Our Regular Activities

As part of its mission, CWEN/RFÉ organizes paper presentation sessions and luncheons at the annual meetings of the Canadian Economics Association (CEA). These gatherings provide opportunities for women economists to present research, exchange ideas, and build professional connections in a supportive environment.

Every two years, the network alternates between two major initiatives:

• Conducting a survey on the gender composition of faculty and students in academic economics departments across Canada.
• Awarding the Young Researcher Award to recognize research excellence by a young woman economist.

Beyond the flagship initiatives, CWEN/RFÉ maintains a year-round rhythm of professional activities designed to support women economists at every career stage. The network regularly shares calls for papers, job postings, and mentoring materials through its newsletter and online listings, helping members stay connected to opportunities across the Canadian economics profession. Members also gather at the annual general meeting to review the network's financial reporting, ratify updates to its constitution, and discuss ongoing priorities, from improving female representation in academic departments to fostering a more inclusive professional culture nationwide. These recurring touchpoints reinforce the community's founding purpose: creating a lasting, supportive network where women economists can share ideas, find collaborators, and advance their careers together.

CEA Meeting Sessions

CWEN/RFÉ-sponsored paper sessions at the annual CEA conference give members a platform to present their work and receive feedback from peers. The network also hosts a luncheon during the conference, featuring a keynote speaker. For example, the 2015 CWEN Luncheon at the CEA Conference, held at Ryerson University in Toronto, featured Raquel Fernandez of NYU as the keynote lecturer.

Biennial Survey

In alternating years, CWEN/RFÉ conducts a comprehensive survey on the status of women in the economics profession in Canada. The resulting report provides data on the gender composition of faculty and graduate students in academic economics departments, helping to track progress and identify areas needing attention.