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Oryssia J. Lennie

Deputy Minister
Western Economic Diversification Canada

Oryssia Lennie was appointed Deputy Minister for Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) on November 1, 1997. The department promotes the development and diversification of the western Canadian economy and advances the interests of the West in national economic policy. Activities range from supporting the development of new and innovative technologies, expanding entrepreneurship, and investing in community sustainability to undertaking research and advocacy initiatives.

Prior to joining WD, Mrs. Lennie worked for the Alberta government for 26 years and was Deputy Minister of Federal and Intergovernmental Affairs from 1990 to 1997.

A graduate of the University of Alberta, she is a member of the Board of Governors for the Canada School of Public Management and a past member of the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Board of Directors of the Business Development Bank of Canada. A former Public Service Division Co-Chair for the United Way Campaign in Edmonton, she is currently a member of the Capital Region United Way Board.

Oryssia has received numerous awards for her accomplishments in public service and in the area of business and management, including the Lieutenant Governor's Gold Medal for Excellence in Public Service in 2002 and the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in 1997. She is based in WD Headquarters in Edmonton. She is married and has two sons.