WOMEN GENERAL COUNSEL CANADA QUASI-QUARTERLY Issue No. 9, December 2025
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Une version française suivra dans un envoi séparé
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As the year draws to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the
energy, momentum, and meaningful connections that shaped our final months
together. From standout content and engaging conversations to a friendly
evening of competition that brought our community even closer, the end of 2025
was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people come together with
shared purpose. And while we’re proud of all we accomplished this year, we’re
even more excited about what lies ahead—an inspiring lineup of timely events,
fresh opportunities to connect, a WGCC rebrand and website refresh, and early
planning already underway for our 2026 Summit, which promises to raise the bar
even higher than last year.
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SEASONS GREETINGS FROM YOUR PRESIDENT AND CHAIR
HEATHER MULLEN |
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Dear fellow WGCC members, Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a wonderful start to the new year! Click on the video to watch 👉 |
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WHAT HAVE WE BEEN UP TO LATELY
This fall, we leaned fully into fun with a side of ambition—shuffling
mahjong tiles and sharing plenty of laughs, rallying around big year-end goals
in networking circles, and nodding knowingly (and taking notes) during a lively
presentation on pursuing board roles and leveling up our leadership paths.
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This fall, our networking circles—thoughtfully led by our emeritus members—tackled one of the trickiest year-end realities: what to do when the goals you set in January had very different plans for the year ahead. With honesty, humour, and plenty of knowing nods, members shared how shifting priorities, unexpected fires, and real-time legal risks required agility—not apologies. Together, we reframed “unfinished goals” as evidence of strong leadership, swapped practical strategies for staying energized through the final stretch, and left reminded that sometimes the most strategic move is knowing when (and how) to change course.
Participants earned CPD credits while sharing perspectives and ideas with colleagues in a safe and collegial environment. And similar to our past networking circles, participants were invited to engage in a coffee connection with another member. Coffee Connections are a great way to take networking to the next level by getting to know a fellow WGCC member better one-on-one. It’s an opportunity to discuss pressing issues that you may be facing in your organization with a fellow GC - share best practices, trade war stories and forge new friendships.
Watch your inbox for an invitation to our next round of circles, coming January 2026! |
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One of the true highlights of our fall programming was our Mahjong Night with our friends at Osler—an evening that delivered on strategy, laughter, and just the right amount of friendly competition. With tiles clicking, rules being learned (and occasionally re-learned), and plenty of good-natured cheering around the tables, members jumped in with enthusiasm whether they were brand new to Mahjong or already seasoned players. Guided by a fantastic facilitator and fueled by delicious Asian-inspired appetizers, the evening struck the perfect balance between learning, connection, and fun.
The excitement didn’t stop when the tiles were packed away. Since the event, we’ve heard of members continuing with lessons, hosting follow-up Mahjong evenings, and even talking about making it a regular WGCC meetup. When an event sparks new skills, stronger connections, and ongoing game nights, you know it’s something special. Unsurprisingly, this one was such a hit that we’ve already started talking about doing it again—because clearly, the tiles (and the laughter) need an encore. |
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The Director's Chair:
Strategic Insights for General Counsel Pursuing Board Roles in Partnership with McCarthy Tétrault
November 24, 2025
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A standout moment in our recent programming was an in-person strategic session for General Counsel interested in board service, hosted in collaboration with our partners at McCarthy Tétrault. Designed for those curious about becoming directors, the session pulled back the curtain on what boards are truly looking for and how to position yourself as a compelling, board-ready candidate—complete with practical takeaways members could put to use right away.
Co-presented with Watson Advisors Inc., Canada’s leading board advisory firm, the discussion was insightful, candid, and energizing, offering clarity and confidence to members considering their next leadership chapter. Adding to the sense of connection, several of our industry forums took the opportunity to gather for dinner afterward—continuing the conversations, strengthening relationships, and rounding out the evening with great
food and even better company. |
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Our GC Year-End Review was the ultimate legal mixtape—part crystal ball, part reality check, and entirely relatable. Over the course of one fast-paced session hosted by our friends at Fasken, members revisited a year defined by strikes, tariffs, return-to-office plot twists, evolving termination clauses, and the ever-present question of whether AI is here to help us…or just keep us on our toes. From practical labour and employment updates to contract clauses flexing under global pressure, a deep dive into AI agents (don’t worry—humans are still firmly in charge), and a reminder that honesty in contracts is very much not optional, the presentation delivered clarity, insight, and more than a few knowing laughs. It was the perfect way to close out the year—smarter, better prepared, and reassured that if the law feels like it’s constantly changing, that’s because it is. |
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LOOKING AHEAD - MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR 2026!
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- When Crisis Strikes: Learn from Failures that Made Headlines | Join McMillan and Vantage on Wednesday, January 21st for an in-depth discussion on crisis management - what works, what doesn’t, and the critical mistakes you can’t afford to make | In-person (Ontario-based attendees) - Click HERE | Virtual (attendees outside of Ontario - register HERE
- January Networking Circles (Virtual): Join us in late January for a new series of Networking Circles exploring How to Be Humble Loudly | More details coming soon!
