The Frances Wagner Woman of Achievement Award, presented annually at the Western Canada Region conference, honours an outstanding Soroptimist in Western Canada Region who has demonstrated her achievements in her field of work and her service to the community. Nominees must be members in good standing.
This Award is named in honour of Salvation Army Brigadier Frances Evangeline Wagner who served as Soroptimist International Western Canada Region Governor from 1958-1962 and was the first Canadian director on the Board of ‘The Soroptimist Foundation’ at the time of its incorporation in June 1963. After moving to Toronto she became a Life Member there. In preparation for the WCR conference in Edmonton in 1997, Carell Wingrave wrote that Frances was then 92 years old and had 45 years of service and that ‘Frances used to smile at the words in the pledge, “Dignity of Service” since her daily work uncovered many indignities of the human condition. The theme of Governor Frances’ two terms was “Light From Many Lamps” and her light continues to shine in the form of the Woman of Achievement Award which bears her name.’ Unfortunately poor health precluded Frances from attending and she died soon after.
Selection of the nominees is the responsibility of all Soroptimist clubs in WCR. A club may nominate more than one Soroptimist and may choose someone from their own or another club. They must complete a nomination form provided by WCR, attaching references, photographs and other documentation and submitting via the nominating club’s President or Secretary to the WCR Governor-elect by a specified deadline.
The nomination application asks for the following information:
- ‘What recognition has the nominee received in her own field / business / profession at the local, regional, or national level?
- Approximate years of service
- In what ways has the nominee been of service to her community through both Soroptimist and non-Soroptimist activities?
- What personal characteristics do you consider add to the nominee’s value as a member of the community?’
Judging is done by non-Soroptimists selected by WCR Board, assigning points to each of above categories.
Presentation to 2025 recipient: Those of us attending the Closing Banquet at WCR Conference 3 May 2025 were ‘sitting on the edge of our seats’ as we waited for the announcement of this year’s recipient and were thrilled that it was our member. Past WCR Governor Carell Wingrave. She humbly accepted the Frances Wagner Woman of Achievement Award presented by WCR Governor-Elect Shirley Stewart in the presence of SIA President Dr. Ginger Cole and received a standing ovation.
