Janet Moore, an Associate Professor at the Centre for Dialogue and co-creator of CityStudio, is a finalist for the YWCA's Women of Distinction Awards. For 28 years, these awards have been recognizing the achievements of women who make outstanding contributions to the well-being and futures of their communities.

Moore has been nominated in the field of Environmental Sustainability, a new category, where she is being recognized for her work which she considers, "just the beginning" in a field where all of the nominees are learning and growing.

Considered a visionary, Moore credits her community involvement to her upbringing, which centered on collaboration. Much of her childhood and youth were spent outdoors or with animals resulting in Moore developing a real connection to land and water.

She has been able to incorporate this passion, fostered from childhood, into her work at The Centre for Dialogue. 

"It's an amazing place to work," says Moore of the Centre. "I am afforded the opportunity to work, interact and connect with people from around the world who are interested in different ways of communicating, slowing down, listening and learning to be with one another. It is just incredible.”

Moore has become a favourite among students by creating new ways for her students to become engaged beyond the classroom. This includes an energetic hub of learning and leadership called CityStudio, co-founded by herself and Duane Elverum, where post-secondary students design and implement Greenest City urban sustainability projects.

Through her influence, she has led students to become members of the community who create positive change and impact. Her students describe her as "the person who pushes me to push myself," and someone whose "intention is to always empower [students]."

Along with the recognition of students, Janet is celebrated by her colleagues. Mark Winston, the Director and a Fellow with the Centre for Dialogue, has witnessed Moore’s work first hand.

“[Moore] is deeply passionated about facilitating transformative dynamic learning that connects university education to real world experiences and leads to sustainable communities locally, nationally and globally," adds Winston.

Support Janet Moore by voting for her for a YMCA Vancouver Connecting the Community award here until May 22, 2012 at noon.

- Emily Ross