Ontario’s Municipal Leadership Shines on International Women’s Day
This year's celebration of International Women’s Day was also a first for municipal leadership in Ontario.
Western Ontario Wardens' Caucus Executive Director Kate Burns Gallagher says it's the first time all major municipal associations in the province are chaired by women, demonstrating the strength, dedication, and leadership of women in local government.
"This is a remarkable moment for municipal leadership in Ontario," said Amy Martin, Chair of the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC). "Having women in these key leadership positions sends a strong message about the role women play in shaping our communities. It reflects the progress we’ve made, while also inspiring future generations of women to step into leadership roles and contribute to the strength and success of our municipalities."
“This moment is a testament to the incredible talent, expertise, and leadership of women in municipal government,” said AMO President Robin Jones. “We are proud to work together to champion the needs of municipalities and residents across Ontario.”
On this International Women’s Day, we recognize the contributions of women in municipal leadership and the impact they continue to make in building strong, vibrant, and sustainable communities.
The women at the helm of Ontario’s municipal organizations include:
Mayor Amy Martin, Chair, Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC)
Mayor Robin Jones, President, Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
Mayor Christa Lowry, Chair, Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA)
Warden Bonnie Clarke, Chair, Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC)
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, Chair, Ontario Big City Mayors (OBCM)
Chair Karen Redman, Chair, Mayors and Regional Chairs of Ontario (MARCO)
Mayor Wendy Landry, President, Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA)
This unprecedented leadership milestone is further supported by a strong network of dedicated women who provide strategic direction and operational support to these organizations, including:
Kate Burns Gallagher, Executive Director (WOWC)
Lindsay Jones, Director of Policy and Government Relations (AMO)
Petra Wolfbeiss, Director, AMO Membership Centre (ROMA)
Meredith Staveley-Watson, Director of Government Relations and Policy (EOWC)
Michelle Baker, Executive Director (OBCM)
Margot Cragg, Executive Director (MARCO)
