CANADA'S TOP 100 MOST POWERFUL WOMEN INCLUDES SENIOR GOVERNMENT BUREAUCRAT

Released on November 22, 2006

For the fourth consecutive year, Cabinet Secretary and Clerk of the Executive Council, Judy Samuelson has been recognized as a symbol of success, being named one of Canada's top 100 most powerful women. Samuelson is one of two Saskatchewan women to be recognized in the annual competition.

"Judy's professionalism, dedication and commitment to the public service have brought lasting benefits to the people of Saskatchewan," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "She is a role model for all women interested in pursuing executive careers, and is richly deserving of this award."

Samuelson, who is being recognized in the category of Public Sector Leaders, received her award at a special ceremony in Toronto yesterday. She has provided service to government and the political process for more than 30 years, including Assistant Chief of Staff and Chief of Staff to former Premier Roy Romanow from 1993 – 2001, and Cabinet Secretary since 2001. Samuelson actively mentors young people and educates international governments in the area of government processes and decision-making.

The Potash Corporation's senior vice-president, corporate relations, Betty-Ann Heggie was recognized as one of the nation's top female Corporate Executives.

The annual awards were developed by the Women's Executive Network (WXN), Canada's leading association of women executive, as well as the Richard Ivey School of Business, a global leader in independent management education. The awards recognize leaders in the public sector, Entrepreneurs, Trailblazers, Corporate Executives, Champions, Professionals and one Lifetime Achiever each year. An independent advisory board selects the winners, based on defined, measurable criteria.

Samuelson has been recognized as one of Canada's top 100 most powerful women in each of the four years that the award has been presented. Other notable women to previously be recognized include Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour, and former Canadian Counsel General to New York and journalist Pamela Wallin.

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For More Information, Contact:

Marie Trafford Media Services Regina Phone: 306-787-0963 Email: marie.trafford@gov.sk.ca Cell: 306-539-0379