in 1958.

Lady Bird Johnson, first lady of the United States, presented her with the Margo Jones Award in 1963 for her impact on encouraging live theatre.

Was instrumental in preserving Ottawa’s old Union Station building in the heart of downtown Ottawa and campaigned vigorously against the demolition of the West block of the Canadian Parliament buildings.

The City of Ottawa honoured her for her dedication in 1964 and in 1967, she was recipient of the Canadian Centennial Medal.

www.famouscanadianwomen.com

Carleton University Trailblazers

2011-08-24T03:06:00.001-07:00

[research in progress]

Clare Beckton

2011-08-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

Social entrepreneur, member of the Women's Leadership Board, Harvard Kennedy School

Executive director of the Centre for Women in Politics and Public Leadership at Carleton University in Ottawa; the Centre is focused on increasing the representation of women in public leadership and politics.

Has an MPA from Harvard, an LLB, and a BA from the University of Saskatchewan.

Was the deputy head of Status of Women Canada from 2007-2009.

Has over 25 years experience leading teams and organizations to create innovative multi-sector and multinational partnerships and networks to develop policies, to provide services, to deliver programs, and to incorporate diversity, gender, and learning to assist the development of organizations through times of significant change.

Was named the Federated Press woman of the year for her leadership and recognized by the Women's Executive Network as one of Canada's most powerful women in the Trailblazers and Trendsetters category in 2008.

Is the author of several books and a number of articles on the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

http://hkswomensleadershipboard.org
http://iog.ca/en/about-us/our-team/clare-beckton

University of Ottawa Trailblazers

2011-08-23T14:19:00.001-07:00

1919

The University of Ottawa Senate approves the Bachelor of Arts program for the women’s colleges (Bruyère and Notre-Dame). Women students begin to attend classes.

1922

Sister Paul-Émile (Marie-Louise Guay), sister Marie-du-Rédempteur (Angélique Beaulieu) sister St. Lorenzo (Gabrielle Lemaire) and sister Joseph-Arthur (Martine Moreau) are the first women to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Ottawa.

1923

Women students attend the new Ottawa Normal School (later known as the Ottawa Teacher’s College and now as the Faculty of Education).

1927

The Ottawa Normal School has a majority of female students.

1929

Bernadette Tarte and Rita Roy become the first lay women to obtain a Bachelor of Arts at the University. Soon thereafter, Mrs. Tarte became one of the first lay persons to work as a librarian at the Normal school. She worked at the library for 30 years. The University named the Bernadette Centre (daycare) in her honour.

1933
Sister Joseph-Arthur (Claire Laramée) and Thérèse Archambault are the first two women to receive a PhD from the University.

A School of Nursing is created exclusively for women students and the teaching staff is exclusively female (Sisters of Charity). Sister Madeleine de Jésus (Corinne Laflamme) is the first woman director of a school at the University.

Hélène Landry-Labelle became director of pianist teaching at the School of Music, the first lay woman to teach at the University of Ottawa. She was a Paris-trained accomplished and renowned musician

1950

Claire Boult (Bélanger) is the first woman to receive a diploma in a non-traditional sector for women at the time – BA in Commerce.

1956

Foundation of the School of Domestic Sciences for female students with an all female teaching staff (Congrégation Notre-Dame).

1957

First women to appear on the mosaics of the Faculty of Arts building.

1959

Évelyne LeBlanc becomes the first Dean of Women, responsible for the recruitment of female students. She was involved in the development of the LeBlanc residence which was completed in 1965, providing the first accommodations for women at the University.

Sister Madeleine de Jésus (Corinne Laflamme), director of the School of Nursing, becomes the first woman to sit at the Senate of the University.

1960

Magaret Beznack becomes chair of the department of physiology. She is the first female to occupy the position of department chair at the University of Ottawa, and of any Faculty of Medicine in Canada.

1966

Pauline Vanier becomes the first woman and the first lay person to occupy the position of chancellor at the University of Ottawa.

1968

Margaret Beznack is the first woman elected to the board of governors. She will go on to be the first female vice-dean and the first female dean at the University (Faculty of Medicine). She is the first woman to hold such a position in any Canadian university.

1979

Gabrielle Léger becomes the second female chancellor at the University.

1984

Susan Mann becomes the first female vice-president, academic, of the University. She was also the first woman chair of the department of history at the University and one of the first in Canada to teach a course on women’s history.

1992

Carole Workman becomes the first female vice-rector, resources.

1994

Huguette Labelle becomes the third chancellor at the University. She still occupies that position as of today.

2009

Chantal Beauvais becomes the first female rector at St.Paul University, affiliated with the University of Ottawa.

http://www.uottawa.ca/extraordinarywomen/trailblazers.html
A Chronology of Women's History at the University of Ottawa, by Michel Prévost, Chief Archivist, University of Ottawa, 2011.

Alexa Stirling Fraser

2011-08-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Amateur golf champion

Born in Atlanta, Georgie in 1897; died in Ottawa in 1977.

Youthful prodigy who won three consecutive U.S. Women's Amateurs, winning her first in 1916.

After the war, she won the 1919 and 1920 U.S. Women's Amateur titles; was also the U.S. Amateur's runner-up in 1921, 1923 and 1925.

Won the Canadian Women's Amateur in 1920, finished second in 1921 and 1925 and won the Canadian title a second time in 1934.

Married Canadian doctor W.G. Fraser in 1925, and made her home in Ottawa, Ontario, where she became an honorary member of the Royal Ottawa Golf Club; was its ladies' champion nine times.

Was also a skilled violinist.

Returned to Atlanta for the U.S. Open during the 1976 United States Bicentennial celebrations.

Was inducted posthumously into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 1978, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in 1986, and the Georgia Golf Hall of Fame in 1989.

Was portrayed by Stephanie Sparks in the 2004 film, Bobby Jones: A Stroke of Genius.

www.ottawacitizen.com
http://www.rcga.org

Evelyn Robson Strahlendorf

2011-08-18T06:49:00.001-07:00

Collector, researcher on Canadian doll collecting

Born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1931.

Lived in Ottawa from 1971-1999.

Worked in the Cataloguing Department of the National Library of Canada.

Has passionately collected Canadian dolls and researched this topic extensively.

Her book Dolls of Canada: a Reference Guide was published by the University of Toronto Press in 1996. It remains the best and most complete guide to Canadian dolls.

Encouraged the Canadian Museum of Civilization to create a display of Canadian Dolls in 1999; collectors came from all over the world to see the largest display of Canadian Dolls produced to date.

Many of her dolls have been donated to the Bowmanville Museum which maintains the largest privately owned collection of Canadian dolls in the country.

