YWCA Sudbury to recognize SNOLAB’s Blaire Flynn 

SNOLAB’s Blaire Flynn will be celebrated Saturday, October 21st as one of the YWCA Women of Distinction 2023 for the category of science, engineering, technology, and trades. 

Flynn, Senior Education and Outreach Officer at SNOLAB since 2015, is being recognized for her leadership in Sudbury creating space for women and equity seeking groups to develop their science communications skills and participate in mentorship and networking activities. 

In a field where women and diverse people are underrepresented, Flynn takes pride in helping people believe in themselves by creating opportunities for them to explore science and technology in a safe, welcoming, and encouraging way. 

“It is an honour to have been nominated for a YWCA Woman of Distinction Award,” Flynn said. 

“I have been able to pursue my interests in STEM, and now to create space for others to participate, because of the many women who were role models  for me in science and society. Supporting one another and acknowledging the contributions of women is hugely impactful and I am happy to be part of this event. The fact that the proceeds of the WOD awards gala goes to supporting programming that builds the confidence and resiliency of youth right here in our community is really wonderful.” 

Funds raised through the awards gala Saturday night will go to support Sudbury YWCA’s youth programming, specifically the Power of Being a Girl and Boys for Real Conferences. 

Samantha Kuula, Director of Corporate Services at SNOLAB, says Flynn’s unique, impactful, and enthusiastic approach to science communication has made SNOLAB a leader in this space, both in Sudbury and across Canada. 

“When we think about what makes a great community, we often think of infrastructure or programs, and overlook the amazing women who do the work,” Kuula said. 

Kuula notes that Flynn strives to improve supports and opportunities for women in STEM by leading science programming and workshops in the community, including at the WISE Science Olympics, the Greater Sudbury Public Library, and in classroom visits on behalf of SNOLAB. In Flynn’s eight years at the helm of the department, 12,000 people have benefited from SNOLAB’s education and outreach programs. 

Flynn is one of six local women and one organization celebrated by YWCA Sudbury this Saturday. The WOD awards celebrate those who have influenced women and girls as a role model, a mentor, or through their direct accomplishments in many different fields. 

Away from SNOLAB, Flynn is passionate about the arts and social justice, engaging with community initiatives and organizations such as Up Here Festival, Black Lives Matter Sudbury, Fierté Sudbury Pride, and L’Arche Sudbury.  

“Blaire exemplifies this work and is the perfect example of a community builder. From science to art to activism, Blaire is an active participant and role model. I am honored to work with Blaire, to call her a friend, and to have a front row seat to see the change she is creating in the world,” Kuula said.