Jeanne Sauvé

Jeanne Sauvé, born on April 26, 1922, in Prud'homme, Saskatchewan, was a trailblazing Canadian journalist and politician. She made history as the first woman to serve as the Speaker of the House of Commons from 1980 to 1984, and later as the 23rd Governor General of Canada from 1984 to 1990. Her appointment as the Queen's representative was a significant milestone, marking her as a prominent figure in Canadian politics.

Educated in Ottawa and Paris, Sauvé began her career in journalism with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Her political journey commenced when she was elected to the House of Commons in 1972, where she served as a minister of the Crown until her historic election as Speaker. Her tenure was marked by both admiration and controversy, particularly regarding increased security measures and her anti-monarchist stance.

On November 27, 1972, she was sworn into the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, further solidifying her influence in the political landscape. After her term as Governor General, which ended in 1990, she continued her commitment to public service by founding the Sauvé Foundation, dedicated to fostering leadership among youth.

Jeanne Sauvé's legacy endures beyond her political achievements. The highest trophy for the Canadian Ringette Championships is named in her honor, initially called the Jeanne Sauvé Cup and later renamed the Jeanne Sauvé Memorial Cup after her passing from Hodgkin's lymphoma on January 26, 1993.