Promoted the art of doll collecting through her own doll production company, Distinctive Dolls of Canada, which produced short run artistic dolls of such historical characters as Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald and Olympic medal winner Elizabeth Manley.

Was an executive member of the Canadian Doll Guild and past editor of Doll Creators: A Canadian Doll Guild Publication.

www.famouscanadianwomen.com

Patricia den Boer

2011-08-13T11:30:00.001-07:00

Communications consultant, journalist, editor

Studied journalism at Carleton University in Ottawa.

Is a business communicator, facilitator, media specialist and focus group moderator with experience in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors.

Worked in mainstream print journalism, the trade press and broadcast. Well known in Ottawa for her work in local magazines such as Fifty-Five Plus, Ottawa Family Life and Ottawa Wedding; has more than 21 years' experience in communications and contract editing with a specialization in lifestyle and health consumer publications.

In her editorial role, she plans content and manages editorial production for 18 publications a year.

Co-founded Ottawa's only woman's quarterly magazine, City Woman, launched in 2000.

Has extensive experience in communications project management in such areas as publications, video production, backgrounders, speeches, internal communiqués, brochures, presentations and electronic bulletin boards.

Is a nationally-recognized speaker in the area of writing to reach the right target market.

http://www.mediaclubofottawa.ca
www.denboer.ca
http://www.nelligan.ca

Dyane Adam

2011-08-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

Psychologist, professor, researcher, bilingualism advocate

Born in Casselman, Ontario (near Ottawa); studied in Ottawa.

Holds a masters and doctorate degree in clinical psychology from the University of Ottawa.

Was teacher, researcher and Assistant Vice-President, French Programs and Services at Laurentian University in Sudbury.

Was appointed to the position of Principal at York University’s Glendon College in Toronto in 1994.

Became Commissioner of Official Languages in 1999, a position she held until 2006. Her role as Commissioner of Official Languages was as an ombudsman for English and French bilingualism in the federal government of Canada and as a promoter and supporter of linguistic duality both in the Canadian federal government and in Canadian society in general.

Acts as a special advisor and consultant to governmental agencies and Canadian universities.

Has consistently worked towards the recognition of the rights of the French-speaking minority, the status of women, health and education in Canada.

Served as the first President of the Forum of Canadian Ombudsman, from 2001 to 2005.

Awarded honorary doctorates by McGill University, the University of Ottawa, St-Paul University, Laurentian University, Université de Moncton and Collège Boréal.

Was made Chevalier de l’Ordre de la Pléiade by the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie and Chevalier de l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques in the Republic of France.

www.trudeaufoundation.ca
http://canadaonline.about.com
http://www.uottawa.ca

May Frith

2011-08-07T08:07:00.000-07:00

Professor of applied linguistics, black culture historian

Born in Jamaica in 1925; died in Ottawa in 2011.

Arrived in Montreal in 1960s; moved to Ottawa in 1987.

Had a teaching career at McGill University as a professor of applied linguistics for 20 years before moving to Ottawa.

Established the Harambee Education Centre in Ottawa, a community-based program that helped young black students gain an appreciation of their culture and history. Harambee means “let’s pull together” in Swahili.

Gave local workshops to develop awareness and respect for Caribbean heritage languages, such as Creole.

Was on the original board of directors for Black History Ottawa.

www.ottawacitizen.com

Speakers of the Senate

2011-08-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

The Speaker of the Senate of Canada plays an important role in facilitating the conduct of business within the Chamber and is responsible for ruling on all questions which are raised with regard to parliamentary procedures in the Chamber, or the rights and immunities of the Senate, or of individual senators as they carry out their duties.

There have been 46 Speakers of the Senate since 1867 of which two were women.

Muriel McQueen Fergusson

Born in Shediac, New Brunswick in 1899; died in 1997.
Admitted to the bar of New Brunswick in 1925.
Was elected the first woman alderman in 1950.
Became a senator in 1953; was known to work tirelessly for women’s rights and poverty.
First woman Speaker of the Senate or the House of Commons in 1972.
Served in this role from 1972 to 1974.
Appointed to the Order of Canada in 1976.

Renaude Lapointe

Born in the Eastern Townships, Quebec in 1912; died in 2002.
Studied music, literature, languages and sociology.
Worked as a journalist.
First woman to work as a news reporter for La Presse in Montreal in 1959.
Became a senator in 1971; her interests were Senate reform, old age security, bilingualism and the United Nations.
Second woman Speaker of the Senate or the House of Commons in 1974; first woman francophone.
Served in this role from 1974 to 1979.
Appointed to the Order of Canada in 1989.

http://www.parl.gc.ca

Jeanne Sauvé

2011-08-04T14:07:00.000-07:00

Journalist, politician, stateswoman

Born Jeanne Benoît in 1922 in Prud’homme, Saskatchewan; died in 1993.

Educated in Ottawa and in Paris.

Worked as a journalist for Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC).

In 1964, became the first women to be elected president of l'Institut canadien des affaires publiques, a French Canadian think tank that held annual conferences on issues of significant national importance.

Elected to the House of Commons in 1972; served as Minister of the Crown until 1980.

First woman Speaker of the House of Commons (Parliament of Canada in Ottawa), served in this position from 1980 to 1984.

First woman to serve as Canada's governor general from 1984 to 1990.

Was named Companion of the Order of Canada and Commander of the Order of Military Merit in 1984, member of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jérusalem and winner of the Canadian Centennial Medal in 1967 and the Queen's Jubilee Medal in 1977.

Founded and worked with the Sauvé Foundation for youth until her death in 1993.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeanne_Sauvé

www.sauvescholars.org

Speaker of the House of Commons

2011-08-04T13:56:00.000-07:00

The Speaker of the House of Commons in Ottawa, Canada assumes the position of highest authority in the House, and represents the Commons in all its powers, proceedings and dignity. The duties of the Speaker fall into three categories: 1) acting as the spokesperson of the House; 2) presiding over sittings of the House and maintaining order and decorum; and 3) assuming important administrative responsibilities.

Since 1867, there have been 35 Speakers of the House of which one was a woman.

Jeanne Sauvé was elected 29th Speaker of the House on the recommendation of then Prime Minister Pierre E. Trudeau in 1980. She served as Speaker until 1984.

She resigned as Speaker on January 15, 1984 during the Second Session of the Thirty-second Parliament, after having been designated to become Governor General. On May 14, 1984, M^me Sauvé was sworn in as Canada’s first female Governor General.

For more information on Jeanne Sauvé, please read the entry under the letter S.

www.parl.gc.ca

Rolande Faucher Soucie

2011-08-03T07:18:00.001-07:00

Author, consultant, visionary, advocate for French language culture, rights and services in Ontario

Lives in Ottawa.

