Professor Nancy Edwards and uOttawa student Samira Ahmed, along with six other exceptional women, were recognized at the 14th Annual National Capital Region YMCA-YWCA Women of Distinction Awards on May 17, 2007.
Samira Ahmed, an undergraduate student in biomedical sciences, received the Young Woman of Distinction Award. Her many volunteer activities include serving as co-chair of the executive board of Child and Youth Friendly Ottawa. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Ottawa Youth Commission, which provides a voice for youth at City Hall. She has also spoken out about social issues, including bullying.
Nancy Edwards, a professor in the School of Nursing, received the Rx&D Science, Research and Technology Award. No stranger to awards, Edwards’ research has contributed to improving the health of communities in Canada and many developing countries. She shares with students her expertise and sheer joy of research in public health issues, including HIV/AIDS and maternal and child health, and her passion for change with policy-makers.