The longest-serving member of Nanaimo’s Canadian Federation of University Women chapter has gained some sage wisdom over the course of more than 55 years of community service.
Sue Douglas was recently presented with the CFUW’s Sage Award.
“This honour is granted by the national Canadian Federation of University Women as part of its 100th anniversary celebrations, honouring the dedication of members who have championed CFUW’s mission of justice and equity for women and girls for decades,” noted a CFUW Nanaimo press release.
Douglas joined the Nanaimo chapter in 1963. She said at the time, there were few organizations for women that weren’t tied to men’s organizations, and she was excited about the idea that CFUW was for women and about women.
Some of her favourite projects over the years have been Action Nanaimo, which aimed to increase phys ed in schools, and the Seashore Unit, which involved teaching Grade 3 children about seashore life. Douglas said she recalled membership’s efforts to help women get elected to city council – including Gertrude (Happy) Hall and Margaret Strongitharm – and said CFUW also supported Malaspina University-College’s transition to university status.
“Sue has enjoyed her membership immensely, meeting new and different people, while seeing the many similarities in human nature,” the release noted. “Her motto has been to do things with enthusiasm and the best that you can.”
CFUW Nanaimo expressed that it has been privileged to have Douglas as a member for 56 years.
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editor@nanaimobulletin.com
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