Is a consultant in the fields of official languages, education, health, justice, professional development, serving community groups as well as provincial and federal ministries.

Played an instrumental role the development of the francophone community in Orleans, in particular, the construction of the cultural centre in Orleans, called the Centre culturel du MIFO.

Was president of the Association canadienne-française de l’Ontario (ACFO) in 1988 and served the association for a number of years.

Played a key role in numerous franco-ontarian causes including the Montfort Hospital and la Fondation franco-ontarienne.

Received many prizes and accolades for her work and dedication to the development of franco-ontarian cultural resources.

Was chosen by Senator Jean-Robert Gauthier to write his biography for which she won the Prix Champlain in 2009.

http://www.expressottawa.ca/

Ruth Cull

2011-08-02T11:19:00.001-07:00

Therapeutic Clown at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in Ottawa

“The rewards are not only the smiles but also the privilege of being part of the lives of family and kids who display extraordinary courage and inspiration. Throughout my journey I have come to learn that "It is not a matter of being funny, but rather of having fun." – Ruth Cull

Worked as a Registered Practical Nurse in the Operating Room of CHEO for the last 35 years.

Works as a Therapeutic clown at CHEO 3 days/week since 2001.

Has trained with Susie Kleinwatcher, Cheryl Oberg, and Leon McBride and has presented at numerous conferences and education settings to raise awareness of this work.

Has appeared in various media and offers clown workshops for children during their hospital stay.

http://www.therapeuticclowns.ca
http://www.ottawakin.ca/cheoclown.htm
http://kids.cheo.on.ca/en/therapeuticclown

Hélène Brodeur

2011-08-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

Writer, historian of franco-ontarian culture

Born in Saint-Léon-de-Val-Racine in Québec, raised in Northern Ontario; died in Ottawa in 2010 at the age of 87.

Studied to become a teacher at the University of Ottawa and also obtained a Bachelor’s degree in 1946.

Worked as a teacher in Ottawa and a newspaper writer. Was the first woman to become the Director of Communications for the Treasury Board Secretariat.

Began her career as a writer in 1957, first by translating books for publishers, then writing for the CBC, Châtelaine, Maclean’s and Flight Magazine. Most of her writing was initially done in English but in 1977, upon her retirement from the federal civil service, she published “Les chroniques du Nouvel-Ontario” (A Saga of Northern Ontario), a historical novel about the French-Canadian presence in Northern Ontario and their role in developing that region of Canada. Went on to publish many more books about Northern Ontario and franco-ontarian culture.

Has received numerous prizes and accolades for her writing and her contribution to franco-ontarian history.

www.aefo.on.ca

http://yourlifemoments.ca
www.famouscanadianwomen.ca

Lilias Ahearn Southam

2011-08-01T11:28:00.000-07:00

Philanthropist, girls’s education advocate

Born in Ottawa in 1888; died in 1962.

Daughter of Thomas Ahearn, inventor and Ottawa businessman. He made Ottawa’s first long distance call, brought electric street lights to Ottawa and electric streetcars. His power company at the Chaudière Falls was the first in Canada to use a hydraulic generator to produce electricity.

Married Harry Southam whose family owned the Ottawa Citizen as of 1896; they had four children.

Was one of the first mothers in Ottawa to send her daughters to school in 1919 at the Rockliffe Prep School (later renamed Elmwood).

Became co-owner and a major benefactor of Elmwood School for Girls, and remained on the board of governors until the end of her life.

Through her organization of sponsorships with Ottawa families, she played a key role in helping 24 young British refugees settle in Ottawa in 1940.

Known to use her wealth to help homeless children.

www.citywomanmagazine.ca (Janet Uren)

Elmwood School for Girls

2011-08-01T06:33:00.000-07:00

"When you walk through the halls of the school you notice the extraordinary energy, enthusiasm and purpose that our students possess. This is a place where girls feel safe and secure, a place where girls can find their voice, and a place where girls dare to dream big." - Cheryl Boughton, current headmistress of Elmwood, 2011

Founded as The Rockliffe Preparatory School in 1915 by Theodora A. Philpot. She was the visionary, the founder and the first headmistress of the school.

The school was established on Elmwood Farm (originally called Keefer farm but renamed Elmwood after Mrs. Philpot and Mrs. Fauquier bought the farm); initially, the school had four students, male and female, aged four to seven. The school set out originally to “prepare” young boys to attend a nearby boys' school at age 11 (likely Ashbury College).

From the beginning, the school attracted the attention of Ottawa's elite who sent their daughters to study at that school.

Edith Button, an Englishwoman marooned in Ottawa by wartime lack of transportation, joined the Elmwood staff in 1917 and remained with the school until 1951.

Ethel Fauquier and Lilias Southam, with the assistance of Mrs. Southam's husband, Harry, and her father, the Hon. Thomas Ahearn, purchased the Elmwood property and institution in 1919 in order to allow for its expansion.

Edith Buck, who was Philpot's assistant, became the second headmistress in 1920, and fulfilled that role until 1951.

The Rockcliffe Preparatory School changed its name to Elmwood in 1923 and shifted its vocation from the “preparation” of young boys to the education of young women.

Elmwood was the first Canadian independent day school for girls to adopt the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program in 1978.

Wilson House, part of Elmwood, was created and named in honour of Cairine Wilson, Canada's first female senator and long-time Elmwood patron in 1982.

www.elmwood.ca
www.citywomanmagazine.ca (Janet Uren)

Edith Buck

2011-08-01T06:12:00.000-07:00

Headmistress of Rockliffe Prep School (later known as Elmwood)

Was assistant to Theodora Philpot, founder and headmistress of Rockliffe Prep School in 1915, and became the school's second headmistress from 1920 to 1951.

www.elmwood.ca

Theodora A. Philpot

2011-08-01T05:47:00.000-07:00

Entrepreneur, first headmistress of Rockliffe Prep School (later known as Elmwood)

Theodora Philpot was born to Scottish parents in 19th-century Burma.

Was married to a teacher at Ashbury College in Ottawa.

In 1915, established the Rockcliffe Preparatory School with four students, male and female, aged four to seven in the ohe old house at Elmwood Farm in Rockliffe.

The school set out originally to “prepare” young boys to attend a nearby boys' school at age 11. However, Elmwood also attracted the daughters of Ottawa's elite. Mrs. Philpot was the only teacher at first but soon hired a second to teach French.

The Rockcliffe Preparatory School changed its name to Elmwood and shifted its vocation from the “preparation” of young boys to the education of young women in 1923.

Retired to England in 1920, leaving Elmwood in the hands of Edith Buck for the next 31 years.

