Advisory Council Welcomes New Chair

Sonja Power of Amherst has been elected chair of the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women. She was welcomed at a reception in the Red Chamber, Province House, Halifax, today, April 19.

Ms. Power is a correctional officer with Springhill Institution, Correctional Services of Canada. She has been a member of the advisory council for six years.

"I am honoured that council members have elected me as chair," said Ms. Power. "We have an exciting year ahead, touching on some of my greatest interests: child care, women's health, and women's political involvement."

Ms. Power has been actively involved on the council and in her community. She chairs the Springhill Institution's women's committee, of which she is a charter member. She also represents Springhill Institution on the Atlantic regional diversity committee of Correctional Services Canada.

"Sonja Power's experience and past leadership have been valuable assets for the council," said Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, Status of Women Minister. "She brings talent and energy to the position, and I look forward to working with her."

Ms. Power is past president and a current board member of the Amherst Association of Healthy Adolescent Sexuality, the governing board of the Teen Health Centre in the Amherst Regional High School. She also has extensive volunteer experience in victim support and healthy living. She has held a number of positions over the years as a counsellor, outreach co-ordinator, wellness co-ordinator, and project officer with organizations of particular interest to women and children.

"I have enjoyed the challenges and accomplishments of my term," said Doreen Paris, outgoing chair. "We need to stay vigilant and active in working for the equality of women. I will continue to work with Sonja to accomplish new goals."

The chair is elected by a majority of council members every two years, as specified by the regulations to the Advisory Council on the Status of Women Act. Ms. Power succeeds Doreen Paris, whose term ended March 31.