Women of Distinction to honour city dermatologist
Roberta McKay will receive the lifetime achievement award at the Regina YWCA Women of Distinction Awards in April.
The Regina woman, who works as a dermatologist, is being honoured for her community leadership and philanthropy, specifically in the medical and arts and culture sectors.
Winning “takes my breath away,” McKay stated in a news release. “While it’s a great honour, this award isn’t just about me, but about all those who have helped me along the way. I feel that I still have so much more to give.”
The annual award is decided by a selection committee based on four criteria — that the recipient is a woman of influence, of exceptional accomplishment, of exemplary character, and of endurance.
“Roberta is a trailblazer in the medical field and her philanthropic efforts to bolster the work of organizations like Regina Transition House have not gone unnoticed,” YWCA Regina CEO Melissa Coomber-Bendtsen said in a news release.
“This award is a testament to all that she has given, and continues to give, to her community.”
McKay, who was born and raised in Regina, earned a nursing degree before completing a medical degree at the University of Saskatchewan in 1981.
After a dermatology residency at McGill University in Montreal, McKay returned to Regina to establish her medical practice. She also held leadership positions within the Regina-Qu’Appelle Health Region, Pasqua Hospital and Plains Health Centre.
She was the first woman president of the Saskatchewan Medical Association. She received the Saskatchewan Order of Merit in 2017.
McKay and her partner, Elmer Brenner, are sponsors of Saskatchewan Fashion Week and the Regina Symphony Orchestra, among other events and organizations.
In 2000, McKay was awarded the Women of Distinction award in the Health and Wellness category. In 2007, she was named CTV Regina’s citizen of the year.
The Regina YWCA Women of Distinction Awards have recognized the achievements of local women since 1981. This year’s gala takes place April 26.