Donated a Bible Box, inscribed with the words “Pactum Serva” meaning “Keep the Faith” to the school, and it came with a plea to carry on the work she had started.

http://www.elmwood.ca/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elmwood_School_%28Ottawa%29
www.citywomanmagazine.ca (Janet Uren)

Robin Morey

2011-07-31T12:00:00.000-07:00

Pioneering motorcycle rider

"(In 1945) People used to run down the street pointing their fingers, gasping, saying, A girl on a motorcycle; I was grinning inside and loving every minute of it".
Robin Morey, The Ottawa Citizen, July 31, 2011

Born in the US in 1924; lives in Ottawa.

Was honoured at the Canadian Motorcycle Cruisers in Ottawa (July 2011) for being one of the first women to own a motorcycle in the 1940s. Rode a Harley Davidson.

www.ottawacitizen.com

Phyllis Throop

2011-07-31T11:53:00.000-07:00

Advocate for young women, trailblazer in business

Born in 1919; died in Ottawa in 2011.

Fought hard in the 1960s to provide social programs for girls in the already established Ottawa Boys Club.

The Ottawa Boys Club became de first of its kind in North America to integrate girls.

Was also a successful business woman, taking over her husband's business after his death in 1966; the original business was Throop Pharmacy at Westgate, then came four other pharmacies in the city of Ottawa and two gift stores.

Was on the board of directors of the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa, and then became the first woman elected as president of the club.

Founding member of the Soroptimists Club of Ottawa, which helped mentor young professional women.

www.ottawa.citizen.com

Jill LaForty

2011-07-26T07:13:00.001-07:00

Music advocate, classical music producer

Born in Toronto; moved to Ottawa in 1983.

Studied music in Toronto and in Vienna.

Through her work as a producer at CBC Radio, has dedicated 30 years to championing Ottawa's music scene.

Has greatly contributed to ensuring that concerts by Ottawa musicians were heard across Canada and around the world.

Has spearheaded concert series and made regular appearances on the local CBC Radio program Ottawa Morning.

Her high-profile work has included documentaries and special series for national programs and pre-concert chats at performances around Ottawa.

www.ottawacitizen.com

Order of Canada, 2010-

2011-07-22T05:41:00.000-07:00

As of 2011, the Order of Canada has been awarded to 5,948 Canadians from coast to coast since 1967.

There are 113 women who were either born in Ottawa or resided in Ottawa at the time of their award or investiture in the Order of Canada (according to the Governor General's website). They are presented here according to the decade of their investiture. Please note that this group includes Ottawa, Nepean, Vanier, Kanata, Gloucester and Orleans. (to be updated soon in order to include 2011).

Since 2010, a total of 5 women, connected to Ottawa through place of birth or place of residence, were recognized for their significant achievements and remarkable service. They are:

Mary Ellen Jeans. For being a leader in health care and playing a key role in the launch of the first multidisciplinary pain clinic in Canada (in Montreal). 2010.

Sharon Johnston. Wife of the twenty-eighth Governor General of Canada. 2010.

Andrée Lortie. For being a leading figure in French education in Ontario and elsewhere in Canada. 2010.

Joy Harvie Maclaren. For her determination and commitment as well as for her generosity. She has helped a wide range of organizations to get off the ground including Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind, the Hospice at May Court and the community foundations of both Ottawa and Canada. 2010.

Maureen O’Neil. For public service, and her contributions to international development, gender equality and human rights. 2011.

www.gc.ca

Order of Canada, 2001-2009

2011-07-22T05:40:00.000-07:00

As of 2011, the Order of Canada has been awarded to 5,948 Canadians from coast to coast since 1967.

There are 113 women who were either born in Ottawa or resided in Ottawa at the time of their award or investiture in the Order of Canada (according to the Governor General's website). They are presented here according to the decade of their investiture. Please note that this group includes Ottawa, Nepean, Vanier, Kanata, Gloucester and Orleans. (to be updated to include 2011)

The decade between 2000 and 2009 recognized the significant achievements and remarkable service of 25 women who have a connection to Ottawa through place of birth or place of residence. They are:

Constance Backhouse. For her advocacy for human rights. She co-wrote one of the first books in North America on sexual harassment in the workplace. 2008.

Cynthia Baxter. For her dedication, expertise and philanthropy. Played a fundamental role in the success of the Community Foundation of Ottawa. 2004.

Jocelyne Bourgon. For her leadership that helped to bring about the establishment of a new approach to human resources management in the public service. First woman to be appointed Clerk of the Privy Council. 2000.

Barbara J. Clark. For encouraging the development of choral music across the country. 2001.

Mary Dawson. For her unique and integral role in the development of constitutional law and policy in Canada. 2007.

Marion Dewar. For introducing a number of improvements to the region's social fabric during her three terms as Mayor of Ottawa. 2002.

Anne Golden. For her many outstanding achievements with the United Way including record-breaking financial campaigns, as well as a significant increase in the number of charities that receive funding. 2003.

Charlotte Gray. For providing Canadians with rich and relevant connections to our history, helping us to understand how our past shapes the Canada of today, and for shedding new light on the important role women played in our history. 2007.

Shirley E. Greenberg. For her community building work to empower women to improve their lives and to further equality in society. 2009.

Marguerite (Grete) Hale. For being a pillar in her community and her lifelong dedication to helping others. 2006.

Francis Itani. For being a generous mentor to aspiring writers. 2006.

Michaëlle Jean. Twenty-seventh Governor General of Canada. 2005.

Huguette Labelle. For her extraordinary ability and commitment to public service. 2001.

Gisèle Lalonde. For championing and promoting Francophone society in Ontario, and founding the Association française des municipalités de l'Ontario and serving as its first president. 2003.

Elizabeth May. For being a respected voice for Canada's environmental movement for more than 30 years through her involvement with organizations concerned with natural resource management, sustainable development and the protection of global ecosystems. 2005.

Barbara McInnes. For enhancing the culture of philanthropy in Ottawa and beyond. 2008.

Marguerite Elizabeth Ritchie. For dedicating her life to the advancement of justice and equality. First woman appointed Queen's Counsel by the federal government. Founding President of the Human Rights Institute of Canada, and advocate for change and promoting the equality of women. 2000.

Ginette Lemire Rodger. For advancing the nursing profession and the quality of health care, and initiating a national model of nursing recognized for its innovative approach to patient care. 2007.

Roseann Runte. For her promotion of the Humanities in Canada and of bilingualism. First woman to be named president of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO. 2001.

Mary J. May Simon. For strengthening ties between Canada's Northern people and the people of Arctic regions around the globe. 2005.

Harriet (Hallie) J. Sloan. For demonstrating outstanding leadership for 50 years and advancing military nursing and patient care. 2003.

