June 16, 2022

CCAA honours ‘Senator’ Lumsden

After an incredible 37 consecutive years of elected service, ‘Senator’ June Lumsden is stepping away from the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA).

The long-time Director, Athletics & Recreation from Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) has spent parts of five decades volunteering her time to the CCAA.

“June’s colleagues across the country have witnessed her work ethic and her enthusiasm for collegiate sport firsthand through her significant contribution to the CCAA,” said Ron O’Flaherty, Executive Director of the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association (ACAA). “Her ability to see a positive result in almost any situation brings people together and encourages personal and professional growth.”

Lumsden first joined the CCAA in 1986 as the Women’s Volleyball Convenor. She held the role for five seasons.

She also joined the CCAA Executive in 1990 and served for 11 years as VP Technical/Programs. From 2000-08, Lumsden was an Executive Member at Large before holding the VP Finance & Administration position from 2008-12.

For the last 10 straight years, Lumsden has served the CCAA as a Director on the Board.

“If you want something done, ask a busy person,” said Sandra Murray-MacDonell, Chief Executive Officer of the CCAA. “This statement could not be more true when it comes to June.”

When the CCAA required a job get completed, Lumsden was always willing to assist or take the lead. Many national policies and procedures around hosting and CCAA Championships were originally penned by Lumsden at CCAA Annual General Meetings – sometimes long after the meetings had ended for all other delegates.

“June’s congenial temperament is a mainstay, welcoming and supporting new and senior members, and staff alike,” said MacDonell. “She always works to solve riffs and conflicts within the association ensuring both sides are being heard – June, in so many ways, is the tie that binds the Association.”

Likewise, Lumsden is a cornerstone in her conference, where she has held countless volunteer positions as well. This past season alone, she served the ACAA as Treasurer and Secretary and was also a member of the Executive, Awards and Return to Play Committees.

There is no task too large or small that Lumsden would not take responsibility for within the ACAA. She is a leader in the conference and her influence spreads throughout the membership on a daily basics, according to O’Flaherty.

“Her compassion for student-athletes and her dedication to the provision of first-class athletic experiences within the educational environment permeates her work,” he said. “Her positivity leads to a ‘can do it’ attitude for all who come into contact with her.”

Lumsden, who was named the CCAA Athletic Director of the Year in 2001, received the honour once again this year as, fittingly, MSVU and the ACAA hosted the 2022 AGM and CCAA Hall of Fame Banquet in Halifax, NS.

She received a ‘CCAA Senator’ ring at the conclusion of the AGM.