Inducted in 2007
Donna began her career in the festivals and events industry in 1985 when she joined the Board of Directors of the Ontario Bon Soo Winter Carnival. She was involved with the festival in a volunteer capacity for 6 years, 3 of which were in the role of President. In 1991, Donna was hired as a full time General Manager for the festival. In her 15 years as General Manager, Donna was able to develop several corporate partners, successful fundraising programs, a fantasy Kingdom, which is one of the largest enclosed winter playgrounds made of snow and complete with slides. She developed a strong relationship with volunteers and sponsors and facilitated over 100 indoor and outdoor activities during the course of the 10-day festival.
Donna has also been an executive member of the Festivals & Events Ontario Board of Directors, and a member of the Ontario Tourism Education Corporation (OTEC). Donna was the first recipient of the Customer Service Award presented by Tourism Sault Ste. Marie and she initiated the formation of the Sault Ste. Marie Festivals and Events Network.