From the age of 15, Suzanne Aubin knew she wanted to be an editor—or a French teacher. She scratched the teaching itch by becoming a ballet and a tai chi instructor, but she explored her interest in language by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in linguistics at the Université de Montréal (completed 1995).
It wasn’t until 2002, though, that Suzanne joined Editors Canada. “I attended a presentation by Elizabeth d’Anjou and fell even more in love with language and editing,” Suzanne says.
“I felt I had found a home where I could grow as a professional editor.”
Suzanne jumped into volunteering as francophone affairs chair in 2003 and then as chair of Editors Québec. Life intervened, however, and it wasn’t until 2022 that Suzanne returned to volunteering, this time as director of member recruitment and retention on Editors Canada’s national executive council.
“I believe I can help our association grow and thrive, especially where our francophone membership is concerned,” she says. Working mostly in comparative editing (from English to French), Suzanne has translated many documents for Editors Canada and is now part of the strategic planning work group.
While Suzanne found it challenging to be faced with a blank slate when she first plunged into volunteering, she now reminds herself regularly to face her fears when confronting new challenges. Her favourite part of volunteering has become “getting to know new people and learning about the profession and the possibilities.”
Based in Montréal, Suzanne loves practising tai chi, knitting and raising her daughter. No matter the endeavour, Suzanne says, “I believe that hard work pays off.”
The featured volunteer recognizes the contributions of our dedicated people who keep Editors Canada going. Volunteers are the backbone of the association, and we are grateful for the many members and affiliates who answer the call when help is needed.
Want to make a difference in your association? Find out more about volunteering for Editors Canada.
~S. Robin Larin