- WGCC 2026 AGM (Hybrid) | Thursday, February 12, 2026, 11:30 AM ET Mark your calendars for our Annual General Meeting (AGM) where we’ll review the year’s WGCC business and confirm the 2026 directors. As a valued member of WGCC, your vote matters, so please keep an eye on your inbox for AGM materials and proxy information if you’re unable to attend. Immediately following the AGM, we’re excited to host a sponsored, CPD event—more details to come!
- International Women's Day | WGCC will be marking IWD in early March with a special event centered on the 2026 theme, Give to Gain. Stay tuned for more details!
- Annual Summit 2026 (Hybrid) | WGCC’s signature full-day event returns in late May! The 2026 Annual Summit will feature inspiring keynote speakers, thought-provoking panels, and dynamic conversations designed to spark leadership, strategy, and meaningful connection. This is a valuable opportunity to engage with fellow General Counsel members, exchange insights, and leave with fresh ideas and renewed purpose. Additional details will be shared soon.
Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox for updates and registration details for events coming up!
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MORE TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2026!
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Some roles look impressive on paper and strangely lonely in real life. Being the top legal voice in an organization often means carrying complex issues quietly, fielding impossible questions, and moving from decision to decision with very few people who truly understand what that feels like day to day. The WGCC Peer Mentorship Program is designed for that reality: a space where women General Counsel can speak openly, think out loud, and hear “yes, I have been there too” from peers who get it.
Launching as a pilot in 2026, the Peer Mentorship Program will bring together small virtual groups of four to five WGCC members for eight months of structured but informal conversation. You will meet for 45 minutes once a month, plus a 30‑minute kick‑off call in late January/early February, creating a rhythm of support that fits into a demanding schedule without becoming another heavy obligation.
Each group will be thoughtfully matched to balance different industries, organization sizes, and career stages while connecting women in similar leadership roles. Meetings will be member‑led with a rotating facilitator, and conversations focus on real‑time challenges, strategic decisions, career questions, and lessons learned—grounded in confidentiality, openness, and respect.
This program will give you both a sounding board for immediate issues and a longer‑view perspective on your career as a senior legal leader. As both mentor and mentee, you contribute your experience while gaining fresh insights, practical ideas, and a trusted network of peers who can become long‑term thought partners.
Look for further details on the WGCC Peer Mentoring Program in January 2026! |
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Your Voice Helps Shape WGCC! |
We value thoughtful, relevant programming—and the best way to deliver it is by hearing directly from you. |
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Your feedback will help guide our event planning, content, and engagement priorities for the year ahead, ensuring that WGCC continues to offer programming created by the community, for the community. Thank you for taking a few minutes to share your insights and help us continue to build a connected, responsive, and meaningful member experience.
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Year in
Review: Touching Grass, Buying Appliances, and Other Signs of a Life Well Lived |
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As 2025 came to a close, we canvassed our Board for year-end reflections—and what came back was a perfect blend of insight, heart, and refreshingly honest self-awareness. The responses reminded us that behind every accomplished General Counsel is a human juggling ambition, family, travel, books, appliances, and a strong desire for fresh air. What emerged was a surprisingly cohesive snapshot of the year: one defined by perspective, meaningful moments, small joys, and a collective realization that time—not productivity—is the ultimate luxury.
Andrea Fellows captured the mood perfectly when she wished she had taken more time to “touch grass,” a phrase that could easily serve as the unofficial motto of 2025. Whether that grass appeared at the cottage, on a mountain summit, or simply somewhere far from Outlook, the message was clear: we all needed more of it.
Genevieve Richard offered a powerful reminder of what truly matters after spending time in hospital, gaining deep appreciation for healthcare workers she aptly described as our “silent heroes.” Jennifer Good reflected on a difficult year globally and wished she had worked less and connected more—a sentiment that resonated widely. Cinda Serianni’s beautifully written account of a family trip to Japan read like a travel memoir, highlighting balance, mindfulness, and the joy of slowing down (with excellent food playing a starring role). Corinne Pruzanski also checked Japan off her bucket list—this time with her daughter—cementing it as a popular Board destination.
Travel memories featured prominently across the reflections. Kathleen Flynn celebrated a personal triumph by successfully navigating a chaotic street crossing in Hanoi, Adrian Lang marked a meaningful milestone dropping her daughter off on exchange in Copenhagen, Lilac Bosma stood atop a South Chilcotins summit after two years of chronic pain (a genuinely inspiring moment), and Heather Mullen cherished a family trip to Mexico with her kids in their twenties—fully aware those windows don’t stay open forever.
On the lighter side, 2025 was clearly a banner year for very exciting purchases. Andrea proudly expanded her refrigerator portfolio, Jennifer found joy in a power washer, Cinda treated herself to a Shark FlexStyle hair tool, Corinne’s new dining room table all but demanded dinner parties, Lilac installed a backyard swimming pool, Kathleen scored tickets to Game 6 of the World Series, and Heather welcomed a new puppy named Barney—who may or may not now run the household.
