We are thankful to the dedicated communications professionals who helped shape IABC Manitoba. Their contribution to our chapter and the profession has made a vital impact on our community.
We are working diligently to update this list to celebrate all of the past presidents who helped shape the IABC Manitoba chapter. If you or someone you know is missing from this list please let us know so we can add them.
2020-2029
2021-2023: Ashlee Espenell
Employer at the time: Hilltop Partner Network
2021: Jennifer Cox
Employer at the time: The University of Winnipeg
2020-21: Jackie De Pape Hornick
Employer at the time: Wawanesa Insurance
“I’ll never forget my year as IABC Manitoba President. From start to finish, we were in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a communications community, we were physically apart but we found each other virtually and built even stronger connections. Our chapter grew in size by over 20% and we enhanced the member experience. Thank you to the previous Presidents for creating a strong foundation to build upon. I encourage anyone who would like to make their mark and add value to Mantioba’s communicators to join IABC’s Board of Directors.”
2010-2019
2019-20: Marjorie Huculak
Employer at the time: Parks Canada Agency
“When I began volunteering with IABC 15 years ago, I was looking for a way to give back, while improving my public relations skills and network. I am still building my connections and skills! Being chosen as chapter president, and working with a diverse and dynamic team of individuals, is a career highlight. I encourage people to volunteer and give to organizations that are meaningful to them, because, in the spirit of generosity, you are likely to receive much more than you give.”
2018-19: Mekala Wickramasinghe
Employer at the time: Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology
“I joined IABC in 2013 because I was so impressed by the global presence of the association and I’ve never looked back! I’ve gained so much from my experience with IABC including countless connections, improved communication skills and many professional development opportunities. In just three years I’ve travelled to conferences in Toronto, San Francisco and Orlando. I continue to be impressed by the quality and character of IABC members around the world who are now just one LinkedIn message away.”
2017-18: Roland Pajares
Employer at the time: NRG Research Group
“When I joined IABC Manitoba in 2013, I discovered an instant network of people to share ideas and experiences with that went beyond my expectations. IABC is an investment in a professional support system that keeps you up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry and best practices in today’s fast-paced working environment. More importantly, it’s an opportunity to do great things with the communications and business professionals who I may not have otherwise had the chance to meet.”
2016-17: Sylvie Laurencelle-Vermette
“Being an IABC Manitoba member has given me the opportunity to volunteer and therefore give back to the profession I love. I’ve met many amazing public relations professionals, at different phases of their career, from newly-minted to seasoned professionals. Those contacts have proven to be invaluable. Thank you IABC Manitoba!”
2015-16: Lindsay Ridgley
“I joined IABC Manitoba because I wanted to connect with some of the leading communicators around the world. Soon after becoming a member, I decided to join the IABC Manitoba board to gain experience in an area that my day-to-day job doesn’t provide me. Overall, my involvement with IABC has been great and has allowed me to make connections, build my skills and grow personally and professionally. As a result of my involvement on the board, I’ve gained the confidence I needed to take on new projects in my day-to-day work.”
2014-15: Susan Buffie
Employer at the time: Assiniboine Park Conservancy
2013-14: Wendy Elias-Gagnon
Employer at the time: Manitoba Government
“My involvement with IABC as both a member and volunteer has given me opportunities to develop my leadership skills, grow my network, and elevate my career. As the sole professional communicator at most of the organizations I have worked in, tapping into a global network of experts and insights has been an invaluable resource for staying savvy on emerging trends. I joined the board to give back to the profession, but I’ve gained much more than I ever expected, professionally and personally.”
2012-13: Velangeline Ferrigno Lachance
Employer at the time: Commissionaires Manitoba
2011-12: Kara Buchanan
Empolyer at the time: Changemakers Marketing Communications
2010-11: Sara Williscroft, ABC
Employer at the time: Changemakers Marketing Communications
2000-2009
2009-10: Shawna Fagundes
Employer at the time: Manitoba Egg Farmers
2005-2008: Jill Chapman
Employer at the time: St. Boniface Hospital Foundation
2003-2004: Karen Pankiw
Employer at the time: Ceridian Canada Ltd.
2002-2003: Shauna Crognali
Employer at the time: Manitoba Public Insurance
2001-2002: Shauna Crognali
Employer at the time: Manitoba Public Insurance
2000-2001: Shauna Crognali
Employer at the time: Manitoba Public Insurance
1990-1999
1999-2000: Brian Phillips
Employer at the time: Manitoba Pool Elevators
1998-1997: Robert Cooney
Employer at the time: Brandon University
1997-1996: Roy Jemison
Employer at the time: Brown Communications Group
1993-94: Diane Kristjansson