CWEN/RFÉ Past Presidents
A record of the leadership that has guided the Canadian Women Economists Network since its founding.
The past presidents of the Canadian Women Economists Network have played an instrumental role in shaping the organization's identity and direction since its founding decades ago. Each leader brought a distinct vision and set of priorities, from expanding mentoring opportunities for early-career researchers to strengthening ties with academic departments across the country. Their collective tenure reflects a sustained commitment to promoting the visibility and advancement of women in the economics profession. Through their involvement in annual general meetings, constitutional updates, and ongoing activities, these presidents helped build the resilient, independent community that CWEN–RFÉ represents today.
Beyond formal duties, past presidents championed initiatives that addressed the unique challenges female economists face in the profession. They advocated for fair representation in academic departments, supported transparent job market practices, and encouraged open discussion of workplace issues through surveys and reports. Their leadership also fostered a welcoming environment for members at every career stage, from graduate students to established researchers. By modeling professionalism and dedication, these individuals inspired others to step forward and take on leadership roles themselves, ensuring a continuous pipeline of engaged and capable members ready to guide the network into the future.
The records of past presidents serve as a living history of the network's evolution, reflecting how the organization adapted to changing circumstances within Canadian economics. From early efforts to establish a formal constitution to more recent moves toward greater financial transparency and inclusive membership policies, each era brought meaningful progress. The presidents worked alongside executive committees to refine expectations, streamline reporting, and expand resources available to members nationwide. Their combined contributions have helped CWEN–RFÉ maintain its relevance and vitality, allowing it to remain a trusted voice for women economists across Canada.
Looking ahead, the legacy of past presidents continues to inform the network's priorities and aspirations. Their experiences offer valuable guidance for current and future leaders navigating the evolving landscape of academic and professional economics. The stability they helped create provides a strong foundation for new initiatives, including expanded travel grants, publishing support, and mentoring materials. As the network celebrates its achievements and looks toward the next generation of leadership, the contributions of those who came before remain central to its story, reminding members that each president's tenure builds upon the work of those who preceded them.
