BMO Celebrating Women On Boards

BMO Celebrating Women On Boards is an annual initiative that honours Canadian women who have made significant contributions to corporate governance and board leadership. Since its inception in 2020, the program has celebrated 28 women leaders, showcasing their commitment to promoting board diversity and excellence in governance.

Each year, BMO for Women and Women Get On Board recognize five women from across Canada who excel in and out of the boardroom—two from Western Canada, two from Central Canada and one from Eastern Canada.

On October 6, join us for a breakfast celebration hosted by BMO in Toronto.

Submit Your 2026 Nomination

Nominees will be evaluated based on the breadth and depth of their governance leadership as outlined in the guidelines.

The selection committee welcomes nominations for women who are leading and serving as board members on public and private companies, not-for-profit organizations, and public sector boards.

Nominations are open and will close on August 20, 2026, at 5 pm ET.

BMO Celebrating Women On Boards Lifetime Achievement Award

To commemorate Women Get On Board’s 10th anniversary in 2025, one previous BMO Celebrating Women On Boards honouree was selected to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. Congratulations to BMO Celebrating Women On Boards Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Wendy Kei.

This prestigious honour recognizes one woman board leader who has profoundly influenced corporate governance and made significant contributions to the advancement of diversity in the boardroom. The award celebrates the commitment, impact, and influence of a previous BMO Celebrating Women On Boards honouree who continues to demonstrate exceptional board leadership and exemplify the program’s values.

In Memoriam

We are honoured to celebrate the life and legacy of BMO Celebrating Women On Boards honouree Judi Richardson, whose passing in 2023 was felt deeply within the WGOB community. Judi was a dedicated board leader who was known for her business acumen, athletic prowess, and commitment to inspiring individuals and companies to “do the right thing.” She is remembered as a caring and devoted colleague, mentor, wife, mother, and friend.