Mary Winkenweder retires after 25 years with CCAA
Mary Winkenweder, an integral member of the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Office Staff, is retiring after 25 years of dedicated service.
Winkenweder joined the CCAA in September of 2000, beginning as an Executive Assistant before her role evolved into the position of Manager, Finance & Administration.
According to long-time colleague and friend Sandra Murray-MacDonell, CCAA Chief Executive Officer from 1995-2024, Winkenweder is conscientious, dependable and honourable, while at the same time competitive, steadfast and determined.
“The CCAA has gone through many changes over the years, growing in size, service and complexities and Mary willingly and without question took on increased duties and responsibilities in the management of these changes,” said Murray-MacDonell. “She loves sports and genuinely cared about the CCAA's members, student-athletes, coaches and athletic personnel.”
Winkenweder was a graduate of the Business Administration program at St. Lawrence College – Brockville, where she was a member of the Women’s Volleyball and Badminton teams. She fostered those two aspects of her early professional and personal development into an honourable career serving others with link minded interests.
"Working at the CCAA has been an incredibly rewarding experience," said Winkenweder. "As I look ahead to this next chapter, I know I’ll truly miss the strong sense of purpose my role has always brought me."
Winkenweder is a true professional who is diligent and exhibits a calming presence. CCAA members from coast to coast always knew they were in good hands with her.
“Mary’s dedication and hard work over the past 25 years have been invaluable to the success of the CCAA,” said Vince Amato, CCAA President.
“She’s proven that all strong organizations have at their roots, a solid core of people who care about what they do and strive to not only make things work but make them better.”
In addition to her financial responsibilities, Winkenweder also maintained current and historical inventory of CCAA information and records Association minutes, provided administrative and logistical support for CCAA Championships and oversaw the receipt and review of eligibility information, ensuring completeness and compliance.
Throughout her 25-year career, Winkenweder has certainly left an indelible mark on the Association as well as her colleagues.
“Mary is a caring, insightful, and fun person to be around," said Brandon Stone, current CCAA Chief Executive Officer. "She's always had a genuine interest in the personal and professional lives of her colleagues and is a supportive person no matter the situation or task."
"I believe all would attest that it has been an honour to learn from her, work with her and receive her support."
Thank you Mary!