Patricia Smart. For bringing new insight and understanding to the study of Quebec's culture and writing a pioneering work that is the touchstone for those investigating the province's literature from a feminist perspective. 2004.

Shirley L. Thomson. For demonstrating a lifelong commitment to uphold the highest principles of artistic integrity, and bringing art to people and people to art. 2001.

Pamela Wallin. For her excellence as a journalist, entrepreneur, diplomat and volunteer. Headed CTV's Ottawa bureau in the 1980s, a breakthrough role for a woman. First woman to co-anchor a nightly network television newscast. 2007.

Anne H. Wieler. For helping to improve the quality of life of countless individuals throughout northern Canada and around the world, and improve health care for Native peoples. 2007.

www.gg.ca

Order of Canada, 1990s

2011-07-22T05:39:00.001-07:00

As of 2011, the Order of Canada has been awarded to 5,948 Canadians from coast to coast since 1967.

The 1990s recognized the significant achievements and remarkable service of 33 women connected to Ottawa through place of birth or place of residence. They are:

Joyce L. Beare-Rogers. For her work in the field of edible oils and fat and helping to make Canadians healthier through her research. 1992.

Monique Bégin. For her influence on developments in the applied social sciences across the country, especially in the fields of health and education. 1997.

Agnes Benidickson. For helping to strengthen and build educational institutions, health and social service agencies and the arts. 1997.

Deanna Marie Brasseur. For being one of the first women in Canada to graduate as a pilot in the Canadian Forces and Canada’s first female jet flying instructor and flight commander. One of the first two women in the world to qualify as CF-18 pilot. 1998.

Olive Patricia Dickson. For her contribution to our knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Métis People. 1995.

Jennifer Dickson. For her artistic works that are treasured by collectors around the world. 1995.

Monique Aubry Frize. For her dedication to the status of women, particularly in scientific endeavours. 1993.

Miroslawa Gawalecwicz. For being the contact point for many immigrants over the years, helping them adapt to Canadian life while maintaining their culture and traditions. 1991.

Claudette Gravelle. For offering unconditional love and spiritual counselling to people in need, reaching out to and comforting drug addicts, street people, and persons living with AIDS and HIV. 1999.

Naomi E.S. Griffiths. For being an ongoing inspiration to Canadian women. The first female Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Carleton University. 1999.

Joan Fletcher Harrison. For being a distinguished medical researcher and teacher whose work has been of signal importance in the study of bone diseases. She co-developed the first method of measuring the amount of calcium in the body, an invaluable tool in the treatment of osteoporosis. 1996.

Karen Gerda Hnatyshyn. Wife of the twenty-fourth Governor General of Canada. 1990.

Naomi Jackson Groves. For being a leading art historian, patron, artist, teacher and writer. 1992.

Pauline Jewett. For her brilliant career as an academic, politician and social activist. She was the first woman president of a major, co-educational Canadian university, Simon Fraser. 1991.

Elaine Elizabeth Jolly. For her recognition as a Canadian authority in the study of menopause and osteoporosis, and raisibg awareness of women's health issues. 1998.

Rosemarie Esther Kuptana. For playing a significant role in securing for Aboriginal peoples an equal participation with other Canadians in national constitutional and political processes. 1998.

Trudi Le Caine. For dedicating over forty years to the development of the arts in Ottawa. 1991.

Janet Louise Lunn. For helping to raise the status of children's literature in Canada. First children's author to hold the position of Chair of the Writers' Union of Canada. 1997.

Flora Isabel MacDonald. For being a distinguished Parliamentarian and for being a leading figure in the movement to alleviate human suffering worldwide. 1998.

Ethel G. Martens. For being a pioneer in the field of primary health care, and empowering disadvantaged people in Canada, Africa and Asia to improve their lives. Is one of the first health educators in Aboriginal communities in northern Canada. 1998.

Nurjehan Mawani. For actively promoting voluntarism, open discussion of gender issues, multiculturalism and international development. 1993.

Judith Maxwell. For her significant contribution to public policy and the debate on economic and social issues. 1995.

M. Michaelena McLaughlin. For performing her senior secretarial duties in the foreign service for more than thirty-five years in postings most often characterized by stressful and dangerous conditions. 1999.

Helen K. Mussallem. For her powerful influence on nursing education and the delivery of health services, not only to Canadians but also to people throughout the world. 1992.

Freda L Paltiel. For her efforts in creating an impressive network of organizations that deal with the social status and health of women through her role as Canada’s senior advisor on the Status of Women. 1993.

Evelyn Agnes Pepper. For her leadership in various health organizations, and contribution to the health care of Canadians as a nurse in combat casualty stations. 1996.

Jean E. Pigott. For her leadership and determination in ensuring the use of resources for positive growth and change at all levels of government. First woman Chair of the National Capital Commission. 1995.

Suzanne E. Pinel. For her role in promoting bilingualism among both the younger and older members of the two language groups, and as an ambassador of French-Canadian culture. 1991.

Beryl Plumptre. For her active involvement as a consumer advocate for more than forty years in many crucial issues. 1994.

Marianne Florence Scott. For her expertise in developing collections and services has benefited all library users, especially researchers and scholars. 1994.

Shirley Sharzer. For helping to pave the way for women in journalism. Became the first female legislative reporter at the Winnipeg Free Press (late 1940s). 1999.

Irene Mary Spry. For her long and inspiring career as a writer, teacher and scholar, and for figuring prominently in the education of women. 1992.

Bertha Wilson. For leaving her mark on Canadian law and society as the first woman appointed a judge of the Ontario Court of Appeal and the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada. 1991.

Order of Canada, 1980s

2011-07-22T05:38:00.001-07:00

As of 2011, the Order of Canada has been awarded to 5,948 Canadians from coast to coast since 1967.

The 1980s recognized the significant achievements and remarkable service of 24 women connected to Ottawa through place of birth or place of residence. They are:

Moyra Allen. For her dedication to nursing education. 1986.

Suzanne Azzie. For her extraordinary compassion, sincerity and zeal to change the attitudes of many federal employees toward hiring the disabled. 1985.

Ruth Marion Bell. For advancing a very wide variety of social and educational causes. 1981.

H. Elizabeth Collard. For her diligent and meticulous research on porcelain and pottery. 1987.

Celia Franca. For founding one of the major ballet companies in the world, the National Ballet of Canada. 1985.

Laurie J. Graham-Flynn. For being one of Canada's premier woman downhill skier. 1988.

Abigale Hoffman. For being an athlete of international standing and her promotion of amateur sport. 1982.

Margaret M. Hunter. For her work dedicated to the welfare of Canadians at home and abroad through her work with the armed forces and as National Director of Health Care for St. John Ambulance of Canada.1984.

Margaret Wade Labarge. For bringing history to life through her writing of medieval history and biographies. 1982.

