This is the eighth Most Influential Women list announced by CAAWS. Fredericton, NB’s Nicole Smith, Chair of the CAAWS Board of Directors outlined how the list is indicative of the diverse roles that Canadian women fulfil, “This year’s list reflects the reality of how women are influential throughout our country at many different levels, and in a wide variety of activities. It is really quite remarkable to see the significant spectrum of women who bring their considerable talents to encourage, direct and manage at provincial, national and international levels.”

Smith also paid tribute to the unofficial 21st woman on this year’s list, the late Dr. Gene Sutton of Hamilton, Ontario. “Gene had been named to our list previously, and right up until she passed away in August, she was contributing to sport in our country. She was involved in the successful 2015 Pan Am Games bid and the 2009 Canadian Gymnastics Championships as well as plans for the Hamilton leg of the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay. She is sincerely missed by all of us in the sport and physical activity community.”

Read about all of the Most Influential Women of 2009 here