Kathy Dunderdale

Kathy Dunderdale, born on February 1, 1952, in Burin, Newfoundland and Labrador, is a distinguished politician who made history as the province's first female premier. Her political journey began at the local level, where she served as deputy mayor of Burin, before stepping onto the provincial stage as a member of the Progressive Conservative Party.

In the 2003 general election, Dunderdale was elected as the Member of the House of Assembly (MHA) for Virginia Waters. Her political career flourished as she was re-elected in the 2007 and 2011 elections, showcasing her commitment to public service. During her tenure, she held several key cabinet positions under Premier Danny Williams, including Deputy Premier and Minister of Natural Resources, earning a reputation as a prominent figure in the provincial government.

Upon Williams' resignation, Dunderdale ascended to the role of premier on December 3, 2010. Leading the Progressive Conservative Party to victory in the October 2011 election, she became the sixth woman in Canadian history to serve as a premier. Her leadership was marked by a focus on innovation and development, reflecting her background in community development and social work.

After a successful term, Dunderdale resigned from her position on February 28, 2014, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer for women in politics in Newfoundland and Labrador. Her contributions to the province continue to inspire future generations of leaders.