Renaude Lapointe. For serving her country and the status of women. One of the first women to become a journalist and then editorial writer of a daily French-language newspaper, she was the first Francophone woman to become Speaker of the Senate of Canada. 1989.

Sandra M. Lovelace Sappier. For her work to amend the Indian Act in order to reinstate the rights of non-status Indian women and their children. 1989.

Elizabeth Manley. For her figure skating career. 1988.

Annette McDonald. For being deeply involved in community activities in Navan and serving the Shepherds of Good Hope in Ottawa. 1986.

Patricia M. Messner. For her unique contribution to the sport of water skiing. She is Canada's first and only Olympic medallist in that sport. 1981.

Rose Eleanor Milne. For her expertise in restoration and gold-leaf work, stained glass windows, bronze casting, wood carving and steel and wood engraving. She is Canada’s official sculptor. 1988.

Helen J. Morton. For her contribution to science as a cell biologist and senior chemist. 1983.

Mary Catherine O’Flaherty. For serving the Department of External Affairs on several continents before being posted to the Canadian Embassy in Tehran in June 1978 during the Iranian Revolution. 1980.

Gilberte Paquette. For her remarkable contribution to the organization and management of health care in the National Capital Region. 1985.

Barbara E. Reesor. For her services in occupational therapy. Founding president of the Therapeutic and Educational Living Centre in Ottawa, the first of its kind in Canada, to rescue the blind and deaf from so-called retardation and open to them a new life. 1984.

Henriette P. Rouleau. For popularizing Canadian nutritional standards and promoting the consumption of home-grown agricultural products. 1988.

Thérèse Saint-Bertrand. For her dedication for 50 years to Ottawa region patients, specifically those who are alcoholics. 1983.

Zena Kahn Sheardown. For serving with her husband, John Sheardown, a member of the Canadian Embassy in Tehran, during the Islamic Revolution. (Canadian Caper). 1986.

Linda Thom. For her contribution to the sport of pistol shooting. First woman in the world to win an Olympic gold medal in pistol shooting, the first Canadian woman to win a gold medal in a summer Olympics since 1928 and the first Canadian to win a gold medal in a summer Olympics since 1968. 1985.

Carolyn Jane Waldo-Baltzer. For her contribution to the sport of synchronized swimming. First Canadian woman to win two gold medals at the same Olympics. 1988.

www.gg.ca

Order of Canada, 1970s

2011-07-22T05:34:00.001-07:00

As of 2011, the Order of Canada has been awarded to 5,948 Canadians from coast to coast since 1967.

The 1970s recognized the significant achievements and remarkable service of 17 women connected to Ottawa through place of birth or place of residence. They are:

Ellen Aloysia Ahern. For her many contributions to national and community affairs through voluntary service and as a citizenship court judge. 1973.

Florence Bird. For her services in the fields of journalism and broadcasting, and as the Chairman of the Royal Commission on the Status of Women. 1971.

Joyce Bryant. For her dedication throughout her service at Government House during the tenure of five Governors General. 1973.

Dorothy Caldwell. For her services with the Federal Civil Service Commission for more than twenty-five years, and for her work on the Royal Commission on the Status of Women. 1971.

Sylva M. Gelber. For her achievements at home and abroad in the area of industrial relations and the development of women's rights. 1975.

Lotta Hitschmanova. For her thirty-five years of total dedication to the cause of the needy around the world. 1979.

Gabrielle Léger. Spouse of the twenty-first Governor General of Canada. 1974.

Mary Elizabeth Macdonald. For giving nearly forty years of dedicated service to Canada as a public servant. 1979.

Dorothy Macpherson. For her unique contribution in fostering the use of films throughout Canada in the service of the Arts. 1973.

Jane B.D. Murray. For devoting her efforts to the development of the Ottawa Little Theatre. 1978.

Florence O’Neill. In recognition of her contributions to adult education and community development and her career as a teacher in rural Newfoundland. 1974.

M.A. Pauline Sabourin. For her dedication in the position of secretary, particularly for numerous Under Secretaries of State for External Affairs. 1974.

Anna Wilson Sharpe. For her devotion for more than forty years to her profession as gynaecologist, pediatrician and medical officer of health. Her dream has been realized in the opening of the Eastern Ontario Children's Hospital. 1977.

Adine Tremblay. For her contribution to the artistic and cultural life of the city of Ottawa for more than 40 years. 1975.

Annette Walls. For devoted public service to the Privy Council Office under five Prime Ministers and five Cabinet Secretaries. 1973.

Maud H. Watt. For her contribution to the well-being of the Indian people of northern Quebec. 1970.

Cairine R.M. Wilson. For her invaluable contributions on behalf of needy children around the world. 1977.

www.gc.ca

Order of Canada, 1960s

2011-07-22T05:33:00.001-07:00

The 1960s recognized the significant achievements and remarkable service of 8 women who have a connection to Ottawa through place of birth or place of residence. They are:

Kathleen Fenwick. For her role as curator of prints and drawings at the National Gallery of Canada, and being largely responsible for developing the collection into one of the finest of its kind. 1968.

Nancy Greene-Raine. For her services to sports, particularly skiing. 1967.

Elizabeth MacCullum. For her achievements in various posts in the Canadian Diplomatic Service. 1967.

Elizabeth H. Morton. For her contributions to the develonment of library science in Canada over a period of 40 years. 1968.

Adelaide Sinclair. For her contributions to Canada as former Director of the Royal Canadian Naval Service and later as Deputy Director of the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund. 1967.

Elaine Tanner. For her achievements in swimming.1969.

Pauline Vanier. For her humanitarian work. 1967.

Charlotte Whitton. For the important causes she supported with great vigour and for her contributions as Founder and Director of the Canadian Welfare Council. First woman Mayor of Ottawa. 1967.

www.gg.ca

Jean Sutherland Boggs

2011-07-21T05:40:00.000-07:00

Academic, art historian, civil servant

Born in Negritos, Peru.

Was appointed curator for the Art Gallery of Toronto in 1962.

Has written books about the life of Edgar Degas, including Portraits By Degas in 1962.

Was appointed the first female and fifth director of the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa in 1966, and served in this position until 1976.

Was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1973 in recognition of her scholarship in art history, and the vision and energy she displayed in developing the collection and the services of the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa.

Was chair and chief executive officer of the Canada Museums Construction Corporation from 1982 to 1985, where she was involved with the construction of both a custom-built National Gallery building and the unique Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean_Sutherland_Boggs

Amelia Hall

2011-07-18T05:32:00.000-07:00

Actress, stage director

Born in England, came to Ontario in 1921.

Attended McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, then became a teacher in Ottawa.

