Trent alumna Krista Scaldwell ’86 has been named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women in 2020 by the Women’s Executive Network (WXN).

Held virtually, the presentation saw Ms. Scaldwell honoured in the CIBC Executive Leaders category that recognizes women “who not only exemplify what it means to be a great leader, but also build confidence and champion others.”

She is currently vice-president, Communications and Public Affairs, for Canada Life.

Since 2003, WXN has similarly awarded hundreds of “trailblazers and groundbreakers for future generations.” 

“It’s a real privilege; I feel very honoured and humbled,” says Ms. Scaldwell.

“You have to remember how you got the wins. I share this with family, colleagues, friends and mentors.”

A Sociology and Economics graduate who was a student-athlete with the Trent varsity ski team, Ms. Scaldwell is past chair of the Trent Alumni Community of Women and was recently appointed to Trent’s Board of Governors. With more than two decades of public affairs and communications experience, as well as extensive non-profit sector experience in management and board roles, Ms. Scaldwell says her time at Trent was a springboard for all good things that followed.

“I was on campus a few weeks ago and it brought a tear to my eye,” she says.

“Trent has never left me. I’ve always valued what it gave me. I was one of five kids and the only one that went to university. I had an entrance scholarship but Trent took a chance on me. I thought I had won the lottery and, in a way, I did.”

Speaking to her term with the Board of Governors, Ms. Scaldwell says she’s excited to be at that table, particularly at a time when “the world changed overnight.”

“It’s an exciting time. What the boards of colleges and universities do today will have a huge impact on our future more than ever. We have to look at what the world will look like post pandemic and what that means for Trent.”