2024 Pauline Spatz Leadership Award Recipient: Riba Girouard-Riordon

New Brunswick

The 2024 recipient of the Pauline Spatz Leadership Award is Riba Girouard-Riordon of Pokeshaw, NB.

Photo of Riba being presented with the Pauline Spatz Leadership Award, a wooden plaque, by ASNB staff

The 8th annual Pauline Spatz Leadership Award was presented to Riba Girouard-Riordon of Pokeshaw, NB. Riba is a wife, mother, teacher, and extraordinary volunteer. She has touched the lives of so many individuals within her community be it her family, her friends, her peers, her former students, and us at the Alzheimer Society.

About Riba Girouard-Riordon

Riba Girouard-Riordon, originally from Tracadie, now resides in Pokeshaw with her husband Patrick, a fifth-generation farmer, and their four children. Riba has dedicated her life to education, profoundly impacting the lives of countless students through her inspiring teaching career. She embodies the essence of a great teacher, one who not only educates but also encourages students to reach their full potential.

A Lifetime of Service

Riba's passion for making a difference extends beyond her professional life. She has been an active volunteer in numerous non-profit organizations, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to her community. Her roles include:

  • Bathurst School Milk Fund, Vice-president
  • Bathurst Youth Centre, Vice-president
  • Bathurst Agricultural Society, Vice-president
  • Founding Cultures Museum Grand Anse, Secretary
  • Terry Fox Annual Run for Pokeshaw and Black Rock, Organizer
  • Parish of Grand Anse Choir, English Director
  • Triple K 4-H Club, Organizer
  • Snow Bear Winter Carnaval, Co-organizer
  • Grand Anse Catholic Women’s League, Member
  • Bathurst Rotary Club, Member
  • Alzheimer Society of NB, Chaleur Walk Planning Committee Member

Riba's dedication to these organizations, some for over 30 years, highlights her unwavering commitment to service and community building.

An Inspiration to All

The Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick is profoundly grateful for Riba's contributions. Her compassion, hard work, and devotion to the cause of supporting those affected by dementia are truly inspiring. Her involvement in the Alzheimer's community, particularly with the Chaleur IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s Planning Committee, has been invaluable in raising awareness and funds for crucial programs and services.

Riba Girouard-Riordon’s exemplary leadership and dedication make her a deserving recipient of the Pauline Spatz Leadership Award. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Riba for her tireless efforts and inspirational service.

Do you know someone like Riba who gives generously of their time, energy and resources to make their community a better place? Consider nominating them for the Pauline Spatz Leadership Award.