In 1948, left her teaching position to become a full-time actress and in 1949 was a joint founder of the Junior Theatre in Ottawa.

Served as President of the Stage Society, Ottawa, and joined the Canadian Repertory Theatre (CRT) Ottawa in 1949, and later co-managed the company with actor Sam Payne. She remained with the CRT for 5 seasons, 1949-1954, during which time over 150 productions were mounted at the La Salle Academy. She appeared in or directed the majority of its productions.

Became the first woman to ever perform at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival (she was Lady Anne in Richard III) in 1953.  

Her last Stratford performance was in 1984; she died in Toronto in 1984.

Was awarded a centennial medal in 1967 for her work in Canadian theatre and the Order of Canada in 1982.

http://www.welcometostratford.com
http://www.suite101.com
http://collectionscanada.gc.ca

Lotta Hitschmanova

2011-07-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

Humanitarian, pioneer of international cooperation

Born in Prague in 1909; died in Ottawa in 1990.

Arrived in Canada in 1942.

Founded USC Canada in 1945 (Unitarian Service Committee) in Ottawa.

Dedicated her life to helping people in far-off lands and became one of Canada’s most recognized public figures. It is often said that 56 Sparks Street in Ottawa (the address of USC), is the second most famous Canadian address after 24 Sussex.

Helped mobilize Canadians from coast to coast, putting Ottawa on the map as a seat of national government and political debate, and also as a center of Canadian concern for the rest of the world.

Mayor Larry O’Brien proclaimed November 28 to be Dr. Lotta Day in Ottawa in 2009.

http://usc-canada.org

Chantal Beauvais

2011-07-15T16:06:00.000-07:00

Rector, Saint Paul University, Ottawa

“Helping people in life’s journey from where they are to where they want to be.” - Chantal Beauvais

Became the sixth rector of Saint Paul University in Ottawa in 2009.

Born in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec.

Studied philosophy at Dominican College in Ottawa, where she earned a B.A. in Philosophy. She subsequently earned an M.A. and a Ph.D. in Philosophy at the University of Ottawa. Also holds a Diplôme d'études supérieures spécialisées in public administration publique from the École nationale d'administration publique (ÉNAP).

http://www.ustpaul.ca

http://www.cpac.ca

Roseann O’Reilly Runte

2011-07-15T14:53:00.001-07:00

President and vice-chancellor of Carleton University, Ottawa

Is president and vice-chancellor of Carleton University since 2008.

Graduated with a BA in French from the State University of New York and obtained her MA and PhD from the University of Kansas.

Has previously served as president of l’Université Sainte-Anne, principal of Glendon College, president of Victoria University and of Old Dominion University.

Author of numerous scholarly works in the fields of French, comparative literature, economic and cultural development, higher education and the importance of research.

Has received a poetry prize from the Académie française.

Has been awarded the Order of Canada and the French Order of Merit and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada.

Has been awarded the Palmes Académiques and several prizes for her work on the environment, for community and national service. In addition,

http://www1.carleton.ca/about/university-executive/the-president-and-vice-chancellor/

Chancellors of the University of Ottawa

2011-07-15T14:47:00.001-07:00

Since 1889, there have been 13 chancellors of the University of Ottawa of which 4 were women. The chancellor is the chief executive of a university. For information related to the four chancellors, please view their personal entry under their respective names.

Pauline Vanier

First woman chancellor of the University of Ottawa from 1966-1973

Gabrielle Léger

Second woman chancellor of the University of Ottawa from 1979-1985

Huguette Labelle

Third woman chancellor of the University of Ottawa since 1994

Michaëlle Jean
Fourth woman chancellor of the University of Ottawa as of February 2012

Jennifer Macklem

2011-07-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

Sculptor, professor

Born in Montreal.

Associate professor in the Department of Visual Arts, University of Ottawa.

Studied in Montréal and Paris.

Internationally reknowned artist, known for her environmental art.

Did an installation for Winterlude in Ottawa during the winter of 2011.

Fields of interest:

Sculpture, public sculpture, animation/video, painting, drawing, installation
Mind body relationship: subjectivity and objectivity. animals and natural history
Popular cultural ideas around psychology, spirituality, fiction, narrative
Cross disciplinarity - visual art and literature, music, natural science

http://www.visualarts.uottawa.ca/faculty/macklem.html

www.ottawacitizen.com
http://www.jennifermacklem.com/

Women For Mental Health

2011-07-13T07:30:00.000-07:00

Philathropists

"Change is our mandate. Collaboration is our philosophy. Transforming lives is our goal. Together we can make it a reality." - Women For Mental Health

Women for Mental Health is a philanthropic program at The Royal Ottawa Health Care Group located in Ottawa, bringing together like-minded women who inspire conversations and support for mental health.They wish to shift attitudes and make real progress in changing the way people think about mental health. This change will help transform patient care and research at The Royal.

The program is an integral part of the Campaign for Mental Health at The Royal.

www.youknowwhoiam.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Ottawa_Mental_Health_Centre

Louise Arbour

2011-07-12T12:12:00.000-07:00

Justice on the Supreme Court of Canada

Born in Montreal, Quebec.

Fourth woman appointed to the position of Justice on the Supreme Court in Canada from 1999-2004.

Former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Former justice of the Court of Appeal for Ontario and a former Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda.

Serves as President and CEO of the International Crisis Group since 2009.

Has published in the area of criminal procedure and criminal law, in both French and English. Has served as an editor for the Criminal Reports, the Canadian Rights Reporter, and the Osgoode Hall Law Journal.

Best known as a chief prosecutor for tribunals into the genocide in Rwanda and human rights abuses in Yugoslavia in the 1990s.

Partial List of Awards:

Has been awarded honorary doctorates by twenty-seven universities.
Was honoured with the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Award in 2000.
Was awarded the Thomas J. Dodd Prize in International Justice and Human Rights in 2005.
Was made an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and Companion of the Order of Canada in 2008.
Became Grande Officière de l’Ordre national du Québec in 2009.
Received the Colombian Order of National Merit, Grand Cross class and was named Commander of the French Legion of Honour in 2010.
Was named alongside former President of Brazil Luis Inácio Lula da Silva as the winner of the 2010 North-South Prize of the Council of Europe.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louise_Arbour

http://www.crisisgroup.org

Claire L'Heureux-Dubé

2011-07-11T13:58:00.000-07:00

Justice on the Supreme Court of Canada

Born in Québec City.

Second woman appointed to the position of Justice on the Supreme Court in Canada from 1987-2002.

First woman from Quebec appointed to this position.

Graduated from the law faculty of Université Laval in Quebec.

Appointed as a judge to the Quebec Superior Court in 1973.

