International Women's Day Leadership Conference
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Science Commons Atrium
University of Lethbridge
Parking Information (Ticket price includes parking in Lot N)
The University of Lethbridge is pleased to launch its 2025 International Women’s Day Leadership Conference under the theme Leaders Who Change the Conversation — in health, science, athletics, manufacturing, education and arts. This year’s theme centres on creating courageous spaces for critical conversations.
This is an opportunity to discuss topics not usually raised in the course of daily conversation, yet are a necessary part of expanding knowledge and inquiry, on campus and beyond. As an institution committed to engaging with and serving all our internal and external communities, we commit to being a champion and contributor for southern Alberta. We strive to create spaces that continuously inspire curiosity and excitement for everyone.
Join us for a day filled with insights, conversation and networking opportunities that will uplift, ignite and inspire.
Conference Agenda
| 9 a.m. | Check-in, registration and breakfast |
| 9:30 a.m. | Opening Remarks & Blackfoot Elder Blessing |
| 10 a.m. | Opening Keynote: Dr. Jen Gunter, Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Author |
| 11 a.m. | Morning Networking Break |
| 11:15 a.m. | Musical Performance – University Singers |
| 11:30 a.m. | Book Signing |
| Noon | Lunch & Networking |
| 1 p.m. | Leadership Panel – Lethbridge Leaders & Change Makers |
| 2:15 p.m. | Networking Event |
| 2:30 p.m. | Closing Keynote: Dr. Ranjana Sharma, Chief Scientist, Natural Resources |
| 3:30 p.m. | Closing Remarks – 2026 Keynote Speaker Announcement |
The University of Lethbridge seeks to build ongoing relationships and partnerships to elevate this event and highlight the impact of corporate philanthropy within our community. If this aligns with your strategic vision, we would love to partner with you!
These exclusive opportunities are available until January 31, 2025.
OPENING KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
Dr. Jen Gunter - Obstetrician, Gynecologist, Author
Dr. Gunter will speak about an area of women's health that continues to be under-researched and discussed in the medical field: Menopause. Dr. Gunter's presentation will share deep research and insights into why this work is so critical today.
Dr. Jen Gunter, an OB/GYN expert & author (Vagina Bible, Menopause Manifesto), fights misinformation with books, blogs (The Vajenda), podcasts & a TV series (Jensplaining). Her TED Talk on periods was a smash hit. Find her at www.thevajenda.com.
Lethbridge Leaders Forum
Kacie Bosch (BA ’20) – Canadian 3x3 Basketball Olympian
Kacie Bosch, a ULethbridge alumna, has been a key player for the Canadian 3x3 basketball team since 2021. She has helped Canada win multiple international titles, including a World Cup silver medal and Olympic qualification. Bosch has also played a significant role in the success of the ULethbridge Pronghorns women's basketball team as both a player and an assistant coach.
Paige Crozon – Canadian 3x3 Basketball Olympian
Paige Crozon is a world-class 3x3 basketball player, coach, and non-profit leader. She has won multiple world championships and is a key member of the Canadian national team. Off the court, she is dedicated to empowering youth through the Living Skies Indigenous Basketball League and coaching at the University of Lethbridge. Crozon's journey from a small town in Saskatchewan to global success is an inspiration to many.
Staahtsisttayaaki, Dr. Genevieve A. Fox (BA/BEd ’03, MEd ’12) – Education Director, Blackfoot Confederacy Council
Staahtsisttayaaki, Dr. Genevieve A. Fox, a Kainai-Blood Tribe member, is an Indigenous education expert with experience in K-12, post-secondary, and curriculum development. She has worked to improve education for the Niitsitapi people and is currently the Education Director of the Siksikaitsitapi Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council.
Su Ying Strang – Executive Director, Southern Alberta Art Gallery Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin
Su Ying Strang is a cultural worker based in Sikóöhkotok, Alberta. She relocated there in January 2022 after joining the Southern Alberta Art Gallery as the Executive Director. Strang has been involved in Alberta's not-for-profit arts sector since 2010 and previously served as Director of The New Gallery in Mohkinstsis/Calgary. Her work focuses on supporting artists, creating accessible programs, and building strong foundations for organizations.
