The Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is truly blessed to have some of the most incredible students and youth in southern Alberta. One shining example is Anna Campmans, a Grade 12 student at Catholic Central High School, who was recently named the 2025 Women of Distinction Awards recipient for the Young Woman of Promise Award.
"I was excited just to be nominated, but as I learned more about what the Young Woman of Promise Award represents, I realized what an incredible honour it is," said Anna. "I feel so blessed to be recognized."
Now in its 49th year, the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards celebrate outstanding women in our community in honour of International Women’s Day. The Young Woman of Promise Award specifically recognizes young women under 30 who have demonstrated exceptional accomplishments in academics, career, or community development while serving as role models for others.
Anna’s nomination came from Mallory Kristjanson, the Family School Liaison Counsellor at Catholic Central High School—and a past recipient of the same award. From the moment she met Anna three years ago, Mallory knew she embodied everything the award represents.
"From her very first day at Catholic Central in Grade 10, she lit up the hallways—not just with her kindness and compassion, but with her energy and the way she uplifted others," said Mallory. "It takes a young adult of Anna's caliber to be nominated, never mind to receive this award. Beyond her countless hours of service in the Lethbridge community, she has also done amazing work at Catholic Central to ensure we are truly a community."
Anna is deeply committed to volunteering, giving her time to the 4H Club, the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre, and countless school initiatives. She has also served on the Catholic Central High School Student Council since Grade 10 and is currently its President. For Anna, volunteering has been eye-opening and something she sees as both a privilege and an opportunity.
"Volunteering gives you a new perspective—one you wouldn’t have otherwise. It allows you to see how other people live and truly understand every single person in our community," she said. "I feel blessed to have the gifts that allow me to give back, and in turn, gain a deeper understanding of how others see the world."
In true fashion, when asked how winning this award made her feel, Anna humbly turned the spotlight on the women who helped shape her.
"I feel like I’m a mosaic of all the women who have taught me, raised me, and been role models in my life. This award doesn’t just honour me—it honours all of them," she said.
Looking ahead, Anna will be attending Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton next fall to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. She envisions a future in advocacy, where she can continue making a difference and giving back to her community.
Anna will be officially honored at the YWCA Women of Distinction Gala on March 8, 2025.
Congratulations, Anna! Your dedication, compassion, and leadership inspire us all!