Air Canada Foundation Announces Leadership Transition and New Board Appointments
The Air Canada Foundation has unveiled significant changes to its leadership and board structure, marking a new chapter for the charitable organization. Louise-Hélène Sénécal, who recently retired from Air Canada as Vice President and General Counsel, has been appointed as the new Chair and Board Director of the Foundation. This move follows the retirement of Priscille Leblanc, who served as the inaugural Chair since the Foundation's establishment in 2012.
Gratitude for Outgoing Leadership and Welcoming New Members
Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer at Air Canada, expressed deep appreciation for Priscille Leblanc's dedicated leadership over the past 13 years. "Her vision, steadiness, and unwavering commitment have shaped our work and strengthened the Foundation's impact in lasting ways," Rousseau stated. He also thanked Panagiota 'Peggy' Zafiris, another retiring board member, for her generous support in advancing the Foundation's mission to improve the health and well-being of children and youth across Canada.
Rousseau highlighted confidence in Sénécal's ability to lead the Foundation forward, noting her experience, passion, and forward-looking perspective. "We are equally delighted to continue to work with Louise-Hélène in her new role as the Foundation's Chair. Her guidance will steer the Foundation into its next chapter with purpose," he added.
In addition to Sénécal's appointment, the Air Canada Foundation Board welcomes two new members: Maria Kuchel, who will serve as Secretary, and Marcel Forget. They join current board members Amos Kazzaz (Treasurer), Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, Lucie Guillemette, and Carolyn Hadrovic, ensuring a diverse and experienced team to oversee the Foundation's initiatives.
2026 Grant Recipients and Foundation's Impact
This year, the Board has approved 38 registered charities and organizations across Canada to receive Air Canada Foundation grants, following a rigorous selection process from hundreds of applications. These deserving charities will be showcased through Air Canada and the Foundation's social platforms throughout the year, with Big Dream Grants recipients to be announced in the coming weeks.
Established in 2012, the Air Canada Foundation was created to support children and youth, humanitarian relief, and health-focused causes, leveraging the commitment of Air Canada employees, partners, customers, and stakeholders. Over the past 13 years, the Foundation has raised more than $20 million, dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and youth across Canada. Its efforts focus on enhancing access to medical care, reducing social and economic barriers, and creating opportunities for moments of joy and possibility.
In 2025 alone, the Air Canada Foundation demonstrated its substantial impact through various initiatives:
- Donated nearly $1.8 million to charitable causes.
- Raised $2.1 million, including $1.3 million net from the annual fundraising Air Canada Foundation golf tournament.
- Provided 2,089 airline tickets to support fundraising efforts and charitable programs.
- Collaborated with 473 charitable partners.
- Donated 35,050,000 Aeroplan points to support 14 partners, including 12 paediatric hospitals.
- Realized 1,113 dreams through eight special Dreams Take Flight charters from coast to coast.
- Supported 550,193 meal deliveries to those in need.
These achievements underscore the Foundation's ongoing commitment to making a positive difference in communities across the country, with the new leadership poised to build on this legacy of philanthropy and support.
