Women of the Year, Velma McKay and Vicki Dalton

by Sharon Cross

The Cranbrook Federation of University Women held their annual Woman of the Year Award at the Manual Training Centre on Monday March 7th. Each year they honour women who elevate the lives of others in our community. This year they honoured two very deserving women – Velma McKay and Vicky Dalton. Interestingly, both women’s lives were intertwined through the tireless work they do in our community elevating others in many ways.

Tributes to both women were very emotional.

Velma McKay was absent as she is presently at the coast with her family dealing with cancer and preparing for the next journey. Her very positive and creative attitude to her life and her life’s work has touched the lives of many in our community. Today, the strength of her faith is carrying her. Velma is an instructor at College of the Rockies, and became known as the singing instructor. She taught math through song. Part of her message of thanks to the University Women’s group was that meaningful education is valuable for women.

Vicky Dalton was instrumental in getting the community garden going in Cranbrook. She also created a warm and safe environment at the Women’s Resource Centre and worked to improve the advancement of women through many and varied challenges before them. Vicky’s daughter Sarah Marriott spoke about growing up with a women’s activist/advocate for a mother. How ironic that Vicky was presented with this prestigious award just days before the Cranbrook Women’s Resource Centre will close.

Of the images that stand out most for Sarah is the poster in her mother’s office – that of a knight fighting a dragon. Here are two warrior women in our community that have fought many successful battles for others. Yet sometimes the dragon wins.

It is the spirit of these women that will live on in our community in the seen and unseen.

Thank you Velma and Vicky for all that you have done and all that will be done.