LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT NOMINEES
For over 25 years, has been a role model, mentor and/or advocate for positive social change.
Award Presented by:
Gillian Alexander and Nicolette Del Ben, Schlegel Villages
Jan Basso
Jan is a Laurier alumnus, holds a Master’s degree from the University of Toronto, and has been actively involved in
professional associations and networks throughout her career.
Cora Black
Cora Black, founder and director of Moree School of Dance, celebrates 45 years of inspiring students. Locally raised, she trained at Ewalds Academy and earned an Honours BSc in Dance from U of W. A certified CDTA and RAD teacher, she performed with KWMP, at the National Arts Centre for President Ronald Reagan and other professional shows. For
decades, she has mentored thousands, sharing technical expertise, a love for the arts, and award-winning choreography while fostering a family atmosphere where students flourish. Moree has supported local fundraising, leaving a lasting impact on the dance community and beyond.
Brenna Bonn
Dr. Brenna Bonn has been a police officer with WRPS for 31 years. During this time she has always strived to make KW a more inclusive place with a passion for the WRPS EDI mission. This includes community programs such as a Board Membership for One Roof, the Municipal Action Group for FASD, the Reach For It Advisory Committee, and the
Oktoberfest Committee. This has also included the pursuit of lifelong continuous learning through obtaining her Masters in Public Safety and her Doctorate in Social Sciences with the hope to implement inclusive training programs for police officers.
Charmaine Dean
Dr. Charmaine Dean is an acclaimed academic leader, statistician, and advocate for equity with 35+ years of impact. As
Vice-President, Research and International at the University of Waterloo, she has led nearly $1B in research funding and
forged transformative partnerships. She chaired the President’s Anti-Racism Taskforce, embedding systemic change
through 88 strategic recommendations. Internationally recognized with honors like the SSC Gold Medal and France’s Order of Academic Palms, Dr. Dean’s legacy lies in bridging research excellence with bold, inclusive leadership. Her career exemplifies the highest standards of impact, service, and lasting contribution to Canadian society and beyond.
Kim Decker
Kim has led YWCA Cambridge as CEO for 37 years after starting her career at Anselma House, a shelter for survivors of intimate partner violence. An ambitious and dedicated leader, Kim has dedicated her career to advancing gender equity. She is known for leading with compassion, honesty, vulnerability, trust and respect. Locally, Kim sits on a variety of community committees and roundtables, including; the Victim Advocate Case Review, the GBV Leadership Table, and the Housing and Homelessness Advisory Group. Under her leadership, YWCA Cambridge has come to be known as a leading voice for women, girls and gender-diverse individuals.
Cathy Ding
Cathy (Huijuan) Ding is a registered acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner with over 25 years of clinical experience. She holds both bachelor's and master's degrees in Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture from the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, a globally recognized institution. Since 2010, Cathy has been serving the Kitchener-Waterloo area, specializing in various treatments including pain management, women's and men's health, weight loss, cosmetic acupuncture, cancer support therapies, stress, insomnia, migraines, allergies, and respiratory health. Her dedication, expertise and community contribution have earned her the Best Acupuncturist award in Kitchener-Waterloo area for four consecutive years.
Joan Fisk
Joan Fisk is a respected community leader and current CEO of United Way Waterloo Region Communities. Her career
includes executive roles at Gore Mutual, Greater Kitchener Chamber of Commerce, and Tiger Brand Knitting Company
Ltd. Joan has served on numerous boards, including Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network, Lang School of Business and Economics Dean's Advisory Board, Wilfrid Laurier University, Conestoga College, and the College of Physicians and Surgeons. Her many honours include the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, YMCA Woman of Distinction, and the 125th Confederation Medal. Joan’s lifelong dedication to public service, equity, and community development makes her a truly deserving recipient of the Oktoberfest Lifetime Achievement Award.
Cait Glasson
Cait is a mother, grandmother, writer, painter, advocare and activist for the queer community who inspires change and
action through education. She is thoughtfully visible in the community, volunteers a lot of her time to educate about issues, and speaks frequently about trans issues, including trans joy. All of these acts are of service to all and make her well deserving of this honor.
