Four distinguished McMaster University alumni and a faculty member have been named to the Women’s Executive Network (WXN) 2024 Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, celebrating their remarkable leadership and accomplishments across sectors including higher education, health care, neuroscience and sustainable business. 

The WXN Top 100 Awards, a prestigious national honour, recognize women who exemplify resilience, innovation and excellence in their fields. These McMaster-affiliated honorees have made a profound impact on their industries and communities. 

Celebrating excellence in leadership and innovation 

Annette Trimbee (PhD ’84, Biology)

President and Vice-Chancellor of MacEwan University, Annette Trimbee has dedicated her career to fostering educational excellence and innovation. Her work has positioned MacEwan as a leader in urban undergraduate education, with a focus on accessibility and sustainability. With prior experience as president of the University of Winnipeg and deputy minister for Service Alberta, Trimbee’s transformative vision aligns closely with WXN’s commitment to impactful change.

Meaghan Stovel McKnight (BComH ’01, Strategy)

As the CEO of Make-A-Wish Canada, Stovel McKnight has been instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission, achieving a significant increase in wishes granted across Canada. Her “North Star” strategy has reshaped the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s operations to enhance impact and outreach. With prior roles as COO of the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation and Trillium Health Partners Foundation, McKnight brings more than 20 years of nonprofit expertise to her work, highlighting her ability to drive sustainable growth in the charitable sector.

Allison B. Sekuler

A pioneer in cognitive neuroscience, Allison Sekuler, previously McMaster’s Canada Research Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience, has advanced the understanding of brain aging and neuroplasticity. Her work at Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care, where she serves as president and chief scientist, underscores her dedication to cognitive aging research and dementia care. Sekuler’s contributions illuminate new pathways in predictive neuroscience and cognitive resilience.

Dr. Amanda Selk (MSc ’12, Health Research Methodology/Clinical Epidemiology)

A renowned expert in vulvar dermatology and women’s health, Dr. Amanda Selk leads colposcopy and gynecology-dermatology clinics at Women’s College Hospital, where she also chairs the Medical Advisory Committee. She has contributed groundbreaking insights and treatment advancements in women’s health, hosts the educational podcast The Vulva Diaries and directs the Vulvovaginal Health Fellowship. Her accomplishments underscore the Top 100 Awards’ recognition of advocates for health and wellness

Esther Speck (BComm ’95)

As senior vice-president of global sustainable business and impact at lululemon, Esther Speck is known for creating sustainability and social impact strategies that set industry standards. Her work emphasizes environmental responsibility and systemic change, reflecting WXN’s commitment to purpose-driven innovation.

These five women embody McMaster’s dedication to fostering leaders who make meaningful societal contributions, advancing knowledge, equity and sustainability in Canada and worldwide.  

McMaster University celebrates their achievements as they inspire future generations of leaders.