There were tears and cheers as Shirley Canty, the colourful and spirited executive director of the Manitoba Motor Dealers Association, gave her final speech to the people she has served for more than 29 years. Canty’s farewell talk was delivered at the MMDA’s annual conference held June 9-11 in Winnipeg, and the gala night was one part business and two parts celebration for a career of dedicated service.
The people Canty has worked with and for over the years came out in a strong show of force to celebrate her special evening that featured a multimedia presentation with photos and video that chronicled her amazing career, her travels, and all the people she met along the way. “My retirement celebration was awesome,” said Canty.
Canty was also honoured with a lifetime membership in the MMDA, the only such honour ever bestowed to someone who isn’t a dealer. “What an honour to be made a lifetime member of the MMDA,” said Canty. “There have only been four lifetime members of MMDA, all dealer members: the late Don Martin, John Carter, Gerry Little and Ike Vickar. To be the first non-dealer to receive this award is very special.” Only five such honours – including Canty’s – have been given in the MMDA’s 66-year history.
Canty retires July 21, 2011 marking 29 years she has worked diligently on the association’s behalf. Canty is already recognized as the first woman to hold the executive directorship of an automobile association in Canada.
This year’s convention was the largest ever, and the feature speakers included Internet guru Jared Hamilton, MacLean’s editor Andrew Coyne, and writer Rick Spence. CADA President & CEO Rick Gauthier also delivered a luncheon keynote address at the event and praised Canty for her years of service.
Read the next issue for our interview with Shirley Canty about her career serving the automotive dealers and to find out about her retirement plans.