Was made a Companion of the Order of Canada in 2003

Was made a Grand Officer of the National Order of Quebec in 2004.

Remembered as one of the most prolific dissenters of the Court. Her judicial view was atypical for her time and often clashed with the majority of the Court.

Among her more controversial decisions we find Canada (Attorney General) v. Mossop, [1993] 1 SCR 554 where she alone acknowledged that the meaning of family is not fixed and should be read purposively to adapt to the changing times and it should include same-sex couples.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claire_L'Heureux-Dubé
http://www.scc-csc.gc.ca

Irene Mary Biss Spry

2011-07-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

Economic historian, writer, teacher, scholar

Born in South Africa in 1907; died in Ottawa in 1998.

Awarded two honorary doctorates, one from the University of Toronto, the other from the University of Ottawa.

Named to the Order of Canada in 1992 for her contributions to Canadian intellectual and public life, and to the women’s movement.

Joined the Department of Political Economy at the University of Toronto in 1929 where she taught Canadian economic history.

Served actively on the Wartime Prices and Trade Board and its later affiliate, the Commodity Prices Stabilization Corporation, in Ottawa and, during the early postwar years, went to England and co-founded Saskatchewan House with her husband, broadcast reformer Graham Spry, who was Agent-General for Saskatchewan in London from 1946 to 1967.

Spry's work in the women's movement blossomed during her time in London. She represented the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada at the Associated Country Women of the World.

Taught at the University of Ottawa from 1968 until 1995, well after her official retirement in 1973.

Partial list of publications:

Spry, Irene M. (1963) The Palliser Expedition: The Dramatic Story of Western Canadian Exploration, 1857-1860. Toronto: MacMillan. Republished Toronto: Fifth House Publishers, 1995.
Spry, Irene M., ed. (1968) The Papers of the Palliser Expedition, 1857-1860. Toronto: Champlain Society Press.
Crabbé, Philippe, and Irene M. Spry, eds. (1973) Natural Resource Development in Canada. Ottawa: University of Ottawa Press.
Spry, Irene M., and Bennett McCardle. (1993) The Records of the Department of the Interior and Research Concerning Canada's Western Frontier of Settlement. Regina: Canadian Plains Research Center.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irene_Spry

Jerry Grey

2011-07-10T07:34:00.000-07:00

Visual artist, teacher

Born in Vancouver, lives in Ottawa.

Has been exhibiting nationally since 1963; her work appears in numerous public and private collections.

Has received commissions for several important public art installations, including The Great Canadian Equalizer at Statistics Canada; The Tiles of Time at the Ottawa Police Station; and The Sisters of Charity Building Hope, for the Sisters of Charity (Grey Nuns).

Elected to membership of The Royal Canadian Academy of Art in 1984.

Lectures on a variety of topics at the National Gallery of Canada, the Banff School of Fine Arts, the Emily Carr School of Art, the University of Ottawa, the Ottawa School of Art and the Avenue Road Art School in Toronto.

Works in oils, watercolour, pastels and glass media; explores themes of nature, politics, history and issues of public concern. Some examples are:

Dualities, a series of paintings reflecting the artist's reaction to the Gulf War, exhibited at the Carleton University Art Gallery, the Canadian Museum of Civilization, and the new Abdullah Salem Exhibition Hall in Kuwait.
Rare Spirits: A Personal Tribute to Vintage Elders, a series of portraits of accomplished older Canadians, opened in Ottawa and then traveled to Vancouver, Toronto and Kelowna before being purchased by the new Portrait Gallery of Canada.
Icons of Beauty was given a solo exhibition in September 2005 at the Galerie d’art Jean-Claude Bergeron in Ottawa.

http://www.jerrygrey.ca
http://www.artengine.ca/jerrygrey/artist.htm

Trudi Le Caine

2011-07-09T14:17:00.001-07:00

Advocate for the arts, patronness

Née Gertrude Janowski; born in 1911 in Paussau, Bavaria; died in Ottawa in 1999.

Settled in Ottawa in 1942; her involvement with Le Groupe de la Place Royale, Opera Lyra Ottawa and the Council for the Arts in Ottawa led to recognition and awards such as the Order of Canada in 1991, the Lescarbot Award and the Victor Tolgesy Arts Award.

Helped to establish the Ottawa Children's Concerts in 1946.

Was known as the doyenne of the art patrons in Ottawa.

Convinced the National Capital Commission to open the Rideau Canal during the winter for skating, which has now become famous as the world's longest skating rink.

In her honour, the Community Foundation of Ottawa-Carleton maintains the Trudi LeCaine Fund.

Married Hugh Le Caine, Canadian physicist and pioneer electronic musician.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trudi_Le_Caine
http://www.gallery.ca

Shelagh Rogers

2011-07-09T11:16:00.001-07:00

Radio broadcaster

Born in 1956, grew up in Ottawa where she attended Lisgar Collegiate Insititute.

Began her career in broadcasting at CFRC, the campus radio station of Queen's University.

Graduated from Queen's University's arts program in 1977.

Joined CBC radio in Ottawa, in 1980, hosting the local current affairs programs and jazz and classical music broadcasts.

Won an ACTRA Award in 1983 for Best Host/Interviewer.

Moved to CBC radio's Toronto station in 1984.

Became a frequent guest host of Morningside, and in 1995 the program's host and producer, Peter Gzowski, named Rogers the show's permanent guest host.

Presently hosts The Next Chapter, a new weekly show on Canadian writers and writing.

Received the Hero Award from the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario and an award from Native Counselling Services of Alberta for working on reconciliation in 2010.

Was made an Officer of the Order of Canada "for her contributions as a promoter of Canadian culture, and for her volunteer work in the fields of mental health and literacy" in 2010.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelagh_Rogers

Princess Margriet Francisca of the Netherlands

2011-07-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

Historical link to Ottawa's Annual Tulip Festival

Born in 1943 in Ottawa at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.

First royal baby to ever be born in North America.

Is the third daughter of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands. Member of the Dutch Royal House and currently ninth in the line of succession to the Dutch throne.

The Princess was born in Ottawa, Ontario, as the family had been living in Canada since June 1940 after the occupation of the Netherlands by Nazi Germany. The maternity ward of Ottawa Civic Hospital in which Princess Margriet was born was temporarily declared to be extraterritorial by the Canadian government. Making the maternity ward outside of the Canadian domain caused it to be unaffiliated with any jurisdiction and technically international territory. This was done to ensure that the newborn Princess would derive her citizenship from her mother only, thus making her solely Dutch.

The Dutch royal family was so impressed with Ottawa that they donated tulip bulbs to the city, which led to the establishment of the annual Tulip Festival in Ottawa.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princess_Margriet_of_the_Netherlans
www.archives.cbc.ca