Friday, March 8th, 2024
When:
- Doors open at 5:30PM
- Event starts at 6:30PM
Tickets ($125)
Tickets can be purchased online or directly from the WEST office. For more information, please email erlyn@westofwindsor.com.
Keynote Speaker:
Dr. Patricia France
President, St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology
Patricia France, President of St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology, brings over 36 years of post secondary education experience. With a Bachelor’s degree in Adult Education from Brock University and a Master’s in Adult Education from St. Francis Xavier University, she assumed her role as President in September 2015. Renowned for her community engagement, President France chairs multiple committees, actively contributing to healthcare, social services, and technological advancements. She has received numerous accolades, including the ATHENA Award in 2017, a Doctor of Laws honoris causa from Assumption University in 2022, and the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023. Committed to philanthropy, her leadership has led to substantial fundraising for causes like the Special Olympics and local food banks. President France champions the role of a “community college,” prioritizing the welfare of southwestern Ontario residents. Her focus remains on providing exceptional, job-ready education and promoting diversity in STEM fields, leading to increased enrollment and enhanced program offerings at St. Clair College.
Our Sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
#CountHerIn
Inspire the Future Generation
At the 2024 International Women’s Day Gala, WEST proudly unveiled the evening’s central theme #CountHerIn. This powerful campaign celebrated the importance of nurturing the potential of every girl, breaking down barriers, and fostering a culture of empowerment to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
The highlight of the gala was the premiere of the #CountHerIn campaign video, a heartfelt and inspiring production that showcased the voices of young girls sharing their dreams and aspirations. The video moved through a journey of progress, featuring WEST sponsors, award recipients, and community partners reflecting on how women have historically been counted out and the strides made to ensure women and girls are counted in today—and in the future.
Through the lens of #CountHerIn, the evening served as a powerful reminder that our actions today shape the world of tomorrow. By investing in the potential of girls, dismantling barriers to opportunity, and creating environments where all women can thrive, we pave the way for a brighter, more hopeful future.
The #CountHerIn Initiative represents more than a theme—it is a call to action. It challenges us to reflect on progress, acknowledge the work still to be done, and commit to a future where women and girls are empowered, valued, and respected in every aspect of society. WEST remains steadfast in its mission to champion the rights and dignity of women and girls.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, community partners, award recipients, and participants who have joined us on this journey of empowerment. Together, we inspire future generations and build a legacy of inclusion and equity.
Click the images below to view larger.
This initiative was made possible through the Communities for Gender Equality program, a collaboration between the WindsorEssex Community Foundation, Community Foundations of Canada, and the Equality Fund, with support from the Government of Canada.