If you’re looking for holiday reading inspiration, the Board delivered there too. Standout recommendations included The Women and The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah, James by Percival Everett, The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (for fans of feisty female lawyer protagonists), The Letter Carrier by Francesca Giannone, The Other Valley by Scott Alexander Howard, and La Maison vide by Laurent Mauvignier. For the more adventurous reader, Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight also made the list—because curiosity, it turns out, has many tentacles.
Looking ahead to 2026, the resolutions were refreshingly grounded: use all vacation days (no exceptions), volunteer more, worry less, protect personal time, recharge intentionally, try something new (details to be determined), and treat time like the finite, precious resource it actually is.
The Board thanks all of our members for making the WGCC community such a supportive, thoughtful, and vibrant one. Your engagement, generosity, and willingness to connect are what make everything we do possible. We wish you a safe, restful, and well-deserved holiday season and look forward to welcoming you back in the new year! |
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We’re excited to welcome our newest WGCC members to our community of over 200 talented, driven, and future-focused women leaders! We can't wait to get to know you better - and to learn from all the expertise and fresh perspectives you bring! |
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Bernadette Corpuz | BW Solar
Genevieve Dubuc | Congebec Inc.
Beverley Flynn | Morguard
Natasha Palacio | The Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group |
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At WGCC, nothing makes us happier than sharing hacks, tips, and must-know recommendations. Whether it’s a brilliant speaker for your next event, a legal app that could save the day, a can’t-miss book or podcast, or celebrating someone who has recently won an award, we’ve got you covered. |
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Have you had an amazing speaker, service, podcast, resource or tool that your fellow GC's may benefit from? If so, please share and contribute to our curated recommendations for WGCC members! Whether it's announcements, awards, or upcoming speaking engagements, allow WGCC to amplify your news and spread the word by emailing: info@womengc.ca! |
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2025 GC Powerlist released by Legal500
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Celebrating Excellence in In-House Counsel!
We’re thrilled to see this year’s GC Powerlist released by Legal500, recognizing some of the most influential and innovative in-house lawyers driving their organizations forward. Each year, law firm partners and in-house counsel are invited to nominate standout legal professionals who exemplify leadership, strategic thinking, and business impact.
A special congratulations to the following WGCC members who have been named to this year’s list: Alexa Abiscott, Angela Jackson, Carolyn Calwell, Chantal Thibault, Christine Chen, Deborah Greenberg, Heather Mullen, Hina Latif, Irene Choe, Lisa Marcuzzi, Ratika Gandhi, Shelby O'Brien, Terrie-Lynne Devonish, Jane Langford, Jennifer Armstrong, Jillian Swainson and Shara Roy!
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(Among the WGCC members named, pictured above (left to right): Heather Mullen, Kenvue, Lisa Marcuzzi - ArcelorMittal Dofasco, Alexa Abiscott - Chief Legal Officer & Governance Leader, and Ratika Gandhi - LACAN (Canada and Latin America) Alcon) |
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Did you know that your WGCC membership has given you access to over 14 hours of CPD-accredited content this year? Don’t miss out on reporting these valuable hours!
For a detailed breakdown and reporting information, click below: |
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MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL REMINDER
A friendly reminder that your WGCC membership will automatically renew for next year. If you have opted out of auto-renewal, you’re welcome to click below to renew your membership before January 1, 2026.
Please take a moment to review and update your membership account with any outdated information. Thank you for being an integral part of our community—we’re so grateful to have you with us! |
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Exciting News!
WGCC will have a fresh look! We’re excited to share that a new website will be launching in the new year. This refresh will make it easier to connect, stay informed, and engage with everything WGCC has to offer. Stay tuned for more details in 2026!
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Exclusive Member Benefit | Preventative Health Assessments with TELUS Health
WGCC, in partnership with TELUS Health, is pleased to offer exclusive pricing on Preventative Health Assessments (PHAs) for all members and their guests. These comprehensive assessments are designed to support both physical and mental well-being—because maintaining optimal health is key to sustained performance, sound decision-making, and long-term success.
With increasing strain on our public healthcare system, proactive, preventative care may be something you’re considering for yourself and your loved ones. Visit our webpage for details on how WGCC members—and their friends and family—can take advantage of this special offer. |
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Women Get On Board (WGOB) | Upcoming Events & Member Discounts
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WGOB is proudly celebrating 10 years of getting women on boards! With a growing network of over 1,000 members across Canada, WGOB continues to champion the next generation of women leaders—one board seat at a time. They stand by the power of three: one woman in the boardroom is a token, two is a presence, and three is a voice.
Looking ahead to a busy and exciting fall, WGOB is pleased to share a lineup of upcoming events and programs—along with exclusive discount codes available to WGCC members. Don’t miss these opportunities to learn, connect, and take your board journey to the next level! |
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WGOB Membership Discount | $50.00 off
Click here for more details and to apply, click here |
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OUR SINCEREST GRATITUDE TO OUR VALUED SPONSORS & PARTNERS
WGCC would like to thank its generous sponsors and partners for their ongoing support of the women general counsel community! |
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