OTTAWA, ON (August 17, 2023) – Gymnastics Canada is thrilled to announce the appointment of Wendy Smith as the new Chair of the Board, effective immediately.
With an impressive background in the information technology sector, extensive experience in gymnastics, and a wealth of professional expertise, Wendy Smith brings a unique blend of skills and insights to her new leadership role within the organization.
Wendy’s remarkable journey in the world of gymnastics began as a recreational gymnast and evolved into a distinguished career spanning 45 years as a gymnastics judge. Her dedication and passion for the sport have seen her become an international judge in the Women’s Artistic discipline. “Wendy’s extensive knowledge and experience in the global gymnastics community make her an exceptional fit for the role of Chair of the Board,” commented Bernard Petiot, a fellow Gymnastics Canada Board member who served as chair interim in 2022-2023.
In addition to her contributions as a gymnastics judge, Wendy’s professional journey has been marked by her achievements in the information technology sector. A highly organized and results-oriented self-starter, she has demonstrated prowess in portfolio management, project management, business analysis, business redesign, and education. Wendy’s expertise aligns seamlessly with Gymnastics Canada’s current realities and future aspirations.
Bernard Petiot further emphasized, “Wendy’s professional qualities, particularly in finance management, are precisely what GymCan needs in this pivotal moment. Her ability to collaborate with Andrew Price, CEO, to innovate new finance opportunities and revenue streams, coupled with her project management prowess, will undoubtedly propel Gymnastics Canada toward new heights of success.”
As a former Secretary of the Board, Wendy Smith has already exhibited her commitment to the organization’s legal and financial oversight responsibilities. Her elevation to the role of Chair of the Board reflects the board’s confidence in her leadership capabilities and her potential to drive strategic growth.
“I am honored and excited to assume the role of Chair of the Board for Gymnastics Canada,” said Wendy Smith. “My deep-rooted connection to the gymnastics community, combined with my professional experiences, positions me well to contribute to the future success and strategic direction of Gymnastics Canada. I am eager to collaborate with the entire board, our dedicated CEO, and the broader gymnastics community to ensure a vibrant and prosperous future for the sport we all love.”
Wendy Smith’s multifaceted background, unwavering dedication to gymnastics, and her profound understanding of the international gymnastics landscape provide a unique perspective that will undoubtedly shape Gymnastics Canada’s future strategies.
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Wendy Smith as the Chair of the Board of Directors at Gymnastics Canada. With her exceptional leadership and unwavering passion, GymCan is poised for an exciting and transformative journey.
ABOUT GYMNASTICS CANADA
First established in 1969, Gymnastics Canada has been supporting the mastery of movement in Canada for five decades as the national governing body for the sport of gymnastics in Canada. We work closely with the twelve provincial federations and 700 local clubs to provide a broad range of programs and services to meet the needs of all participants. From athlete development to coach and judge education, Gymnastics Canada sets the operating standards and practices for the sport in Canada. Our mandate is to promote and provide positive and diverse gymnastics experiences through the delivery of quality and safe gymnastics programming. Visit gymcan.org for more information or follow us @gymcan1. From here, we soar.
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For more information, contact:
Katia Perin
Manager, Communications
Gymnastics Canada
comms@gymcan.org