Life Membership

A Life Membership is awarded in recognition of outstanding service in the field of weekly newspaper journalism and a sustaining interest in the affairs of the Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association during a distinguished career as a weekly editor and publisher.

-> Previous Recipients of Honourary Life Memberships

2018 Presentation - Honourary Life Membership

Colleen Wilson

Presented by Bruce Hogle It’s not an understatement to say that Colleen Wilson has always held exacting ‘standards’ – just ask her five children. Whether teaching proper manners as a mother or demonstrating a strong work ethic as a small business owner, Colleen has always led by example. She’s also been a passionate and dedicated public servant, serving as both a tireless volunteer and proven leader for numerous causes, organizations and boards in her community, and beyond. Colleen is currently the Executive Director of the Alberta Press Council. She’s held that post at the non-profit organization committed to defending press freedoms and hearing public complaints since 2007. Colleen first joined the APC as a public member in 1999. She’s also served as its Vice Chair (2004-2005) and Chairperson (2005-2007). Much of Colleen’s professional life has been focused on serving others. She currently is fulfilling her second appointment to the University of Alberta Senate (2014-2020). Previously, she was the Executive Director of the Medicine Hat and District Food Bank and Revenue Developer for the Medicine Hat and District Unit of the Canadian Cancer Society. In addition, she’s served as the Executive Director of the Alberta Music Festival Association, and as the Alberta Director of the Federation of Canadian Music Festival Association. Colleen has also done battle in the political arena. She was elected an Alderman to the Medicine Hat City Council in 1989. Three years later, she was elected to as a board member to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Earlier, she also served two terms as an elected member of the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital board. Despite her decades-long commitment to community, Colleen has always found time for family. She’s the wife of the late Dr. Roy Wilson – himself a dedicated public servant – as well as the grandmother to 11 grandchildren, and great-aunt to one niece. As they will attest, Grandma is always at the ready to take charge. And she will definitely offer a course correction -- or two -- along the way.