Burns honoured by YWCA for lifetime achievement
WOMEN OF DISTINCTION AWARDS CEREMONY TONIGHT
Most quantifiable data experts would not consider five years to be a lifetime.
But if those five years are filled with meaningful contributions and nominations in multiple categories — mentorship, leadership and education among them — the body of work becomes evident.
Such is the case for Paula Burns, Lethbridge College’s president and CEO, who will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 YWCA Women of Distinction Awards during a ceremony tonight at the Lethbridge Lodge.
The awards are presented annually by YWCA Lethbridge and District to women who have distinguished themselves through their achievement as individuals, as members of their communities, and as role models for other women.
“I’m not retiring,” Burns said with a laugh, in a nod to the “lifetime” terminology, during an interview with The Herald earlier this week.
“I was aware of the nomination but when it came back that I had got lifetime achievement, it was like ‘wow, what does that mean exactly? Basically what it means is that I’ve achieved in more than one category. I think that it’s just reflective of a diverse career and the role that I have allows me the opportunity to be involved with entrepreneurship and innovation,” she continued.
“What I think the satisfaction for me was, was recognizing the role that I’ve played in the five years I’ve been in Lethbridge.
“I brought quite a bit of experience in education with me, but to be able to integrate that into the community I think is what struck me the most.”
With International Women’s Day on Thursday, as well as multiple movements ongoing in the world right now, Burns said advancement is also being made and having an influence locally.
It’s not new at Lethbridge College, though, as the institution has a long history of women in leadership roles. Women have served as president for 27 of the college’s 60 years, and as board chair for 15 of those 60 years, starting with the first chair, Kate Andrews.
“When I look at the list (of other
recipients) this year, too, it’s from all walks of life who are involved in all kinds of things in our community,” Burns said. “It’s quite impressive what women in Lethbridge do. They do it because of their passion and love, but when they’re recognized then other people learn about it.”
The other 2018 YWCA Women of Distinction are: Tania Stilson, Leadership and Management; Amanda Bauer, Community Leadership and Enhancement; Jennifer Takahashi, Community Leadership and Enhancement; Renae Barlow, Entrepreneurship and Innovation; Silvana Campus, Education and Mentorship; Elma Guinto, Education and Mentorship; Imogen Pohl, Young Woman of Promise; and Tara Lennox, Wellness, Recreation and Healthy Living.
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