YWCA Hamilton recently announced its nominees for the 2026 Women of Distinction awards, and four Mohawk College alumni are included in the list.
The annual awards, which are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, honour women and girls whose leadership and impact create lasting change in Hamilton and Halton.
The winners will be announced on March 5 at the annual Women of Distinction Gala.
There are six categories: Arts/Culture, Community Champion, Education/Training, Health/Wellness, Innovation in Business, Public Service, and STEM/Trades. As well as Lifetime Achievement Award, with nominees from each category, and a Young Trailblazer Award, which recognizes individuals under 25.
Learn more about this year's Mohawk College nominees:
Debbie Logel Butler | Early Childhood Education, 1981
Debbie is nominated in the Public Service category.
Debbie has spent more than 40 years strengthening Hamilton's health and social-service sector. The Mohawk College 2012 Alumni of Distinction recipient began her career in child life before moving into fundraising, where she advanced some of the city's most respected non-profits by breaking barriers, expanding access, and securing vital resources.
Her work has consistently improved services for women, girls, and gender-diverse people. Across every role, and through her extensive volunteer leadership, Debbie has championed dignity, equity, and ease of access for those facing serious life challenges. A compassionate, ethical, and visionary leader, she empowers others to lead with courage and purpose. Debbie's influence is woven through many of Hamilton's most impactful organizations, making her a true force for public good.
Debbie is also nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Abby Ducay | Early Childhood Education, 2019
Abby is nominated in the Education/Training category.
Abby is an emerging leader in early childhood education whose work embodies creativity, equity, and community-building. A Mohawk College grad ( 19) and Registered Early Childhood Educator, Abby has designed and led innovative, child-centred programming in both large centres and a parent-led cooperative, creating environments where children feel safe, capable, and deeply connected.
Abby integrates belonging, cultural diversity, and self-expression into daily learning, ensuring every child is valued and supported. She models empathy and confidence, empowering children and families alike. Through her vision, positivity, and impact, Abby is shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for our youngest generation of learners and leaders.
Marlee Gross | Pharmacy Technician, 2023
Marlee is nominated in the Community Champion category.
Marlee is a transformative force in Hamilton's youth and community sector through her extraordinary volunteer leadership with Scouts Canada. For over 10 years, she has served simultaneously as Key Scouter for Beavers (ages 5-7) and Section Scouter for Venturers (ages 14-18), both of which are roles that demand hundreds of hours annually. What began as helping a single Beaver colony has evolved into a full-time unpaid commitment that shapes the lives of more than 80 young people each year. A pharmacy technician graduate from Mohawk College by profession, Marlee channels her precision, care, and boundless energy into creating safe, inclusive spaces where children and teens discover confidence, leadership, and belonging.
Elaine Lee | Business - General, 1996/Business - Marketing, 1996/Aesthetics, 1999
Elaine is nominated in the Community Champion category.
Elaine is an Anishinaabe woman from Whitefish River First Nation, Bear Clan, living in Hamilton, Ontario. A proud mother of two and respected community leader, she is a three-time Mohawk College graduate and former Commissioned Naval Reserve Officer.
Since 2011, Elaine has worked with De Dwa Da Dehs Nye> Aboriginal Health Centre, where she now serves as Healthier YOU Program Coordinator. A drum carrier, song holder, and knowledge keeper, she shares traditional teachings that promote holistic wellness and cultural pride. Elaine's leadership uplifts women, youth, and gender-diverse people, fostering inclusive, culturally safe spaces. Her dedication, humility, and strength continue to inspire others to heal, connect, and celebrate Indigenous identity.
Elaine is also nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award.