Simarjit (Sim) Bains - Vice President of Manufacturing, Triple M Housing
As Vice President of Manufacturing at Triple M Housing since 2016, Simarjit (Sim) Bains oversees design, safety, quality, production, and warranty for 400 employees. Born in Quesnel, BC, to Indian immigrant parents, she earned a BSc in Wood Products Processing with a Commerce minor from UBC. Bains began her career with Weyerhaeuser before transitioning to modular housing, taking on progressive leadership roles. She played a key role in Triple M’s 2023 sale to ATCO. A dedicated community advocate, Bains volunteers with Lethbridge Family Services, co-chairs the Lethbridge Manufacturing Association, and serves on the Canadian Home Builders Association’s Modular Construction Council.
CLOSING KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
Dr. Ranjana Sharma, Chief Scientist, Natural Resources Canada
Dr. Sharma will speak to the importance of Women in Science and share their insights and knowledge on new ways of engaging women within the science fields.
As NRCan's Chief Scientist, Dr. Ranjana Sharma is the senior-most scientific authority in Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), accountable for providing corporate science leadership, oversight and strategic policy advice on all aspects of cross- cutting science priorities, policies, capacity and management. She leads the Office of the Chief Scientist in its role of advancing science policy by leading on the development of horizontal policies and implementing related systems and tools and facilitating evidence-based decision-making by coordinating NRCan science advice, including for impact assessments.
Our Hosts
Dr. Dena McMartin - Vice-President Research, University of Lethbridge
Dr. Dena McMartin is the Vice President, Research at the University of Lethbridge and a leading researcher in rural and agricultural water management. She is both a Professional Engineer and Professional Agrologist who works extensively with industry, community, and government partners to address emerging priority issues relating to water quality and quantity. For more than 20 years, she has partnered on active solutions to characterize and remediate Athabasca Oilsands process water and she currently serves on the International St Mary and Milk Rivers Study Board of the International Joint Commission. Dena also contributes to several national and regional engineering, science and innovation boards focused on integrating diversity into science and engineering research and technology development. As the ULethbridge VP Research, Dena has responsibility for the collective effort of creating opportunities to advance innovation and impact of academic research, scholarship and creative arts.
Dr. Michelle Helstein - Provost and Vice-President Academic, University of Lethbridge
Dr. Michelle Helstein, appointed Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at the University of Lethbridge, has a wealth of experience as a researcher and senior administrator. Formerly the Interim Deputy Provost, she plays a pivotal role in President Dr. Digvir Jayas’s leadership team. Since 2003, Michelle’s ULethbridge career has seen her take on increasingly significant roles, including overseeing Academic Advising, the Indigenous Student Success Certificate and Cooperative Education, and acting as Associate Dean and Acting Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science. Her impactful research challenges perceptions of sport and popular culture, exploring their intricate connections to broader social, political, and economic processes while focusing on the representation of female athletes. Recognized for her work, Michelle actively supports student research and graduate education at ULethbridge.
Martha Mathurin-Moe – Vice-Provost of Accessibility, Belonging and Community, University of Lethbridge
Martha Mathurin-Moe, originally from Saint Lucia, West Indies, is the Vice-Provost of Accessibility, Belonging and Community at the University of Lethbridge. With a diverse academic background, including a BA from Universidad Central de Las Villas, Cuba, and an M.Ed. from the University of Regina, she is currently a PhD candidate in Curriculum and Instruction. With a rich professional history spanning roles in banking, finance, human resources, and international education, Mathurin-Moe is a 2016 recipient of the University of Regina's President’s Award for Service Excellence. As a values-based leader, she advocates for inclusive learning environments, promoting representation for students of all backgrounds. Passionate about equitable workplaces, she brings expertise and dedication to her role. Outside of work, Martha enjoys cooking, reading, and travelling with her partner Jared.
We can't wait for you to join us at this wonderful conference!
Please reach out to our Accessibility, Belonging and Community Office with any questions: belonging@uleth.ca.
Early Bird ticket pricing in effect until January 15, 2025
