WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

Since 2007, the Women of Excellence Awards have recognized and celebrated the tremendous accomplishments and contributions of women across Central Alberta. Each year, women in 12 categories are honoured for their innovation, leadership, determination, and talent at the Women of Excellence Awards Gala, a community celebration of the inspiring women who work every day to build a stronger Central Alberta.

In 2022, the Red Deer & District Community Foundation made the difficult decision to discontinue the Women of Excellence Program, including the Women of Excellence Gala.

The Board of Directors was forced to re-evaluate the viability of the Women of Excellence Gala in the face of COVID-19 and the resulting disruptions and changes. After collecting feedback from the community and evaluating the financial realities of a gala of this size, the Board of Directors have decided to suspend the program indefinitely.

“We are so proud of the way that the Women of Excellence Gala has shone a spotlight on so many outstanding women doing incredible work here in our community,” said Krista Nymark VandenBrink, RDDCF Board Chair. “We are grateful to our sponsors for their dedication to this event, and to the community for contributing to 13 successful years of honouring the achievements of local women.”

“The caliber of women that we have celebrated with the Women of Excellence Gala has been truly spectacular. It’s been an honour to share their stories, and to recognize women who are passionate, innovative, resilient, and care so deeply about their community,” said Erin Peden, RDDCF Executive Director.

Woman of Excellence Categories

Agriculture

WE are innovative—leaders in our philosophies and demonstrate commitment to sustainable practices in agriculture.

Arts and Culture

WE demonstrate outstanding achievement in the expression, development, preservation, patronage and/or promotion of the performing, visual, literary, or multi-media arts and/or cultural heritage.

Athletics, Recreation and Fitness

WE participate, coach, and mentor, serving as an inspiration to others through our example and accomplishments, thereby enhancing the physical well-being of the residents of Red Deer and central Alberta.

Business and the Professions

WE are acknowledged in our field for leadership and consistent commitment to excellence. WE leverage our achievements and management skills to facilitate change and create opportunities in either the for-profit and not-for profit sectors. WE demonstrate a respect for and engagement with our community, clients, stakeholders, and colleagues.

Community Building

WE have identified a local community need or issue and have provided effective initiative to pioneer meaningful change. WE are recognized as a source of strength and heart in our community, and harness the time, talent, and capacity of others.

Construction

WE are acknowledged for our skills in building and creating spaces that contribute to the vibrancy of our community. WE are recognized for our ability to create opportunities for and inspire others to participate in industry.

Education and Training

WE are celebrated for outstanding achievement in practice, development and/or research in the educational system, employee development, community education, or alternative programs.

Entrepreneurship

WE have a solid vision of the future, and possess creativity and ingenuity that separates us from our peers. WE have taken an innovative approach to solving a problem, filling a need or breaking into a new market. WE have made sacrifices and risked a great deal to successfully manage, launch, or revive a business, product, service, or community organization.

Environment

WE have demonstrated a commitment to the preservation and improvement of our natural environment.

Health and Wellness

WE have experienced outstanding achievement in promotion, education and/or involvement in the physical, emotional and/or spiritual health and well-being of others.

Human Services

WE may work or volunteer in the for-profit or not-for-profit sectors and are acknowledged in our field for leadership, compassion, and practice in human service programs and/or organizations within the community.

Young Woman of Excellence

WE are young (under age 25) and are respected for achievements and commitments to education and lifelong learning, work, and/or community. WE are a positive influence on our peers.

Each year, a recipient will be chosen by the Selection Committee for a