We are thrilled to celebrate long-time Wesley volunteer, Mary McCracken, who has been nominated for the 2026 YWCA Hamilton Women of Distinction Award in the Education & Training category.
Mary is a lifelong Hamiltonian whose extraordinary commitment to education, equity, and community service has shaped lives for more than six decades. The daughter of Japanese Canadian parents who rebuilt their lives in Hamilton after the WWII internment, Mary was raised with a deep sense of resilience, compassion, and passion for serving others. She carried those values into a remarkable 31-year career as a French teacher, where she inspired generations of students and served as a powerful role model, especially for visible minority girls who saw new possibilities reflected in her leadership.
Beyond the classroom, Mary has been a tireless advocate for systemic change. Through her leadership with the Federation of Women Teachers, she championed equity, affirmative action, and fair representation for women and racialized educators. Her work helped drive inclusive hiring practices, curriculum reform, and leadership opportunities that strengthened Ontario’s education system and opened doors for thousands of people.
Mary’s impact is also deeply felt at Wesley, where she has volunteered for more than 50 years. From leading holiday initiatives and supporting our annual Case for Kids event, to gathering donations and serving meals, Mary’s generosity and hands-on leadership have made a lasting difference for families across our community. Mary brings not only dedication and professionalism, but a warm, kind spirit that uplifts everyone around her.
Mary’s nomination is a well-deserved recognition of a lifetime spent breaking barriers, advancing equity, and strengthening community. We look forward to celebrating her alongside fellow nominees at the Women of Distinction Awards Gala on March 5, 2026, and we are incredibly proud to honour all that she has given, and continues to give, to Hamilton.
You can read more about Mary’s important community work here: #WeAreWesley – Volunteer Champion: Mary McCracken | Wesley
