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Northern Lights Aero Foundation Announces 2026 Award Recipients

June 16, 2026, Toronto, ON – The Northern Lights Aero Foundation (NLAF) is pleased to announce the 2026 recipients of the prestigious “Elsie” award, recognizing Canadian women who have made a significant contribution to aviation or aerospace.

The award, named for aviation pioneer and human rights activist, Elsie Gregory MacGill, recognizes outstanding women across seven categories.

“The 2026 Elsie recipients, like Elsie MacGill herself, are women of firsts and leaders in industry-wide roles,” said Lynne McMullen, Northern Lights Aero Foundation, President. “Role models who inspire and support their colleagues to excel in aviation and aerospace. We look forward to celebrating their achievements with you at the 2026 Elsie Gala.”

The 2026 award recipients are:

Business Award – Lori Duthie
Education Award – Barbara Bowen
Engineering Award – Major Nadine Dale
Flight Operations Award – Melissa Haney
Government – Katia Canciani
Rising Star – Angel Abraham
Rising Star – Doris Ipeelee
Trailblazer – Dr. Jenni Gibbons

This year’s gala awards dinner will be held on October 3, 2026 at the Pearson Convention Centre in Brampton, Ontario. Tickets will go on sale in early July.

For further information about the Northern Lights Aero Foundation, visit northernlightsaerofoundation.com and follow NLAF on social media.