Marcella Habermehl
Marcella is 76 year young and has dedicated over 40 years to coaching youth bowling, inspiring generations of young
athletes with her fiery passion and expertise. Her unwavering commitment to the sport has not only helped players refine their skills but also instilled confidence, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love for the game. Through her guidance, countless kids have grown both on and off the lanes, making her a cherished mentor and role model in our community. She is now coaching the children of the children that she once coached.
Angie Hill
For thirty fabulous years, Angie has been the superstar of the airwaves in Waterloo Region! But wait, there’s more: it’s
hard to find a charity or community group that hasn’t basked in her generous glow. Whether she’s rocking the mic as an emcee, diving into events, or championing causes on air and her massive social media fan club, her love for the community shines bright. Angie’s heart is as big as her smile, and she’s always ready to lend a hand!
Mary Beth Kennedy
Mary Beth Kennedy is a dynamic entrepreneur, educator, and community advocate. As the owner of multiple successful businesses, she is passionate about innovation and mentorship. She teaches entrepreneurship at Conestoga College, guiding the next generation of business leaders. Beyond the classroom, she actively supports community initiatives, mentoring students and job seekers while contributing to fundraisers for local charities. Her dedication to business excellence, education, and charitable giving has made a lasting impact in the region. Whether empowering aspiring entrepreneurs or giving back to the community, Mary Beth’s leadership continues to inspire and drive positive change.
Marjorie Knight
For more than 24 years, Marjorie Knight has dedicated her time as an anti-poverty advocate and community outreach
worker whose tireless volunteer efforts have significantly helped people in Waterloo Region. She has represented
Cambridge three times as the MPP candidate. In addition to her work as a Family Outreach Worker with the House of
Friendship in Cambridge, she serves on the boards of The Cambridge Shelter Corp and ACCKWA. This collaborator is
also the founder of Rhythm and Blues, an organization that advocates for Black community in Cambridge.
Jackie Lauer
Jackie Lauer is a distinguished leadership coach and workplace culture consultant with over 25 years of experience in her field. In June, she will celebrate a remarkable milestone as the founder of her own boutique consulting company, where she has dedicated herself to enhancing organizational effectiveness and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Jackie holds more than 11 certifications, reflecting her commitment to continuous professional development and
excellence. Her expertise encompasses various areas, including coaching, systems coaching, emotional intelligence, and the neuroscience of trust. This extensive knowledge equips her to provide tailored coaching solutions to a diverse clientele, from start ups to Fortune 100 companies.
Karen Liphard
Karen has devoted both her professional and personal life to enriching and supporting others in the Kitchener/Waterloo community. She has spent most of her life mastering the art of Kung Fu, earning the prestigious title of Sifu and advancing to a 6th degree black sash. Karen tirelessly volunteers her health expertise by leading women’s self-defense workshops, participating in numerous events to raise awareness about women’s issues, and providing hundreds of hours annually leading martial arts and fitness classes. Additionally, Karen is passionate about her career as a manager and crisis intervention trainer where she supports individuals with brain injuries.
JoAnne McCormick
JoAnne McCormick is an accomplished executive with over 25 years of experience leading people, projects, and
businesses. A CPA with an Honours degree in Mathematics and Business Administration, she has a proven track record
of improving profitability, strategic planning, and financial reporting. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration and results, driving success in every organization she has worked with. As CEO of Colt Canada, JoAnne led a strategic transformation that doubled revenue and significantly increased EBITDA. Today, she continues to make a difference as a Fractional CFO, where she partners with owner-operators to enhance operations.
Alexandra Ann (Sandy) Milne
Catholic Women's League 1977 - present: currently Treasurer at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Kitchener; Christians
Together Waterloo Region (formerly Kitchener-Waterloo Council of Churches) 1996 - present; Founding member of
Interfaith Grand River (IGR) 2001 - present: currently past-president and membership secretary; Co-chair Interfaith
Community Breakfast Planning Committee (formerly Community Prayer Breakfast) 1996 - present.
