New Chair for Advisory Council

Members of the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women have elected Doreen Paris to lead them as their chair from April 1, 2003 through March 31, 2005. Born and raised in Gibson Woods, Kings Co., Ms. Paris now resides in New Glasgow.

A member of the council since 1994, the new chair has the background and commitment to be a voice for women across Nova Scotia. Ms. Paris is the third person outside of Halifax to serve as chair.

"I am honoured and excited by the opportunity to lead the council," said Ms. Paris. "I am committed to empowering women to escape the traps of poverty, violence and racism, and will do my best to serve the advisory council and its members."

"I look forward to working with Doreen Paris," said Jane Purves, minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women. "Her energy, dedication and involvement in the community are highly valued."

In addition to her role as moderator of the African United Baptist Association of Nova Scotia, Ms. Paris has extensive involvement with women's groups and projects in the community.

Ms. Paris replaces Rita Warner, who served as chair for the last two years.

"Doreen Paris, will bring a unique perspective to the position of chair," said Ms. Warner. "Through past performance, she has already demonstrated that she will be a strong leader in working to ensure equality, dignity and fairness for all Nova Scotian women."

The advisory council chair is nominated and elected by council members.