The Cold Lake Women of Influence Awards night March 6 wasn’t just about the prizes. The event was attended by nominees and their supporters as well as past winners, friends, families, dignitaries, and the community at large.
It was a celebration of women and their many contributions to every aspect of community life.
The evening opened with socializing over food and drinks, including a “mocktail” bar operated by Lakeland Centre for FASD. Awards were given in seven categories, with recipients chosen from a strong field of 36 nominees.
Award recipients were Nicole Gordon for Arts and Culture; Samantha Walker-Dean for Business and Professional; Jayna Miller for Community and Volunteerism; Dr. Amanda Willert for Health and Wellness; and Jennifer Rogers for Science and Technology.
The Older Woman of Influence Award, sponsored by Respect, went to Lori Christensen for her volunteer work with local dog-sports organizations, and for her volunteerism bringing her own dogs to visit residents in seniors’ residences and Longterm Care.
Nichole Neubauer, a farmer and educator from Lethbridge, gave the keynote address. Neubauer has earned considerable recognition for her work that uses agriculture as a portal to education, especially among students who struggle in traditional school settings. She said a lasting impact is built when communities, businesses and educators work together to create opportunities.
“Partnerships turn classrooms into living laboratories and light the way for meaningful experiences,” she said. “They connect curriculum to careers and help students see themselves as capable, needed and ready. And they honour the dignity of work, showing that agriculture is not just tractors and fields, but science, stewardship, innovation and community.”
After Neubauer’s address, the Overall Woman of Influence Award was presented to Stepping Stones Crisis Centre board member Angela Hoy, recognizing her commitment to supporting women’s safety, growth and empowerment.
With files from Chantel Downes, Local Journalism Initiative reporter for Lakeland This Week.
