Celebrating Notable Women in St. Albert: Pioneers, Leaders, and Changemakers
St. Albert, Alberta, is a city renowned for its rich history, strong community spirit, and cultural diversity. The success of this vibrant community owes much to the remarkable women who have helped shape its growth. From politics and education to arts and activism, these pioneers, leaders, and changemakers have left an indelible mark on St. Albert. Let’s celebrate some of the most notable women in St. Albert’s past and present, honoring their invaluable contributions.
1. Lois Hole: The People’s Lieutenant Governor
Known affectionately as the “Queen of Hugs,” Lois Hole is one of the most iconic figures in St. Albert’s history. A businesswoman, philanthropist, author, and politician, she served as Alberta’s 15th Lieutenant Governor from 2000 until her passing in 2005.
Lois, alongside her husband Ted, co-founded Hole’s Greenhouses & Gardens, one of Alberta’s most successful garden centers and a symbol of community spirit. As Lieutenant Governor, she championed education, literacy, and social justice, emphasizing compassion and kindness in all her endeavors. Her legacy continues to inspire, with her contributions still resonating across Alberta.
2. Cathy Heron: Mayor of St. Albert
Cathy Heron, the current mayor of St. Albert, has been a transformative force in local politics and community building. A lifelong resident of St. Albert, Cathy has dedicated her career to improving the city she loves.
As mayor, she has prioritized environmental sustainability, public safety, and community services, navigating St. Albert through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership during this time focused on mental health, fostering community pride, and ensuring residents stayed connected. Known for her approachable leadership style, Cathy Heron continues to guide St. Albert through growth and change while maintaining its close-knit community feel.
3. Mary McCormick: A Pioneer in Education
Mary McCormick was an early champion of education in St. Albert. As a teacher and advocate, she worked tirelessly to ensure local children had access to quality education during a time when resources were limited.
Beyond her role as an educator, Mary lobbied for improved school facilities and helped lay the foundation for the strong educational system that St. Albert enjoys today. Her dedication to learning and community development has left a lasting legacy in the city’s educational landscape.
4. Erin McLeod: Champion on and off the Field
A professional goalkeeper and one of Canada’s most celebrated soccer players, Erin McLeod hails from St. Albert. She has represented Canada in multiple FIFA Women’s World Cups and the Olympic Games, where she helped the team secure bronze medals in London 2012 and Tokyo 2021.
Off the field, Erin is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness. Through her platform, she promotes inclusivity and supports marginalized communities. Her leadership and advocacy make her a role model for young athletes and activists alike.
5. Micheline Maylor: Poet Laureate and Literary Advocate
Micheline Maylor, a celebrated poet with roots in St. Albert, has significantly contributed to Alberta’s literary community. As a former Calgary Poet Laureate, Micheline’s poetry explores themes of identity, love, and the human experience, often reflecting on Alberta’s landscapes and people.
Micheline is also a dedicated educator and mentor, having taught creative writing across Alberta and inspired countless young writers. Her advocacy for the arts has enriched St. Albert’s cultural scene and helped nurture a love for poetry and creative expression.
6. Carol Watamaniuk: Advocate for Women, Health, and the Arts
Carol Watamaniuk has been a driving force in St. Albert’s healthcare, women’s advocacy, and arts sectors. A former Alberta legislator, Carol has tirelessly worked to improve healthcare services, promote gender equality, and support the arts in her community.
She played a pivotal role in establishing St. Albert’s first municipal cultural department, as well as programs at the Art Gallery of St. Albert, Arden Theatre, and St. Albert Children’s Theatre. Her contributions to public art and cultural initiatives have enriched the city’s artistic landscape, while her advocacy for breast cancer awareness has made a lasting impact on many lives.
7. Mary O’Neil: Champion of Community Development
Mary O’Neil has been a passionate advocate for community development in St. Albert. Her efforts include establishing neighborhood programs, creating community gardens, and organizing local events that foster connections among residents.
Mary’s focus on inclusivity and collaboration has helped create supportive environments where St. Albert residents can thrive. Her contributions to community building remain a cornerstone of St. Albert’s welcoming and vibrant spirit.
8. Irene Slater: Social Worker and Community Advocate
Irene Slater has played a vital role in St. Albert’s social services sector. As an award-winning social worker and founder of the St. Albert One Parent Families Association, Irene has been a champion for those facing personal and economic challenges.
She also served as the first Executive Director of the Stop Abuse in Families (SAiF) Society, supporting victims of domestic violence. Irene’s tireless volunteer work and commitment to helping others have made St. Albert a more compassionate and supportive community.
A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration
The incredible women of St. Albert have shaped the city’s history and continue to influence its future. From Lois Hole’s compassionate leadership to Erin McLeod’s advocacy and athletic achievements, and from Cathy Heron’s community-focused governance to Irene Slater’s social work, these pioneers, leaders, and changemakers embody the best of St. Albert.
Their accomplishments remind us that leadership, creativity, and dedication can bring about meaningful change. Celebrating their stories not only honors their legacies but also inspires future generations to contribute to St. Albert’s growth and resilience.
The women of St. Albert demonstrate that one person’s vision, determination, and passion can have a profound impact on a community. Their contributions continue to inspire, ensuring that St. Albert remains a city built on progress, inclusivity, and innovation.
