The Honourable Rechie Valdez (BCS 2003), a proud University of Windsor graduate, has been appointed Canada's Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism a dual role that places her at the forefront of federal leadership.
Valdez, who was elected as the Member of Parliament for Mississauga Streetsville in 2021, has consistently broken barriers. A Canadian entrepreneur, television personality, and passionate community advocate, she made history as the first Filipino-Canadian woman elected to Parliament and now, the first to be appointed to Cabinet.
The Honourable Rechie Valdez (BCS 2003) is sworn in as Canada's Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism on Parliament Hill. (Photo credit: Rechie Valdez/Facebook)
"We are incredibly proud of the Honourable Rechie Valdez, a distinguished University of Windsor alumna, whose appointment to Canada's Federal Cabinet is both a historic milestone and a moment of inspiration," says Judy Bornais, associate vice-president, external.
"Her leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to public service exemplify the kind of impact our graduates are making across the country.
"Minister Valdez's achievements are a powerful reminder to our students and alumni of the importance of leadership, value of diverse perspectives and the difference that each of them can make."
Read more about Minister Valdez on her federal government profile.
Prime Minister Mark Carney poses with members of his newly appointed Cabinet and Secretaries of State following the swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall. Among the historic appointments is The Honourable Rechie Valdez (BCS 2003), a University of Windsor alumna, who now serves as Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism becoming the first Filipino-Canadian woman to join the federal Cabinet. (Photo credit Rechie Valdez/Facebook)
