Postmedia Calgary editor-in-chief Monica Zurowski has been named a finalist for Heritage Park's Women Making History in Alberta awards. Zurowski, who made history in 2024 as the first female editor-in-chief in the Calgary Herald's 142-year existence, is competing for the Vera Burns Award alongside local philanthropist Ann McCaig.
Celebrating Extraordinary Women
“The Women Making History Awards celebrate extraordinary women whose leadership is shaping Alberta’s story,” said Laurie Shinkaruk, chief development officer at Heritage Park. “From entrepreneurs and educators to advocates and innovators, these women are making history in real time.”
Zurowski began her career at the Calgary Herald as a summer student and has since held various reporting, editing, and senior management roles. Under her leadership, her teams have garnered more than 10 International News Media Association awards. She has also authored or edited 10 local non-fiction books and actively participates in community initiatives such as the Christmas Fund, Word on the Street, and Top 7 Over 70.
The Vera Burns Award
The Vera Burns Award is named after Alberta pioneer Vera Burns and honors women whose lifetime achievements have made lasting contributions to the province. Zurowski is one of two finalists, the other being Ann McCaig, a former teacher and Alberta Order of Excellence recipient. McCaig has focused on education, children, and youth programs, served on the University of Calgary’s board of governors for a decade, and became chancellor in the mid-1990s. She has led numerous multi-million-dollar charitable fundraising campaigns.
Other Award Categories
Heritage Park also announced nominees for four other awards:
- History Maker in the Making Award: Neige and Pippa Blair, Lourdes Juan, Alysia Olsen, Sarena Provost, Michelle Robinson
- Community Builder Award – Community Impact: Janet Gobert, Jane Matheson, Sheryl Proulx, Gurcharan Thind
- Community Builder Award – Community Leadership: Murlyne F., Shona Mitchell Monforton, Amelia Newbert, Victoria Olayinka
- Entrepreneurial & Innovator Award: Sara L. Austin, Desiree Bombenon, Geri Greenall, Amanda Lockhart, Brooke Millar, Manjit Minhas
The awards ceremony will take place on June 5 at Heritage Park.