Kristine Parsons
Kristine Parsons is an accomplished leader in early childhood education with over three decades of experience. Currently serving as Director of Operations at RisingOaks Early Learning Ontario, Kristine has played a pivotal role in shaping HR best practices, mentoring educators, and advocating for high-quality early learning. She has served multiple terms on the Council of the College of Early Childhood Educators, twice as Chair, and has contributed to regional and international initiatives in the field. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and advocacy has made a lasting impact on children, families, and educators in Waterloo Region and beyond.
Laura Potje
Laura Potje has been working as a welder, fabricator and educator in the skilled trades since 1978. She has proven that success for women in the trades has many different pathways. As an advocate for continued learning she has shown that the sky is the limit for women wanting to excel in this field. Graduate Conestoga College, Welder Fitter Program 1982 Graduate McMaster University, Metallurgy Certificate Program 2012 Graduate Conestoga College, Manufacturing Engineering Technology - Welding and Robotics 2006 Earned Trades Qualification Welder "Red Seal" Ontario Trade #456A 2007 (one of the first three women in Ontario)
Jolanta Romel-Jarski
Jolanta, as a business owner for over 33 years has proved that despite whatever trials or obstacles might arise, she is
willing and able to handle anything. She seeks out cutting edge treatments, products and procedures to always stay one step ahead in the industry. She is a mentor to women of all ages and cultures in this community. She strives in making people better from the inside out.
Jolanta Romel-Jarski
Jolanta, as a business owner for over 33 years has proved that despite whatever trials or obstacles might arise, she is
willing and able to handle anything. She seeks out cutting edge treatments, products and procedures to always stay one step ahead in the industry. She is a mentor to women of all ages and cultures in this community. She strives in making people better from the inside out.
Isabella Stefanescu
Isabella Stefanescu is a painter, media artist, writer, and producer. Originally from Romania, where she studied fine arts in a school for gifted children, Isabella Stefanescu came to Canada in her teens. In grade 12 she was awarded a Descartes scholarship to study mathematics at University of Waterloo, where she also studied fine arts and art history. In 2007 she was awarded an Ontario Arts Council K.M. Hunter Award for Interdisciplinary Art. Stefanescu’s artwork has been
exhibited in public/private galleries in Canada, France, and the United States, and the films she wrote, produced, designed have been shown at international festivals. She is a founder of Globe Studios and of Contemporary Art Forum Kitchener and Area.
Marian Steffler
Raised in Kitchener-Waterloo by immigrant parents, Marian built a successful career while raising four children. Despite
facing many challenges, she embraces life with determination and care for those around her. She has dedicated 25 years to Nestlé Canada, where her adaptability, organization, and resilience have made her an invaluable leader. Beyond her career, Marian has devoted many hours to giving back to the community through food drives and delivering Christmas hampers. A passionate and driven individual, she is a role model to her daughters and community, demonstrating the power of perseverance, hard work, and generosity.
Cathy Snyder
Cathy Snyder is a visionary leader with the passion, expertise, and commitment to turn her vision into reality. Her dedication and strong values not only guide others toward this vision but also inspire and motivate her team to share her enthusiasm. While many leaders focus solely on the plan, Cathy stands out by balancing a clear focus on the end goal with a genuine attention to the people she leads. Her ability to navigate an ever-changing landscape while prioritizing her team is a rare and valuable skill that sets her apart as a leader.
Tracy Valko
Tracy Valko is a passionate community leader and mental health advocate who exemplifies service through action. As the founder of Stronger Together, she supports mental health services at Grand River Hospital. This year, she hosted her second annual event, raising over $120,000 for the hospital’s Mental Health Unit. Tracy’s dedication goes far beyond fundraising—she creates safe spaces for connection, healing, and open dialogue. Her volunteer work, advocacy, and behind-the-scenes efforts have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many across Waterloo Region. Tracy leads with compassion, always focused on building a stronger, more supported community for all.