Martha Cohen

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Martha Cohen, born Martha Ruth Block in Calgary, Alberta, Canada (1920 - ), Community Builder and Philanthropist, Member of the Order of Canada. With her husband, Harry B. Cohen, she raised four children while spearheading a variety of major civic projects.

Contents

[edit] Education

[edit] Achievements

Martha Cohen's contributions to community organizations in Calgary are diverse and outstanding. Some of her most notable accomplishments include:

  • Past Chairwoman of the Board for the Calgary Centre for the Performing Arts during the planning, financing and constructing of this major facility. Martha and her associates raised some $15 million of private funding toward the creation of the Centre.
  • Past Chairwoman of the Mount Royal College Board of Governors during the period of planning, financing, and constructing a new campus. As such, she became the first woman to head a higher educational institution in Alberta.
  • Past Chairwoman of William Roper Hull Home for Boys and Girls.
  • Past Chairwoman of the Providence Creche.
  • Founder/Past Executive Director of the Calgary Jewish Family Service.
  • Past Vice-Chairwoman of Old Sun College at Gleichen, Alberta.

[edit] Awards

There have been many awards and honours in recognition of Martha Cohen's contributions to society including membership in the Order of Canada in 1975 and an honorary doctorate from the University of Calgary in 1982.

[edit] Harry and Martha Cohen Award

In 1985, Harry and Martha's four children (Philip, Cheryl, Faye, and David) established an annual award for individuals making outstanding contributions to the Arts.

[edit] A Pioneer on the Prairie

Residing in a penthouse today near the Elbow River, Martha Cohen is considered to be one of Calgary's most prominent citizens, a woman who played a major part in transforming "Cowtown" into a vibrant metropolitan center.